Top 25 No Essay Scholarships to Apply for in 2026

Last Updated March 17, 2026
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SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
Scholarships for high school seniors for Columbia University
Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Pittsburgh

Introduction: No essay scholarships

Let's talk about no-essay scholarships. Whether you've been applying to scholarships for a while or you're completely new to the scholarship process, chances are, at some point you've felt tired, frustrated, or even fully on fed-up with writing all of those essays. Finding financial aid can be a lot of work - I feel you!

A smart strategy when applying for scholarships is to mix up the types of scholarships you're applying for. But what does this actually mean?

Well, if you're familiar with the world of scholarships, you've probably discovered that there are scholarships out there of all sorts, shapes, and sizes.

Some scholarships are for small amounts (think: anywhere from $100 to a few thousand dollars) while others go for larger amounts (sometimes even full-tuition!). Some scholarships have long lists of application requirements, while others only ask you to write a sentence, upload your transcript, or fill out a form.

So, when I say "mix up the types of scholarships you're applying for", I'm saying that it's important to consider things such as scholarship type (is there an essay required?), amount (generally, scholarships with bigger awards are harder to earn), and category (how specific does the scholarship get in terms of matching your unique profile?).

This post covers one specific type of scholarship that I'm sure you'll enjoy incorporating into your scholarship strategy: a no-essay scholarship!

Most of these no essay scholarships are open to high school, college, and graduate school students, be sure to get those easy applications in, and keep your toes crossed while you get to work on some of those other more labor-intensive opportunities.

*Pro-tip - While some of these no essay scholarships currently have specific deadlines, keep them bookmarked because they often renew monthly, quarterly, or yearly!

Jump Ahead To...

    Top 25 No essay scholarships to apply for ASAP!

    no essay scholarships

    Frequently asked questions about no essay scholarships

    • Are no essay scholarships legit?

      No essay scholarships are 100% legit!

      No essay scholarships are created to be more like contests or sweepstakes. Generally, all you have to do to be considered is enter some information on an application page and you're good to go. While these scholarships don’t require an essay, students who still want to improve their chances sometimes consult a paper writing service for tips on crafting strong application materials or personal statements for other opportunities. This is in contrast with other more labor-intensive scholarships, that require a greater amount of work and time commitment (think: essays, letters of recommendation, videos, interviews).

      The fact that no essay scholarships don't require a whole lot of effort (they're definitely the easiest opportunities out there!) doesn't mean that they aren't just as real as other scholarships that do have more detailed eligibility and application requirements to apply. In fact, no essay scholarships can sometimes be just as competitive as full-ride scholarships, given the fact that so many students apply for these opportunities.

      At the end of the day, each and every scholarship we feature in our database and in our blog posts aims to guide students in the direction of legitimate opportunities to help you navigate the journey of paying for college.

    • What are some common qualities of a no essay scholarship?

      The most identifiable quality of a no essay scholarship is the fact that it doesn't require an essay! Rather than asking students to upload an essay on the application page, these scholarships generally will ask for the completion of a form, or for students to upload a photo, video, or other unique type of submission. The fact that these scholarships can often be completed much more quickly and easily than other scholarships is what makes them so great.

      You'll also find that the majority of no essay scholarships are open to a wide variety of students, and they usually won't have any specific eligibility requirements such as only being open to students in certain majors or with a certain minimum GPA.

    • Who is eligible to apply for no essay scholarships?

      When it comes to eligiblity, as I mentioned just above, no essay scholarships are usually open to a wide range of students. For example, a no essay scholarship might be open to students ages 13 and older in the US, or maybe it's open to all high school students in the US. These eligibility criteria are very generous and intended to give all (or nearly all) students who want to apply an opportunity to do so.

    • How difficult is it to win a no essay scholarship?

      Because no essay scholarships are usually open to so many different types of students, along with the fact that they often require very little effort on the part of the student (and run more like sweepstakes than real in-depth scholarships), means that they are difficult to win, and the process is unpredictable.

      Luckily, because these scholarships require so little time commitment to apply, not winning one of these types of scholarships doesn't necessarily indicate that you've wasted your time applying, since it likely didn't take that much time in the first place!

    • How can I increase my chances of winning no essay scholarships?

      No essay scholarships are open to such a wide variety of students in terms of eligible areas of study, state residency, and year in school. This, in combination with the fact that the winners for these scholarships are generally always selected at random, means that increasing your chances of winning one of these scholarships is very, very difficult.

      In the spirit of full-transparency: the only way that you can actually increase your chances of winning no essay scholarships is by applying for all of them and not missing any deadlines.

      For example, take Tallo's monthly no essay scholarships. They pick at least 12 winners each year, usually at the end of each month. If you want to maximize your chances of winning one of Tallo's no essay scholarships, you should set a reminder to make sure that you apply for them every month, so that you don't miss out on an opportunity to win.

    • Most of the no essay scholarships I've come across are for small amounts, such as $1,000. Why is this the case?

      Most no-essay scholarships are for small amounts (think: $500 - $2,000) because, in comparison to other scholarships that have lots of application requirements, no-essay scholarships tend to run more like contests.

      Organizations love to give back to students in any and all ways possible, and they also like to try to make student's lives easier by offering easy scholarship opportunities.

      However, from the perspective of private organizations, many of them would rather save their scholarships of higher amounts to be distributed through competitive opportunities where they can select students on the basis of merit, leadership, and other qualities. That's why you'll probably never come across a full-ride scholarship that doesn't require an essay or extra submission of some sort!

    • Where can I find more scholarships to apply for?

      There are tons of resources and places out there that you can use to find "harder" scholarships to apply for to pair with your efforts in applying to the easy ones.

      The first place I recommend you go is over to the Access Scholarship Search Engine or Blog, where you can find all types of scholarships based on criteria such as home state, area of study, ethnicity, and more.

      After that, I recommend you also do some surfing of the web, as well as outreach to your guidance counselor or financial aid office to help you find local scholarships and even more nuanced opportunities.

    Important tips and things to keep in mind with no essay scholarships

    • Tip #1: Apply often.

      Many of these scholarships run continuously on a monthly or quarterly basis.

      Set a reminder for yourself to revisit these scholarships each month and reapply to give yourself the best chance at winning one!

    • Tip #2: Find ways to get a leg up.

      Scholarships with no essays that have any sort of additional component (like an art or video submission) will tend to give you a "leg up" because they involve more than some luck.

      Take full advantage of scholarships like these by putting your best foot forward with that extra submission!

    • Tip #3: Make no essay scholarships one piece of the puzzle.

      Scholarships with no essays should be a key component of your scholarship application strategy because of how easy they are to apply for.

      However, it's important to remember they should be balanced with other scholarships that have more specific and stringent requirements.

      When you apply for essay-based scholarships, you're given the opportunity to tell the committee about you, who you are and why you should be selected for the opportunity. The winners for these scholarships, unlike their no-essay counterparts, are not chosen at random, so if you choose these scholarships carefully, apply for ones that are specific to your qualities, and write strong essays, you'll have the best chances of winning at the end of the day!

    General tips for applying for all kinds of scholarships

    Navigating the world of scholarships can be stressful and confusing to say the least. Follow these tips to make sure you’re covering all of your bases and giving yourself the greatest possible chance at success!

    • #1: Get yourself organized before you dive right in.

      Just like with any other part of the college / financial aid process, organization is crucial to success when it comes to searching and applying for scholarships.

      My top organization-related recommendation for students is to start by creating a readily-accessible folder on your computer where you can then create subfolders for your scholarship essays, transcripts, and other application materials. This is also the place where you’ll want to house your scholarship tracker, which will help you keep track of scholarships you find, upcoming deadlines, and your overall progress.

    • #2: Do your brainstorming.

      You likely wouldn’t start an essay on the American Revolution without doing some initial brainstorming and planning first. The same rule should apply for when it’s time to search for scholarships.

      Sit down with a pen and paper or a blank word document open, and start to bullet out a list of traits and things that you feel make up who you are as a person. These things should be both academic and personal. To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, here’s a sneak peek into what my own personal list might look like:

      -I am from New Jersey

      -I am a business student with an interest in marketing

      -I like to play sports (tennis, basketball, etc)

      -I hold leadership positions in my extracurriculars

      -I identify as female

      -I am a twin

      -I am left-handed

      -I enjoy doing crossword puzzles

      -I go to college in Wisconsin

      I could go on and on with this list, but I won’t bore you! What I’m trying to get at though is that creating a list like this to track your hobbies, academic pursuits, and other things that make up who you are can be incredibly helpful in allowing you to find scholarships that are highly specific to you.

      PS - For some students, this may also fall under the initial organization step of the process, but ultimately it doesn’t matter when you do it as long as it gets done.

    • #3: Know where to look.

      Knowing what types of scholarships you want to search for doesn’t really matter if you don’t know where to actually search for them! Here are a few ideas on where you can get started in searching for scholarships:

      -Scholarship search engines like AccessScholarships.com, which allow you to search through thousands of scholarship opportunities all in one place

      -Normal search engines, such as Google (the more specific you can be here, the better)

      -Your school’s college prep, guidance, or financial aid page/website

      -Social media (you can follow scholarship accounts and hashtags that might be relevant to help you discover local scholarships)

      -Family, friends, teachers, coaches, and other people in your community who might know of local or community-based scholarships that you’re eligible for

    • #4: If a scholarship has an essay or additional type of submission, make sure you put your absolute best foot forward.

      This is, in my opinion, the biggest key to help students see success in actually winning scholarships.

      You can have a 4.0 GPA and solid letters of recommendation, but if you don’t also take the time to carefully craft, edit, and perfect the essay (or other additional submission), you’re missing out on giving the scholarship committee the opportunity to learn more about who you are as a person and why you’re a great fit to win the award.  Be sure to have someone read over your essay or enlist an essay writing service to make sure your essay is the best it can be.

    • #5: Keep those grades up.

      Although this eligibility requirement can definitely vary, many scholarships require students to have at least a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA. Sometimes, the minimum requirement can be even higher, such as a 3.75/4.0.

      While grades certainly aren’t the end-all-be-all, keeping your GPA up (as high as you possibly can!) will make sure that you are opening yourself up to as many opportunities as possible.

    • #6: Apply often.

      Unfortunately, applying for scholarships is not a “one and done” process. To give yourself the highest chance at seeing success, you should apply for scholarships as often as you can, or whenever you come across an opportunity that you think is worth applying for.

      Many students find it helpful to set specific goals in this area, like to apply for 3 scholarships each month. Ultimately, the goal you set should be one that is specific and realistic, based on all of the other things that you’re juggling!

    • #7: Ask for feedback along the way.

      If you don't ever take the time to assess your weak spots, how can you possibly improve?

      Asking for feedback throughout the scholarship process, whether it be from a committee, a teacher, or someone who is helping you along the way, is crucial to helping you grow and becoming a stronger applicant. 

      Getting feedback is especially important when it comes to the scholarship essay piece of the puzzle. When we write and edit, we tend to overlook our own mistakes because we're so used to making them. Sometimes it takes an extra set of eyes on an essay to help lead you in the direction of success.

    No-essay scholarships: To conclude...

    To summarize, no-essay scholarships can be a great addition to any overall scholarship strategy for high school, college, and graduate students.

    Since no-essay scholarships often operate on a monthly or quarterly basis, you can give yourself a better chance at winning these scholarships if you enter in every application period that you're eligible for.

    Although no-essay scholarships usually aren't for large amounts, the process of entering to win is usually an easy one, so there's no harm in applying for these scholarships to round out your strategy and yes, give you a break from all those essays!

    Image of Stefanie Barlow
    Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
    College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
    Read more about Stefanie Barlow

    Scholarships for College Freshmen

    Last Updated January 6, 2026
    💰🏆⏳📝🧾👨💼 Access thousands of exclusive, fully funded scholarships
    4.9/5
    Rated by over 10,000 students
    SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
    Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
    Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
    Scholarships for high school seniors for Columbia University
    Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
    Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
    Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Pittsburgh

    Introduction to Scholarships for College Freshmen

    Ah, freshman year of college!

