The term scholarship means— (A) financial support paid by a covered agency towards the cost to an individual of attendance at an institution of higher education that is authorized to participate in a Federal student aid program under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.) in a course of study leading to a credential in a critical skill or another program that requires the individual to demonstrate an interest in or agreement to pursue a career in public service