Pay It Forward FINAL

More than anyone, MOST Alumni know what doors our scholarships can open.

As rewarding as it is to see MOST Students thrive in elementary, middle, and high school, catching up with our alumni after they leave the program is a unique thrill. Your experiences in college and trade school, and the hard work you’ve poured into your careers inspire us every day.

Now, we’re asking you to help us usher the next generation of high-achieving students into their own bright futures with a gift to MOST

When you Pay It Forward, you give Memphis-area families the opportunity to send their children to the schools that best fit their needs, regardless of zip code or financial circumstances.

2025-2026 School Year

Quick Facts

  • MOST granted $1,013,418 to 352 students attending 44 partner schools.
  • The average scholarship for students in PK3 through grade 12 is $2,865.
  • The average tuition per student is $15,855 (not including financial aid provided by schools).
  • MOST Scholarships provided, on average, 50% of students' tuition less school financial aid.

How MOST
Scholarships Work

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Applications
Families who qualify financially may apply* for a scholarship for their preschooler, kindergartner, first- or second-grader, or child with special-needs up to grade 8.
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Scholars Choose
The parents or guardians of MOST Scholars choose the schools they believe are the best fit for their children. MOST provides the scholarship funds directly to the partner schools each semester.
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Needs Based
Scholarship amounts are determined based on a combination of the family’s income, household size, and the portion of tuition they are expected to pay. The current average scholarship is $2,865. 
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Additional Scholarships
During the second semester of eighth grade, MOST Scholars are encouraged to apply for the MOST High School Scholars Program and the merit-based McDonnell Scholarship.