For students living with cystic fibrosis (CF), pursuing higher education can come with unique challenges both health-related and financial. To support their journey, AbbVie’s Cystic Fibrosis Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for the 2025 academic year. This longstanding program is designed to recognize the resilience, dedication, and academic achievements of students with CF by offering financial assistance and public recognition.
Below is everything you need to know about this opportunity, from eligibility to the application process.
What Is the AbbVie CF Scholarship Program?
AbbVie’s Cystic Fibrosis Scholarship Program is an annual initiative created to help undergraduate and graduate students with CF fund their education. Since its launch in 1993, the program has awarded more than $3.4 million in scholarships to students across the U.S., helping ease the financial burden of school while celebrating their academic and personal successes.
Each year, the program awards 40 students a $3,000 scholarship. From that group, two standout students (one undergraduate and one graduate) are chosen for an additional $22,000 Thriving Student Scholarship, bringing the total award for those recipients to $25,000.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To be considered for the 2025 scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Diagnosis: Must be diagnosed with cystic fibrosis.
- Residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled or awaiting acceptance at an accredited U.S. college, university, or graduate school for the 2025 to 2026 academic year.
- Program Type: Both full-time and part-time students are eligible.
- Degree Track: Must be pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree.
It’s important to note that individuals who have previously received the $25,000 Thriving Student Scholarship are not eligible to apply again. However, past recipients of the $3,000 scholarship are welcome to reapply.
Additionally, employees of AbbVie, healthcare providers, and their immediate family members are not eligible for the program.
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What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The scholarship funds are intended to support qualified educational expenses, including:
- Tuition fees
- Textbooks and other academic materials
- School-related fees
This financial support helps students focus on their studies and goals without the added stress of paying for college expenses out of pocket.
How to Apply
Students can choose to apply online or by mailing their completed application. The application process involves several key components:
- Academic & Extracurricular Information: Applicants must provide details about their academic achievements, GPA, and involvement in extracurricular activities or leadership roles.
- Personal Essay: This essay gives students the chance to share their personal experiences living with cystic fibrosis, how it has shaped their journey, and their future aspirations.
- Creative Presentation: This is a unique part of the AbbVie scholarship process. Students are asked to submit a creative piece, such as a video, artwork, or other format that showcases their personality, resilience, or academic goals.
All applications must be submitted or postmarked by May 15, 2025.
How Are Winners Selected?
Once the applications are submitted, they are reviewed by a panel of judges. Each application is scored out of 70 points based on the following:
- Academic performance & extracurriculars: Up to 30 points
- Personal essay: Up to 20 points
- Creative presentation: Up to 20 points
The 40 applicants with the highest combined scores will each receive a $3,000 scholarship, and all winners will be notified on or around June 19, 2025.
In September, the 40 selected winners will have their creative presentations and profiles showcased online. During this time, the public will be invited to vote for the most inspiring entries. These public votes, combined with the original judging scores, will determine the two students who receive the additional $22,000 Thriving Student Scholarship.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Living with CF often involves managing medical treatments, hospital visits, and physical limitations on top of the normal demands of student life. This scholarship goes beyond financial support; it serves as a recognition of the determination, strength, and achievements of students who continue to thrive despite the challenges of cystic fibrosis.
AbbVie’s commitment through this program not only helps students fund their education, but also provides a platform to share their stories and inspire others in the CF community.
If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t miss out on this chance to receive up to $25,000 in educational support. Applications and more information are available on the official website: https://www.abbviecfscholarship.com
Make sure to complete and submit your application by May 15, 2025 to be considered.
