Fashion Scholarship Fund Unveils FSF University: A Free, Self-Paced Online Hub for Scholarship Success

The Fashion Scholarship Fund
is stepping up initiatives to broaden opportunities for students from underrepresented communities who might not be enrolled in one of the 75 accredited FSF member institutions that equip learners with the skills needed for the FSF’s Case Study Application.

The program is called FSF University, a free online educational platform aimed at providing all qualified students with access to the resources and assistance needed to finish an FSF Case Study and qualify for the FSF Scholarship, irrespective of their school association.

This contest offers full-time undergraduates who are sophomores, juniors, or seniors the chance to win a monetary scholarship ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 along with assistance in building a career in fashion. Prospective candidates must have a keen interest in making a mark in the fashion industry.

It has been discovered that FSF scholarships, particularly the Virgil Abloh “Post-Modern” scholarships, alter the course of scholars’ careers.

During this year’s event in April,
The FSF granted over $1.9 million in scholarships to 160 FSF scholars, which includes the latest group of 60 newcomers.

The Virgil Abloh “Post-Modern” Scholarship Program Recipients

(increased from 30 the previous year) attended a network encompassing 75 institutions of higher learning nationwide. All these individuals participated in the event and displayed their projects.

“FSF University aims to create equal opportunities,” he stated.
Peter Arnold
, executive director of the Fashion Scholarship Fund. “No matter where you’re studying or what your background may be, this platform will guide you through the FSF Case Study process and equip you with the tools to succeed. We believe in your talent, and we believe in your future.”

The FSF University is an unrestricted, self-guided online course provided through Arizona State University’s Canvas system, which serves as FSF’s designated Learning Management System collaborator. In partnership, they’ve developed a comprehensive and easily reachable environment enabling learners to acquire skills needed for researching, constructing, and excelling with their FSF Case Studies, all aimed at boosting their chances of securing scholarships.

Students start with three foundational online modules currently accessible, followed by choosing an FSF concentration: design and product development, merchandising, marketing, or business strategy. In early June, they will proceed with the subsequent four modules which provide sequential instruction through a case-study approach. Each of these seven learning units encompasses video lectures, quizzes, and tasks designed to assist students in delivering their finest efforts.

Marie Colletta, who leads education initiatives at FSF, stated, “With FSF University’s seven self-paced online modules, you will acquire all the knowledge required—from selecting your field to conducting research, writing, and filing your case study. The greatest advantage? You have the flexibility to progress according to your schedule, regardless of location.”

The program welcomes all qualified students, whether they attend FSF member institutions or schools not part of the FSF network. Any applicant who meets the eligibility criteria for the FSF Scholarship is welcome to apply.

In this course, students will acquire skills necessary for completing the FSF Case Study. This includes grasping the essence of the 2026 competition theme, choosing a specific field of expertise, performing thorough research, organizing and writing their case studies effectively, and refining these works until they meet the required standards before submitting them. Additionally, students can expect constructive critiques fromFSF’s associate instructors within two working days following every task submission, aiding in enhancing and fine-tuning their concepts prior to the contest end date. The program further supports learners with discussion forums along with supplementary virtual sessions aimed at offering extra assistance throughout the coursework journey.

Qualified students have the option to sign up through FSF’s application platform, WizeHive, which also provides access to FSF’s How to Apply guide. This program offers both flexibility and structure, proposing recommended goals each week to assist learners in maintaining their progress. Participants should plan to commit approximately two to three hours every week for an overall period of six to eight weeks.

Submissions must be made for review via FSF University immediately upon completion and not after October 1, 2025, by 11:59 AM Eastern Time. The final Case Study should also be uploaded through FSF’s WizeHive portal by October 13, 2025, before 11:59 AM Eastern Time. Those who finish all modules will receive a certification signifying they have successfully completed this year’s case study theme titled “Fashion Crosses Industries.”

“FSF University is more than just a course—it’s a doorway to opportunities, mentorship, and a career in fashion,” stated Farai Simoyi, who leads FSF University.
Virgil Abloh
“The Postmodern” Scholarship Endowment and Equity.

Although attending FSF University is not mandatory, it is highly recommended, particularly for students who do not have direct contact with FSF instructors, case study advisors, or previous graduates.

The FSF stands as the leading organization focused on fashion-related education and workforce development within the United States. This nonprofit collaborates closely with exceptionally gifted young individuals from various backgrounds across the nation, distributing more than $1.9 million annually through scholarship programs aimed at supporting student success across multiple areas of the field such as design, merchandising, marketing analysis, and strategic business planning. Additionally, the FSF offers scholars numerous internship and job prospects along with guidance through mentoring, networking events, professional growth initiatives, and connections to prominent figures and key enterprises in the fashion sector.

In 2020,
Virgil Abloh
teamed up with the FSF to create and manage the Post Modern Scholarship Fund aimed at promoting equity and inclusivity within the fashion sector. This initiative offers scholarship money, career guidance, and mentorship opportunities specifically for students identifying as Black or African American.

In the last year, the FSF has introduced programs like the FSF Community Colleges Initiative, aimed at recognizing and aiding students pursuing studies at two-year community colleges with ambitions of entering the fashion world or related fields. Additionally, they’ve established Bridge Fund Grants designed to bolster their efforts in offering increased scholarship options and broader professional prospects for individuals seeking entry into these sectors but lacking clear pathways.