Mensa Education and Research Foundation Scholarship

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Education & Research Foundation is a philanthropic, nonprofit 501©(3) organization committed to the pursuit of excellence in human intelligence. The mission and strategic focus are directed at scholarships, education and awards.

Each year the Mensa Foundation gives away an average of $175,000 through a scholarship program run by 450 volunteers from coast to coast; presents national and international awards in recognition of research, education and practical achievement regarding giftedness, intelligence and creativity; and publishes the Mensa Research Journal.

The Mensa Foundation scholarship program is an essay contest that is open to all students who reside within the boundaries of a participating Local Group of American Mensa and who are enrolled in a U.S. college or university in the academic year following the award. Applicants write 550-word essays that describe their educational and/or career goals. Applicants do not have to be member of Mensa for this contest. Winners are selected based on these essays and Foundation judging criterion. Prizes include a local group award of approximately $600, plus regional and national awards, as well as special categories.