Esperanza Scholarship Overview

Each year, part of Esperanza's mission is to improve the academic achievement of Hispanics & Latinos in Greater Cleveland. Esperanza grants scholarships to students entering or continuing their college education.

The number of scholarships granted is based on scholarship dollars raised each year with our most recent scholarship class consisting of 100 deserving and dedicated students. Scholarship applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, quality of personal statements, recommendation letters, volunteerism, and family income.

Our scholarship recipients attend a variety of institutions from local schools in Cleveland and southern Ohio to schools in New York, Pennsylvania, Hawaii, and more. All scholarships are provided through generous sponsorships from local businesses, organizations, and private donors.

Over the years, this scholarship celebration has grown into our annual Fiesta of Hope, which not only honors the year’s scholarship recipients but also serves as an essential fundraiser for Esperanza. The event highlights powerful personal stories shared by selected scholarship recipients, Esperanza staff, and board members, along with the formal presentation of scholarships. Together, these moments celebrate achievement, resilience, and the collective impact of our community’s support.

This year’s Fiesta of Hope will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Landerhaven.

Landerhaven provides a beautiful and welcoming space where students, families, and supporters can come together to celebrate achievement, perseverance, and hope.

Scholarship Application Qualifications

 First-time Applicants:

      REQUIREMENTS

• Students must be graduating from high school and be:
  • Enrolled full-time in college and/or university for the fall semester of 2026.
  • A resident of Cuyahoga or Lorain County.
  • Hispanic/Latino.
  • An American citizen or Permanent Resident. Open to students with DACA status and diverse immigration backgrounds.
• Submit Student Aid Report (SAR) to prove the FAFSA was filed. DACA-eligible students must provide tax returns.
• Attend Student/Parent Orientation on June 10, 2026 @5pm. 
• A minimum overall G.P.A. of 2.5 (4.0 scale) at the time of application.**
• Attend a professional headshot session at the Esperanza offices.
• Family Income must not exceed $75,000 per year. Applicants whose family income is higher than $75,000 will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.**