    I remember my freshman year of college like it was just yesterday. Your freshman year of college usually involves typical activities such as getting acclimated to life on campus, meeting new people and starting to join clubs and student organizations. Are you thinking about scholarships for college freshman?

    If you're me, you also spent a considerable amount of time locating the best pizza place on campus to order in from after a tough day of studying (I suggest you take notes on that one!).

    It's no secret that your first year of college likely involves a lot of firsts. Hopefully, applying for scholarships isn't one of those first-time activities, but whether it is or not, the bottom line is that applying for scholarships as a college freshman is super important.

    The habits that you develop as a first-year college student will eventually make their way into how you go about your remaining years, so by applying for scholarships as a college freshman, you're already setting yourself up for later success (and hopefully lots of money!).

    So, in this post, I highlight over 25 great scholarships for college freshmen to apply for.

    But first...some frequently asked questions about scholarships for college freshmen!

    Can college freshmen even apply for scholarships?

    To put it simply...YES! All college students, including first years, or freshmen, are eligible to apply for all kinds of scholarships.

    As a college freshman, not only are you eligible to apply for scholarships through your college or university (which can usually be found on your school's website or financial aid page), but you're ALSO eligible to apply for private scholarships, which are scholarships offered through private organizations, companies/corporations, and small businesses.

    What are the easiest college scholarships to get?

    While there is no clear-cut answer as to which specific scholarships are the easiest to win, generally speaking, the scholarships you have the highest chance of winning are the ones in which the competition is the lowest. Oftentimes, the scholarships that tend to be lowest in competition are the ones which receive the fewest qualified applicants.

    For a college freshman, this often comes down to the scholarships that are available directly through the college or university (for example, through your degree program, or through an extracurricular you're involved in), or outside private scholarships that are as specific to your profile as possible. By applying for extremely niche scholarships, you are giving yourself the best possible chance to succeed because you'll inevitably be competing against a smaller applicant pool.

    What are the best scholarships for college?

    Objectively, the best scholarships for college are the ones that offer you the most money! While they are few and far between, full-ride scholarships (scholarships which cover all or almost all of your college tuition and fees) are your best bet if you're trying to get as much of your college costs covered as possible.

    The majority of full-ride scholarships are only available to high school juniors and seniors, as opposed to current college students.

    25+ Scholarships for College Freshmen

    • Scholarship Points $2,500 Scholarship

      Amount: $2,500

      Deadline: Monthly

      Eligibility: Open to all students 13 and older!

    • Niche $25,000 Scholarship

      Amount: $25,000

      Deadline: Monthly

      Eligibility: Open to high school seniors and college students of all years.

    • $2,000 No Essay Scholarship by Sallie

      Amount: $2,000

      Deadline: Monthly

      Eligibility: Open to high school seniors and undergraduate students in the US.

    • CollegeXpress' Monthly Scholarship

      Amount: Varies, but it's usually between $1,000 and $2,500!

      Deadline: Monthly

      Eligibility: Open to high school, college, and graduate students in the US.

    • Offline Mode $1,500 Scholarship

      Amount: $1,500

      Deadline: February 28

      Eligibility: Open to all students. Enter this $1,500 scholarship by Pledging to keep your car a Phone Free Zone!

    • ScholarshipOwl No Essay $50,000 Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000 (4 awards per month!)

      Deadline: Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month

      Eligibility: The ScholarshipOwl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

    • Bold $25,000 Scholarship

      Amount: $25,000

      Deadline: Continuous

      Eligibility:

      -Open to all students! The $25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile.

    • Niche Monthly $2,000 Scholarship

      Amount: $2,000

      Deadline: Monthly

      Eligibility: Open to high school and college students of all years.

    • Community Impact Scholarship

      Amount: $5,000 (5 awards, $1,000 each)

      Deadline: April 30

      Eligibility:

      -Open to high school and college students of all years studying in the US

      -No transcript required to apply!

      -Special consideration will be given to minority students, students who have experienced foster care, and students who are or will be the first in their family to attend college

    • Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship

      Amount: up to $25,000

      Deadline: January 3

      Eligibility: Open to students (ages 16-26) who are passionate about creating a better future and making a positive impact on their community.

    • AANAPISI Scholarship

      Amount: up to $5,000

      Deadline: January 19

      Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students of Asian and/or Pacific Islander ethnicity who are attending APIA partner schools (see list on application page). Minimum 2.7 GPA. Special consideration is given for students who live at or below the poverty level, or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status, or who are the first in their families to attend college.

    • AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: April 13

      Eligibility: Open to underrepresented and economically disadvantaged undergraduate students who are pursuing degrees in illustration, photography, and communication design disciplines at colleges and universities in the United States. Minimum 2.0 GPA.

    • MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship

      Amount: up to $3,000

      Deadline: January 15

      Eligibility: Must be a STEM student accepted at, or enrolled in, a full-time program at a U.S. or Canadian school that MPOWER supports (includes international students studying in the US and students with DACA status)

    • Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: January 30

      Eligibility: Open to students in high school, college, and graduate school. Must be a US citizen/resident to apply.

    • Red Thread Foundation for Women Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: February 26

      Eligibility: Open to women of international backgrounds who will be entering their first year at an American college or university.

    • Society of Women Engineers Freshman Scholarships

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: March 1

      Eligibility: Freshman scholarships are open to current college freshmen as well as high school seniors. Some, but not all, scholarships require SWE membership. Applicants complete one application and are considered for all scholarships for which they are eligible.

    • Frame My Future Scholarship

      Amount: $2,000 (5 awards)

      Deadline: March 15

      Eligibility: Open to all students who are US residents who are attending a post-high school institution full-time. This could be a community college, an undergraduate college or university, or a graduate school in the U.S.

    • UNCF Scholarships (general application leads to all opportunities)

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: March 31

      Eligibility: Scholarships for students enrolled full-time and attending UNCF-member Institutions. Must have a demonstrated financial need. Minimum 2.5 GPA required.

    • Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31

      Eligibility: Open to all high school, college, and graduate school students studying in the US (includes US residents, international students in the US, and undocumented students).

    • Alex Austin's Overcoming Adversity Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000 each (5 awards)

      Deadline: April 15

      Details: Open to all high school and college students in the US, including DACA recipients. Students who identify as part of a minority or who are be first-generation college students are encouraged to apply.

    • Trotter Project Scholarships

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: May 15

      Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students in the US who are majoring in one of the following areas: Culinary Arts, Baking/Pastry, Hospitality Management or Agriculture. Minimum 2.5 GPA.

    • Asian American Architects and Engineers Foundation Scholarships

      Amount: up to $5,000

      Deadline: May 28

      Eligibility: Open to Asian high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in the US. International students in the US are welcome to apply. Must be majoring in (or planning to major in) one of the engineering/architecture-related disciplines listed on the application page.

    • Semper Solaris Scholarship for College Students

      Amount: $3,000

      Deadline: July 30

      Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students in the US. Minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA.

    • Trinity Thomas' Uplifting Others Scholarship

      Amount: $3,000 (3 awards, $1,000 each)

      Deadline: July 31

      Eligibility: Open to college students of all years. No minimum GPA required to apply.

    • Savory Experiments Scholarship

      Amount: $500

      Deadline: July 31

      Eligibility: Open to all students who are either enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited U.S. University or College or are able to present a legitimate letter of acceptance from an accredited U.S. University or College.

    • Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: August 31

      Eligibility: Open to STEM undergraduate majors and professionals who plan to become teachers (K-12 STEM).

    • NSHSS Activism & Advocacy Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: September 1

      Eligibility: This scholarship is open to all high school and college students. International students are also encouraged to apply.

    • La Unidad Latina Foundation Scholarships

      Amount: Varies ($500 - $1,000)

      Deadline: October 15

      Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate LatinX students. Undergraduate students must have completed one year of study. Minimum 2.8 GPA.

    • We Belong in College Scholarship

      Amount: up to $2,500

      Deadline: October 31

      Eligibility: Open to high school seniors, college students, and graduate school students. Must be a US citizen, permanent resident, or have undocumented/DACA status.

    • Avalaunch Media Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: December 1

      Eligibility: Open to any current, full-time student of an accredited two-year or four-year American university or college is welcome to apply. There is no age or specific major requirement.

    • Education Accessibility Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: December 31

      Eligibility: Must be a first-generation college student (aka, the first in your family to attend a four-year college or university). Minimum 3.0 GPA.

    Additional reading and resources for college freshmen

    There you have it! There are so many scholarships for college freshmen to apply for, so I hope you've found at least a few on this list that you can apply for.

    Also, since applying for scholarships is only one of the many things you'll likely be doing as a college freshman, be sure to check out these two articles to help you navigate your first year!

    Everything I Wish I Knew When I Started College (by me!)

    College Info Geek's 42 Things I Learned Freshman Year

     

    Image of Stefanie Barlow
    Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
    College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
    Read more about Stefanie Barlow

    Scholarships for Undocumented Students 

    December 7, 2025

    Introduction: Scholarships for Undocumented Students

    At the time of this report conducted last April, undocumented students made up approximately 2% of all students enrolled in the US higher education system. By the numbers, this comes out to over 450,000 students.

    Because undocumented and DACA students are not eligible to file the FAFSA or receive any sort of federal aid. Depending on your state of residence within the US, however, you may be able to secure in-state tuition rates or state-based financial aid.

    Specific State Allowances and Restrictions for Undocumented Students

    According to NCSL, as of 2019, 17 states allowed undocumented students to have access to in-state tuition rates. Those states include:

    • Arkansas
    • California
    • Colorado
    • Connecticut
    • Florida
    • Illinois
    • Kansas
    • Maryland
    • Minnesota
    • Nebraska
    • New Jersey
    • New Mexico
    • New York
    • Oklahoma
    • Oregon
    • Rhode Island
    • Texas
    • Utah
    • Washington

    Also as of 2019, 7 states allowed undocumented students to be eligible to receive state-based financial aid:

    • California
    • Colorado
    • Minnesota
    • New Mexico
    • Oregon
    • Texas
    • Washington

    Here are the states that prohibit undocumented students from...

    accessing in-state tuition rates:

    • Arizona
    • Georgia
    • Indiana

    enrolling in any postsecondary public institution:

    • Alabama
    • South Carolina

     

    Ultimately, the amount of latitude varies from state to state in terms of how much assistance you can receive through being eligible for grants and other forms of financial aid.

    One solution to attempt to make up for the lack of federal aid?

    Applying for scholarships!

    While applying for scholarships is a part of most students' financial plans, this is in some ways a crucial aspect of the paying-for-college plan for undocumented students for the reasons outlined above.

    So, without further ado, here is my list of nearly thirty great scholarships for undocumented students.

    Scholarships for Undocumented Students

    Scholarships for Undocumented Students

    • Latin American Educational Foundation Scholarships

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: January 17

      Details:  Open to high school and college students who are Colorado residents and who are of Hispanic/Latino origin or who are actively involved in the Hispanic/Latino community. Minimum 3.0 GPA.

    • GSBA Scholarship Fund

      Amount: up to $13,000

      Deadline: January 8

      Details:  GSBA awards educational scholarships to LGBTQ and allied undergraduate and graduate students who are committed to making a difference in the world. 

    • MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship

      Amount: up to $3,000

      Deadline: January 15

      Details: Scholarships awarded annually to female international/DACA students who are currently enrolled or accepted to study full-time in a STEM degree program at a program MPOWER supports in the United States or Canada.

    • eQuality Scholarships for High School Graduates

      Amount: $6,000

      Deadline: January 30

      Details: eQuality Scholarships for high school graduates recognize graduating high school seniors and recent graduates in northern and central California students for their service to the LGBTQ community. Applicants must plan to attend or have begun attending an accredited post-secondary institution for the first time in the award year.

    • Ascend Educational Fund

      Amount: up to $20,000

      Deadline: February 4

      Details:  Ascend Educational Fund awards scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 to immigrant students and children of immigrants who are graduating from a New York City high school to attend public or private colleges and universities, regardless of ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status. 

