UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS

Our flagship program supports D.C. scholars every step—from enrollment to graduation.

#UniversityPartners

What Makes Our
Program GREAT

This program provides students with the resources, relationships, and structure they need to thrive—from application through graduation.

Every element is designed to remove barriers, build confidence, and ensure they complete college with the necessary skills to succeed.

The 3 Pillars of Our Program

Cohort-based University Matching

Students are matched with institutions that align with their academic goals, personal interests, and overall campus fit. Each university partner is carefully selected for its academic offerings and its commitment to student success. These institutions collaborate closely with DC CAP to ensure that once students arrive on campus, they’re not navigating college alone. From enrollment through graduation, students have a supportive network of — advisors, coaches, and a community that believes in their potential and is invested in their journey.

Wraparound Coaching & Advising

From the moment a student joins the program, they’re matched with a DC CAP Student Success Coach who offers consistent, one-on-one support from college entry through graduation. They also become part of a cohort of fellow DC CAP Scholars, building a strong sense of community and shared accountability. On campus, university advisors provide additional academic and personal guidance, working in tandem with DC CAP to ensure students are connected, supported, and set up to succeed.

Layered Financial Aid

DC CAP helps make college affordable for Washington, D.C. students by maximizing every available source of financial aid. We combine DC CAP scholarships, Pell Grants, DC Tuition Assistance Grants (DCTAG), and institutional aid to significantly reduce college costs for D.C. students and their families, making higher education accessible for our scholars.

HOW TO APPLY

Applying for the University Partners Program is easier than you might think.

You’ll start by registering in the fall—it takes just a few minutes to check your eligibility. Then, in January, you’ll complete a short application. From there, DC CAP will help match you with one or more of our partner universities.

Don't wait, get started today!
1
October 1 - FAFSA 2026-2027 Opens
Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible to unlock financial aid and keep your college plans on track.
2
October 15 - Registration Opens
Kick things off with registration. It takes under five minutes and will confirm your eligibility for our programs.
3
The full application takes about ten minutes. You’ll upload your transcript and share basic financial aid info. Make sure your FAFSA is complete—you’ll need your Student Aid Index (SAI).
4
February 1 - DC OneApp and DC TAG Open
DC TAG application opens — up to $10,000 per year for eligible DC students attending public colleges outside the District.
5
February 28 - DC CAP Scholarship
Application Deadline
All applications are due by 11:59pm on February 28, 2025.
6
Spring - DC CAP Match & Decision Season
You'll receive your match results and aid package, then choose your path forward. Once you accept, you officially join the program and begin pre-college onboarding with your coach and cohort.

How Matching Works

The University Partner Scholarship uses a collaborative matching process to connect students with universities where they’ll succeed. Students share their top choices, universities review eligible applicants, and final matches are made based on both student and university priorities.

Student Interest Ranking

Students select up to three DC CAP University Partners in their application.

Partner Identification

Partner universities review eligible candidates, confirm admission status, and select their incoming scholar cohort.

Final Match*

Final matches are determined by aligning both student and university priorities.

*NOTE: Students must be admitted to the university to be considered for a scholarship.
⚠️ Important: There are limited scholarship cohort spots at each institution. If matched with a university, your offer is specific to that institution and cannot be transferred to another partner institution. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Scholarship award decisions are final and not subject to appeal. While we understand this may be disappointing, all requests for appeals will be referred to this policy.

Meet Your Student Success CoachES

Every scholar in the University Partners Program is matched with a dedicated DC CAP Student Success Coach. These coaches stay with the student from the moment students commit through graduation, helping them navigate challenges, celebrate wins, and stay on track. Students will meet regularly with their coach to talk about everything from their academics to mental health.

Micheal Daley

Student Success Coordinator, Ward 7 & 8

Bio: First-gen, Caribbean-American college student, now a DC CAP Student Success Coordinator—specializing in student development, academic skill building and supporting at-risk students through a student-centered approach to support. Enjoys writing, photography, interior design and event planning during free time. Documentary and music festival fanatic.

Universities: Supports Ward 7&8 Scholars across 12 colleges and universities

Deron Fogle-Jackson

Student Success Coach

Bio: The first in my family to graduate college, I’ve spent five years as a student success coach. With twelve years in higher education, I nurture connections and relationships while bringing my love for sports and food into every fun, engaging interaction! My students call me the “Cool Uncle.”

