McDonald's Black and Positively Golden Scholarship

Scholarship Overview

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and McDonald’s are proud to offer financial assistance to outstanding students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Sixty-Three (63) scholars will be selected to receive a scholarship up to $15,000 for the 2025-2026 academic school year ($7,500 per semester), which can only be applied to verifiable costs associated with average tuition and usual fees.

In 2021, McDonald’s partnered with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), to create the Black & Positively Golden® Scholarship Program. The initiative supports bright young minds headed to the nation’s HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges & Universities).

In 2024, the B&PG Scholarship Program will award $1 million in HBCU scholarships to more than 60 scholars. The program will also provide students with a subscription to the Black-owned, mental health app Alkemeopens in a new window. The technology provides access to an extensive library of mental health and wellness content curated by Black mental health professionals. This means that students not only get financial help getting to college, but they also get support that could help them thrive there.

The B&PG Scholarship Program is the latest example of McDonald’s long-standing commitment to education in Black communities. The company has awarded millions in scholarships over the past decade and is deeply committed to supporting brilliant young minds and brighter futures.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Be enrolled full-time as an undergraduate freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior attending an HBCU during the 2025-2026 academic school year.

  • Current cumulative grade point average of 2.7 or higher.

  • Able to demonstrate leadership abilities.

  • Able to demonstrate a financial need.

  • Be a U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident.

How to Apply

All Applicants Must:

  • Please upload a professional image in your school logo and/or school colors.

  • Answer the following video question (2 mins max):

○ What unique perspective, passion, or curiosity drives your academic interests? How do you envision it shaping your future as a scholar and leader in your field?

  • After submission of the video, the student will be asked if they are currently, or have ever been a McDonald’s team member. This data will be recorded for potential team member scholarship.

Application Dates

This application opens November 11, 2024, and closes April 25, 2025  at 11:59 pm EST (Eastern Standard Time).

Ty Brown