Alabama HBCUs Team Up for Transfer Scholarships

Leaders from Bishop State Community College and Alabama A&M

In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities for students, Bishop State Community College and Alabama A&M University have announced a partnership that will offer full-tuition scholarships for Bishop State graduates looking to further their education at the four-year institution.

Through a recently signed memorandum of understanding, both colleges aim to create a streamlined pathway for BSCC graduates aspiring to transfer to AAMU. This initiative facilitates academic progression and financially supports students who meet specific criteria.

Transfer Merit Scholarships

As part of this agreement, AAMU will allocate ten Transfer Merit Scholarships specifically for Bishop State graduates who achieve a minimum GPA of 3.25 and complete at least 60 credit hours. To maintain the scholarship, recipients must uphold a cumulative GPA of 3.1 and earn at least 30 credit hours each academic year, with the opportunity to retain this funding for up to four semesters.

“We are excited about this partnership with Alabama A&M University and the opportunities it creates for our students,” said Bishop State President Olivier Charles. “Alabama A&M has a storied history and a strong reputation for producing leaders who make a difference in their communities. Partnering with such an institution aligns with our mission to provide our students with the best possible pathways to success, and advocating for transfer scholarships demonstrates our commitment to their success beyond their time here at Bishop State.”

Dr. Braque Talley, vice president of student affairs at AAMU, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership. “Community colleges have a growing population, and we are thrilled that this partnership creates a seamless process for students to transition from Bishop State to AAMU,” he said. “The transfer merit scholarship will make this process even smoother.”

In addition to the scholarship offerings, the MOU stipulates that Bishop State graduates achieving a GPA of 3.33 or higher will receive priority consideration for admission into AAMU’s Honors Program. Furthermore, a 15% tuition discount will be provided to full-time faculty and staff from Bishop State pursuing an online Ph.D. program at AAMU.

The MOU also emphasizes ongoing academic collaboration and support for transfer students, ensuring a smooth transition from community college to university life.