Whether you’re a high school student thinking about next steps after graduation, or you’ve been out in the ~real world~ for some time but are considering going back to school to obtain a degree, trade school is one of the many types of degrees out there worth considering. But, with a plethora of options often comes decision fatigue: which option is best for me?
In this post, we’ll dive into one of the many degree options out there - trade school (also referred to as vocational school or technical school) - along with pros and cons, and of course, plenty of scholarship options for trade school students.
Trade school, also commonly known as vocational school or technical school, is a type of post-secondary degree that is obtained in order to become qualified to enter into skilled trades such as cosmetology, HVAC, computer information systems, and construction management.
Trade school programs are often regarded as the more straightforward path from high school into the workforce, mainly because they are typically shorter in length, lasting under 2 years compared to 4 years for a bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, the goal of trade school programs is to teach you the ins and outs of everything that you will need to succeed in your field of choice in as little time as possible so as to get you transitioned into the workforce quickly.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Quarterly (December 31, March 31, June 30, September 30)
Eligibility: Open to high school and college students of all years, pursuing all post-secondary degree types, this no essay scholarship is a no-brainer. No minimum GPA required apply.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: December 31, June 30
Eligibility: Open to high school students of all years in the US (freshmen to seniors) who are planning to obtain any type of post-secondary degree. No transcript required to apply.
Amount: Varies, but usually around $1,000
Deadline: Last day of each month
Eligibility: Open to students ages 13+ who are US residents, planning to pursue any type of post-secondary degree. No essay required!
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Last day of each month
Eligibility: Open to students ages 13+ who are US residents, planning to pursue any type of post-secondary degree. No essay or minimum GPA required.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: January 24
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors or current students planning to enroll or are enrolled in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two-year college or vocational-technical school for the entire upcoming academic year. Must be majoring in a trade construction, industrial, motor/power sector, mechanics, or technology degree/certificate - see the scholarship page for a more comprehensive list of eligible majors.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Open to students currently enrolled in a construction-related training program which is approved by the Bureau of Apprenticeship Training, community college, technical school or equivalent.
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: March 27
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors who will be completing a two-year, four-year, or trade/vocational certificate/certification program. Must be pell-grant eligible and demonstrate leadership ability.
Amount: $1,500 - $2,500
Deadline: March 31, September 30
Eligibility: Open to students who are currently enrolled in or entering a certificate or degree program which leads to a manufacturing career on a full-time basis (12 or more credit hours). Minimum 2.5 GPA.
Amount: up to $5,000
Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Open to high school graduates (with less than a bachelor’s degree) OR high school seniors who are U.S. citizens and are enrolled or planning to enroll part-time or full-time in one of the specified fields of study at an accredited vocational technical school, trade school, two-year community or state college. Fields of study include engineering, advanced manufacturing, and computer and information sciences - see the scholarship page for the full detailed list.
Amount: $1,000 (5 awards)
Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Open to high school and college students of all years pursuing all degree types. Special consideration will be given to minority students, as well as students who are or will be the first in their family to attend college.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors who plan to enroll in an accredited vocational-technical or trade school/program for the entire upcoming academic semester/term or year.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: October 31
Eligibility: Open to students pursuing degrees related to marketing, business, and graphic design - through certification programs, courses, and vocational schools in addition to four-year institutions.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: December 31
Eligibility: Open to anyone enrolled, or planning to enroll, as a HVAC student in a U.S. trade school or program.
As previously mentioned, there are many pros and cons worth considering when thinking about which type of degree to pursue, and if trade school is the right fit for you. Ultimately, you’ll want to consider factors such as program length, cost, flexibility, and end goal.
If you’re looking for a less costly fast-track into the workforce to start earning money as soon as possible, a trade school degree might be the right path for you.
However, if you’re unsure of your desired career path, committing to a trade or vocational degree might not be right for you, as these programs are typically highly specialized and hands-on in the specific field of choice.
There are a few key differences between a trade school degree, associate’s degree, and a bachelor’s degree.
The first is program length; trade school programs tend to vary in length, ranging from 1-2 years. In comparison, associate’s degrees typically take 2 years to complete and bachelor’s degrees typically take 4 years.
The second major difference is the course offering and end goal, in terms of what field or career you’re hoping to pursue after completion. Trade school degrees aim to equip students with specific technical skills needed for a more specialized career. Compare this to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, which is usually less hands-on and provides students with a more general education pertaining to a specific area of study, such as marketing, mechanical engineering, or journalism.
Unlike bachelor’s programs, which are selective in terms of which applicants to accept into their programs, trade school programs tend to have fewer barriers to entry in order to pursue. Trade school applicants generally only need to be 16 or 17 years of age, with a high school diploma, in order to apply.
Although there are a few more differences, the final key difference we’ll call out here is cost. Trade school programs tend to be less costly than bachelor’s degrees, partially due to shorter program lengths.
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 LGBTQ+ Students & Allies
Scholarships for Undocumented Students
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 2024. 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.
Amount: $25,000
Deadline: Rolling monthly
Eligibility:
-Open to all college students!
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: Expires on the last day of each month
Eligibility: The ScholarshipPoints Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!
Amount: $1,000 (4 awards per month!)
Deadline: Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month
Eligibility: The Smart Owl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: Last day of each month
Eligibility:
-Open to high school seniors as all undergraduate students
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: End of each month
Eligibility:
-Open to legal residents of the US who are 13 and older.
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!
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.
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!
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: Rolling monthly
Eligibility:
-Open to all college students!
