Each recipient receives $12,000, paid over four years, to support undergraduate studies at the college or university of his or her choice. When the program began, the foundation furnished four $2,000 scholarships to students in each of the high school graduating classes in the Houston Independent School District. In 1959, the program was expanded to include districts contiguous to H.I.S.D. Later, it grew to include all school districts within Harris County.

Seniors attending most Harris County public schools can apply and should see their counselors for applications. Candidates are nominated by each participating high school, and a Rotary Club of Houston committee makes the final selection based on scholastic achievement, economic need, community service and leadership. Scholarships are not awarded in response to individual applications to the foundation. While universities in Texas have attracted the largest number of recipients, Jones Scholars have matriculated at approximately 250 different colleges and universities throughout the nation. For information about other Houston Endowment scholarships at colleges and universities in Texas, please click on the College and University Scholarships tab under Scholarships.