FAQ for Applying for Mensa Education & Research Foundation Scholarships When can I apply for a Foundation Scholarship? Applications for Foundation Scholarships are only available during the Fall of each year. Exact dates vary from year to year. Who can apply for a Foundation Scholarship? Students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who will be enrolled in accredited colleges for the following academic year may apply. Additionally, students must reside in the geographic area of a participating local group and may only apply to the local group where they reside. Where can I get an application form? Enter your zip code here to determine whether application forms are currently available for your area. If you the local group for your area is participating and applications are being accepted, you will be able to download the PDF of the application form for your geographic area. What must I do to apply? Students who apply must submit essays that describe the applicant’s career, vocational, or academic goals. Essay must be of no more than 550 words and must be submitted to the local participating group where the applicant resides by the application deadline.