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!
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
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
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
Amount: $500
Deadline: January 11
Eligibility:
-Must be attending an accredited US college or university
-Must be a US citizen
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: April 1, November 15
Eligibility:
-Any legal U.S. resident in high school or college who will be attending an accredited university or college is eligible to apply
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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
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)
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
Amount: $1,000 each (3 awards)
Deadline: July 31
Eligibility:
-Open to current undergraduate and graduate school students.
-No minimum GPA required!
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
Amount: Up to the cost of attendance
Deadline: September 15
Eligibility:
To apply, students must be:
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.
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
Amount: up to $2,000
Deadline: September 17
Eligibility:
-Different scholarships open to high school, college, and graduate school students
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
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.
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
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
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
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
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: December 31
Eligibility:
-Open to high school and college students
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)
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
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility:
-Open to full-time students enrolled in two-year, four-year, or graduate programs
-All majors welcome
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.
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.
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 LGBTQ+ Students & Allies
Scholarships for Undocumented Students
Scholarships for LatinX and Hispanic Students
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.
Hey, y'all! Did you know that according to this study, of the 1.8 MILLION bachelor's degrees that were awarded back in the 2015-2016 school year, 18% were in STEM fields?
How cool is that?!
As a non-STEM person over here, I may be just geeking out a little bit, but I do think it's cool that nearly 1/5 of students were majoring in something related to the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
I think the hope is that over the past 5 years or so, this percentage has grown even more and that it will only continue to grow over the many years to come so that we can continue to innovate, create, and do amazing things.
Because so much emphasis in recent years has been put on teaching students about careers in STEM, it only makes sense that a lot of large companies and organizations out there have been doing the same; teaching students about STEM through scholarships opportunities, and of course, awarding students who have shown interest and commitment to their field. If you're a current or incoming STEM student, luckily for you, there is no shortage of scholarships out there for you to apply for.
In this post, I highlight just a few of the main ones to help you get your search started.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Quarterly (applications accepted all year round)
High school students who have been accepted to college and students who are currently enrolled in a college or university are eligible to apply for the Employment BOOST college scholarship program.
Applications are accepted year-round, with quarterly deadlines of April 1st, July 1st, October 1st, and January 1st, and must be received within the time frame to be considered eligible to be awarded that quarter.
Amount: $6,000
Deadline: January 29
This STEM Fellowship Program provides fellowships of $6,000 in add-on support to graduate students to supplement and enhance basic research support. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a program of study in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) and have a specific faculty-mentored research project that has NASA or aerospace relevance. Allied Health Sciences majors are not eligible for this program.
Amount: N/A
Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Current undergraduates pursuing a manufacturing career and matriculating in engineering-related courses at four-year colleges and universities within the United States or Canada. Some of the scholarships are also open to high school seniors.
Amount: varies
Deadline: varies, but some close around February 14
The SWE Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to those who identify as a female/woman and are studying community college, baccalaureate, or graduate programs in preparation for careers in engineering, engineering technology, and computer science. In 2019, SWE awarded nearly 260 new and renewed scholarships valued at over $810,000.
SWE provides one application for sophomores through graduate students and one application for freshmen. Applicants complete an application and are considered for all scholarships for which they are eligible.
Amount:$5,000
Deadline: March 1
This scholarship is for a full-time college student pursuing an Engineering degree, a STEM degree, or a Business degree with a marketing emphasis. Applicant must have a minimum GPA of 2.7 and be a citizen of the United States.
Amount: up to $5,000
Deadline: March 9
This scholarship is focused on providing financial assistance to ensure students have access to quality education that will lead them down a pathway toward a successful career in one of the many sectors within the STEM industries.
The candidates must be enrolled as undergraduate students during the 2020-21 Academic year.
Amount:$2,000
Deadline: March 12
The Community College STEM Scholarship provides a one-year, non-renewable award of $2,000 for students enrolled full time during the award period at one of Virginia’s Community Colleges. Students must be majoring in a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) field and be interested in pursuing a career that supports NASA’s mission including careers in the aerospace sector.
Students must apply during their second semester of freshman year of community college enrollment for an award that will begin in the sophomore year.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: March 15
The increasing role of technological innovations in our daily life cannot be understated, and by recognizing the significance of the arts, the STEAM field provides a vast amount of opportunity for those interested in it. NSHSS created this scholarship to honor those students who embrace and celebrate the STEAM field and thrive within it.
This scholarship is open to high school seniors planning to major in a STEAM field (science/medicine, technology, engineering, arts, or mathematics)
Amount: $1,500
Deadline: March 15
Six scholarships valued at $1,500 each will be awarded for the freshman year of college only.
Applicants must have a 3.75 GPA, rank in the 90th percentile in both math and critical reading for SAT scores or for composite ACT scores, and pursue an engineering program accredited by the engineering accreditation commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Amount: Up to $30,000 (paid over three years, provided renewal eligibility requirements are met)
Deadline: March 19
This ~mini full-ride scholarship~ scholarship is for Latino(a) students who have a declared major in a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)-related field.
Amount: up to $15,000
Deadline: March 19
For undergraduate or graduate students with a declared major in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). Must be planning to enroll on a full-time basis (as defined by the program of study) in a California, public four-year college/university.
Amount: Up to $75,000 ($25,000 for silver medalists, $75,000 for gold)
Deadline: March 26
The Emmy Noether Awards seek top aspiring female research scientists in any STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math) field to help realize their potential careers through financial and networking assistance.