    • Peninsula College Fund Scholarship

      Amount: $3,000

      Deadline: February 19

      Details:  As a PCF scholar, you will be paired with a mentor through your college career, required to attend college and career workshops, and you will receive internship support. Minimum 2.8 GPA, must be a first-generation college student. 

    • The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship

      Amount: $10,000

      Deadline: February 20

      Details: Three scholarships (one $10,000; two $5,000) will be awarded to graduating U.S. high school students who promoted vegetarianism (includes veganism) in their schools and/or communities. 

    • The DREAM Scholarship for High School and Community College Graduates

      Amount: up to $37,000

      Deadline: February 25

      Details: We think of our National Scholarship as the “Pell Grant” for highly motivated DREAMers with significant, unmet financial need. While we consider your GPA and test scores, we place great emphasis on your demonstrated commitment to community service and your ability to overcome the barriers and challenges that DREAMers face each and every day. Minimum 2.5 GPA.

    • Red Thread Foundation for Women Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: February 26

      Details: The Red Thread Scholarship is available to college-bound women of international backgrounds who will be entering an American college or university in the coming fall.

    • LAGRANT Foundation Scholarship for Graduates

      Amount: $3,750

      Deadline: February 26

      Details:  Twenty awards will be given to graduate and Ph.D. students. Must have a minimum of 3.2 GPA and MUST major in a field of study that has an emphasis in advertising, marketing, or public relations.

    • Pursuit of Excellence Scholarships (multiple)

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: February 28

      Details: The Pursuit of Excellence scholarship program is a local program focused on high school seniors and community college transfers for whom additional funds can be the tipping point in allowing them to attend a four-year college. Scholarship recipients typically have challenging backgrounds and are determined to go to college. 

    • California DREAM Act Scholarship

      Amount: N/A

      Deadline: March 2

      Details: The California Dream Act allows undocumented and nonresident students (U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens) who qualify for a non-resident exemption under Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540) to receive certain types of financial aid such as private scholarships funded through public universities, state-administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and Cal Grants.

      In addition, the California Dream Act, allows eligible students to pay in-state tuition at any public college in California.

    • McConnell Foundation Scholars Program

      Amount: $30,000

      Deadline: March 5

      Details: The purpose of The McConnell Foundation Scholars Program is to identify and support students qualified to bring about positive change in their communities. Ideal candidates are high-achieving students, are among the first generation in their family to attend college, have overcome personal challenges, have positive influence on younger siblings or community members, and demonstrate commitment to the values of giving back and caring for others. 

    • Social Justice Scholarship

      Amount: $12,000

      Deadline: March 6

      Details: For graduating high school students of a school in the Sequoia Union High School District or East Side College Preparatory in East Palo Alto, Calif. Must have demonstrated activities or community involvement in social justice efforts that address immigrant issues. Minimum 2.5 GPA.

    • American Political Science Association Minority Fellows Program

      Amount: $4,000

      Deadline: March 19

      Details: The Minority Fellows Program (MFP) is a fellowship competition for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds applying to or in the early stages of doctoral programs in political science. Eligibility requirements include being a member of African Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, Latinos/as, American Indians or Alaska Natives, or Native Hawaiians community. Minimum 3.0 GPA.

    • The Esperanza Education Fund Scholarship

      Amount: $20,000

      Deadline: April 1 

      Details/Eligibility: Applicant must be born outside the U.S. or have two parents born outside the U.S; Applicant must be planning to enroll full-time at an accredited public college or university in the academic year the award is offered; Applicant must be either a graduating senior at a high school in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia or a recent GED grad residing in DC, Maryland or Virginia.

    • Calculated Genius STEMINIST Scholarship

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: April 17

      Details: Open to college-bound women from the Chicago metropolitan area who will be majoring in engineering. Minimum 3.0 GPA. 

    • Best Foot Forward Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: April 20

      Details: The applicant must be a high school senior on track to graduate or a college student enrolled in an accredited four-year university/college, or currently enrolled in a two-year college and planning to transfer to a four-year university/college upon completion. Current high school students in Georgia who are planning on attending college outside of Georgia may also apply. 

    • The Earnest Scholarship Fund

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: June 30

      Details: Earnest believes in helping people realize their hopes and dreams through further education. To help more students get to school, they created the Earnest Scholarship - a no-essay scholarship - as a way to award 50 students who best articulate how their education will enable their dreams.

      There are no minimum GPA, residency, or major requirements to apply!

       

    • MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: July 20

      Details: In recognition of the extraordinary potential of these students, we’ve created the MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship. We’ve intentionally designed this scholarship program to be as broad as possible to match the broad, diverse experiences of international students. Scholarships awarded annually to international and DACA students enrolled at Universities MPOWER supports.

    • Golden Door Scholars Program

      Amount: full-tuition! 

      Deadline: October 23

      Details: Scholarship recipients will receive funding for a four-year degree at Golden Door partner schools. Applicants must have DACA, TPS, or be undocumented, meaning currently not have lawful status in the US. Must also have high financial need.

    • Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program

      Amount: $40,000 per year

      Deadline: October 30

      Details: The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program is a full-ride undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Minimum 3.5 GPA.

      PS - because the Cooke scholarship deadline is around the beginning of your senior year, if you are interested in applying to this competitive scholarship, you should begin to research and plan around the end of your junior year!

    • Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr. Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: November 30

      Details: The Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for young Hispanic leaders seeks to recognize Hispanic students who share Dr. Andrade’s lifelong commitment to servant leadership.

      Applicants must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as full-time undergraduate students, in an accredited four-year or two-year institution in the U.S. or U.S. territories, and demonstrate a verifiable need for financial support.

    • Questbridge National College Match Program

      Amount: over $200,000

      Deadline: mid-late September 

      Details: We are looking for high school seniors who have shown outstanding academic ability despite financial challenges. We take a holistic approach to reviewing applications, and we do not have absolute criteria or cut-offs for GPA, standardized test scores, income, or other factors.

      The National College Match is open to all U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents OR students, regardless of citizenship, currently attending high school in the United States.

    • Act Six Scholars Program

      Amount: Full-ride!

      Deadline: December 1

      Details: The Science Act Six Scholars Program is a full-ride scholarship for high school students who love their community and want to use their college education to make a difference as a leader on campus and at home, and who live in one of the seven Act Six program site areas.

    • Urbina Dreamers Foundation Scholarship

      Amount: $2,000

      Deadline: December 1

      Details: Scholarship applicants must be DACA recipient, living within the United States, and enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program within the United States. High school seniors who will be enrolled in college before the application deadline of December 1 are also encouraged to apply.

      Applicants must also have a minimum GPA of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate that they are actively involved as a volunteer in the Hispanic community.

    • 10x Digital Marketing Scholarship

      Amount: $2,000

      Deadline: December 1

      Details: 10x digital awards a $2,000 scholarship each year to one talented high school senior or college student (twice a year) who is majoring in a field related to digital marketing. Undocumented students are eligible to apply. 

    • Science Ambassador Scholarship

      Amount: Full-ride!

      Deadline: December 14

      Details: The Science Ambassador Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship for undergraduate women in STEM majors (science, technology, engineering, or math), funded by Cards Against Humanity. 

    • Renthop College Scholarship Program

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: Rolling 

      Details: Open to undergraduate students who demonstrate the ambition, diligence, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit that is central to their company culture.

    There you have it - my list of awesome scholarships for undocumented students!

    Happy applying, feel free to reach out by signing up for office hours (on my resources page) if you need help, and good luck!

    Scholarships for Minority Students

    Last Updated March 11, 2026
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    SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
    Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
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    Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
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    Minority Scholarships
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    Introduction: Scholarships for Minority Students

    If there's one thing I've learned since getting involved in the scholarship space, it's that scholarships come in all shapes and sizes.

    By this, I mean that not only do scholarships range in terms of amount and competitiveness, but they also cater to specific groups of students, including minorities. Many students also look for extra academic support during the application process, turning to an essay writer when they need help polishing their scholarship essays.

    If you're a high school, college, or graduate school student, and you fall into any type of ethnic, gender, or disability-related minority group, know that there are in fact scholarships that are out there just for you.

    So, in this post, I outline 25 scholarships for minorities. Have a scroll through to check out some of these awesome opportunities!

    The List: Scholarships for Minorities

    • Davis Wright Tremaine 1L Diversity Scholarship Program

      Amount: $15,000

      Deadline: January 7

      Details: Open to all first-year law students of diverse backgrounds who 1) are committed to civic involvement that promotes diversity and will continue that commitment upon entering the legal profession; and 2) are committed to practicing in the location in which they are applying.

    • Jackie Robinson Scholars Program

      Amount: $30,000

      Deadline: January 10

      Details: Open to graduating minority high school seniors with financial need who are planning to attend four-year colleges and universities. Must be a US citizen to apply.

    • APF Queen Nellie Evans Scholarship

      Amount: $4,000

      Deadline: January 31

      Details: Open to minority graduate students enrolled in accredited masters or doctoral programs. Must have demonstrated financial need.

    • ESDA Diversity Scholarship

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: February 1

      Details: Open to minority students in their final two years of undergraduate study or pursuing a graduate degree in landscape architecture.

    • Ethnic Minority and Women’s Enhancement Graduate Scholarship

      Amount: $10,000

      Deadline: February 1

      Details: Open college graduates who will be entering into the first year of their initial postgraduate studies in sports administration or a related program. Minimum 3.2 GPA. Must be enrolled in an NCAA member institution.

    • AHLA Hyatt Scholarship

      Amount: $3,000

      Deadline: Mid-March

      Details: Open to junior and senior undergraduate students majoring in hospitality management or a related degree.

    • Sister to Sister Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: March 31

      Details: Open to continuing or returning African American women pursuing undergraduate degrees.

    • Maureen L. & Howard N. Blitman, P.E., Scholarship to Promote Diversity in Engineering

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: April 1

      Details: Open to high school seniors of ethnic minorities who have been accepted into an ABET-accredited engineering program at a four-year college or university. Must be a US citizen.

    • BMO Capital Markets Lime Connect Equity Through Education Scholarship

      Amount: $10,000 (US students)

      Deadline: April 7

      Details: Open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in business/commerce, computer science, engineering, math, physics, statistics, or a related discipline.

      A person with a (visible or non-visible) disability (defined as someone who has, or considers themselves to have, a long-term or recurring, issue that impacts one or more major activities that others may consider to be a daily function); this definition also includes the perception among others that a disability exists. We know that 90% of disabilities on campus are invisible, and candidates with all disabilities are encouraged to apply

    • PICPA Minority Scholarship

      Amount: up to $7,000

      Deadline: April 10

      Details: Open to students studying accounting at a Pennsylvania college or university. Minimum 3.0 GPA.

    • Diversity Abroad Achievement Scholarship

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: Varies (April 15, October 1)

      Details: Open to students studying abroad on any program offered by a DiversityAbroad.com member organization. Minimum 3.5 GPA.

    • ESA Foundation LGBTQ+ Support Scholarship

      Amount: N/A

      Deadline: April 22

      Details: For women and minority students pursuing degrees in video game arts at four-year colleges/universities. Must show dedication to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. 

    • Allina Health Empower Scholarships

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: April 30

      Details: Open to high school students planning to obtain a degree in the medical or rehabilitation field. Must be a resident of (or attending school in) Minnesota or Western Wisconsin.

    • Northwest Journalists of Color Scholarships

      Amount: $1,200

      Deadline: May 1

      Details: Strong preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to the importance of diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences in newsrooms. You are eligible for these scholarships if you are EITHER:

      -On the path to graduating from or have graduated from a Washington state high school
      OR

      -Attending a public or private college in Washington state

    • Expanding Representation in the Geosciences Scholarships

      Amount: $1,500

      Deadline: May 3

      Details: Open to undergraduate students from groups who are underrepresented in the geosciences. Qualified applicants must be U.S. Citizens studying at an accredited university or college in one of GSA’s regional sections (including Canada and Mexico).

    • Leon Bradley Scholarship Program

      Amount: $3,500

      Deadline: May 15

      Details: Applicants must be young women or gender non-conforming individuals of color who are currently enrolled in college/university in the US.

