Educate.
Inspire.
Equip.
Accelerate.
Black Student Fund is an exemplary education equity organization in the Washington, DC area. To make a better tomorrow, we empower scholars with the resources needed to solve the academic challenges of today. “Building Strong Futures” is our motto. It represents our belief in the power of education, the importance of excellence, and the value of achievement.
The Black Student Fund (BSF) was founded in 1964, following Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s historic March on Washington in 1963, where people of all races demanded immediate change.
During the 1960s, black enrollment at independent schools in the Washington, D.C. area was extremely low, languishing at 1% or less in many schools.
Private schools lagged behind public schools in achieving diversity, prompting the BSF to become one of the few organizations dedicated to addressing inequality at elite institutions.
The BSF embodied the spirit of multiracial cooperation and focused on expanding educational opportunities as the key to achieving the "Beloved Community" that Dr. King envisioned.
Despite starting with a modest endowment of $8,850, the BSF received massive community support and monetary contributions over the decades.
Through tuition scholarships worth millions, the BSF made a significant impact on students, families, and faculty in independent schools.
The Catalogue for Philanthropy recognized BSF as one of the region's finest charities, praising its comprehensive programs tailored to students and their environments.
Over the years, the BSF earned the respect and endorsement of influential figures from various fields, including politicians, business leaders, clergy members, and educators.
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BSF's efforts have led to significant progress in increasing racial diversity in independent schools across the Washington, D.C. area.
BSF Member schools in the region generally boast a higher degree of racial diversity compared to independent schools nationwide.
The institution continues to address ongoing challenges and disparities, acknowledging the need for sustained efforts to promote diversity and equity in education.
Despite the successes achieved, there remains a discrepancy between the percentage of Black students in public schools (approximately 16%) and those attending private schools (approximately 10%).
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As BSF celebrates nearly six decades of service, it takes great pride in the strides made in promoting educational opportunities and racial diversity.
The institution has gained recognition and support from prominent individuals, including Vice President Hubert Humphrey, Ambassador Susan Rice, and Justice Thurgood Marshall, among others.
BSF remains committed to its mission of excellence and service, acknowledging that its most remarkable history is yet to be written.
Looking ahead, BSF will continue to strive for progress, advocating for equal access to education and aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape.
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Enroll your child today in the BSF Schools community and open the door to a world of educational opportunities.
Our People
BSF is a collective organization directed by a Board and Staff and powered by a community of supporters both individuals and entities.
Board of Trustees
Former Trustees
Trustee Emeriti
People at BSF
Our Sponsors
BSF is an educational equity organization working in the independent K-12 school community and advancing academic excellence.
BSF Scholars at BSF member schools receive a small tuition payment of $300 to $500 yearly. BSF also assists families with educational expenses, summer learning opportunities and emergency assistance.
On line applications for BSF will be available on December 1, 2025. Visit AccessBSF for additional information.
BSF Member Schools are independent schools K-12 schools in the Metropolitan Washington DC area. Visit AccessBSF to learn more.
BSF offers academic, college placement, essential services, youth development and summer programs.
BSF STEM is a collection on enrichment STEM focused programs and activities. Visit BSF STEM to learn more.
The BSF/LSF Annual School Fair is a forum for Washington metropolitan area families to learn about independent school education and engage students, teachers and administrators from independent schools.
Many admissions offices are available to discuss the decision-making process and to show you how your child compared to the rest of the candidate pool. During this discussion, if your child has been offered a place on a wait-list, ask for an assessment of chances for later admission, including enrollment for the following year. If an admissions director does not feel the school is a good fit for your child, he or she may make alternative recommendations.