How to Qualify for a Color Guard Scholarship

Color guard scholarships are awarded by several organizations, including Winter Guard International, the governing body for many indoor color guard events. Some regional organizations also offer scholarships to members of participating color guard units. Read on to learn how to qualify for a color guard scholarship.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Qualify for a color guard scholarship by competing in the Winter Guard International (WGI) World Championships. One member from each participating group may be nominated for a scholarship. Read more about the WGI scholarship on the WGI website. See the Resources section below for a link.

2. Know that scholarships are announced at the World Championships after review by the Scholarship Committee.

3. Visit the WGI website to find entry regulations and an entry form. See the Resources section below for a link.

4. Know that funding for the WGI scholarships comes from money raised at the championships through raffles and a percentage of the purchase price of tickets.

5. Qualify for the Norman Gaudet Guard Scholarship or the Putnam Guard Scholarship offered through the New England Scholastic Band Association (NESBA). The NESBA is open for membership to high schools and performing organizations in New England and students are chosen from participating organizations. Find scholarship information on the NESBA website. See the Resources section below for a link.

6. Ask your high school band director about additional scholarship information. Scholarships are often offered through band programs for local students.

7. Know that some universities offer small grants to enrolled students who audition for and complete a season as a member of the field guard or similar programs. These programs are offered as classes and grants may be awarded at the end of the season, depending on the student's grade. Incoming students should contact the university ahead of time to ask about their policy and inform them of their intention to audition.

Tips & Warnings

• Attend a color guard camp for a competitive edge that may help you gain skills needed to attend national championships. Color guard camps are offered throughout the country and offer programs that can enhance your technique.
• Search for a variety of scholarships offered throughout the country through scholarship search services such as the one on the Fast Web website. See the Resources section below for a link.
• Ask your high school band director about additional scholarship information. Scholarships are often offered through band programs, but as the popularity of color guard grows organizations are beginning to offer separate color guard scholarships.

Resources

• Scholarship Information on the Winter Guard International Website
• Scholarship Information on The New England Scholastic Band Association Website
• Scholarship Search on the Fast Web Website

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