    • Groundbreaker Leadership Scholarship

      Amount: $1,500

      Deadline: May 31

      Details: Open to Asian American college seniors and college students (of all majors) who have exhibited exemplary leadership, vision, and passion that is blazing a trail for others to follow and changing lives in the Asian American community. 

      -Must be a US citizen

      -Minimum 3.5 GPA

    • Around the Corner from College Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000

      Deadline: Varies (June 30, December 31)

      Details: This is one of our own no-essay scholarship opportunities, open to high school students of all years! As with all of our scholarships, we highly encourage minority students to apply. 

    • The Gates Scholarship

      Amount: Full-tuition

      Deadline: September 15

      Details: Open to high school seniors from low-income households who are planning on enrolling in a four-year college or university in the US. Minimum 3.3 GPA.

    • Illustrating Awesomeness Scholarship

      Amount: $750 

      Deadline: November 15

      Details: Open to young women or gender non-conforming undergraduate students attending college in the US.

    • Avacare Medical Scholarship

      Amount: $1,000 

      Deadline: December 15

      Details: Open to high school seniors and current college students. Must be pursuing a degree in a medical field such as therapy, nursing, medicine, nutrition, laboratory science, dentistry, health law, etc. Preference will be given to students with physical disabilities.

    • NACME Scholarships

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: Varies

      Details: Open to minority undergraduate students pursuing degrees in STEM - specifically engineering or computer science.

    • UNCF Scholarships (Multiple)

      Amount: Varies

      Deadline: Varies

      Details: Open to minority students of all years attending an HBCU. 

    • Minority Teacher Education Scholarship

      Amount: $4,000 per year

      Deadline: Varies (August 1, December 2)

      Details: Open to Florida residents in a teacher education program at any of FFMT's participating universities/colleges. Must be a junior or senior in college, or a graduate school student.

    • Brown & Caldwell Minority Scholarship Program

      Amount: $5,000

      Deadline: Reopening in 2025

      Details: Open to minority students majoring in civil, chemical, mechanical, electrical or environmental engineering or one of the environmental sciences (e.g. geology, hydrogeology, ecology).

    Additional reading and resources for scholarships for minority students

    In addition to all of the scholarships for minorities that exist, there are also tons and tons of great free resources out there for minority students.

    Some are college admissions-related, while others are paying for college or career-focused. If you're looking for additional reading, check these out first!

    • Young Invincibles - promotes the well-being of young people. Higher education is one of its specific focuses, and they also have some great Adulting resources!
    • NAACP Job Finder - connects diverse students with job opportunities
    • INROADS - provides educational and career-related support to college students. 80% of the organization's members are first-gen.
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    Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
    College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
    Read more about Stefanie Barlow

    Scholarships for High School Sophomores

    November 3, 2025
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    Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
    Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
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    Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
    Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
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      Introduction: Scholarships for High School Sophomores

      It’s no secret that many of the scholarships out there for high school students are geared towards high school juniors and high school seniors. After all, juniors and seniors are rapidly approaching the start of college, an endeavor which is, all too often, not cheap! However, despite this being the case, there are still scholarships for high school sophomores who are eager to get started early with the process of finding free money for college. 

      So, in this blog post, we dive into nearly two dozen awesome scholarship opportunities for high school sophomores. After highlighting those scholarships, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about scholarships and highlight some tips for applying before leaving you with a list of great reading resources to keep bookmarked as you make your way through your scholarship journey.

      The list: 20+ Scholarships for High School Sophomores

      Frequently asked questions about scholarships for high school sophomores

      What is a scholarship?

      A scholarship is free money that you can apply for and earn to help you pay for your higher education.

      Unlike other types of financial aid (aka, loans), money that you earn from scholarships doesn't ever need to be repaid!

      Can high school sophomores even apply for scholarships?

      While the pool of scholarship opportunities opens up significantly once you enter your junior year, there are still scholarships out there for high school sophomores to apply for!

      A big benefit of starting the scholarship process as a sophomore is that, since you’re starting earlier than most, you can take your time in getting familiar with the world of scholarships (what you need to apply, where to find opportunities, how to write strong essays, etc!). This, in turn, will put you in a prime position to be a successful applicant for many of the bigger scholarships that are available for high school juniors and seniors. 

      As a sophomore, where can I find scholarships to apply for?

      In addition to this post, and the entire Access Scholarships platform (search engine, blog posts, scholarship directory), there are tons of other places and resources you can check out to help you search and apply for scholarships.

      You'll want to start by heading over to the website(s) run by your state that outline state-based financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

      To learn about local opportunities, the best place to start is with your school counselor or your high school’s website. You can also find potential scholarship opportunities that are specific to you through social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, even Pinterest!). You can follow hashtags on Instagram such as #TexasScholarships (if you live in Texas) so that anytime an organization posts a relevant scholarship with that hashtag, you can see it and apply if you're interested!

      How can I make my scholarship applications stand out?

      One of the best ways that you can stand out through your application is through the extra requirements that you submit.

      Whether it's an essay, a video, letters of recommendation, or other additional submissions, these are all places where you will want to dedicate extra time and effort to make sure that what you're sending in is authentically YOU, unique, eye-catching, and memorable. 

      If writing scholarship essays is not something you feel confident with yet, don’t worry! Our blog post How To Write A Winning Scholarship Essay will give you everything you need to get things started on the right foot.  If you still need help, look into hiring a top rated scholarship essay writing services to review your entry.

      Tips for high school sophomores applying to scholarships

      Get organized. The process of searching and applying for scholarships can get overwhelming, so to put yourself in the best position to succeed, you’ll want to get organized before diving in.

      Use our scholarship tracker (feel free to make changes so it works for you!) to keep track of the opportunities you find and apply for. Create a folder on Google Drive or on your computer to house your tracker, application materials (transcripts, FAFSA information, etc) and essays.

      Read ALL of the eligibility requirements before starting an application.

      The last thing you want is to put all of your effort into applying for a specific scholarship, only to later discover that you aren’t actually eligible to apply! So, before you dive in, make sure you read through all of the eligibility requirements to double check that the opportunity is a good fit.

      Look at rejections as opportunities for improvement -  If you’re applying for competitive scholarships (ones that are high in value or receive many applicants) this is something that you’ll probably experience once or twice! But hey, it happens to the best of us!

      Rather than viewing rejections as failures, view them as opportunities to learn where you may have gone wrong and improve for next time. Our blog post How To Deal With Rejection has more tips on navigating this!

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      Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
      College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
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      How to: Search for Scholarships as a High School Student

      October 13, 2025

      If you’re a high school student right now, chances are you have a lot on your plate. I was in high school once too, so I know how it goes; keeping up with classes and extracurriculars, trying to maintain a social life, and the big one, navigating the process of college prep and applications. Listen, I’m not trying to add something else to your to-do list, but, there is one other thing worth mentioning, and the earlier you get on it, the better. I promise you’ll thank me later for this one!

      That other thing worth mentioning?

      Researching and applying for scholarships.

      From my experience talking to high school students everywhere, this is one of the most overlooked “to-do’s” of being a high-school upperclassman. Students are pushed towards the path of refining their resumes, investing time in extracurriculars, and perfecting essays for college applications, all while leaving time to apply for scholarships in the dust.

      And of course, students can apply for scholarships all through college as well, so this is not to say that once you actually get to college, you can’t hop on the wagon. However, getting started in high school will do wonders for helping give you that much-needed momentum and motivation to keep the process up once you step on campus (whether that’s virtually or in-person)!

      pexels-prateek-katyal-2740956

      So far, I’ve done what some might say is a decent amount of talking about the importance of starting early when it comes to researching and applying for scholarships. But, now that I’ve got you here, I’m sure the million-dollar question on your mind is something along the lines of, “where, and HOW, am I supposed to get started with this process?!”. Well, since you asked, I’m here to answer!

      To answer the where, there are tons of resources to help you get your search started, and they come in the form of both online and in-person help. We’ll start with the resource that is likely “closest to home”, which is your high school guidance counselor. Your guidance counselor, along with your school’s website, likely has a variety of scholarship resources for you to take advantage of. If you’re not sure exactly where they are, it never hurts to ask! One of the major pros of talking with your guidance counselor about scholarships is that they are likely aware of the local opportunities that often get overlooked. So, don’t underestimate the importance of starting close to home.

      Given the fact that the internet is comprised of approximately 1.7 billion websites, my next recommendation of turning to the web to search for scholarships may seem like a daunting task. Luckily, I’m here to steer you in the right direction.

      The first place to look is on the websites of any clubs or organizations you are either a part of or interested in since a lot of big organizations and companies have their own scholarships. For example, if you are involved in your high school’s branch of Amnesty International, check out their website to see if they offer a scholarship!

      Secondly, you have your scholarship search engines and websites. These platforms are a great way to easily search for, apply, and keep track of scholarships. One of the most helpful features of a great scholarship search engine is its ability to provide students with the most personal and specific results possible. After all, ain’t nobody got time to waste! I’m proud to say that Access was created (and is constantly updated) with student usability at top of mind.

      Now that we’ve covered the “where to look”, let’s move on to the “how”.

      Many students like approaching the process of searching and applying for scholarships in a similar fashion to the college application process, and truthfully, I think it’s great! Without further ado, here are some of my tried and tested tips for scholarship searching & applying:

      pexels-polina-zimmerman-3782235

      Set a SMART goal for yourself.

      To elaborate, your goal should be:

      • Specific — Determine what you’re trying to get out of applying for scholarships. Are you looking to cover your full tuition, the cost of textbooks, or somewhere in between?
      • Measurable — Come up with a concrete number to aim for in terms of how much you are looking to earn.
      • Attainable — Ask yourself: is the goal I have outlined for myself attainable? Also, it’s okay to dream big with this, but at the end of the day, be real with yourself, weighing how much time and effort you are willing to put into the process with the types of scholarships you are looking at applying for.
      • Relevant — Identify why this goal is important to you.
      • Timely — Come up with a schedule for when you will make time to apply for scholarships. Hint: you can apply for scholarships until you aren’t a student anymore, so the time constraint there is pretty much graduation!

      Be organized.

      Just like you might be doing (or might plan on doing) for college applications, create a spreadsheet for keeping track of your scholarship applications! This way, you can stay organized and easily determine what you need to work on next. If you need help getting started with this, check out my !

      Be thorough, and think outside the box.

      Diversify the types of scholarships you are applying to! This means not only applying to scholarships with amounts that are big and small but also “thinking outside the box” in terms of the areas of interest for scholarships. For example, you may know that you want to be an engineer, so you are looking mainly at applying to engineering scholarships. However, if you’re also passionate about photography or a sport, be sure to explore options for scholarships in those areas too!   Make sure you proofread your essay. If you write drafts first, you can use the fastest AI article writer for quick drafts, which will help you get on the right track. 

      Be on time.

      This tip cannot be stressed enough! The same way you wouldn’t miss a deadline for submitting a big paper or a college application, think of scholarship applications on a similar level. If you are putting in the time and effort into working on an application, make sure you don’t miss the deadline for submission! Again, this is where an application tracker might come in handy.

      There you have it, those are my tips. To congratulate you on making it this far, check out these quick links full of easy scholarships —  and  — to help get you started! Now, I’ll leave the rest to you. Good luck and happy applying!

      50+ Scholarships for College Students to Apply for in 2026

      Last Updated April 1, 2026
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      SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
      Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
      Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
      Scholarships for high school seniors for Columbia University
      Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
      Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
      Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Pittsburgh
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        Introduction: Scholarships for College Students

        The scholarship search doesn’t end after your freshman year in college! Access Scholarships offers plenty of scholarship opportunities for college sophomores, juniors and seniors as well.

        Scholarships for college students are a fantastic way to alleviate the financial burden of higher education. With the rising costs of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses, many students find themselves struggling to make ends meet. However, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of free scholarships that can help ease the financial strain.

        In this comprehensive list, we have compiled the top 50 free scholarships available for college students in 2026. These scholarships cover a wide range of fields, including STEM, arts, humanities, and social sciences. Whether you're pursuing a degree in engineering, nursing, or journalism, there is a scholarship out there tailored to your specific interests and talents.

