Methodology

The Jefferies Family Scholarship Selection Committee carefully considers all facets of a student's life. Since academic performance is not the sole criterion, students should detail all pertinent aspects of their lives. The committee rates each application based on four mandatory factors and two that apply in certain circumstances. Each factor is assigned points, which vary depending on the importance of the particular factor. In order to understand the importance each factor plays in the selection process, the following lists the relative percentage weight for each of the factors:

  • Academic performance (grades or evaluations) 35%
  • Achievement or leadership in extracurricular activity 25%
  • The clarity of thought, organization, insight, character, creativity and potential for growth or achievement demonstrated by the applicant in his or her answers to the short essay questions on the application form 25%
  • Scores on tests such as SATs or achievement tests designed to measure ability and aptitude 15%

When appropriate, the committee considers two additional factors.

  • A documented disability 15%
  • Financial need, if present, is awarded a bonus of 5-25%


Without the assistance of the Jefferies Family Scholarship, It would have been far more difficult to meet the financial demands necessary to pursue my education and begin my journey into the corporate world. My enthusiasm about the possibilities in my future remains a driving force in my daily pursuit for success and I continue to welcome the academic, cultural, and professional challenges that I will undoubtedly face.

Danielle Dickerson, JFS Recipient




  • The average total cost for just one year at a private four-year college exceeds $33,000, according to CollegeBoard.com.
  • For the last two years, forty percent of JFS recipients' parents reported total family incomes under $100,000 and many of our scholarship winners are being raised by single parents.
  • Nineteen percent of Jefferies' employees make less than $75,000 per year.