The ACAF/DFS Scholarship Application is open each year from November 1 through mid-February.

The Allegany County Area Foundation Dollars for Scholars online application for the 2026-2027 academic year closed on February 13, 2026.


Completed applications are reviewed by our scholarship volunteers by early March, and scholarship selections made in late March.


Applicants will be notified of their award status by the middle of April. Recipients must formally accept their scholarship award(s) by June 1 by logging back into the Dollars for Scholars Application.


Scholarship checks are mailed to recipients in July. Checks are made co-payable to students and their college/university.

Potential applicants

Please do not to wait until the deadline approaches to begin your application. Starting early allows time for your guidance office to provide your transcript, and for ACAF staff to check your application and send reminders.

Repeat applicants

Please read over ACAF Repeat Applicant Info to avoid potential complications when applying again. In general, re-application mostly involves updating the prior application and takes less time than the initial application.

Thank you for the investment you made in my future. I wanted to make sure you knew how much this money did for me. As the spring approaches I am excited to continue school. Nursing was definitely the right choice for me. I have loved getting to help people in the community.


~ Gracie


Alyssa Bump and Dr. Stupp

If you have any questions, please call 585-296-5616 or email director@acafny.org

News and Events

Volunteers building a trail shelter.

IMPACT Partners with Andover Students to Bring New Trail Shelter to Life

By Alyssa Bump • June 8, 2026
Environmental Technology students are supported through the Kendall Environmental Fund to gain real-world experience while enhancing local outdoor spaces.
Ryan Dennis with manuscript and final copy of

ACAF Scholarship Alumnus Ryan Dennis Discusses his Newest Book "Barn Gothic" and Allegany County Roots

By Alyssa Bump • May 18, 2026
Belva Waite Scholarship Recipient Ryan Dennis reflects on rural Allegany County roots, the impact of ACAF scholarships, and the inspiration behind his latest book.
Moss Lake

ACAF April Grants Support Libraries, Youth Programs, and Outdoor Initiatives

By Alyssa Bump • April 28, 2026
Twelve non-profits receive funding for educational initiatives and essential services across Allegany County.
Yellow house in Allegany County, NY during the winter.

ACAF February Grants Support Students, Library Programs, and Leadership Allegany

By Bruce Campbell • March 9, 2026
Eight local organizations receive funding for educational programs, youth initiatives, and community enrichment.