Universities: Marshall University, North Carolina A&T, Alabama A&M

Kendrick Joyner

Student Success Coach

Bio: A proud first-generation college graduate, I’m passionate about helping others turn their goals into reality while also ensuring them to leave their mark on the world.

I am a true Philadelphia Eagles and 76ers fan, I enjoy turning into true crime podcasts while working and during long drives. I believe in seeing the glass half full and focusing on the positive side of life.

Universities: Delaware State University, Florida A&M University, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, SUNY Oswego

Jess Lara

Student Success Coach

Bio: Former first-gen college student now dedicated to serving students as a Student Success Coach. An avid reality TV watcher, runner, and coffee lover who enjoys traveling, cooking new recipes, and spending time with family and friends. Passionate about helping students find their path to graduation and beyond.

Universities: Eastern Connecticut State University, George Mason University, University of Massachusetts-Lowell, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Elizabeth Solomon

Student Success Coach

Bio: Once a first-gen college student, now a DC CAP Student Success Coach—dedicated to guiding scholars through their journey with empathy, structure, and support. A proud Commanders fan, devoted Law & Order: SVU watcher (Team Stabler & Liv forever!), and lover of a good movie night.

Universities: The Catholic University of America, Kent State University, Arizona State University Local

Meet our University Partners

Each of our University Partners plays a critical role in supporting D.C. students on their path to a college degree.

Partner institutions help shape each scholar’s journey by building intentional community, offering hands-on support, and committing critical resources to support student success. Explore the campuses, programs, and people that make this network possible.

Click below to learn more about each individual partner:

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (AAMU) is a historic, student-friendly and community-focused institution of higher learning. Reflecting on its heritage as a historical black college and university (HBCU) and a traditional 1890 Land-grant institution, AAMU functions as a teaching, research and public service institution, including extension. Founded in 1875 by a former slave, Dr. William Hooper Councill, AAMU is a dynamic and progressive institution with a strong commitment to academic excellence. Alabama A&M University provides more than 60 undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs and concentrations, a diverse international faculty, 50 plus student organizations, and an extensive alumni network comprised of politicians, educators, entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, authors, artist, and more.

With ASU Local, you can earn a world-class bachelor’s degree from ASU while living in the National Capitol Region. Experience the flexibility of online courses, which are taught by the same faculty as the university’s on-campus classes. Take advantage of on-site experiences at the ASU Barrett & O’Connor Center, located just blocks away from the White House, such as personalized coaching, workshops and in-person collaborations with your peers to support your success and provide you with a complete college experience.ASU Local is perfect for students looking for a flexible way to earn a competitive four-year degree while managing work, family and other responsibilities while staying close to home.

Join a dynamic community where faith and reason unite in every discipline. Choose from more than 80 majors. Take advantage of the cultural riches and professional opportunities found only in Washington, D.C. Become who you were made to be. That's college the way it's meant to be.

Founded October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is a public, historically Black university located in Tallahassee, Florida. What distinguishes FAMU from other universities is its legacy of providing access to a high-quality, affordable education with programs and services that guide students toward successfully achieving their dreams. FAMU is part of the State University System of Florida and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. In addition to the main Tallahassee campus, FAMU has several satellite campuses across Florida. These include the College of Law in Orlando and the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, which has sites in Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami.

If you're looking for a school that offers a unique combination of academic excellence, a vibrant and diverse community, and incredible career opportunities, George Mason University could be a great fit for you. Situated just a few miles from Washington, D.C., you'll have unparalleled access to internships, jobs, and networking events. The university is known for its commitment to innovation and for providing students with hands-on learning experiences and research opportunities, even at the undergraduate level.

At Kent State University, you'll find nationally recognized academics and a student experience that goes beyond the classroom. With 300+ degrees and programs, 200+ student organizations, and a welcoming campus community, we empower you to thrive in your studies, your interests and your future. DC CAP Scholars who attend KSU are scholars of CommUNITY Lab, a living-learning program with dedicated staff who provide individualized support to remove financial, academic, and social-emotional barriers to student success. CommUNITY Lab offers a supportive home-base for scholars including special course sections, social events, support resources, and opportunities for employment and leadership.

Marshall University is a student-centered research institution in Huntington, West Virginia, offering more than 150 academic programs, vibrant student life, and hands-on learning opportunities that prepare graduates for real-world success. With a welcoming community, affordable tuition, and a tradition of creating unforgettable “Marshall Moments,” the university empowers students to discover their passions and build meaningful futures

North Carolina A&T believes in the power of our students to change the world. Today's 15, 275 Aggies are some of the most high-achieving students ever to attend A&T.  As a land grant, doctoral research university with a national reputation in STEM education, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, delivers a high-quality, intellectually stimulating education focused on helping every student gain access to the hands-on opportunities, core knowledge and global perspective that will help them make lasting change in their lives and the lives of people in their workplaces, communities and world. We inspire people to stretch their potential, achieve beyond expectations, and lead the way to success. Every day and in every way.

