Nordstrom is committed to celebrating our communities and we think supporting the development of our young people is a great place to start. For this reason, we're pleased to offer the Nordstrom Scholarship to high school students. Nordstrom has made these scholarships available in an effort to support and encourage the pursuit of higher education.
Program and Application Details
Each year, Nordstrom awards college scholarships to deserving high school students across the country. We began awarding scholarships in 1993 in the San Diego area and the program has since grown to include eight states across the country where we have stores. Annually, 40 students are awarded a $10,000 scholarship, which is paid over four years to the college of his or her choice.
In order to be considered for a scholarship, students must:
- A cumulative unweighted GPA of at least 2.7
- Have made a substantial contribution to his or her community
- Be involved in school activities
- Demonstrate a financial need and
- Be a junior in high school to apply
Regional selection committees made up of local volunteers interview the finalists in person. Once the recipients are selected, Nordstrom makes a surprise visit to the students' classroom to share the news. With their friends and family watching, the students are informed that they have won a Nordstrom scholarship. This program directly supports education in some of the communities where we do business.
The application submission period for 2009 is now closed (as of June 1, 2009). Please check back in February 2010 when our application period reopens. For more information, please contact Ellen Greene, Corporate Scholarship Coordinator, at 206.373.4550 or nordscholar@nordstrom.com. Please note that students must live and attend school in one of the participating geographic areas designated by Nordstrom to be eligible. Currently the scholarship program is offered in the following locations:
- Northern California
- Los Angeles and Orange Counties
- San Diego and Imperial Counties
- Illinois
- Georgia
- New Jersey
- Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia
- Washington and Alaska
What our Winners Say
"October 2, 2008, was like my birthday. It is a day I will not forget in my life. I am speechless about that day. I thank you so much. You have really helped me with my education. Thank you."
- Africa Fahra, Nicholas Senn High School, Chicagoland
"When I walked into my principal's office Monday morning and saw all those I loved there, I was moved beyond comprehension. I do not think I will ever forget my mother's smiling face and my father's tears as I embraced them both. Thank you so much for this incredible opportunity and know that the scholarship money will not be wasted. I hope to share with others the fortunes I have received in life. I cannot say this enough: thank you."
- Linda Chen, Mill Creek High School, Metropolitan Atlanta
"I cannot thank you enough for the Nordstrom Scholarship Program. By your generosity, you have eased the tremendous burden of having our family handle the expense of a college education. This incredible gift allows me to fulfill the chance of a lifetime, giving me the opportunity to improve myself and become an asset to my community, which I could not have realized without your kindness."
- Thomas Wilson, Pope John XXIII High School, New Jersey