Department scholarships are awarded to deserving sons or daughters, grandsons or granddaughters of a veteran who need financial assistance to avail themselves of higher education at the post-secondary level. These scholarships are to be applied only toward the expenses of tuition, books or similar fees, at an accredited institution of higher learning. Satisfactory progress must be made with grades reported to the Department of Minnesota. To be eligible to apply for these scholarships, the veteran must have served in the federal active duty in the United States Armed Forces since December 7, 1941 and have been honorably discharged or is still serving. Applicants must be either a resident of the State of Minnesota or a member of the American Legion Auxiliary (includes Junior membership), The American Legion, or Sons of The American Legion, Department of Minnesota. Applicants must also be a high school senior or graduate, or a college student or graduate, seeking further education with a scholastic record and average of at least C." Applicants must be of good character, with ambition to continue their education. Applicants must submit a letter from the superintendent, principal or counselor of the school presently attending, or have attended regarding scholastic record, aptitude and ambition; and a letter from a business, clergy or professional person (not related) with whom the applicant has been associated. Applications must be submitted by March 5th to the Unit President of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit located in the applicant's school district or the Unit that holds the applicant's membership. This application must be received in the Minnesota Department Auxiliary Headquarters by March 15th. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.