About the scholarship
A fund for students who carry more than a backpack.
Pathway to Promise supports Nepali students in the U.S. with practical education funding and a judging process centered on cultural identity, service, and future contribution.
Four awards. Two lived experiences.
International Students
2
winners
Nepali international students currently studying in the U.S.
U.S./DMV Residents
2
winners
Nepali students who are U.S. residents, with priority to DMV-area residents.
Anonymous review keeps the story in front.
Identifying details are separated from essays whenever practical so judges can focus on voice, purpose, and fit.
$1,250
per winner
750+
essay words
5MB
docx max
DT
fest announcement
Funds should remove friction.
Tuition and required fees
Direct school costs that keep students moving.
Laptops and technology
Tools for coursework, research, and internships.
Books and supplies
Texts, course kits, and academic materials.
Transportation and essentials
Practical costs connected to education access.
Selection criteria
A rubric with backbone.
Judges look for cultural connection, original voice, community impact, academic or financial purpose, future promise, and writing clarity.
25%
Cultural connection
Shows a personal, specific relationship to Nepali identity, heritage, language, family, or community.
20%
Original voice
Feels honest, applicant-written, reflective, and distinct rather than generic or formulaic.
20%
Community contribution
Demonstrates service, leadership, care for others, or a clear plan to strengthen Nepali community ties.
15%
Academic or financial purpose
Explains how the scholarship will reduce education-related friction and support the applicant's current path.
15%
Future impact
Connects personal goals to future contribution for Nepal, Nepali diaspora communities, or the broader public.
5%
Writing clarity
Uses clear structure, careful detail, and clean writing within the required word count.