Question 1

I don't currently work at a piercing studio or am between employment, can I still apply?

Accepted Answer

At this time, we are assisting anyone who is currently employed or guest spotting at a professional piercing/jewelry studio. BIPOC front of house, apprentices and piercers, APP members and non-members with proof of studio employment can apply. Those who cannot provide proof of or are between studio employment must submit at least TWO letters of recommendation from industry associates in your application. This can be an ex- coworker, manager or employer. Those who are not currently industry affiliated, unfortunately, do not qualify.

Question 2

Do I need to speak English?

Accepted Answer

Yes. English doesn't have to be your first language but you must be able to read, speak and understand English to attend classes and apply.

Question 3

Where can I apply?

Accepted Answer

Applications are open February 1st 2025 at 12:01am PST until March 3rd 2025 at 11:59pm PST. We encourage you get your application in early as late submissions will not be accepted.

Question 4

I'm mixed race and/or my complexion is light, do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, we understand that exploring our cultural identities can be largely varied experiences. We recognize and honor you as a Black, Indigenous or Person of Color industry peer, if your cultural heritage is rooted in these historically underrepresented or racial-ethnic groups.

Question 5

Is this open internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We love to see more international applicants every year and so far have helped 4 international scholars attend the APP Conference from Chile, Peru and Argentina.

If selected, you must provide confirmation that you have a VISA or other necessary traveling documents along with your application OR be able to obtain it within 30 days of Conference week.

Don't think you'd be able to get documents in order within our timeline? We encourage you to keep us in mind for the next year when it might be more feasible. If you have further questions, please contact us here.(www.pocscholarship.com/contact-8)

Question 6

What does this scholarship offer that others don't?

Accepted Answer

• Lodging - 5 night stay at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas, NV
 • Flight assistance - $250 travel stipend
 • Food stipend - $150
 • Group dinner / hang out with the Black Piercer Party scholars
 • Mentoring and support

Question 7

Can I apply for other scholarships while I apply for the POC Scholarship?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We encourage you apply to all the amazing opportunities available to you. We do, however, ask that you inform us immediately if you are selected for another scholarship opportunity so we can consider our applicants with fairness.

Question 8

Can I apply if I will be 21 years old by the time of the conference?

Accepted Answer

Yes! This event is hosted in Las Vegas and we expect all scholars to conduct themselves responsibly.

Question 9

I've applied in the past, can I apply again?

Accepted Answer

If you have not received this scholarship to attend APP conference, you are welcome to apply again. POC Scholarship Alumni are unable to apply after receiving the scholarship package and attending the event.

Question 10

What if I have an emergency leading up to the event?

Accepted Answer

While we understand life can be very unexpected, we must insist to be informed as soon as possible in the event of an emergency. If a recipient is unable to attend the event after 4/31/25, we will rollover funds to the next year. If before, we may be subject to redistributing budget.

Question 11

Scholarship recipients haven't been announced yet but I'm eager to book my room/get my conference pass. Should I do that on my own?

Accepted Answer

Only if you're prepared to be disqualified from the scholarship opportunity. Our mutual aid effort is geared toward BIPOC industry peers that are in financial need for furthering their education. Having a studio owner/employer purchase your pass will also unfortunately disqualify you.

Question 12

I've donated to the scholarship in the past, can I access an expense report?

Accepted Answer

Of course, please contact us to inquire HERE.(www.pocscholarship.com/contact-8)

FAQ