        50+ Scholarships for College Students (Current & Incoming!) to Apply for in 2026

        • Niche $25,000 Monthly Scholarship

          Amount: $25,000

          Deadline: Rolling monthly

          Eligibility:

          -Open to all college students! 

        • Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship

          Amount: $10,000

          Deadline: Rolling 

          Eligibility: The Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship is one of the easiest scholarships to enter.  Open to all college students! 

        • $25,000 "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship

          Amount: $25,000

          Deadline: Continuous

          Eligibility:

          -Open to all students! The $25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile.

        • $2,000 No Essay Scholarship by Sallie

          Amount: $2,000

          Deadline: Last day of each month

          Eligibility:

          Sallie will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account profiles required.

        • CollegExpress Monthly Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: End of each month

          Eligibility:

          -Open to legal residents of the US who are 13 and older.

        • A Better Financial Future $2,000 Scholarship

          Amount: $2,000

          Deadline: Monthly

          Eligibility: Open to all college students.

        • ScholarshipOwl No Essay $50,000 Scholarship

          Amount: $50,000 

          Deadline: Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month

          Eligibility: The ScholarshipOwl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

        • Take a Survey- Help Fund your Education

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: Continuous

          Although not a scholarship, be sure to take advantage if you're looking to make a few extra bucks this upcoming semester, sign up to take surveys!

        • Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: September 30, December 31, March 31, June 30 

          Eligibility:

          -Open to high school, college, and graduate school students of all years 

          -Must be a US citizen/permanent resident, a student with DACA status, or an international student studying in the US. 

          PS - this is one of our very own easy scholarships. Head over to our no essay scholarships post for more!

        • Employment Boost College Scholarships

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: January 1, April 1, July 1, October 1

          Eligibility:

          -Minimum 3.6 GPA 

          -Must be currently enrolled in a US high school or college 

          -One scholarship is specific to STEM students, and the other scholarship is open to students of all majors!

        • Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship

          Amount: Up to $25,000

          Deadline: January 3

          Eligibility:

          -Open to students (ages 16-26) who are passionate about creating a better future and making a positive impact on their community

          -Must be a US citizen/permanent resident

        • Diller Teen Scholarship Awards

          Amount: $36,000

          Deadline: January 5

          Eligibility:

          -Open to US residents ages 13-19

          -Must self-identify as Jewish

          -Must be serving in a leadership role on a project aimed at repairing the world

        • Pride Foundation Scholars Program

          Amount: Varies by scholarship

          Deadline: January 6

          Eligibility:

          -Must be a high school senior or current college student from one of the following states: Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington

          -Must either identify as LGBTQ or be a straight ally

          -Must have demonstrated financial need

        • Print It Scholarship for Aspiring Content Creators

          Amount: $500

          Deadline: January 11

          Eligibility:

          -Must be attending an accredited US college or university

          -Must be a US citizen

        • Boren Scholarship for Undergraduate Students

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: February 1

          Eligibility:

          -Open to US citizens who are high school graduates, 18 years of age or older

          -Must be planning to study in an overseas program in a country outside of Western Europe, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand

        • Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholarship

          Amount: $500 - $5,000

          Deadline: February 14

          Eligibility:

          -Open to the following students: high school seniors, undergraduate, transfer, and graduate students

          -Must be of Hispanic heritage

          -Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent legal resident, or have DACA status

          -Minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for high school students; minimum of 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for college and graduate students

          -Must submit the FAFSA or state-based financial aid forms

        • 1 for 2 Education Foundation Scholarship

          Amount: Full-tuition (doesn't include books or room and board)

          Deadline: February 15

          Eligibility:

          -Applicants must be living in the United States and the college or university they attend must be located in the United States, however, US citizenship is not required

          -Minimum 3.7 GPA

          -Open to high school seniors and students currently attending four-year colleges and universities

        • Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship

          Amount: $5,000 - $10,000

          Deadline: February 20

          Eligibility:

          -Must be a graduating high school senior

          -Must promote vegetarianism in your community and show a commitment to a vegetarian diet/lifestyle

        • TLF Undergraduate Scholarships

          Amount: $2,500

          Deadline: February 28

          Eligibility:

          The TLF Undergraduate Scholarships are open to minority students studying advertising, marketing, public relations, or a related field.

        • Chime Scholarship

          Amount: $5,000

          Deadline: March 7

          Eligibility:

          The scholarship annually provides up to $5,000 per year in renewable scholarships to undergraduate students. To qualify, individuals must be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, have a minimum financial need of $2,500, and have a minimum 2.5 GPA. 

        • Never Drink and Drive Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: March 11

          Eligibility:

          -Must be between 17 and 35 years old

          -Must attend a 2-year or 4-year college or university

        • Frame my Future Scholarship

          Amount: $2,000 (5 awards)

          Deadline: March 15

          Eligibility:

          -Any legal U.S. resident who will be a full-time student at a U.S. college or university is eligible to apply

          -Applicants must submit their own original short-form video centered around the theme, This Is How I Frame My Future

        • Houzz Women in Architecture Scholarship

          Amount: $2,500

          Deadline: March 31

          Eligibility:

          -Open to female undergraduate and graduate students studying architecture or landscape architecture in the U.S. and Canada 

        • OppU Achievers Scholarship

          Amount: $2,500

          Deadline: March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31

          Eligibility:

          -Be enrolled full-time in high school or at least part-time in college, graduate, professional, or trade school

        • Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship Program

          Amount: $10,000

          Deadline: April 1

          Eligibility:

          -The scholarship program is designed to provide opportunities to groups that are traditionally underrepresented in STEM: women, people of color, people with disabilities, individuals who identify as LGBTQ, and those that are or will be first-generation college students

          -Must have financial need

          -Current or planned 4-year degree enrollment in the following majors: Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics 

        • RealtyHop Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: April 30, August 1

          Eligibility:

          -Open to current students in an eligible undergraduate program, or  graduating high school seniors in the U.S., working towards a bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree

          -Open to international students studying in the US, as well as students with DACA status

        • Study.com Scholarship for First-Generation Students

          Amount: $500

          Deadline: May 1

          Eligibility:

          -Applicants should be part of the first generation of their family (i.e., parents and grandparents did not attend a college or university) to attend a four-year college program.

          -Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent U.S. Resident.

          -Must be enrolled (or accepted) in an accredited college or university and planning on continuing the next year.

        • WIFLE Scholarship

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: May 3

          Eligibility:

          -Open to college sophomores, juniors and seniors majoring in Criminal Justice or related discipline such as social sciences, public administration, computer science, finance, linguistic arts, chemistry, physics, etc., leading to a four-year degree

        • Trotter Project Scholarships

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: May 15

          Eligibility:

          -Must have 2.5 or higher G.P.A. (unweighted)

          -Must be a high school senior, incoming, or current college student to qualify for scholarships.

          -Must be majoring in one of the following areas: Culinary Arts, Baking/Pastry, Hospitality Management or Agriculture

          -Must attend college/university in the U.S.

        • Novus Biologicals Scholarship Program

          Amount: $1,500

          Deadline: June 15, December 8

          Eligibility:

          -Open to students pursuing education in a science-related field (Life Science, Medical Science, Health Science)

          -Schools/Colleges/Institutes within the US, Canada, and European Countries only

        • Touchmark Foundation Nursing Scholarship

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: June 30, December 30

          Eligibility:

          -Open to students pursuing degrees in nursing

          -Must be a resident of one of the following states: Arizona, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, Wisconsin

        • GeneTex Scholarship Program

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: July 16, December 17

          Eligibility:

          -Student in good standing and enrolled at an accredited college or university

          -Declared STEM major

          -Open to international students

        • MPower Global Citizen Scholarship

          Amount: $5,000

          Deadline: July 20

          Eligibility:

          -Be accepted at, or enrolled in, a full-time degree program at a U.S. or Canadian school that MPOWER supports

          -Be an international student allowed to legally study in the U.S. or Canada (or a student with DACA status)

        • Semper Solaris Scholarship for College Students

          Amount: up to $3,000

          Deadline: July 30

          Eligibility:

          -Open to current freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, graduate students, or students attending a military academy

          -Minimum 3.0 GPA 

        • Trinity Thomas' Uplifting Others Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000 each (3 awards)

          Deadline: July 31

          Eligibility:

          -Open to current undergraduate and graduate school students. 

          -No minimum GPA required!

        • Grademiners Essay Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: August 1

          Eligibility:

          -Must be a high school senior or undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate student about to attend or currently attending an accredited college or university in the United States

          -Must be a citizen or a legal resident of the United States

        • Gates Millennium Scholarship

          Amount: Up to the cost of attendance

          Deadline: September 15

          Eligibility:

          To apply, students must be:

          • A high school senior
          • From at least one of the following ethnicities: African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native*, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and/or Hispanic American
          • Pell-eligible
          • A US citizen, national, or permanent resident
          • In good academic standing with a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
            Additionally, a student must plan to enroll full-time, in a four-year degree program, at a US accredited, not-for-profit, private or public college or university.

           

        • Coca-Cola Scholars Program

          Amount: $20,000

          Deadline: October 2

          Eligibility:

          -Open to currently enrolled high school/home-schooled students attending school in one of the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or select DoD schools who will graduate high school during the academic school year.  Award may be used for freshman year of college.

        • Be the Boss Scholarship

          Amount: $2,000

          Deadline: September 15, March 15

          Eligibility:

          -Open to female high school and college students who want to start their own online business

        • We the Future Scholarship Contest

          Amount: up to $2,000

          Deadline: September 17

          Eligibility:

          -Different scholarships open to high school, college, and graduate school students

        • Optimal Community College Scholarship

          Amount: $2,000

          Deadline: September 30

          Eligibility:

          -Applicants for this scholarship should be enrolled at a public community college, junior college, technical college, or city college, and working towards a certificate, diploma, or degree at the associate’s level or a first-time bachelor’s level

          -Must be a US citizen

        • Orangesoft Scholarship for Women in Technology

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: October 31

          Eligibility:

          -Be a student who is currently studying at or has been accepted to an accredited college or university in the United States.

          -Be currently enrolled in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) degree-granting program OR demonstrate plans to pursue a career in the field of technology after graduation.

          -Identify as a woman.

        • LasikPlus “My Vision” Essay Scholarship

          Amount: $2,500

          Deadline: November 30

          Eligibility:

          -Open to college students attending 2-year and 4-year schools as well as trade/technical schools

          -Minimum 2.5 GPA

          -Must be a US citizen

        • Denny’s Hungry for Education LGBTQ Scholarship

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: December 10

          Eligibility:

          -Open to college students residing in the US, identifying as members of the LGBTQ community

          -Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents

        • CC Bank’s Young Scholars Award

          Amount: $2,000

          Deadline: December 31

          Eligibility:

          -Applicants must be under the age of 30

          -Applicants must be U.S residents

          Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

        • Caring.com Student-Caregiver Scholarship

          Amount: $1,500

          Deadline: Varies

          Eligibility:

          -The Student-Caregiver Scholarship provides financial assistance to students who are caring for an elderly loved one while enrolled in college

          -Applicants must be full-time college students at an accredited two-or-four-year college or university in the United States

        • Delete Cyberbullying Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: December 31

          Eligibility:

          -Open to high school and college students

        • Asian Pacific Fund Scholarship Program

          Amount: Varies ($1,000 - $20,000)

          Deadline: Varies by scholarship

          Eligibility:

          -Scholarships open to Asian/Pacific Islander students in the US 

          -Minimum 3.0 GPA 

          -Applicants must be the first in their family to attend college (more details on APF website)

        • UNCF Scholarships

          Amount: Varies

          Deadline: Varies, but the general application closes annually on March 31.

