Young cancer survivors preparing for higher education may be eligible for scholarships from the Mid South Division of the American Cancer Society.

Kay Franklin, AMC community representative, said the Society’s Mid-South Division will award $1,000 scholarships to eligible individuals who have fought cancer and are attending an accredited university, college or vocational/technical school. Awards for the 2009-2010 academic year will be announced in April 2009.

Angel Strange, Division quality of life director, said childhood cancer survivors have faced incredible challenges and overcome them.

“Awarding these scholarships is our way of saying congratulations on winning the fight and keep up the good work,” Strange said.

To be eligible, applicants must be under the age of 25, have had a cancer diagnosis before age 21 and be a resident of one of the Mid-South Division states, which includes Alabama, and be United States resident.

Candidates must also have a GPA of at least 2.5 and have been accepted to an accredited school.

Franklin said since the inception of the American Cancer Society college scholarship program in 2000, more than 1,388 scholarships have been awarded.

“Last year 218 survivors were awarded the scholarships,” she said.

Applications are due by Feb. 1, 2009. Scholarships will be awarded based on financial need, leadership, academic achievement and community service.

For more information on the scholarship program or to obtain an application, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org/midsouthnews.