Miami Dade College (MDC) is offering two scholarship opportunities, each up to $1,000, available to students meeting certain criteria, including those of Cuban descent. These scholarships aim to support first-generation college students and residents from specific Miami neighborhoods interested in business and entrepreneurship. The deadline to apply is this Friday.
These scholarship opportunities are listed in the official MDC catalog as the 2026 Howard Greenfield Charitable Foundation Scholarship and the 2026 Patrick F. Hidalgo Scholarship. While both share the same deadline, their application requirements differ, necessitating that interested Cuban students verify the specific academic, residency, and eligibility conditions for each scholarship before applying.
Howard Greenfield Scholarship: A Boost for First-Generation Students
The Howard Greenfield Charitable Foundation Scholarship offers $1,000 to first-generation college students who graduated from high school in South Florida and show a dedication to education and innovation. To qualify, students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 at Miami Dade College. If newly enrolled, their GPA from previous educational institutions will be considered.
Applicants must also submit a 250-word essay detailing their commitment to innovation and education. Priority is given to those who have utilized MDC Single Stop services, although this is not a mandatory requirement. The application deadline is November 6, 2026.
Patrick F. Hidalgo Scholarship: Targeting Overtown and Liberty City Residents
The Patrick F. Hidalgo Scholarship awards up to $1,000 and is specifically for students residing in Overtown or Liberty City, Miami. Applicants must be pursuing studies at the Carrie P. Meek Entrepreneurial Education Center and majoring in Business or Entrepreneurship. They must demonstrate financial need per federal standards, which will be assessed by MDC's Financial Aid Office.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.3 at MDC is required, or from previous institutions for newly enrolled students. An essay of 250 words explaining the candidate's interest in business and entrepreneurship is also needed. The application form must be completed by the same Friday deadline.
Eligibility for Cuban Students
Cuban students are eligible to apply if they meet the specific criteria of each scholarship. Being Cuban is neither a hindrance nor a guarantee for accessing these funds. For the Howard Greenfield Scholarship, applicants must be first-generation college students who graduated from a South Florida high school. Those who completed high school in Cuba do not meet this requirement.
In the case of the Patrick F. Hidalgo Scholarship, Cuban students must reside in the specified neighborhoods, enroll at the designated education center, and meet the academic and financial conditions outlined. While MDC invites national, international, and DACA students to explore its scholarships, the eligibility of various immigration statuses, including Cuban residents, is not explicitly stated for these two scholarships.
How to Apply for the Scholarships
Applicants must thoroughly review the requirements for each scholarship aligned with their profile and submit the respective application form before the deadline. There is no specified closing time for these applications. Scholarship recipients must enroll in at least six credit hours per academic term at MDC, as funds are intended for use within the institution and are non-transferable.
MDC advises completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), although this does not automatically qualify a student for federal aid. While MDC encourages all students, including those with DACA status, to explore scholarship opportunities, eligibility varies by program.
Submitting an application does not ensure scholarship receipt. The number of awards available and the selection timeline are not publicly disclosed. For more information on eligibility, application processes, or personal circumstances, students should contact MDC's Financial Aid Office at 305-237-9300 or consult the official contact directory for further assistance.
Common Questions about Miami Dade College Scholarships
Can Cuban students apply for these scholarships?
Yes, Cuban students can apply if they meet the specific requirements for each scholarship. However, being Cuban is not a factor that guarantees eligibility.
What are the main requirements for the Howard Greenfield Scholarship?
Applicants must be first-generation college students who graduated from a South Florida high school, have a minimum GPA of 2.75, and submit an essay on their commitment to innovation and education.
What criteria must be met for the Patrick F. Hidalgo Scholarship?
Applicants must reside in Overtown or Liberty City, pursue a major in Business or Entrepreneurship at the Carrie P. Meek Center, and demonstrate financial need according to federal standards.
Is there a specific deadline for submitting applications?
Yes, the deadline for both scholarships is Friday, but there is no specified time of day for submission.