          Eligibility:

          -Open to students enrolled full-time and attending UNCF member Institutions

          -Must have a demonstrated financial need

          -Minimum 2.5 GPA required

        • Scholarship for Social Impact

          Amount: $1,000

          Deadline: Rolling

          Eligibility:

          -Open to full-time students enrolled in two-year, four-year, or graduate programs

          -All majors welcome

        Additional information about college student scholarships

        One of the most prestigious scholarships on our list is the Gates Millennium Scholarship, which provides full tuition coverage for undergraduate and graduate studies. This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to exceptional students who have demonstrated leadership skills, academic

        For those interested in the arts, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation offers scholarships to high-achieving students who excel in the PSAT/NMSQT exam. This scholarship not only covers tuition but also provides additional funds for books, supplies, and other educational expenses.

        If you're passionate about making a difference in the world, the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is worth considering. This scholarship recognizes students who have shown leadership potential, academic achievement, and a dedication to community service. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial financial award to support their college education.

        In addition to these well-known scholarships, there are numerous other opportunities available for college students featured above. The Dell Scholars Program, for example, targets students from low-income backgrounds who have overcome significant obstacles to pursue higher education. This scholarship provides financial assistance, mentorship, and other resources to help students succeed academically and professionally.

        It's important to note that each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process. Some scholarships may require essays, letters of recommendation, or interviews, while others may focus solely on academic achievements. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully review the requirements and deadlines for each scholarship you're interested in.

        Applying for scholarships can be a time-consuming process, but the potential rewards are well worth the effort. Not only can scholarships alleviate the financial burden of college, but they can also open doors to new opportunities and experiences. So, take the time to explore the top 50 free scholarships for college students in 2024 and start your journey towards a brighter future today.

        Frequently asked questions about college scholarships

        What are college student scholarships?

        Scholarships for College Students are opportunities that you, as a college student, can apply for to help you cover your high education costs.

        Some college scholarships can be put towards anything, whereas others may specify that they can only be put directly towards your tuition. 

        Do I have to be in college to apply for scholarships?
        I'm currently attending a community college or vocational school. Am I still eligible to apply for college scholarships?
        What tips do you have for applying for scholarships?
        scholarships for college students

        Find college scholarships by grade-level and more

        If searching through this post to find scholarships you're eligible for is not really up your alley, take advantage of our scholarship resource posts that organize opportunities by year in school, ethnicity, gender, and more:

        Scholarships for College Freshmen 

        Scholarships for Community College Students 

        Scholarships for Graduate Students

        Scholarships for Women

        Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Students & Allies

        Scholarships for Undocumented Students

        Scholarships for LatinX and Hispanic Students

        Scholarships for Black Students 

        Scholarships for Minority Students

        Scholarships for college students: where to find more, outside of this post!

        Scholarships offered by your college/university: The vast majority of colleges and universities also offer their own college scholarships to both incoming and current students. These awards are often broken down by area of study, but many schools also offer scholarships for things like studying abroad, student leadership, and more.

         

        Image of Stefanie Barlow
        Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
        College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
        Read more about Stefanie Barlow

        The Top Scholarships for High School Seniors with Upcoming Deadlines in 2026

        Last Updated March 17, 2026
        💰🏆⏳📝🧾👨💼 Access thousands of exclusive, fully funded scholarships
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        Rated by over 37,500 students!
        SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
        Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
        Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
        Scholarships for high school seniors for Columbia University
        Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
        Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
        Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Pittsburgh

        Introduction to Scholarships for High School Seniors

        Reviewed by college and scholarship expert Stefanie Barlow 1/2/2026

         

        Key takeaways:

        • Start your scholarships search early your senior year, even if you don't know which school you are ultimately going to.
        • Scholarships are awarded based on various criteria including academic, athletic, artistic/creative, merit, need and community service.
        • Submitting the FAFSA is essential for accessing many scholarships and financial aid opportunities provided federal, state and private scholarship providers.
        • Start the search process by looking at local scholarships first (high school, county and community) and then branching out to the state and national level.

        The Best Scholarships for High School Seniors with Upcoming Deadlines- 0% Spam & 100% Free.

        If you're a high school senior, then first off, congratulations! You're now in your fourth and final year of high school, which means a few different things... First, you're one step closer to becoming a college student - woohoo! Second, you're now officially able to start applying for scholarships for high school seniors. 

        List of Scholarships for High School Seniors with Approaching Deadlines

        • $2,000 No Essay Scholarship by Sallie

          Award Amount: $2,000

          Scholarship Deadline: End of every month

          Details: Sallie will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account profiles required.

        • Niche $25,000 Scholarship

          Award Amount: $25,000

          Scholarship Deadline: Monthly

          Details: The Niche $25,000 No Essay Scholarship is open to high school seniors and is awarded monthly. 

        • A Better Financial Future $2,000 Scholarship

          Award Amount: $2,000

          Scholarship Deadline: Monthly

          Details: Open to high school juniors and seniors, as well as college students.

        • Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship

          Award Amount: $10,000

          Scholarship Deadline: Rolling monthly

          Details: The Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship is one of the easiest scholarships to enter.

        • ScholarshipOwl No Essay $1,000 Scholarship

          Amount: $1,000 (4 awards per month!)

          Deadline: Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month

          Eligibility: The ScholarshipOwl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

        • $25,000 "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship

          Award Amount: $25,000

          Scholarship Deadline: Rolling monthly

          Details: The $25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile.

        • CollegExpress Monthly Scholarship

          Award Amount: Varies, but usually $1,000 - $2,500

          Scholarship Deadline: Last day of each month

          Details: Answer one question in one sentence- that's it!

        • Christian Connector Scholarship

          Award Amount: $2,500

          Scholarship Deadline: Monthly

          Details: The Christian Connector Scholarship is a scholarship for high school seniors (and juniors!) who are interested in or planning to enroll in a Christian college or university. 

        • Appily Easy Money Scholarship

          Award Amount: $1,000

          Scholarship Deadline: Rolling

          Details: The Cappex Easy Money Scholarship is open to all students - no minimum GPA or essay required.

        • Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

          Award Amount: $1,000

          Scholarship Deadline: Quarterly (Last day of the month in September, December, March, and June)

          Details: The Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship is our own contribution to helping students fund their higher education. Simply fill in some easy info about yourself and you're entered to win!

        • No-Essay Surveys

          Award Amount: $Varies

          Scholarship Deadline: Rolling monthly

          Details: Not a scholarship, but if you're looking to make a few extra bucks this upcoming semester, sign up to take surveys 

        Jump Ahead To...
          scholarships for high school seniors

          Why are Scholarships for High School Seniors Important?

          According to data from the Education Data Initiative / US Federal Reserve (above), total national student debt has grown steadily from 2006 all the way through to 2022. Despite a slight decline in 2025, these numbers are still extremely significant, and are indicative of a wide struggle among US students to pay for college. 

          Frequently asked questions about scholarships for high school seniors

          What is a scholarship?

          A scholarship is, to put it simply, free money that you can earn to put towards paying for college.

          Unlike other types of financial aid (aka, loans), money that you earn from scholarships doesn't ever need to be repaid, which is what makes it so awesome. 

          I'm a high school senior. Is it too late for me to start applying for scholarships?
          Where can I find scholarships to apply for?
          How do I make my applications stand out?
          How can I balance applying for scholarships with my schoolwork AND college applications?

          Scholarships for High School Seniors by Deadline Month

          • GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program

            Award Amount: $10,000 - renewable for up to 4 years

            Scholarship Deadline: January 4

            Details: The GE Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program honors the legacy and character of our nation’s 40th President. It rewards college-bound students who demonstrate exemplary leadership (in their community and through extracurricular activities), drive, integrity, and citizenship with financial assistance to pursue higher education.

          • Live Más Scholarship

            Award Amount: $5,000 - $25,000

            Scholarship Deadline: January 11

            Details: The Live Más Scholarship is Taco Bell's contribution to helping students achieve their higher education goals. To apply, students must submit a video telling the story of their real, true passion. 

          • Ted & Holly Rollins Scholarship

            Award Amount: $5,000

            Scholarship Deadline: Two deadlines- Winter & Summer

            Details: Are you a college-bound high school senior with big dreams? If so, consider applying for the Ted & Holly Rollins Scholarship! Each year, the scholarship is awarded to one applicant who writes an essay regarding life story, intended field of study, career and how you specifically will make an impact on the world.

          • Profile in Courage Essay Contest

            Award Amount: $500 - $3,000

            Scholarship Deadline: January 12

            Details: The Profile in Courage Essay Contest is open to all high school students. Essays will be judged on the overall originality of the topic and the clear communication of ideas through language.

          • Sierra Nevada Corporation Women in STEM Scholarship

            Award Amount: $7,500

            Scholarship Deadline: January 18

            Details: Open to female-identifying high school seniors, undergraduate, and graduate school students pursuing non-medical STEM-related degrees.

          • Edison Scholars Program

            Award Amount: $40,000

            Scholarship Deadline: January 23

            Details: The Edison Scholars Program offers $40,000 scholarships to 30 high school seniors planning on pursuing STEM degrees at 4-year colleges and universities. Must live in Edison's service territory in Southern California. 

          • Jet Future Business Leaders Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: January 31

            Details: This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors and currently enrolled college students who are interested in pursuing a career in business.

          • Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: January 31

            Details: The Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship is designed to help you understand the negative effects that technology and too much screen time can have on our lives. Open to high school students of all years. 

          • EngineerGirl Essay Contest

            Award Amount: $500

            Scholarship Deadline: February 1

            Details: The EngineerGirl Essay Contest is open to all high school students (not just women!), and asks for an essay discussing the vital contribution of engineers in responding to the pandemic.

          • Columbus Citizens Foundation College Scholarship Program

            Award Amount: Varies

            Scholarship Deadline: February 1

            Details: The Columbus Citizens Foundation administers scholarship programs that help hundreds of students every year in elementary school, high school, college, and medical school, and graduate programs in the arts.  

          • Jackie Robinson Scholars Program

            Award Amount: Up to $30,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 1

            Details: Scholarship for students accepted to accredited four-year colleges or universities. Must be a minority student, United States citizen, involved in community service and demonstrate leadership potential and financial need.

          • McDonald's HACER Scholarship

            Award Amount: Up to $25,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 3

            Details: Open to high school seniors who have at least one parent with Hispanic heritage. Must be a US resident planning to attend a two or four-year college or university. Minimum 2.8 GPA.

          • Elks National Foundation Legacy Awards Scholarship

            Award Amount: $4,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 5

            Details: $4,000 four-year scholarships available for children and grandchildren of Elks in good standing. Parent or grandparent must have been an Elk for two years and continue to be a member in good standing. Must be high school senior and apply through the related member’s Elks Lodge.

          • Americanism Essay Scholarship

            Award Amount: $100 - $1,200

            Scholarship Deadline: First Friday in February

            Details: The Americanism Essay Scholarship is open to Illinois high school students and requires an essay on Americanism and good citizenship.

          • AFA Teens for Alzheimer's Awareness College Scholarship

            Award Amount: $5,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 15

            Details: AFA’s Teens for Alzheimer’s Awareness College Scholarship Essay Contest is an annual competition for college-bound students.  Applicants are asked to write a 1,200 to 1,500-word essay that describes the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on themselves, their families or their communities, and what they have learned in light of coping with the brain disorder.

          • Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholarship

            Award Amount: up to $5,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 14

            Details: Merit-based awards for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, eligible non-citizens, or DACA students of Hispanic heritage with plans to enroll full time in an accredited U.S. 4-year university in the upcoming academic year (can be a high school senior, current undergraduate student, community college transfer, or graduate student). 

          • The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship

            Award Amount: $10,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 20

            Details: Three scholarships (one $10,000; two $5,000) will be awarded to graduating U.S. high school students who promoted vegetarianism (includes veganism) in their schools and/or communities. Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, or fowl. Applicants will be judged on a strong commitment to promoting a peaceful world through a vegetarian diet/lifestyle.

          • Act of Kindness Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: February 28

            Details: The Act of Kindness Scholarship supports students who are committed to helping others in their schools or communities.

          • Scholars Helping Collars Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,500

            Scholarship Deadline: February 28

            Details: P.L.A.Y knows there are plenty of young minds out there that are passionate about helping animals in need. In an effort to encourage students and promote this cause, P.L.A.Y. will be awarding a $1,500 scholarship to a graduating high school student who best exemplifies their core beliefs.

