OREANDA-NEWS. United Airlines is helping reduce the costs of a college education for hundreds of deserving students this fall. The United Airlines Scholarship Fund (USF), a charity sponsored by the company, has awarded more than USD 1 million in scholarships to 730 employees and their children for the 2014-15 academic year.

Funded through employee contributions and fundraising efforts, the USF helps support the educational development of United co-workers and their families. Since 2002, the program has awarded more than USD 8.7 million in financial assistance to nearly 2,500 recipients.

"Providing opportunities for our employees and their loved ones to continue learning, whether in the classroom or the office, is core to our working together culture," said Donna Towle, the airline's vice president of employee relations. "We are proud of this year's scholarship winners and grateful to all the employees and business partners at United who generously contribute to this valuable program."

The USF is a private, nonprofit charity that supports students attending accredited undergraduate, graduate and vocational technical institutions. A majority of applicants reside in states with a United hub – California, Colorado, Illinois, New York/New Jersey, Texas and Virginia – or regions where a large number of employees live and work. Over its 12-year history, the program has given scholarships to students across 46 states and 12 countries, with 2014 winners hailing from as far away as London, Mexico City and Tokyo.

Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of academic record, honors, school and community involvement, work experience and several other factors. Students can apply for a one-time USD 1,000 award or a renewable USD 1,500 need-based award paid yearly for four years or until the recipient earns a bachelor's degree. Winners of either scholarship can re-apply as graduate students if they meet the eligibility and financial requirements.