Samsung American Legion Scholarship

The Samsung American Legion Scholarship is a prestigious educational award established in 1996 when Samsung endowed a $5 million scholarship fund to be administered by The American Legion. The program was created to show appreciation for U.S. veterans who came to Korea's aid during the Korean War. Since its inception, the scholarship has awarded more than $7.2 million in college scholarships to 2,422 recipients. The scholarship is available to high school students between their junior and senior years who attend the American Legion Boys State or American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program. Applicants must be direct descendants (child, grandchild, great grandchild, etc.) of a wartime U.S. military veteran who served on active duty during periods designated as eligibility dates for American Legion membership. Stepchildren and legally adopted children are also considered direct descendants. Scholarship funds may be used for undergraduate studies and applied toward tuition, books, fees, and room and board. Winners are selected based on academic record and involvement in school and community service. Applicants who are direct descendants of Korean War Era Veterans receive three bonus points in the selection process.