          • Engebretson Foundation Scholarship

            Award Amount: $5,000/semester

            Scholarship Deadline: March 1

            Details:This need-based scholarship is pretty straightforward: it's awarded to one student each year who demonstrates not only financial need but also impressive academic performance and leadership ability.

          • Horatio Alger National Scholarships

            Award Amount: $25,000

            Scholarship Deadline: March 8

            Details: The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program is one of the major scholarship programs nationally that specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. Open to US high school students with critical financial need. Minimum 2.0 GPA.

          • Executive Women International Scholarship Program

            Award Amount: Varies

            Scholarship Deadline: March 26

            Details: To qualify for the scholarship, a student must be nominated by his/her school counselor or administrator. Students apply and compete at the local Chapter for up to $10,000 in scholarships. The first-place winner from each Chapter will then be submitted to the Corporate level for the opportunity to win the Corporate Scholarship.

          • Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program

            Award Amount: $10,000

            Scholarship Deadline: March 27

            Details: The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and The Sallie Mae Fund are proud to offer financial assistance to outstanding students. Twenty-five (25) students completing a two-year, four-year, or trade/vocational certificate/certification program will be selected to receive a scholarship of up to $10,000.

          • E-Waste Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: April 30

            Details: The E-Waste Scholarship, sponsored by Digital Responsibility, challenges students to learn about the impact of e-waste and what can be done to minimize it.

          • RealtyHop Scholarship

            Award Amount: $2,000

            Scholarship Deadlines: April 30, August 31

            The RealtyHop Scholarship awards up to $2,000 a year to eligible undergraduate students and high school seniors working towards a bachelor and/or associate degree program in the US who demonstrate the ambition, diligence, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit that is central to our company culture.

          • Rover Scholarship Contest

            Award Amount: $2,500

            Scholarship Deadline: May 1

            Details: Higher education: that magical time when deadlines are tight and budgets are tighter. Rover would like to help fund your education. Just write a 400-500 word essay for your chance to win $2,500!

          • Visionary Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000 - $5,000

            Scholarship Deadline: May 1

            Details: The American College Foundation (ACF) offers the annual Visionary Scholarship program to financially support students in every grade level of high school.

          • Fountainhead Essay Contest

            Award Amount: $500 - $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: June 7

            Details: The Fountainhead Essay Contest is for high school juniors and seniors and has three essay prompt options.

          • Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: July 31

            Details: The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship is a merit-based program that helps students fulfill their dreams of a higher education. To apply, students must simply answer one of three essay questions ("feel free to re-use an essay that you wrote in class, for college admission or another scholarship competition.")!

          • Alex Austin's Overcoming Adversity Scholarship

            Award Amount: $500 - $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: September 1

            Details: Open to all high school and college students in the US, including DACA recipients. Students who identify as part of a minority or who will be first-generation college students are encouraged to apply.

          • Cameron Impact Scholarship

            Award Amount: Full-ride! 

            Scholarship Deadline: September 10

            Details: The Cameron Impact Scholarship is a four-year, full-tuition, merit-based undergraduate scholarship awarded annually to 10-15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service. 

            Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.7 to apply.

          • Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship

            Award Amount: $40,000 per year 

            Scholarship Deadline: November 14

            Details:The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program is an undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Minimum 3.5 GPA. 

          • 10x Digital Marketing Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: December 1

            Details: 10x digital awards a $2,000 scholarship each year to one talented student (twice a year) who is majoring in (or planning on majoring in) a field related to digital marketing. 

            Undocumented students and international students studying in the US are eligible to apply.

          • Ron Brown Scholars Program

            Award Amount: $40,000

            Scholarship Deadline: December 1

            Details: RBSP competitively awards 45 – 50 four-year $40,000 scholarships ($10,000 each year) to the most talented and economically-challenged high school seniors who demonstrate a keen interest in public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship and global citizenship.

            Applicants for the Ron Brown Scholarship MUST be Black/African American, US citizens or permanent residents, and a current high school senior at the time of their application.

          • National Honor Society Scholarship Program

            Award Amount: Varies

            Scholarship Deadline: December 1

            Details: The National Honor Society is committed to helping students achieve their secondary education goals, and provides the following resources to students and their families to help with the planning process. 600 scholarships are awarded each year to high school seniors who are members of the NHS.

          • Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship Program

            Award Amount: $40,000

            Scholarship Deadline: December 15

            Details: A serious 2-for-1 scholarship for high school students interested in computer science. Win $40,000 for college AND a paid programming internship at Amazon. 

            Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of academic performance, experience with computer science, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience, short answer responses, unusual personal or family circumstances, financial need, racial/ethnic/gender diversity, and an educator appraisal, preferred to be completed by a computer science teacher.

          • Burger King Scholars Program

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: December 15

            Details: Open to high school seniors in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. 

          • Equitable Excellence Scholarship

            Award Amount: up to $20,000 over four years

            Scholarship Deadline: December 17

            Details: Open to current high school seniors who plan to enroll full-time in an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the United States for the entire upcoming academic year. 

          • Around the Corner from College Scholarship

            Award Amount: $1,000

            Scholarship Deadline: December 31 (and June 30)

            Details: This scholarship is Access Scholarship's opportunity created just for high school students! Open to high school seniors, but also to students in grades 9-11. DACA/undocumented and international students are also eligible to apply. 

             

          • Cirkledin's No Sweat Scholarship

            Award Amount: $2,500

            Scholarship Deadline: December 31

            Details: Apply in 4 easy steps: Go to www.cirkledin.com, create a free Cirkledin account, hit the “Apply Now” button, and tell us “What is one thing that, if it were in the Olympics, you would win gold in?”

          • Careers Through Culinary Arts Program Cooking Competition for Scholarships

            Award Amount: Varies (up to full-tuition)

            Scholarship Deadline: Varies 

            Details: Applicants must be a senior in a C-CAP designated partner high school in Arizona; Prince George’s County, Maryland; Tidewater, Virginia; or the cities of Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, or Washington, DC. Applicants must be accepted into the cooking competition for scholarships. Check the CCAP website for local coordinator’s contact information. 

          • United States Senate Youth Program

            Award Amount: $10,000

            Scholarship Deadline: Varies by state

            Details: The United States Senate Youth Program is a scholarship for high school seniors (and juniors!) holding elected student offices. Two students are selected from each state.

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          Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
          College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
          Read more about Stefanie Barlow

          Scholarships for High School Seniors: Tips for Searching & Applying!

          Look, the search and application process for scholarships for high school seniors is not always a smooth-sailing process. But, the fact that you've made it this far in the post and are taking the initiative to learn more about scholarships is a great start in itself!

          Here are a few quick tips to help you along your scholarship journey...

          1. When should a senior start applying for scholarships?

          I was a high school senior not too long ago, so I know exactly what it's like to have to create a balance between your schoolwork, extracurriculars, college applications, and scholarships. 

          It's not always an easy task, but that's why you should work on setting goals for yourself and creating a scholarship strategy! 

          Your goals should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant/Realistic, Timely). Setting goals for things such as how much you are aiming to earn from scholarships and when you will set aside time to search and apply will help you to stay on track with what you want to achieve.

          2. How to find scholarships as a high school senior?

          If you're here and you're reading this, that means you know one great place to look! The Access Scholarships Search Engine is an awesome resource with tons of scholarships for high school seniors. But beyond Access Scholarships, be sure to...

          • Reach out to your school counselor to discuss some of the local scholarships that are out there for you to apply for
          • Head over to your state's financial aid website to learn more about their grants and resources 
          • Also be sure to fill out your free application for federal student aid (FAFSA).

          3. Apply often.

          Don't think of the scholarship process as one that you can engage in only once every few months and see success with.

          The scholarship process requires consistency and dedication. If you want to have the best chance at winning scholarships, you need to be dedicated to the process (creating a healthy mix of mostly essay scholarships with some no-essay scholarships is a good strategy) and put in the effort!

          4. Be organized, thorough, and on time.

          Lots of students find it helpful to organize their scholarship application and search process using a spreadsheet (virtual or physical). These are extremely useful because you can keep track of important deadlines, requirements for each scholarship, and more.

          TIP: Click here to view and download a copy of my own scholarship tracker so you can get organized for yourself!

          5. Think outside the box.

          I have provided you with a ton of great scholarships for high school seniors right here in this post.

          In addition to these, don't be afraid to venture out to find scholarships that are specific to YOU in all aspects! This means thinking critically about your hobbies and interests, and passions outside of academics.

          It also means thinking about things that define who you are that you could potentially leverage in your scholarship search. For example, are you a soon-to-be first-generation college student?  Or maybe you're planning on pursuing a STEM degree? These are just two areas that you can identify and use to search for scholarships! 

          Top 50 Scholarships for Graduate School (2026)

          Last Updated March 1, 2026
          💰🏆⏳📝🧾👨💼 Access thousands of exclusive, fully funded scholarships
          4.9/5
          Rated by over 10,000 students
          SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
          Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
          Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
          Scholarships for high school seniors for Columbia University
          Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
          Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
          Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Pittsburgh
          Scholarships for graduate school
          Jump Ahead To...

            Introduction to Scholarships for Graduate School

            Throughout my time running Access Scholarships, I have spoken to students of all kinds about scholarships that fall into all sorts of categories. One of those categories is scholarships for graduate school students.

            Depending on your area of study and intended career path, graduate school can range from being an absolute necessity to simply being a helpful addition to an already earned undergraduate degree. AI tutors can also help you evaluate which skills to develop first, making your graduate journey more targeted and efficient.

            Regardless of where graduate school stands for you on this spectrum, it's important to know that scholarships for graduate school exist to help you fund your journey. And since many applications require some form of written response or personal statement, students often turn to trusted essay writing services to polish their materials and make sure their ideas are presented clearly and professionally.

            While graduate scholarships tend to be slightly less common than college scholarships (for undergraduate students), that doesn't mean there aren't some great opportunities out there for you to apply for! Further down in this post, we'll highlight some great scholarships for graduate school students. Keep reading for the good stuff!

            Types of Graduate Degrees

            There are many different types of graduate degrees out there. I recently published this blog post which outlines most, if not all, of the various types of undergraduate and graduate degrees that are out there.

            One important callout I want to make is that some graduate scholarships will specify if they are open to all graduate students or only masters students, whereas others will not. If you're a doctoral student and you are not sure if a scholarship is open to you, I highly recommend reaching out to the provider directly to clarify if you're eligible before starting your application. Additionally, when preparing your materials, you might find it helpful to use services that can assist with academic writing, such as those where you can write my paper, to ensure your application documents are polished and professional.

            Now, back to the topic at hand!

            Without further ado (as I always say in these posts), keep reading for our short yet diverse list of great scholarships for graduate school students.

            Scholarships for Graduate School

            Scholarships for Graduate Students: Conclusion

            At the end of the day, I hope that one or more of these scholarships is up your alley! If not, it's no sweat! The best way to find scholarships for graduate school is to head over to our scholarship search. Using this tool, you can get more personalized results based on your area of study, home state, and more.

            If you’re still in the process of applying to graduate school and comparing programs, I also recommend checking out each program’s financial aid page. That way, you can see what scholarship opportunities each may offer and also compare costs while you're there.  Be sure to have someone look over your scholarships essay or you can hire a cheap scholarship essay writing service to help you finalize your submission.

            Finally, if you’re looking to head into law, a medical field, or business, and you need scholarships for graduate school, be sure to check out these resources:

            LSAT Prep Courses Scholarship

            MCAT Prep Hub Medical School Scholarship

            MBA Insight Scholarship

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            Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
            College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
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            Top 50 Scholarships for High School Juniors to Apply to in 2026

            Last Updated March 17, 2026
            💰🏆⏳📝🧾👨💼 Access thousands of exclusive, fully funded scholarships
            4.9/5
            Rated by over 10,000 students
            SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
            Scholarships for high school seniors for Harvard University
            Scholarships for high school seniors for University of California, Berkeley
            Scholarships for high school seniors for Columbia University
            Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Texas at Austin
            Scholarships for high school seniors for Northwestern University
            Scholarships for high school seniors for University of Pittsburgh

            Introduction: Scholarships for High School Juniors

            For most high school students, junior year is a year of big-time transitions, studying, and decisions, because it's generally the time where students start to think about all things college-related.