Up to 13 awards will be given out. Must be a current senior in high school either living in or attending school in one of the following states: Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana.
Amount: approximately $52,000
Deadline: March 31
The Zuckerman Postdoctoral Scholars Program attracts high-achieving postdoctoral scholars from premier universities in the United States and Canada to do research at one of seven Israeli universities. Once they complete their research, many Zuckerman postdocs are expected to accept faculty positions at top North American universities, weaving a network of academic collaboration and goodwill that will greatly benefit US-Israeli scientific cooperation.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: March 31
Currently, women make up less than 30% of the workforce in new-age technologies. GreyCampus is offering 100 scholarships for women across the world to advance their careers in new-age technologies. These are 100% (full-fee waiver) scholarships for the Data Science and Full Stack Development Career Programs. Must be at least 21 years old
Amount: N/A
Deadline: March 31
The graduate award is designed for aspiring individuals from the UK or Texas, USA who are intent on furthering their education in their chosen STEM or business field.
This is an opportunity for students to study at graduate level, whether Texas residents in Texas, Texas residents in the UK or UK residents in Texas.
Amount: up to $2,500 per recipient
Deadline: April 1
Must be planning a career in computer science, information technology, management information systems, or other related fields. 3.0 GPA or higher required. The WITS Program will grant multiple scholarship awards that value up to $2,500.00 per recipient.
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: April 1
The Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship program provides opportunities to students who want to build their talents and change the world! Lockheed Martin will award up to 200 renewable scholarships of $10,000 each.
Awards are open to individuals studying eligible engineering or computer science majors, who demonstrate financial need and come from underrepresented or underserved communities. Applicants must also be open to outreach from Lockheed Martin recruitment teams regarding possible internship opportunities.
- Cumulative high school GPA of 3.3 or higher
-An intent to study computer science
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: April 15
The Women In STEM Scholarship is available to undergraduate and graduate female students. You must be pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics to be eligible for this award.
International students can apply as long as they are attending a US-based school. If your college is not a US-based organization, you cannot apply at this time. US-based programs offering study abroad are allowed.
Amount: $500 - $10,000
Deadline: April 30
-Applicants must demonstrate merit through academic achievements, leadership and campus/community activities
-Applicants must be pursuing a science, technology, engineering or math degree
-Applicants must have an overall minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
-Applicants must be of Hispanic descent and/or must demonstrate significant leadership or service within the underserved community
-Recipients must be enrolled in a STEM undergraduate or graduate program for the upcoming fall semester, at an accredited 2-yr or 4-yr college/university in the U.S. or its territories.
The GMiS Scholars Program accepts applicants who are U.S. citizens, U.S. residents, F1 Visa, or DACA status.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: May 1
-Open to high school seniors and incoming college freshmen
-GPA must be 3.5 or higher
-Scholarship is based on financial need
-Priority is given to students who are majoring in a STEM-related field
Amount: up to $10,000
Deadline: May 5
-Open to graduate and undergraduate students
-Must be studying biology, chemistry, biochemistry or a related life science field
-Minimum 3.0 GPA
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: May 31
The AFCEA Educational Foundation is offering competitive based scholarships of $2,500 each to students actively pursuing a graduate degree or credential/licensure for the purpose of teaching STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) subjects at a U.S. school in grades K-12.
Amount: average $2,000
Deadline: September 3
The program welcomes applications from students seeking support for to cover expenses associated with their academic pursuits in a STEM field. The scholarship will fund one undergraduate or graduate student for one year, providing $1,000-$3,000 in direct costs.
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: September 30
Technology is everywhere in today’s society. Whether it be behind the scenes with coding and software programming, or easily demonstrated through AI and robotics, tech can be an asset and sometimes a liability or distraction. NSHSS wishes to honor our students devoted to tech to tell us all about their passions for the field.
Open to high school seniors and college freshmen, sophomores, juniors with a dedicated passion for AI, technology, coding, and more.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: October 31
Orangesoft offers a scholarship dedicated to female college or university students pursuing STEM, or other technology-related studies and careers. This scholarship will help a high school or university female student to achieve their goal in their future career in a technical field.
Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and be accepted to or studying at an accredited university in the US.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: November 15
Must be currently enrolled as a full-time student in a technology-related course at any accredited US university.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: December 1
The Student Award Program of FSD helps to increase opportunities in science, engineering, mathematics, technology, and pre‑medical/dental areas for fourth-year undergraduate or graduate students with disabilities.
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: December 5
Eligibility: The $2000 PixelPlex Bi-Annual STEM Scholarship was established to help support and inspire students to pursue further education in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), as well as economics and business. One student will be chosen from the applicant pool and will be awarded based on the strength of their written essay. The selected student will receive 2,000 USD to help cover education-related expenses.
A key component to any scholarship strategy is to diversify the types of scholarships you apply for.
So, in addition to these awesome STEM scholarships (and hundreds of others featured in our scholarship database), don't forget to check out our list of no-essay scholarships that you can apply for in just a few minutes for when you need that application-pick-me-up!
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.
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!
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.
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.
Amount: $4,000
Deadline: January 31
Details: Open to minority graduate students enrolled in accredited masters or doctoral programs. Must have demonstrated financial need.
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.
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.
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: Mid-March
Details: Open to junior and senior undergraduate students majoring in hospitality management or a related degree.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: March 31
Details: Open to continuing or returning African American women pursuing undergraduate degrees.
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.