Founded in 1861, SUNY Oswego is a hometown university with global impact located in Central New York. We are a public, teaching-focused institution offering more than 120 undergraduate and graduate programs, and over 150 different student organizations and clubs. Our campus, situated on the shore of Lake Ontario, proudly serves an enrollment of 7000 students, providing them with an affordable education, caring faculty, and a vibrant community.

UMass Lowell is a top-ranked public research university offering affordable, hands-on programs in fields like business, engineering, health, and the arts. Taught by world-class faculty, students gain real-world experience while preparing for success in college, careers, and life. Join a community that values innovation, collaboration, and making a difference—come see what it means to be a River Hawk!

West Chester University, a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, is a public, comprehensive institution committed to providing high-quality undergraduate education, selected post-baccalaureate and graduate programs, and a variety of educational and cultural resources for its students, alumni, and the citizens of southeastern Pennsylvania.The University offers more than 118 undergraduate, 80+ graduate programs, and 5 doctoral programs in more than 50 fields of study. See Programs at West Chester for a complete listing of degree programs. Undergraduates are encouraged to participate in experiential learning opportunities, which range from internships to collaborative research with faculty members. Several years ago, WCU launched a Summer Undergraduate Research Institute that offers even more undergraduates the chance to pursue significant research. Service learning is an integral component of many courses at West Chester and the keystone of the Honors College.

Frequently Asked Questions

What scholarships are available through DC CAP this year?

We offer two scholarship opportunities:

🤝 University Partner Scholarship Program:

The University Partner Scholarship is a competitive program made possible through collaborations with our university partner institutions.

The scholarship includes:

  • Annual award of $5,000-$7,500 from DC CAP, renewable for up to five years
  • Additional scholarship funding from university partners, significantly reducing direct student costs at the partner institution
  • Comprehensive student success coaching throughout your college journey
  • Requirement to apply for FAFSA and secure DCTAG to offset costs further

⚠️ Note: Scholarships are NOT transferable

🏆 Ward 7 & 8 Scholarship Program:

The Ward 7&8 Scholarship, funded by the Gates Foundation, provides:

  • $12,000 in scholarship funding annually, renewable for up to five years
  • Option to attend any 4-year university of your choosing
  • Priority consideration for students interested in our university partners due to the enhanced financial benefits of our collaborative funding model
  • Intensive success coaching from enrollment through graduation

⚠️ Please note: Scholars are only eligible to receive funding for one award. If a scholar is awarded a Ward 7&8 Scholarship to attend a University Partner institution, they will receive a $12,000 award instead of, and not in addition to, a $5,000-$7,500 award.

Do I need to apply for both scholarships to be considered?

No. There is a single scholarship application and you will automatically be considered for all awards for which you are eligible based on your high school.

⚠️  Note: Applications for the general DC CAP Scholarship will not be accepted this year. The only two awards available are the University Partner Scholarship and the Ward 7 & 8 Scholarship.

How does the University Partner matching process work?

The University Partner Scholarship uses a collaborative matching process that aligns students with partner institutions based on mutual preferences:

  • Students may select up to three DC CAP university partner preferences in their application
  • University partners review eligible candidates, determine who has applied and has been admitted to their institutions, and indicate their preferences for the next scholar cohort
  • Final matches are determined based on both student and university preferences

⚠️ Note: Applicants must be admitted to the university to be considered for a scholarship

💡 Useful Tips:

We strongly encourage applicants to:

  • Use DC CAP resources on the applicant platform
  • Review university partner websites thoroughly (linked in applicant platform and DC CAP website)
  • Attend virtual campus visits during the Fall semester
  • Connect with a university admissions counselor

⚠️ Important: There are limited scholarship cohort spots at each institution. If matched with a university, your offer is specific to that institution and cannot be transferred to another partner institution. There are no exceptions to this rule.

How competitive are these scholarships?

DC CAP receives many qualified applicants annually and can only award a limited number of scholarships. As a result, many qualified students will not be selected.

⚠️ Note: Scholarship award decisions are final and not subject to appeal. While we understand this may be disappointing, all requests for appeals will be referred to this policy.

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