About the Pat Tillman Foundation
The Pat Tillman Foundation identifies remarkable service members, veterans and military spouses, empowering them with academic scholarships, lifelong leadership development, community and support.
These scholars are making an impact as they lead through action in the fields like healthcare, business, public service, STEM, education and the humanities. Selected scholars join a network of nearly 1,000 Tillman Scholars, each year we choose up to 60 Tillman Scholars from thousands of applicants.
What makes a tillman scholar
Tillman Scholars have served their country and believe their best years of service are ahead of them. They are committed to strengthening communities at home and around the world.
Tillman Scholars carry forward Pat’s legacy and are making an impact with effects that will ripple outwards for years to come. Scholars are chosen based on the core values of how Pat led his life, through:
- Service: Serves beyond self in and out of uniform
- Scholarship: Pursues lifelong learning and intellectual growth
- Humble Leadership: Leads by example with selfless commitment
- Impact: Unites others and advances ideas that change the world
Who Was Pat Tillman?
Pat Tillman was an NFL player who left his professional football career to serve in the U.S. Army after 9/11. He played safety for the Arizona Cardinals and graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University.
Pat enlisted in the Army Rangers with his brother Kevin in 2002. He served combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan with the 75th Ranger Regiment.
Pat died on April 22, 2004, in Afghanistan while protecting fellow soldiers during an ambush. His family and friends created the Pat Tillman Foundation to honor his legacy of service beyond self.
“To err on the side of passion is human and right and the only way I’ll live.”
How Tillman Scholars Make an Impact
Tillman Scholars honor Pat Tillman’s legacy of service through their leadership and impact. Since 2009, nearly 1,000 Scholars have joined this mission, driving change across the United States and around the world.
Representing fields from healthcare and business to public service, STEM, education, and the humanities, Scholars tackle critical challenges such as healthcare access, environmental sustainability, and national security.
Drawing on their military experience and advanced education, they are the next generation of leaders committed to service beyond self.
Meet Tillman Scholars
Tillman Scholars represent all military branches and work in various fields. They create positive change through their work in communities worldwide. Read a few of their stories below to see what Tillman Scholars accomplish.
Bryan Watson
Navy | Georgia Institute of Technology
“I study how engineering can protect people from cascading disasters.”
Bryan studies engineering systems to protect people from cascading disasters. He focuses on improving resilience in complex systems like power grids and infrastructure.
Sarah Abdella-El Kallassy
Marine Corps | Johns Hopkins University
“I want to be the extra set of eyes helping communities find sustainable solutions in their midst.”
Sarah served as a liaison officer in Afghanistan’s peace process. She researches sustainable solutions for Middle East conflicts and women’s roles in peacebuilding.
Tigon Abalos
Army | Harvard Business School
“My life goal is to make a positive impact on the world through people.”
Tigon provides accessible dental healthcare to underserved communities. He works as a humanitarian focused on reaching people who cannot afford treatment.
Tillman Scholar Program Results
The Pat Tillman Foundation supports nearly 1,000 Tillman Scholars across 160+ universities nationwide. These scholars maintain a 3.6 average GPA and achieve a 98% graduation rate.
The foundation has invested over $40 million in academic scholarships since 2009. This investment removes financial barriers for military families pursuing education.
Tillman Scholars
Average GPA
Universities
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Graduation Rate
Our Partners and Sponsors
How to Support Tillman Scholars
The Pat Tillman Foundation relies on everyone who believes in empowering selfless leaders. Your contribution helps us honor Pat’s legacy by uniting and empowering the next generation of leaders.
Donations Support:
- Military service members pursuing education
- Veterans transitioning to civilian leadership roles
- Military spouses building professional careers
Ways to Donate to the Pat Tillman Foundation:
- Personal and monthly giving
- Fundraise through races and events
- Giving as a corporation or foundation
- Giving through wills, trusts, or estates
Learn all of the ways you can donate to the Pat Tillman Foundation below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Eligible for the Tillman Scholarship?
U.S. service members, veterans, and military spouses are eligible for Tillman Scholarships. Applicants must be pursuing a full-time degree at an accredited U.S. college or university.
See complete application requirements.
How to Become a Tillman Scholar?
To become a Tillman Scholar, you must be a military member, veteran, or spouse. Apply on the Scholar Applications page during the open application period. Submit all required materials, service records, and financial information.
What Does the Tillman Scholarship Cover?
Tillman Scholarships cover tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for academic programs.
Scholars receive benefits beyond funding. They get up to $1,000 in annual grants for leadership training and certifications.
Scholars also gain access to mentors and the annual Pat Tillman Leadership Summit. Other benefits include entry to premier events like SXSW, Inc. 500/5000, and the Aspen Ideas Festival.
How Many Tillman Scholars Get Selected Each Year?
The Pat Tillman Foundation selects up to 60 new Tillman Scholars each year. The foundation has supported nearly 1,000 Tillman Scholars since 2009.
When Is the Scholarship Application Deadline?
The Tillman Scholarship application deadline varies each year. Check the Scholar Applications page for dates and requirements. Join our scholar mailing list for updates about applications.
How Much Is the Pat Tillman Scholarship?
Scholarship award amounts vary by individual need. On average, recipients receive around $10,000 per academic year. Total support can reach $40,000 over four years. This amount depends on program length and financial need.
How Competitive Is the Pat Tillman Scholarship?
The Pat Tillman Scholarship is competitive. The Tillman Scholar program receives around 2,000 applications each year and selects only 60 scholars. That’s an acceptance rate of roughly 3%.