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
Amount: up to $7,000
Deadline: April 10
Details: Open to students studying accounting at a Pennsylvania college or university. Minimum 3.0 GPA.
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.
Amount: $1,000
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/will be first-generation college students are encouraged to apply.
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.
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.
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
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).
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
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.
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.
Amount: $750
Deadline: November 15
Details: Open to young women or gender non-conforming undergraduate students attending college in the US.
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.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies
Details: Open to minority undergraduate students pursuing degrees in STEM - specifically engineering or computer science.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies
Details: Open to minority students of all years attending an HBCU.
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.
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).
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!
A few blog posts ago, I mentioned something along the lines of “scholarships come in all shapes and sizes”.
This is still true!
Not all scholarships are meant to award students for academic performance, which is awesome because I’m sure you bring a lot more to the table than just your brains.
These scholarships for student activists are great because they encourage you to learn more, speak your voice, and even take action about a specific cause while also giving you the opportunity to earn some cash to help you pay for school.
Some of them are more activism-based, and some of them are more focused on encouraging you to take part and help your community through service.
Read on for our top 17 scholarships for student activists!
Amount: varies (average $8,000)
Deadline: January 8
GSBA awards educational scholarships (undergraduate and graduate) to LGBTQ and straight-ally students who are committed to making a difference in the world. Our scholarships range up to $13,000 annually and are meant to provide significant support as you pursue your educational goals.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: January 24
“Activist Artist” initiative recognizes the powerful connection between human rights and artists around the world. Human rights activists come from many different backgrounds, but one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, forces in the human rights movement are the artists.
The scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors in New Hampshire going into a 2 or 4-year degree program.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: January 30
Young people spend an average of 7.5 hours a day consuming media--and this doesn't include computer use for schoolwork--according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. With technology always at the ready at your fingertips, it can be a challenge to unplug. But taking a break from technology is healthy for both the mind and body.
The purpose of this scholarship is to help you understand the negative effects of too much screen time.
Amount: $500
Deadline: March 15
The NSHSS Foundation encourages environmental stewardship among high school students globally through the Earth Day Award competition. The project is open to all high school students annually.
Applicants are asked to submit details about an environmental project that they are currently working on, or one that will be initiated for Earth Day in their home, school, and/or community.
Open to all high school students, including international students. Minimum 3.0 GPA
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: April 15
This scholarship, powered by Access Scholarships (that's us!) in collaboration with climate activist Jamie Margolin, is geared towards educating and inspiring students to learn about climate change and climate justice, and how both topics intersect with various other movements and issues that are occurring in our world.
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: April 15
The Barron Prize welcomes applications from public-spirited young people who are, on our April 15 deadline:
-between the ages of 8 and 18 (not yet age 19)
-permanent residents of and currently residing in the U.S.A. or Canada
-currently working on an inspiring service project or have done so within the past 12 months
-working as an individual to lead their service work. The Barron Prize does not accept applications from large groups of young people
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: April 20
Each year there are 20 to 50 million tons of e-waste discarded in the world. E-waste contains toxic materials, including heavy metals, that can easily seep into the ground and ultimately get into groundwater supplies. According to the EPA, recycling e-waste allows more than 100 million pounds of materials to be reused annually.
The purpose of this scholarship is to help you understand the impact of e-waste and what can be done to reduce e-waste.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: June 1
The Ramblers Scholarship supports student-athletes pursuing an undergraduate education who self-identify publicly as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or intersex (LGBTQI), or as demonstrated and committed straight allies.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: June 5
The purpose of these awards is to honor students who support a creative educational community that increases the visibility and the accomplishments of LGBTQ+ and supportive students.
Eligibility:
-Successful completion of a minimum of two years of post-high school education at an accredited U.S. college or university
-Minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on 4.0 point scale
-A declared major in an accredited STEM or STEM-related teaching field
-Be an active supporter of and participant in programs or organizations that promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and visibility
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: June 30
The purpose of this scholarship is to help you understand why you should be cautious about what you post on the Internet.
Open to high school, college, and graduate school students of all years.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: September 30
Do you have a passion for bringing about social, political, and/or civil change in your community? Does a particular cause or idea have your attention? Do you hope to apply these skills to your college education? NSHSS wants to hear about it!
This scholarship is open to all high school and college students. International students are also encouraged to apply.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: September 30
Do you know how far you will drive on the freeway if you take your eyes off the road for five seconds, the average time it takes to send a text? An entire football field.
The purpose of this scholarship is to help you understand the risks of texting while driving.
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: November 6
This scholarship awards $100,000 annually to 10 underserved high school seniors at $10,000 each, providing much-needed support to youth who have demonstrated tremendous leadership potential despite their own economic circumstances.
Eligibility includes:
-A resident of one of the following California counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Lake, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Sacramento, San Benito, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Yolo
Amount: Varies
Deadline: December 31
The Apprentice Ecologist Initiative™ (officially recognized by the U.S. EPA) has engaged tens of thousands of young volunteers (kids, teens, and college-age youth) from around the world in environmental cleanup and conservation projects since 1999.
Three scholarships totaling $1,750 will be awarded annually to the authors of the three best Apprentice Ecologist essays.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Rolling (2 annual awards)
Fig is committed to supporting that growth in the communities we serve. The Fig Loans scholarship is one of the many ways we hope to empower the leaders of tomorrow.
All majors are welcome to apply for this scholarship.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: N/A
The Bonner Program provides a scholarship to students in exchange for weekly commitment to intensive and meaningful service with a local community organization over the four years as an undergraduate student with our campus partners.
