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| National Leadership Grant Applications Are Now Open for 2026 |
| Through the SIF, the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America® (OSDIA) has awarded tens of millions of dollars in scholarships to date. Every year since its inception, the SIF has offered 10 to 18 merit-based scholarships (National Leadership Grants), ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. This year, the SIF awarded a record-breaking $200,000 in scholarships during its 36th Annual National Education and Leadership Awards (NELA) Gala. These figures and the number of scholarships may vary according to funding each year. Eligibility Requirements Individuals* of Italian descent** enrolled in a four-year undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited academic institution for the Fall 2026 term. What You’ll Need $35 application feeOfficial transcripts through December 2025, or most recent completed academic term2 recommendation letters (from non-family members)Official results from all standardized tests taken during the past 5 years Deadline: February 27, 2026 All requirements for a given scholarship must be met or the application will not be considered. No exceptions will be made. |
| * U.S. citizens and Green Card holders ** at least one Italian or Italian American grandparent Please Note: Previous SIF scholarship winners are not eligible. State and local lodges may offer scholarships opportunities. Please contact those lodges directly. |
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| A group of 2025 National Leadership Grant recipients pose for a photo at the 36th Annual National Education and Leadership Awards (NELA) Gala in Washington, D.C. |
| Would you like to support the SIF Scholarship program and change the life of a bright Italian-American student? Click below to donate to our general scholarship fund or contact us at sif@osia.org for more information on endowing a named scholarship – a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy, ensuring that future generations of students receive the support they need to achieve their dreams. Donate to the SIF Scholarship Fund |



