How to Apply

All completed application materials must be post-marked by TBD.

New Applicants (application / instructions)
Returning Student (application / instructions)

Qualifications

If you’re applying for an award for the first time, you must:

1. Be an African-American student in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade at a public middle school or high school in one of the following school districts in Tacoma/Pierce County: Bethel, Clover Park, Franklin Pierce, Puyallup, Steilacoom, Tacoma or University Place.

2. Have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher at the end of the previous academic school year.

3. Provide evidence of at least 90% class attendance.

4. Provide evidence of your ability to master Math, Science and English at a level equal to or better than your previous academic grade point average.

5. Write a focused, well-structured, well researched essay of at least 250 words on the following a topic that will be specified in the application package by the E. Wesley program.

6. Obtain at least four letters of recommendation from adults who can verify the information your are submitting. It can be a parent/guardian, other adult relative, teacher, school staff, pastor, employer or group leader.

Requirements

When submitting your application packet, you MUST include the following:

1. A certified copy of your transcript reflecting your grades for the previous academic school year.

2. A completed Personal Information Form with statements about your school activities, goals, community involvement, future educational/career goals.

3. FOUR letters of recommendation - (a) one from a parent/guardian, (b) one from an other adult relative, (c) one from a school staff person or teacher, (d) one from someone in the community such as a pastor, employer, or group leader.

4. A recent photograph of yourself (preferably a 3x4 “head-shot”) which will be used for public display. Males must wear a shirt and tie. Females must wear suits, blouses, or other professional looking attire.

If you received an award last year and would like to apply again, you must submit the same material as new students by a specified date (contact E. Wesley administration at 253.383.2007 ext. 219 if you need the due date), with two exceptions:

1. You must demonstrate that you maintained or improved your grade point average from last year.

2. Your 250 word essay must address the topic as specified in the current years application package.