Since 2003, The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund (SCSF) has helped low income students achieve their goal of higher education.

The program, which provides individual scholarships to institutions to cover tuition and related expenses, was started by Jay-Z [born Shawn Carter] and his mother D. Gloria Carter. They are now celebrating the SCSF's 20th year.

“The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund has helped so many students across America achieve their goals of higher education,” said Dr. Carter. “We believe that education is the key to unlocking opportunity, and we’re proud to provide students with the resources they need to succeed.”

The SCSF has awarded scholarships to over 200 students across America every year for the past twenty years with awards in amounts of up to $7,500. The deadline for this year’s scholarship will be April 30th so interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

The SCSF announced the anniversary on their social media platforms.

"To close out #BlackHistoryMonth, join us as we celebrate our Founders, Honorable. Dr. Gloria Carter and Mr. Shawn Carter," they posted. "For 20 years, the Shawn Carter Foundation has been committed to opening the doors of education, travel, enlightenment and experiences to those that may never have thought it possible. Now that’s #BlackExcellence."

To be eligible, students must be high school seniors, students with GED diplomas, vocational or trade students, or undergraduate college students as well as citizens of the United States. Students must also be 25 or younger with a minimum GPA of 2.0.