The scholarship application includes three essays. An employee must describe his or her present responsibilities, explain why a graduate school degree is important, and explain what benefits would be gained professionally and how it could be applied to city government. All award decisions are made by participating colleges and universities based on scholastic ability, leadership potential, range of knowledge, experience and applicable test scores. Most schools require applicants to have maintained no less than a 2.5 grade point average as an undergraduate. Selected scholars must remain both full-time city employees and be in good scholastic standing during the entire course of study.
Scholarships are limited to specific degree areas.