THE SCHOLARSHIP FUND
LOOKING FOR A SCHOLARSHIP? YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE.
We have a great opportunity for students to apply for a scholarship here at the BEO. But first, be sure to read the very important information we’ve provided; here we tell you who is eligible, what the prizes are, our deadlines, and who will be judging (along with other fun and exciting details).
We’re excited to see your work. Suerte on!
THE LAGUNA (FRIEND)
For business
Make a one-time donation or create a recurring gift. Either way, we consider you a really good friend.
THE CREATOR
For business
As a creator, you breathe life into ideas and give the license to the BEO to make them real.
THE AUDIENCE
For business
As a member of the audience, you give us raison d’être. We are, quite simply, nothing without you.
THE SUPPLIER
For business
As a supplier, you provide the tools and resources we need to give back to our greater diaspora.
WHO’S ELIGIBLE?
All students must be enrolled and attending classes for the 2026-2027 school year at a U.S.-affiliated, accredited college or university.
WHAT ARE THE PRIZES?
We have three (3) financial prizes this year:
1st place: $2,000
2nd place: $1,500
3rd place: $1,000
*Winners will be asked to briefly discuss their work via a video recording.
**With permission, we will showcase the applicant’s artwork on our website.
HOW WILL THE PRIZES BE DISTRIBUTED?
The BEO will distribute the check directly to the institution.
WHAT ARE THE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES?
Create an ORIGINAL literary, visual, or performing art of your choice exploring ideas focused on this theme:
The Voices Behind the Music: Basque Composers and Their Cultural Legacy
Basque composers have played a vital role in shaping and preserving Basque cultural identity. Through traditional and contemporary compositions, they translate history, language, values, and lived experience into music that connects generations and strengthens community. Their work reflects both cultural continuity and creative expression.
Through art, explore the life, work, or influence of a Basque composer and how their music contributes to the preservation and evolution of Basque culture. Consider how composition serves as storytelling, cultural memory, and a bridge between past and present.
- Each applicant must submit an intent to participate
- Artwork must be submitted online and digitally
WHAT TYPES OF SUBMISSIONS ARE ACCEPTABLE?
Each entry must include a title and a statement that communicates what inspired the work, how it relates to the theme, and the content of the work. We want you to be creative and use your imagination; however, here is some guidance:
LITERARY ARTS:
Literary submissions must not exceed five (5) pages. These include:
Poetry, short story, essay, journalism, nonfiction, fiction, prose, drama…
VISUAL ARTS:
Visual submissions must include high-resolution image(s) . Additionally, we require a video to be submitted for 3D artwork. Visual submissions include:
Drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, filmmaking / video, computer art, sculpture, ceramics, design, crafts, architecture…
PERFORMING ARTS:
Performing arts submissions must not exceed 10 minutes. These include:
Bertsolaritza, dance, music, opera, theater, magic, spoken word, circus arts, musical theater, mime, puppetry…
MARK YOUR CALENDAR; THESE DEADLINES ARE IMPORTANT
INTENTION TO SUBMIT: due by June 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
COMPLETED SUBMISSIONS: due by July 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
*Please note: 1. You can submit anytime before these dates, and 2. We will not accept any late submissions.
WHO WILL BE REVIEWING THE SUBMISSIONS?
A small, selected group of 3-5 people who are not of Basque descent nor have any ties to the Basque community that could affect or influence any recommendations or decisions.
*Please note that these people have little to no knowledge of the Basque culture; you must consider how to explain your work in your submission, as well as being creative with your submission. Take time to review past winners on our website.
DO YOU STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Send an email to scholarships@basqueeducational.org. We look forward to hearing from you.
THE FINE PRINT THAT IS REALLY IMPORTANT TO KNOW
In entering this scholarship contest, you understand the entry must be your original work. Entering someone else’s work is against the law and if caught submitting someone else’s work other than your own, your school will be notified and monies will be revoked if an award was already distributed. Using someone else’s copyrighted work may lead to pursuing legal damages.