If you're interested in becoming a Bonner, you must apply directly through one of their campus partners. Each campus has its own application and selection process.
In 2017, 191,336 degrees were awarded to students majoring in engineering, including STEM majors.
According to Data USA, the median tuition costs for engineering majors at in-state public colleges is approximately $8,000, while the median tuition cost for these majors at out-of-state private colleges is approximately $42,000 per year.
Regardless of what type of institution you attend to earn your engineering degree, there is no doubt that earning an engineering degree is expensive.
Despite the fact that earning a degree in engineering is likely to lead you to a high-paying job down the line, it can often be difficult to see that far into the future when you are focused on figuring out exactly how you are going to fund your degree.
So, if you're looking for scholarship opportunities to help fund your engineering degree, you have come to the right place! Below, we have highlighted some great scholarships that are currently being offered for engineering students of all disciplines.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Quarterly
Details: Our no-essay scholarship is open to high school, college, and graduate students of all years. Undocumented students and international students in the US are also eligible. Students pursuing any area of study (including engineering!) are encouraged to apply.
Amount: up to $30,000
Deadline: early January
Details:
-Open to U.S. citizens at or near the beginning of their graduate studies in science and/or engineering programs
-The fellowships are for three year tenures
-Full tuition and fees and a health insurance allowance are included as part of the program
Amount: $10,000 per year for 4 years
Deadline: January 8
Details:
-Open to graduating high school seniors accepted into STEM degree programs
-Minimum 3.5/4.0 high school GPA
-Must identify as Black and/or African American
-Must be a US citizen
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: February 1
Details:
-Must be pursuing a degree in industrial engineering
-Minimum 3.4 GPA
Amount: up to $40,000 (varies by scholarship)
Deadline: February 1
Details:
-Dozens of scholarships, open to high school seniors, college students (at four-year and community colleges), and graduate school students
-Must be pursuing a career in an engineering or manufacturing-related field
-Students must be attending a US or Canada university
Amount: $3,000 - $4,000
Deadline: February 15
Details:
-Must be pursuing a degree in naval engineering or a related discipline
-Open to college seniors and graduate students
Amount: Varies
Deadline: February 15
Details:
-Must identify as a female/woman
-Must be pursuing a bachelor or graduate degree in an ABET-accredited program
-International students are welcome to apply!
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: March 1
Details:
-Open to high school seniors from ethnic minorities who have been accepted into an ABET-accredited engineering program at a four-year college or university
-Must be a US citizen
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: March 3
Details:
-Award for graduate students working towards a Master's degree in engineering
-Must be a US citizen
-Must be enrolled in a full-time mechanical engineering program at the time of application
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: March 3
Details:
-Open to students working toward a Ph.D./doctoral degree in engineering
-The applicant must be a U.S. citizen and be enrolled in a full-time mechanical engineering program
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: March 15
Details:
-Open to all applicants – freshman through senior – pursuing a degree in engineering at an ABET accredited college or university
-GPA requirements: 3.75 for high school applicants and a 3.0 cumulative college GPA for upperclassmen
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: April 15
Details:
-Merit-based, non-renewable, tuition-only scholarships awarded to undergraduate students admitted to Ohio state or private colleges and universities
-Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to careers in environmental sciences or environmental engineering
-18 awards per year
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: April 15
Details:
-Open to college graduate, undergraduate, and senior high school students who have been accepted into full-time marine-related programs (with a focus on marine technology, marine engineering, or marine science)
-Must be a MTS member (costs $25/year)
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: April 17
Details:
-Scholarship open to MTS members enrolled in a two-year, technical, engineering, or community college in a marine-related field.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: April 16
Details:
-Open to college-bound WOMEN from the Chicago metropolitan area who will be majoring in engineering. Min 3.0 GPA
Amount: $1,250
Deadline: April 15
Details:
-Open to college sophomores, juniors, and seniors
-Can be majoring in any engineering-related discipline
-Must be a US citizen and of Italian descent
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: April 30
Details:
-Open to legal residents of Canada and the 50 United States and the District of Columbia
-Must be a current college junior or senior pursuing a degree in an engineering or science-related discipline
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: May 1
Details:
-Open to U.S. engineering students who are pursuing careers in industrial automation-related disciplines
-Merit-based scholarships
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: May 28
Details:
-Open to full-time students in the US (international students in the US can apply!) pursuing a career in the AEC Industry (architecture, engineering, construction, etc.)
-Must have demonstrated a measurable level of involvement/ service to the Asian-Pacific Islander community
-Must be a student member of AAa/e
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: July 15
Details:
-Award for college undergraduates who are studying chemical engineering
-Must be a member of a minority group that is underrepresented in chemical engineering
-Must be an AICHE national student member at the time of application
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: December 1
Details:
-Open to qualified female undergraduate engineering technology students
-Must be pursuing either an associate or bachelors degree
-Minimum 3.0 GPA
Amount: up to $5,000
Deadline: Varies (March 15, April 30, and September 15)
Details:
-Open to Native American students planning to study math, engineering, science, business, education, and computers, or presently studying in these fields
Full-ride scholarships are, without a doubt, every college student’s dream to receive. To put it plainly, a full-ride scholarship is one that generally covers most of, if not all, of your college expenses.
These scholarships are amazing because they help provide support with paying for college while greatly reducing (or even completely eradicating) the need to take out student loans.