            When you're a junior, hopping on this college journey includes things like taking the PSAT (and even the SAT or ACT), researching colleges (maybe even going on some tours), preparing for college applications, and speaking with your family and guidance counselor about what options might be right for you. 

            Since this is the year where you're discussing college (and likely also discussing how to pay for it), leaving scholarships out of the picture would be doing yourself a disservice!

            It's important to know that it is almost NEVER too early to begin applying for scholarships. There are tons of great scholarships for high school juniors to apply for.

            In this post, we have highlighted some of the best scholarships for high school juniors to apply for in 2025. 

            Jump Ahead To...

              Top Scholarships for High School Juniors in 2026

              Niche $25,000 No Essay Scholarship

              Amount: $25,000

              Deadline: Monthly

              Eligibility: Open to high school juniors - no essay required!

              CollegExpress Monthly Scholarship 

              Award Amount: usually $2,500

              Scholarship Deadline: Last day of each month

              Answer a question in one sentence- that's it.

              Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship

              Award Amount: $10,000

              Scholarship Deadline: Rolling

              Open to high school juniors in the US.

              ScholarshipOwl No Essay $50,000 Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000 (4 awards per month)

              Scholarship Deadline: Last day of each month

              Open to high school students of all years who are residents of the US.

              Christian Connector $2,500 Scholarship 

              Award Amount: $2,500

              Scholarship Deadline: Monthly

              The Christian Connector scholarship is open to high school juniors and seniors who are interested in or planning to enroll in a Christian college or university.

              $2,000 No Essay Scholarship by Sallie

              Amount: $2,000

              Deadline: Monthly

              Eligibility: Open to high school juniors - no essay required!

              Be Bold $25,000 No Essay Scholarship 

              Award Amount: $25,000

              Scholarship Deadline: Rolling

              Bold.org has a lot of great scholarships, but while you're there, make sure you enter to win this $25,000 scholarship they have going on!

              A Better Financial Future $2,000 Scholarship

              Award Amount: $2,000

              Scholarship Deadline: Monthly

              The Scholarship is awarded monthly and open to high school juniors and seniors, as well as college students.

              Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: Quarterly

              The Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship is our own contribution to helping students fund their higher education. Simply fill in some easy info about yourself and you're entered to win!

              Appily Easy Money Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: Continuous  

              The Cappex Easy Money Scholarship is open to all students - no minimum GPA or essay required.

              Humanity Rising Scholarships 

              Award Amount: $500 - $2,000

              Scholarship Deadlines: Rolling

              Humanity Rising awards scholarships to high school students who tell their stories with community service through a video.

              Survey No Essay

              Award Amount: Varies

              Scholarship Deadline: Rolling 

              Survey Ipsos invites students to share their opinions on topics they care about, with the potential to earn big rewards $.

              Distinguished Young Women Scholarship 

              Award Amount: Varies 

              Scholarship Deadline: Continuous 

              The Distinguished Young Women Scholarship program is for female high school juniors and seniors.

              United States Senate Youth Program

              Award Amount: $10,000

              Scholarship Deadline: Varies by state

              The United States Senate Youth Program is a scholarship open to high school juniors and seniors holding elected student offices. Two students are selected from each state.

              Live Más Scholarship

              Award Amount: $5,000 - $25,000

              Scholarship Deadline: January 11

              The Live Mas Scholarship is Taco Bell's contribution to helping students achieve their higher education goals. It's not a full-ride, but it's certainly something! To apply, students must submit a video telling the story of their real, true passion.

              Carson Scholars Program

              Award Amount: Varies

              Scholarship Deadline: January 13

              The Carson Scholars Program is a merit-based scholarship program that is open to high school students who excel academically and are committed to serving their communities.

              Profile in Courage Essay Contest

              Award Amount: $500 - $3,000

              Scholarship Deadline: January 12

              The Profile in Courage Essay Contest is open to all high school students. Essays will be judged on the overall originality of the topic and the clear communication of ideas through language.

              Coolidge Scholarship

              Award Amount: Full-ride!

              Scholarship Deadline: January 18

              The Coolidge Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship that covers a student’s tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study.

              Hamilton Award/Scholars Program for High School Juniors

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: January 31

              The Hamilton Award is open solely to underserved high school juniors in the US. Students do not need to be US residents.

              Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship 

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: January 31

              The Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship is designed to help you understand the negative effects that technology and too much screen time can have on our lives. Open to high school and college students, along with graduate school students.

              EngineerGirl Essay Contest

              Award Amount: $500

              Scholarship Deadline: February 1  

              The EngineerGirl Essay contest is open to high school students and asks for an essay discussing the vital contribution of engineers in responding to the pandemic.

              Americanism Essay Scholarship 

              Award Amount: $100 - $1,200 

              Scholarship Deadline: First Friday in February  

              The Americanism Essay Scholarship is open to Illinois high school students and requires an essay on Americanism and good citizenship.

              Davidson Fellows Scholarship Program

              Award Amount: $50,000

              Scholarship Deadline: February 11

              One-time award to recognize outstanding achievements of young people. Must be 18 or younger as of application deadline. Must have completed a significant piece of work in one of the following areas: science, technology, engineering, mathematics, humanities (music, literature or philosophy) or outside the box.

              Be the Boss Scholarship

              Award Amount: $2,000

              Scholarship Deadline: March 15

              The "Be the Boss" Scholarship is designed to empower entrepreneurial women to give their business ideas a go!

              E-Waste Scholarship 

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: April 30 

              The E-Waste Scholarship, sponsored by Digital Responsibility, challenges students to learn about the impact of e-waste and what can be done to minimize it.

              Think for Yourself Scholarship 

              Award Amount: up to $5,000

              Scholarship Deadline: April 30 

              This scholarship, open to all high school students in the US, asks students to consider the value of free speech, curiosity, and open mindedness in their everyday lives.

              Brower Youth Awards

              Award Amount: $3,000

              Scholarship Deadline: May 20 

              Scholarship is open to environmental change leaders ages 13 to 22 (as of the application deadline) living in North America (including Mexico, Canada, and some Caribbean Islands) and U.S. Territories.

              A Voice for Animals Contest

              Award Amount: up to $500 (20 awards)

              Scholarship Deadline: May 31 

              Contest is open to students between the ages of 14 and 18 years of age. Applicant must submit an essay on a given topic related to animals.

              Altruism + All Good Deeds Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000 

              Scholarship Deadline: May 31 

              Scholarship is open to high school juniors and seniors, as well as undergraduate and graduate students. Applicant must have at least a 2.5 GPA and have a commitment to volunteering and making a difference in their communities.

              Fountainhead Essay Contest 

              Award Amount: $500 - $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: June 7

              The Fountainhead Essay Contest is for high school students in their junior and senior years and has three essay prompt options.

              Stuck at Prom Scholarship

              Award Amount: up to $10,000

              Scholarship Deadline: June 9

              The Stuck at Prom Scholarship is open to high school students in the US and Canada who are 14 and older.

              Delete Cyberbullying Mental Health Awareness Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: June 30

              Scholarship is open to high school juniors. Applicant must submit an essay on a topic related to mental health and cyberbullying.

              Prudential Emerging Visionaries Award

              Amount: up to $15,000

              Deadline: November 4

              Eligibility: Open to young leaders ages 14-18 who are bringing powerful vision and real change to their communities. Must be legal residents of the US or Puerto Rico.

              Stephen J. Brady Stop Hunger Scholarship

              Amount: up to $10,000

              Deadline: November 5

              Eligibility: The Foundation is looking for students, ages 5 to 25, who are using their creativity, academic studies (like STEM), and organizational skills to help fight hunger in their communities.

              Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award

              Amount: up to $10,000

              Deadline: November 15

              Eligibility: Each year, From the Top chooses approximately 20 pre-collegiate musicians ages 8-18 to receive the Award. The Award is given to driven and committed pre-collegiate musicians with financial need to help offset the often prohibitively expensive costs of studying classical music at a high level.

              Coolidge Scholarship

              Amount: Full-Ride

              Deadline: December 16

              Eligibility: The Coolidge Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship that covers a student’s tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study. The Coolidge Scholarship may be used by recipients at any American university. Anyone of any background, pursuing any academic discipline of study, may apply to this non-partisan, need-blind, program. ONLY current high school juniors are eligible to apply.

              Around the Corner from College Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadlines: December 31, June 30

              This is another one of Access Scholarship's ways of giving back! The Around the Corner from College Scholarship is an easy opportunity that is open to all high school students, including international students who are planning to attend college in the US.

              National High School Poetry Contest

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: December 31

              Gen & Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

              Award Amount: $1,000

              Scholarship Deadline: December 31 and July 31

              The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship is a merit-based program that helps students fulfill their dreams of higher education.

              Cirkled In’s “No Sweat” Scholarship

              Award Amount: $2,500

              Scholarship Deadline: December 31

              WiseGeek Mental Health Well-Being No-Essay Scholarship

              Award Amount: $500

              Scholarship Deadline: December 31

              The WiseGeek Mental Health Well-Being Scholarship is meant to provide awareness to mental health challenges and assist those who have had to face those issues with a $500 award to help pay their tuition.

              Quick Links - Scholarships for High School Juniors

              Scholarships for high school juniors

              Frequently asked questions about scholarships from high school students

              How to find scholarships for high school students?

              A scholarship is, to put it simply, free money that you can earn to put towards paying for college.

              Unlike other types of financial aid (aka, loans), money that you earn from scholarships doesn't ever need to be repaid!  That why we have made it easy for you to search for hihh school scholarships using our dedicated lists and/or using our scholarships search engine to find more tailored scholarships base don your class year, hobbies, school activities etc.

              Can you get scholarships while a junior in high school?

              As you can see from the scholarships listed above, high school juniors certainly can apply for scholarships!

              If you're a junior and you haven't started yet, don't worry, because you're definitely not too late. In fact, you're quickly approaching one of the prime times to be applying, since junior year is the time where lots of scholarships tend to become available for high school students.

              One major pro of starting to apply for scholarships as a high school junior is that, by the time senior year rolls around, you will already be familiar with the process, and ready to go out there and submit applications for even more opportunities.

              Where can I find scholarships for juniors to apply for?

              In addition to this post and the entire Access Scholarships platform, there are tons of other places and resources you can check out to help you search for scholarships for juniors.

              You'll want to start by heading over to the website(s) run by your state that outlines state-based financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

              Then, you'll want to reach out to your school counselor (and do research on Google) to learn about local scholarship and merit scholarship opportunities.

              Another more unique way to find potential scholarship opportunities that are specific to you is actually through utilizing social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, even Pinterest!). You can follow hashtags on Instagram such as #TexasScholarships (if you live in Texas) so that anytime an organization posts a relevant scholarship with that hashtag, you can see it and apply if you're interested!

              How do I make my scholarship applications stand out?

              One of the best ways that you can stand out through your application is through the extra requirements that you submit.

              Whether it's an essay, a video, letters of recommendation, or other additional submissions, these are all places where you will want to dedicate extra time and effort to make sure that what you're sending in is authentically YOU, unique, eye-catching, and memorable.

              Applying for scholarships while juggling high school and extracurriculars is a lot of work. Is it worth it?

              In my opinion, ABSOLUTELY! While the process can be a long one, it can certainly pay off if you are able to earn a few thousand dollars (or even more!) in scholarships to help you pay for school. Think about how many hours of time you'd have to work at a part-time job to earn a few thousand dollars. Probably quite a lot!

              Additionally, not only is the process a humbling one (mostly everyone who applies will get rejected from at least one scholarship at some point) but it also helps you to refine key skills along the way, such as organization, essay-writing, and professional communication.

              For more tips on navigating the process of writing essays for scholarships, check out our blog post on How To Write a Winning Scholarship Essay.

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              Expert review completed by Stefanie Barlow on 7/1/25
              College Admissions Coach and Consultant at Admissionado.
              Read more about Stefanie Barlow