IOTA SCHOLARSHIPS &

The FREDDA WITHERSPOON SCHOLARSHIP is awarded annually to a female graduating high school senior wishing to pursue a college degree in business related fields.

Postmark by: Jan. 31st

THE EVELYN D. WILKEY IOTA ESSAY CONTEST is an annual essay writing contest for youth.

Postmark by: Nov. 30th

NATIONAL FIL SCHOLARSHIP is awarded annually to a deserving FIL pursuing a degree in the field of business.

Postmark by: Feb. 28th

The ALICE P. ALLEN SCHOLARSHIP is awarded to a teenage mother desiring to further her education beyond high school.

Postmark by: April 1st

The DORETHEA N. HORNBUCKLE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP is awarded to a youth pursuing a degree in the field of business, science or engineering.

Postmark by March 15th

These scholarships are available through local chapters only.  A chapter can submit the name of ONLY ONE contestant. 

 ESSAY CONTEST

Each year, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. provides opportunities for middle and high school students to engage in American Education Week through participation in the Evelyn D. Wilkey Essay Contest. This national contest is coordinated by local chapters, with an annually selected theme set at the national level.

In addition, eligible students may apply for one or more of our four National Scholarships:

  • Fredda Witherspoon Scholarship

  • Future Iota Leaders (FIL) Scholarship

  • Dorethea N. Hornbuckle Memorial Scholarship

  • Alice P. Allen Scholarship

All scholarship applications must be sponsored by a local chapter.

Furthermore, the organization offers the Fellowship Award annually to financial members (sorors) of the sorority. This award provides financial support for undergraduate, graduate, or special study, helping sorors pursue academic and professional development goals.

Scholarship FAQs

  • To find out if you are eligible please click on the links above.

  • Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. offers undergraduate merit, need-based and high school/middle school awards.

  • There are a few requirements that are listed below, but for exact items needed please click the link for the scholarship you are interested in.

    The Application Packet must include the following:

    a. Student Application Form

    b. Student Rating Sheet

    c. Copy of Scholarship Contest Registration Form signed by student. Be certain she reads and understands what she is signing.

    d. A current official/certified academic transcript with SAT or ACT scores

    e. Two letters of recommendations

    f. A 300-500 word autobiographical essay that includes career aspirations, leadership experiences, and significant achievements.

    g. Family income documentation (Copy of the first page of the most recent IRS 1040, please redact SS number)

  • The scholarships ca be applied towards academic expenses, including tuition and course related fees.

  • The funds will be sent to you or your university.

  • Each scholarship has a different timeline, please click on the link of the scholarship you are interested in for more details.

  • Applicants are notified via email if they have or have not received an award.