Full-ride scholarships fall into a few different categories: ones that are merit-based, ones that are need-based (these two are both generally offered by the colleges/universities themselves), and ones from private organizations.
The fact that full-ride scholarships can pay for not only tuition but also cover the cost of textbooks, room and board, and other expenses, is amazing.
However, since these scholarships are so significant (and honestly life-changing), it also means that they are extremely difficult to win. They may be difficult, but it’s important to remember that they’re by no means impossible!
In this article, I will highlight some of the best full-ride scholarships (along with some that are hopefully less known - less well-known = higher chance of winning, right?) and even leave you with some tips on how you can put your best foot forward when applying for these types of scholarships.
I also want to highlight two EASY scholarships we currently have running here at Access Scholarships, that you should apply for ASAP before diving into the full-ride opportunities below (which definitely require a lot more time and effort!).
These scholarships do NOT require essays, letters of recommendation, OR submission of a transcript/GPA (phew!) so make sure you apply now to be considered for the next round!
This $1,000 scholarship is open to high school, college, and graduate school students. Students with DACA status and international students who plan to or who are currently studying in the US are also eligible to apply.
The deadline is quarterly, meaning we award four $1,000 scholarships each year, and that you can pretty much apply all year round!
This scholarship, also worth $1,000, is open to high school students of all years, freshman through senior. Just like with the Too Cool scholarship, students with DACA status and those who are preparing to study in the US are also eligible to apply.
The deadlines for this scholarship are December 31 and June 30, and it takes only a few minutes to apply.
Now that we have those No ESSAY SCHOLARSHIPS out of the way...onto the BIG MONEY SCHOLARSHIPS!
Application deadline: January 18
Details: The Coolidge Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship that covers the full cost of 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.
Eligibility: Must be a current high school junior
Application deadline: February 15
Details: The goal of the USDA/1890 National Scholars Program is to increase the number of minorities studying agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, and related disciplines.
Eligibility:
Application deadline: January/February time
Details: The Smart Start Program is for analytical New York City high school students who are ready to get a head start on a career in financial services.
You’ll gain real-world experience working in our industry-leading businesses while attending university on a scholarship that covers the full cost of college.
Eligibility: Must be a high school student living in New York City interested in business / financial services.
Application deadline: September 8
Details: The Cameron Impact Scholarship is a four-year, full-tuition, merit scholarship.
It's awarded annually to 10-15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service.
The Cameron Impact Scholarship covers the full cost of attending any accredited U.S.-based college or university that the recipient chooses to enroll in (includes personal expenses such as books).
The applicant must:
Application deadline: September 15
Details: The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding, minority, high school seniors from low-income households.
Each year, the scholarship is awarded to 300 students.
An ideal candidate will have:
Eligibility: To apply, students must be:
Application deadline: September 26
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.”
Questbridge encourages students who feel they have faced significant financial hardship to review these financial criteria carefully to see if they may qualify.
Eligibility: Must be a current high school senior
Application Deadline: October 18
Details: Flinn Scholars have excelled in their high-school classrooms while maintaining purposeful involvement and leadership in extracurricular activities, whether in the arts or athletics, in laboratory research, or in community service.
Eligibility: To be awarded the Flinn Scholarship, an applicant must:
Deadline: November 16
Details: The Cooke College 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.
Each award is intended to cover a significant share of the student’s educational experience – including tuition, living expenses, books, and required fees.
This highly competitive scholarship includes:
Eligibility: To be eligible to apply to the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program you must:
Application deadline: November 28
Details: Act Six is a leadership and scholarship program that connects local faith-based community affiliates with faith- and social justice-based colleges to equip emerging urban and community leaders to engage the college campus and their communities at home.
To be eligible, a student must:
Deadline: December 1
Details: The 5 Strong Scholarship Foundation, Inc. Partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities to provide full-tuition scholarships and ongoing support to promising student leaders from “Matriculation to Graduation.”
Eligibility: To be considered, you must...
Deadline: December 1
Details: SMART is a scholarship-for-service program that provides full tuition and other financial benefits to individuals in exchange for a period of post-graduation civilian service in a DoD facility.
Another benefit of the program comes in the form of internships that allow for broadly relevant hands-on research and work experiences in DoD facilities.
Eligibility: Individuals applying for this scholarship must be:
Application Deadline: December 13
Details: The Science Ambassador Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship for undergraduate women studying science, technology, engineering, or math, funded by Cards Against Humanity. To apply, applicants must submit a three-minute video explaining a scientific topic they’re passionate about.
Eligibility: The Science Ambassador Scholarship is open to female undergraduate students and high school seniors. All fields within science, technology, engineering, and math are eligible.
Open to international students! You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply. You do need to attend college (or plan to attend college) in the United States or a United States Territory.
Application Deadline: December 31
Details: Pays full (100 percent) college tuition and authorized fees at any public or private institution with an Air Force ROTC detachment.
Type 1 selectees will also receive a monthly living expense stipend and an annual book stipend.
Eligibility: Applicants must have...
Application deadline: Varies by location
Details: The Posse Scholars Program is a full-tuition scholarship offered to students in these 10 cities that the Posse community operates. High school students must be nominated for through their high school or community-based organization to be eligible.
To be eligible, a high school senior must:
Most top-ranked universities do not offer full-ride merit based scholarships. However, plenty of great schools offer full-ride scholarships!
Be sure to look on each college or university's website for additional details on the full-ride scholarships that they offer and if you are eligible to apply.
