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Scholarship Essay Contests

Not everyone can boast an amazing GPA, a scroll of extracurricular activities, and top marks on their standardized tests. That doesn't mean you're at a disadvantage when it comes to applying for – and winning – scholarships. It only means you have to be a little more creative.

If you're a good writer who is able to come up with essays on a variety of topics, a scholarship essay contest could be a natural option for you. While some scholarship essay contests will still ask you to describe those qualities mentioned above as part of the application process, even if they're not weighted heavily among the judges of that award, many more only ask that you produce a thoughtful, well-crafted essay based on a topic of that scholarship provider’s choice. Some will ask you to get political, some will challenge you to come up with workable solutions to problems facing the country, and some will ask you to describe your passion for a particular field of study or potential career. Luckily for you, even if you're struggling to get going on a topic, we have a number of resources to help you come up with a winning, effective scholarship essay.

We've compiled a list of scholarship essay contests below. They are not necessarily targeting the average" student, and will require some work on your part as you come up with that winning essay. But they could feel all the more rewarding once you land one to help you fund that college education, because you put in that added effort. For more examples of scholarship essay contests and awards based on other criteria and interests, conduct a free scholarship search.

ABA Academic Merit Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/6/2020
  • Amount: $5,000
  • The Academic Merit Scholarship is open to both ABA and non-ABA Members. To be eligible, candidates will have completed, at a minimum, their first year of an accredited university (4-year university/college or junior college); must have a declared major or course of study relevant to the transportation, travel and tourism industry; must possess a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher. For more [...] More

ABA Diversity Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: $5,000
  • The Diversity Scholarship focuses on broadening the number of traditionally underrepresented groups in the management and operation ranks of the transportation, travel, and tourism industry.

    Eligible candidates must have completed, at a minimum, their first year of college at an accredited university; must have a declared major or course of study relevant to the transportation, travel, and [...] More

ABPA Harrington-Arthur Memorial Scholarship Essay Competition

  • Application Deadline: 1/31/2020
  • Amount: $1,500
  • The ABPA Harrington-Arthur Memorial Scholarship Essay Competition was established to reward students that seek to increase their knowledge and understanding of how Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention help ensure safe drinking water. Backflow Prevention is designed to prevent dangerous - and sometimes fatal - bacteria, chemicals, and other harmful agents from entering the local water [...] More

Alumnae Panhellenic Association of Washington DC Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/31/2020
  • Amount: Varies
  • In order to be eligible for the Alumnae Panhellenic Association of Washington DC Scholarship, the applicant must be a member in good standing of a fully participating sorority of the National Panhellenic Conference; a rising sophomore, junior, senior or graduate student in the fall; and from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area or attending school in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. For [...] More

Americanism Education Leaders Collegiate Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 6/30/2020
  • Amount: $2,500
  • The Americanism Educational Leaders and Pepperdine University Libraries are pleased to announce its annual collegiate essay contest. The mission of AEL is in its strong belief in "American exceptionalism", i.e., that our country is exceptional in the history of the world. All of our programs are meant to encourage students to learn about, understand, and appreciate some aspect of the American [...] More

Amos & Edith Wallace Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/12/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The Amos and Edith Wallace Scholarship was founded to reward young, bright African-American students who have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to service and education. In order to apply, you must meet the following requirements: Female African- American High School senior graduating from Kanakekee High School in Kankakee, IL.
    You must possess a minimum 2.8 GPA and plan to attend a [...] More

ANS Incoming Freshman Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/1/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • ANS Incoming Freshman Scholarships are awarded to graduating high-school seniors who have enrolled, full-time, in college courses and are pursuing a degree in, or have the intent to purse a degree in nuclear engineering. ANS will give a maximum of four Incoming Freshman Scholarships annually. The scholarships will be awarded based on an applicant's high school academic achievement, freshman [...] More

Apprentice Ecologist Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 12/31/2019
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The Apprentice Ecologist Initiative awards three scholarships to the authors of the three best Apprentice Ecologist essays. Applicants should embody the spirit of the Apprentice Ecologist Initiative by demonstrating personal leadership and environmental stewardship in their project. Winning essays have been 750 to 1,500 words long. Middle school, high school, or undergraduate college/university [...] More

