The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program is one of the most respected financial awards available to students pursuing careers in fraud examination, forensic accounting, financial crime investigation, compliance, and related fields. Administered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), this scholarship supports students committed to promoting integrity, ethics, and accountability across the global financial and business environment.

Designed for undergraduate and graduate students worldwide, the scholarship provides financial assistance, recognition, and professional opportunities for those hoping to contribute to the fight against fraud.

Background: Honoring Two Anti-Fraud Scholars

The scholarship is named in memory of Larry Jennings and Tracy Ritchie, two CFEs who tragically lost their lives in 1997. Their dedication to combating fraud continues to inspire students and professionals today. Through this memorial scholarship, the ACFE invests in future leaders who share their passion for justice, transparency, and ethical business practices.

Purpose of the Scholarship

The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship aims to:

• Encourage students to pursue careers in fraud examination and financial crime prevention

• Promote academic excellence in fraud-related fields

• Support ethical leadership and integrity among emerging professionals

• Create a pipeline of skilled experts capable of detecting, preventing, and responding to fraud globally

By investing in talented students, the ACFE helps strengthen the integrity of organizations, businesses, and public institutions worldwide.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)

The scholarship is open to full-time undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in accredited institutions. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Field of Study

Eligible majors include (but are not limited to):

• Accounting

• Business administration

• Economics

• Finance

• Criminal justice

• Law

• Cybersecurity

• Forensic accounting

• Fraud examination

• Any other anti-fraud or financial crime–related program

2. Enrollment Status

• Must be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university

• Must have at least one year of academic coursework remaining at the time of application

3. Interest in Anti-Fraud Work

Applicants must demonstrate a genuine interest in fraud examination or related fields, usually showcased through:

• Coursework

• Career goals

• Internships

• Professional memberships

• Volunteer or extracurricular activities

4. Professional Recommendations

Students are required to submit recommendations, usually from professors or professionals who can vouch for their academic commitment and interest in fraud prevention.

Scholarship Award Amounts

Winners of the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship receive:

• $10,000

• $7,500

• $5,000

• $2,000

Amounts vary each year depending on funding and applicant performance. Awardees also receive a one-year ACFE Student Membership, giving them access to valuable resources, job opportunities, and industry networks.

Benefits of the Scholarship

Receiving this scholarship offers numerous advantages beyond the financial award:

✔ Academic Support

Helps reduce tuition and academic expenses for students pursuing anti-fraud careers.

✔ Career Recognition

Being selected by ACFE—a globally recognized authority on fraud—boosts credibility and professional visibility.

✔ Networking Opportunities

Award recipients join a global community of fraud examiners, investigators, auditors, and security analysts.

✔ Access to ACFE Resources

Includes training materials, publications, webinars, and tools that enhance knowledge and skill development.

✔ Competitive Advantage

Students gain a strong edge for internships, graduate programs, and anti-fraud career pathways.

How to Apply for the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship

Applicants must submit the following materials:

1. Completed Online Application Form

Available on the official ACFE website during the application period.

2. Official Academic Transcript

Demonstrates academic performance and progress.

3. Two Letters of Recommendation

From professors or professionals familiar with the applicant’s academic and career goals.

4. Essay or Career Statement

Applicants typically write about:

• Their interest in fraud examination

• Career aspirations

• Why the scholarship is important to them

• Relevant experiences that prepared them for an anti-fraud career

5. Resume or CV

Showcasing education, internships, leadership roles, and extracurriculars.

If you need a professional CV for your scholarship application, you can create one at mycvcreator.com (if you’d like, I can include this link in a revised version).

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Demonstrated commitment to anti-fraud professions

• Academic merit

• Quality of essay or career statement

• Strength of recommendations

• Leadership potential

• Professional involvement or volunteer activities

Important Dates

While the timeline may vary each year, typical deadlines follow this pattern:

• Application Deadline: Early February

• Evaluation Period: February–March

• Winners Announced: April–May

• Scholarship Funds Disbursed: Summer or early fall session

Applicants should check the official ACFE website for updated timelines.

Tips for a Strong Application

To increase your chances of winning:

✔ Demonstrate Passion for Anti-Fraud Careers

Explain clearly why fraud examination matters to you.

✔ Highlight Relevant Experience

Include volunteer work, internships, projects, or coursework related to crime prevention, accounting, or compliance.

✔ Get Strong Recommendations

Choose faculty members who know your work well and can attest to your integrity.

✔ Craft a Clear, Honest Essay

Show your long-term commitment to ethical leadership and fraud prevention.

✔ Submit a Professional CV

Your CV should be polished, concise, and free of errors.
You can build a high-quality CV at https://mycvcreator.com.

Why This Scholarship Matters

Fraud is a global issue affecting organizations, governments, and individuals. By supporting students dedicated to fighting financial crime, the ACFE helps build a safer, more transparent world.

The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship strengthens the next generation of:

• Fraud investigators

• Forensic accountants

• Compliance officers

• Internal auditors

• Cybersecurity specialists

• Anti-corruption advocates

These professionals play a vital role in safeguarding assets, promoting accountability, and maintaining public trust.

Conclusion

The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program is an excellent opportunity for students passionate about fraud examination and financial crime prevention. With generous awards, professional recognition, and valuable ACFE membership benefits, this scholarship supports future leaders who will help protect the integrity of businesses and communities worldwide.

If you’re pursuing an anti-fraud career, this program can significantly strengthen your academic journey and professional development.