1. Be realistic!
The majority of full-ride scholarships are extremely competitive because of the amount of money that is awarded.
So, don't plan to attend a certain college or plan your scholarship searching/applying around the hope that you will be the recipient of a full-ride scholarship.
2. Vary the types of scholarships you're applying for.
Sure, applying to every full-ride scholarship that you are eligible for can't hurt you, but it's important to make sure that you are varying the types of scholarships you are applying for.
Applying for a mix of small amount and bigger amount scholarships will leave you more likely to walk away with some cash.
3. Be ready for interviews.
Most of these scholarships, as I stated, are extremely competitive. Therefore, the organization (or college) running the scholarship program likely will require an interview at some stage in the process to get to know you better.
4. Be strategic with your letters of recommendation.
While this goes for any scholarships you are applying for, it is especially important to consider this when applying for the big full-ride scholarships.
Make sure you ask people who know you well and can attest to all of your wonderful qualities and potential.
5. Get involved in your community.
So many of the full-ride scholarships specify that leadership skills and experience, along with community outreach, are some of the most important and decisive factors in who wins and who doesn't.
So, if you know early on in high school that you want to apply for some of these scholarships, be sure to find personally rewarding ways to get involved in your community as early as possible.
6. Choose courses that challenge you.
If you're in high school, and you're applying to merit-based full-ride scholarships, then it's very likely that the judges will be determining winners based on the types of classes you have taken and how well you have performed in them.
These scholarships often look for students who take on rigorous course loads and succeed in doing so.
One scholarship search tip that I repeat to students on the regular these days is how important it is to segment your scholarship search based on the building blocks that make up who you are. By “building blocks”, I mean...what are the various things that make you, YOU?
In case you’re having trouble picturing what I mean, here are a few examples (PS - I suggest you write yours out in list format too, it helps!) …
If you’re the first in your family to attend college, that last bullet, “I am a first generation college student”, certainly applies to you, and it is most certainly part of who you are that you can leverage in your search for scholarships.
In this post, we will highlight everything related to scholarships for first generation students, ranging from defining the term first generation to going over some awesome first generation college student scholarships.
So, keep reading for more information and scholarships for first generation students!
A ‘first generation scholar’ is any student who is the first in their family to attend a higher education institution, such as a college or university.
Despite the simplicity of this initial definition, the term ‘first generation’ can also be quite nuanced and even slightly confusing. So, let’s break it down…
A first-generation student comes from a family in which their biological parents did not attend (or complete their education at) a four-year college or university.
The answer to the question of who qualifies for first generation college student scholarships varies among scholarship providers and higher education institutions. Some providers may indicate that a student is only considered first-generation if their parents did not even partially complete a four-year degree. Other entities are more lenient, and say that as long as neither parent completed the four-year degree, the student is considered first-generation.
One common agreement among the majority of entities providing scholarships is that, even if you have older siblings who have completed or are currently pursuing four-year college degrees, you are still considered first-generation if your parents have not completed degrees of their own.
Ultimately, when it comes to applying for any opportunity, you want to make sure you definitely qualify before putting in the work.
So, if you aren’t sure if you fall into the category of being a first-generation student based on the above points alone, my advice to you is to reach out to your school counselor (if you’re in high school), your college or university (if you’re a current student), or to the specific scholarship provider in question to get some clarity before moving forward with the application.
There are thousands upon thousands of scholarship providers out there. Some of the ones that specifically offer scholarships for first generation students are Adobe, the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and Study.com.
Keep reading for our list of 17 great scholarships for first generation students (all of these scholarships are either created specifically for first-generation students, give preference to first gen applicants, or encourage first gen students to apply).
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: Quarterly (December 31, March 31, June 30, September 30)
Eligibility: Our no-essay scholarship is open to high school, college, and graduate students of all years. Undocumented students and international students in the US are also eligible, and, like all of our scholarships, first generation students are encouraged to apply!
Amount: up to $20,000
Deadline: January 26
Eligibility: Open to AAPI high school seniors and current undergraduate students with at least a 2.7 GPA. Must have demonstrated financial need and show proof of filing the FAFSA.
Amount: $1,000 + a laptop for school
Deadline: January 27
Eligibility: Open to college-bound high school juniors with financial need living in the US (residency isn’t necessary). Must be heading to a US-based institution and commit to participating in Hamilton’s five year empowerment program.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Open to Colorado high school seniors planning on attending Colorado institutions who are either first-gen, part of a minority, or fulfill both areas. Minimum 2.5 GPA.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: February 26
Eligibility: Open to women of international backgrounds, including foreign students, immigrants, or first-generation Americans, who are first-year entrants to a U.S. college or university program.
Amount: up to $10,000 per year
Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Open to graduating high school seniors residing in the greater Silicon Valley Region (includes Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, San Francisco County, Alameda County, and Santa Cruz County), and current community college students who graduated from a high school within the five listed counties. Must have demonstrated financial need.
Amount: up to $30,000
Deadline: March 5
Eligibility: Open to students who meet the following requirements (more details on the application page):
-High school senior
-Reside in the foundation’s service area
-Planning on attending one of the foundation’s partner schools (any public university in the US. Some private schools also qualify)
-Have a FAFSA EFC of $5,711 or less
Amount: up to $25,000 per year
Deadline: March 11
Eligibility: Open to students (high school seniors) who want to enter product design or experience design-related careers (e.g. digital, web, UX/UI, industrial design, or similar). International students may apply!
