SMYAL’s scholarships recognize LGBTQ student leaders who have demonstrated personal growth and a commitment to creating change in their school or community while remaining unapologetically themselves.

These scholarships are intended to help offset the cost of continuing education and are awarded directly to recipients entering their first year of post-secondary education, which may include technical or trade school, as well as two- and four-year colleges. Funds are paid directly to the student and may be used for everything from tuition and housing, books and technology, school travel costs, or materials for your program.

There are two scholarship funds, both with the same application process and deadline! All applicants will automatically be considered for both awards.

Founded in 2015, SMYAL’s LGBT Youth Leadership Awards (YLA) provide a total of up to $25,000 to 5-8 student leaders each year. YLA winners receive up to $5,000 each for their extraordinary leadership and impact in their communities. Learn more about past YLA winners here.

Named in honor of Sophie Magerl, Sophie’s Live Out Loud Award (LOLA) will provide a $5,000 scholarship for one student leader who embodies Sophie’s values of self-expression, creative arts, empowerment, resilience, and dedication to community. Sophie was an inspiring 17-year-old who lived out loud and fought for others to be able to express themselves freely. Learn more about Sophie here.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: APPLICATIONS DUE APRIL 17th, 2022