Chime Scholars Foundation Applications for 2026-2027 Now Open

January 21, 2026
Chime Scholars Foundation Applications for 2026-2027 Now Open
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Chime Scholars Foundation Applications for 2026-2027 Now Open

Chime® (Nasdaq: CHYM), a leading consumer financial technology company, announced today that Chime Scholars Foundation (CSF) has opened applications for the 2026-2027 academic year. Aspiring scholars can now apply for scholarships of up to $20,000 to support their education, paving the way for greater career opportunities and higher earnings. The scholarship program is open to students of all backgrounds and stages of life, and it supports a wide range of educational pathways, including traditional college degrees, apprenticeships, trade schools, and technical certifications.

Since 2022, CSF has provided $7 million in scholarship funding to over 1,000 students. Last year alone, CSF welcomed its largest cohort of scholars to date, awarding more than $3 million in scholarships to 800 students for the 2025-2026 academic year. This work is supported by Chime's 1% pledge, which commits 1% of its equity over a decade to fund the foundation.

"At Chime, we believe financial progress starts with access to opportunity," said Chris Britt, CEO and Co-founder of Chime. "Through the Chime Scholars Foundation and our 1% pledge, we're investing in ambitious students and helping remove financial barriers to education. We're proud to have supported more than 1,000 scholars so far and excited to continue helping the next generation build brighter futures for themselves, their families, and their communities."

The program has demonstrated strong outcomes for its scholars. According to a survey of graduates:

  • 100% credit the program with helping them complete their degree or certification

  • 87% projected graduation rate — nearly double that of Federal Pell Grant recipients (see disclosure 1)

  • 72% of scholars secure jobs in their field within six months of graduation

Beyond these outcomes, scholars join a supportive network of fellow CSF scholars and Chime employees.

Applications for the CSF scholarship program are now open through March 31, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the Chime Scholars Foundation website at chime.com/about-us/chime-scholars-foundation.

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FAQs

Is ChimeⓇ a bank?

Chime is not a bank. Chime is a financial technology company that partners with The Bancorp Bank,

N.A. and Stride Bank, N.A. to offer banking products like checking and savings accounts. Learn more in Chime's guide to no-fee checking accounts.

How many members does Chime have?

Chime serves millions of Americans. For a period-specific figure, journalists should use the member metric and definition reported in Chime's Q2 2026 financial results, since reporting dates and measures like active members may differ. Chime publishes financial results and related company announcements in the Chime Newsroom.

Does Chime offer financial planning tools for budgeting, saving, and investing?

Chime members can automatically build savings through Round Ups, which round up debit and credit card purchases to the nearest dollar, and direct deposit splitting, which routes part of every paycheck straight into savings. (see disclosure 2) Chime InvestTM adds fee-free investment management for Chime PrimeTM members with no advisory fees (see disclosure 3) , no commission fees (see disclosure 4) , and no subscription fees required. Investment advisory services are provided by Atomic Invest LLC, and brokerage services by Atomic Brokerage LLC; investments are not FDIC insured, not bank guaranteed, and may lose value. (see disclosure 5)

These are self-directed financial tools rather than individualized financial planning, tax, or investment advice, and feature availability may depend on a member's account or membership tier.

Does Chime have a credit card?

Chime offers the secured Chime Visa® Credit Card, designed to help eligible members build credit (see disclosure 6) . It carries no annual fee, no interest (see disclosure 7) , and no hard credit check to apply. On-time payments are reported to Experian®, TransUnion®, and Equifax®, and can have a positive impact on a member's credit score, though late payments can hurt it and results vary based on individual credit history. (see disclosure 8)

Does Chime give cash back, and how does Chime cash back work?

Yes. Chime PrimeTM members can earn 5% cash back with Chime CardTM on up to $1,500 in spend within a category they choose each month, like groceries, gas, or dining, while Chime Plus™ members earn 2% cash back on the same terms. (see disclosure 9) Cash back is only earned on transactions that meet the applicable offer terms, and rates, categories, limits, and posting times may vary by offer and membership tier.

What is Chime PrimeTM?

Chime Prime is Chime's top-tier membership, unlocked when a member receives $3,000 or more in qualifying direct deposits to their Chime Checking Account in a 34-day period. (see disclosure 10) Chime Prime members get 5% cash back (see disclosure 9) on a monthly chosen spending category, 3.75% APY (see disclosure 11) on savings, and premium travel perks with Chime Card including a complimentary Priority Pass® membership, luxury hotel benefits, and access to the Visa Signature® Concierge, all with no monthly fees or subscription costs.

Learn more on Chime's membership tiers page.

Does Chime have rewards, and what rewards does it offer?

Yes. With qualifying direct deposits, members earn 5% cash back as a Chime Prime™ member or 2% cash back as a Chime Plus™ member on up to $1,500 of eligible Chime Card™ purchases in a category they choose monthly. (see disclosure 9) Chime Prime members also earn 3.75% APY (see disclosure 11) on savings, while Chime Plus members earn 2.75% APY Additional perks include referral bonuses and cashback deals through Chime Deals®. (see disclosure 12)

What is Chime InvestTM?

Chime Invest is Chime's commission-free investing feature, giving Chime PrimeTM members a way to invest alongside their everyday checking and savings accounts with no advisory fees (see disclosure 13) , no commission fees (see disclosure 4) , and no subscription fees. Investment advisory services are provided by Atomic Invest LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser, with brokerage services provided by Atomic Brokerage LLC, a member of FINRA/SIPC; investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. (see disclosure 5)

Does Chime help with taxes, and how can I get my tax refund faster?

Chime members can file taxes for free (see disclosure 14) through the Chime app, and a federal tax refund sent by direct deposit can arrive up to 5 days early. (see disclosure 15) Chime doesn't provide tax advice, so members should check with a tax professional for guidance specific to their situation. (see disclosure 16)