Community First College Scholarships
Application Deadline is March 29th, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
Community First annually awards five $8,000 scholarships.Jump to:
Honoring Raymond A. Vinson and empowering young student members
To honor our founder Raymond A. Vinson, each year, Community First awards scholarships of up to $8,000 ($2,000 annually per student, renewable for four years) to five graduating high school students who demonstrate leadership ability and financial need.
Before his death in 1992, Vinson was a nationally recognized credit union pioneer. He helped form more than 40 Florida credit unions (including the Duval County Teachers Credit Union in 1935, which is now Community First Credit Union of Florida). Vinson's legacy of dedication, compassion, and commitment to the credit union movement will forever touch lives.
Application deadline is March 29th, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
Recipient Spotlight
Our scholarship program creates a ripple effect, giving the recipient a helping hand that often extends beyond the classroom and into the communities we call home.
"The future is on the horizon and it's up to you to grab it," says Jaylon.
Scholarships FAQs
Do you need to be a Community First Credit Union Member?
To be eligible you either need to be a member or dependent of a member of Community First with an account in good standing for at least one year.
What are the eligibility requirements?
- A graduating high school senior student entering college for their undergraduate degree
- Attending a two-or-four year public or private accredited college or university, preferably within the State of Florida
- High School grade point average of at least 3.0 (unweighted)
- A minimum ACT score of 24 or SAT score of 1,110
What are the application requirements?
- High school transcript
- Completed Federal Student Aid application
- 200-word essay explaining how the scholarship will help you attain your educational and financial goals
- Two recommendation letters from the following:
- high school principal, teacher, or guidance counselor; religious or civic leader; and/or a current or former employer
- A list of community and leadership activities, honors, and awards
When is the application deadline?
March 29, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
What if I still have questions?
Please direct questions about the Raymond A. Vinson scholarship to Paula Basihan at 904.371.7921.
*$2,000 is offered each year, per student, and is renewable for four years. Recipient may continue the scholarship on an annual basis until graduation, not to exceed four years.