GRF Breaking Barriers Scholarship

person with diploma in hand

Apply for the GRF Breaking Barriers $1,000 Scholarship

Deadline is October 15, 2025

A nationally recognized public accounting firm headquartered in the greater Washington, DC area, GRF CPAs & Advisors (GRF) is accepting applications for the 2025 GRF Breaking Barriers Scholarship. Renamed in 2024 to expand the program’s reach and impact, the scholarship aims to support first-generation college students throughout the United States considering a career in accounting.

For the past four years, GRF has offered a scholarship that provides financial assistance to sophomore, junior, or senior students enrolled in accredited accounting programs. By broadening the scope of the scholarship, GRF hopes to provide more opportunities for students seeking additional resources to help them complete their education. This year, eight recipients will each receive a $1,000 award for the Spring 2026 semester, payable directly to the recipient.

Financial need is not a requirement. Learn more about eligibility and the selection process below. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 PM EDT on October 15, 2025.

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

The award must be used for expenses related to the cost of attendance to obtain a degree such as the cost of books, supplies, transportation, loan fees, computer purchase and miscellaneous expenses, allowance for childcare or other dependent care, costs related to a disability, and reasonable costs for eligible study-abroad programs.

To apply, students must be/have:

  1. A first-generation college student
  2. A sophomore, junior or senior college student majoring in accounting at a four-year degree program at a US accredited not-for-profit, private or public, college or university
  3. A US citizen or Permanent Resident
  4. Completed at least 30 semester hours of college coursework, including at least 9 semester hours in accounting by the end of the Fall 2024 semester
  5. In good academic standing with a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  6. A copy of your resume
  7. A letter of recommendation from a professor or professional reference
  8. A copy of your transcript verifying your current college enrollment

GRF’s Scholarship Selection Committee will consider all qualified applicants who submit a complete application. The winner will be selected based on academic achievement, leadership, and career aspirations in accounting.

An ideal candidate will have:

  • A strong academic record
  • Demonstrated leadership ability (e.g., as shown through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities)
  • Exceptional personal success skills (e.g., emotional maturity, motivation, perseverance, etc.)

The winner will be notified by November 1, 2025.

Trevor Williams, CPA Partner and Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Want More Information?

To learn more about GRF’s Breaking Barriers Scholarship, please contact Trevor Williams, CPA, Partner and Director, DEI.

Contact Trevor