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: March 14
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors with financial need who are planning to obtain a four-year degree in the US. Minimum 3.5 GPA. You do not need to be a US citizen to apply. Accepted concentrations include Science, Engineering, Math, and more. See application page for the full list of accepted concentrations/areas of study.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: March 26
Eligibility: Open to Chinese students (high school seniors and current college students) who are studying in the Bay Area and are actively involved in the Christian faith and/or youth group.
Amount: $500
Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Open to graduating high school seniors and current college students who are or will be first-generation. Must be a US citizen or permanent resident.
Amount: $500 - $1,000
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 are/will be first-generation college students are encouraged to apply.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: September 30
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors in the US. Minimum 3.25 GPA.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: December 31, June 30
Eligibility: Open to high school students of all years based in the US. Undocumented students may apply. No essay or minimum GPA required!
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: December 31
Eligibility: Open to students with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Amount: $16,000
Deadline: N/A
Eligibility: Open to high achieving (minimum 3.5 GPA), low-income high school sophomores with demonstrated leadership who aspire to attend a four-year college/university. Must be attending a partner high school (see application page for more info).
So, we’ve covered over a dozen great scholarship opportunities for first generation students.
In addition to financial support, there are also some great organizations and platforms that have additional support and resources for first-gen students. Click on the links to check out what each has to offer!
The Center for First-Generation Student Success
America Needs You: a mentorship program for first-generation, low income college students
I’m First: a community sharing stories of and supporting first generation college students
First-gen students - you got this!
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.
Scholarships are an AMAZING way to help you pay for college because the money you earn through scholarships does not ever need to be repaid.
Despite this, most students make the mistake of waiting to apply for scholarships until the very end of their senior year in high school, if not later, and miss out on so many great opportunities.
To ensure maximum success, I suggest starting as early in the year as possible.
However, even if you're a little late to the game, luckily there are scholarships for high school seniors that are open and running throughout the entirety of the school year, and even into the summer after you graduate.
If you're completely new (or even relatively new) to the scholarship space, that's okay! I know from experience that the process of finding and applying for scholarships can be an overwhelming one.
That's why, in this post, I have gathered some awesome scholarships for high school seniors that you can search through and apply for to get you started.
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.
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.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: Expires on the last day of each month
Eligibility: The ScholarshipPoints Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!
Amount: $1,000 (4 awards per month!)
Deadline: Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month
Eligibility: The Smart Owl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!
Award Amount: $2,000
Scholarship Deadline: Monthly
Details: Open to high school students of all grades in the US.
Award Amount: $2,000
Scholarship Deadline: End of every month
Details: Sallie Mae offers a $2,000 scholarship every month, open to high school juniors & seniors and current college students. To be considered, all you need to do is fill out the application form on their website.
Award Amount: Varies, but usually $1,000 - $2,500
Scholarship Deadline: Last day of each month
Details: CollegExpress offers a monthly scholarship for high school seniors and students of other years in school. What's great is that when you enter for their monthly scholarship, you will also be automatically entered for their $10,000 scholarship!
Award Amount: $2,000
Scholarship Deadline: Monthly
Details:The CampusReel No Essay Scholarship is awarded monthly and all you have to do is sign up on their website. It's that easy!
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.
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.
Award Amount: $2,000
Scholarship Deadline: Monthly
Details:The Niche $2,000 No Essay Scholarship is open to high school seniors and is awarded monthly.
Award Amount: $1,000
Scholarship Deadline: Rolling
Details: The Cappex Easy Money Scholarship is open to all students - no minimum GPA or essay required.
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!
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
Award Amount: $1,000 (3 awards)
Scholarship Deadline: July 31
Details: Open to high school students of all years.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Award Amount: $20,000
Scholarship Deadline: January 30
Details: The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes program honors student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and strong leadership skills in sports, in their schools, and within their communities.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Award Amount: $500 - $1,000
Scholarship Deadline: April 29
Details: The Fountainhead Essay Contest is for high school juniors and seniors and has three essay prompt options.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.")!
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.
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.
Award Amount: $40,000 per year
Scholarship Deadline: November 18
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.
Award Amount: $1,000 - $10,000
Scholarship Deadline: October 19
Details: Open to high-achieving high school seniors in the US with at least a 3.0 GPA who participate in a wide range of sports as well as school and community activities.
Award Amount: $1,000
Scholarship Deadline: December 1
Details: Imagine America, sponsored by the Imagine America Foundation (IAF), is a $1,000 career education award that is available to recent high school graduates who are pursuing postsecondary education at participating career colleges across the United States.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Award Amount: $1,000
Scholarship Deadline: December 15
Details: Open to high school seniors in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
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.
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.
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?”
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.
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.
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...
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.
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...
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Amount: $2.500
Deadline: Monthly
Eligibility: Open to all students 13 and older!
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: Quarterly
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors and undergraduate students in the US.
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: Monthly
Eligibility: Open to high school and college students of all years.
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.
Amount: $1,000 (4 awards per month!)
Deadline: Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month
Eligibility: The Smart Owl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!
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.
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: Monthly
Eligibility: Open to high school and college students of all years.
Amount: Varies, but usually $1,000 - $2,500
Deadline: Continuous
Eligibility: Open to all students in the US and Canada ages 26 and under!
Amount: $4,000 (4 awards, $1,000 each)
Deadline: December 15
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
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: July 30
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students in the US. Minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA.
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.
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.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: August 31
Eligibility: Open to STEM undergraduate majors and professionals who plan to become teachers (K-12 STEM).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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