ASDSO Senior Undergraduate Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/29/2020
  • Amount: $10,000
  • ASDSO Senior Undergraduate Scholarships will be awarded for the upcoming school year and have ranged from $5,000-$10,000 in recent years. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and enrolled full-time at the senior level (during the upcoming year) in an accredited civil engineering program, or in a related field as determined by ASDSO, and must demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in hydraulics, [...] More

Ashley Soulé Conroy Foundation Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: $4,000
  • In order to qualify to apply for the Ashley Soulé Conroy Study Abroad Scholarship, applicant must be a U.S. citizen who is enrolled as an undergraduate in a U.S. 4-year college or university. Applicants must also have at least 30 hours of completed undergraduate credit by the time of the study abroad term’s start date and intend to study abroad in a program that is outside of the U.S. and be [...] More

BBB Student Ethics Scholarship Award - Connecticut

  • Application Deadline: 8/2/2019
  • Amount: $2,500
  • BBB Student Ethics Scholarships recognize CT high school students that personify high ethics demonstrated through leadership, community service, and overall personal integrity and academic history and can demonstrate these traits in a written essay. The students enter during spring of their Junior year, and are awarded in their senior year. The winner will receive a scholarship of $2,500 to an [...] More

Bethesda Lutheran Communities Lutheran Student Scholastic & Service Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 5/18/2020
  • Amount: $30,000
  • Bethesda Lutheran Communities offers two scholarships to Lutheran students pursuing undergraduate degrees in any area of service to people with developmental disabilities.

    Eligibility/Requirements:
    Be an active, communicant member of a Lutheran congregation. Be a freshmen, sophomore, or junior at an accredited college/university. Have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Have a career objective in the field of [...] More

Bird Dog Foundation Annual College Scholarship Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 4/15/2020
  • Amount: $2,000
  • The Bird Dog Foundation, Inc. has established a Scholarship Fund to promote interest in wildlife conservation and related subjects. An annual College Scholarship Essay Contest sponsored by the Bird Dog Foundation, Inc. has been in effect for several years now. Applicants must be a high school senior preparing to enter freshman year of college or university. Students attending school within a 75 [...] More

Bright Futures Scholarship for Early Childhood Teachers

  • Application Deadline: 6/9/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Our Bright Future's Scholarship Program supports the field of early childhood education by offering financial assistance for future teachers. We are excited to offer financial assistance ranging from $250-$1,000 for full-time students pursuing degrees in Early Childhood Education or in a related field. Selected recipients will be awarded funds directly for use toward books, laptops, fees or other [...] More

Cancer Survivors' Fund

  • Application Deadline: 3/18/2020
  • Amount: Varies
  • Scholarships from the Cancer Survivors' Fund are granted to cancer survivors for their college educations. Recipients are selected by a committee based on applicants' personal hardship and financial need. Applicants must be a cancer survivor or currently diagnosed with cancer, and does not have to be receiving treatment to qualify. Must be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in an accredited [...] More

Candice's Sickle Cell Disease Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/14/2020
  • Amount: $1,500
  • Candice's Sickle Cell Fund, Inc. has been established to raise awareness among the public concerning sickle cell disease. Our goal is to help alleviate the financial pressures of college-bound students in the Tri-State Area (NY/NJ/CT)with sickle cell disease by providing three scholarships annually in the amount of $1500 ($750 presented in September, and $750 presented in January).

    These [...] More

Catawba College's McCorkle Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: 11/1/2019
  • Amount: Varies
  • The McCorkle's Scholarships are the most prestigious scholarship awards at Catawba. Qualified students will be invited to compete for a full-tuition scholarship on the basis of their high school grade point average, the rigor of their coursework and standardized test scores. To be considered, students must have a weighted GPA of 3.7 or greater, an ACT composite score of 25 (or equivalent SAT), [...] More

CBC Spouses Education Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/30/2020
  • Amount: $8,200
  • Seeing an educational need in their congressional districts, the CBC Spouses Education Scholarship was established in 1988 by the spouses of Congressional Black Caucus members in response to federal cuts in spending for education programs and scholarships, which disproportionately affect people of color. This opportunity awards scholarships to academically talented and highly motivated [...] More

CBC Spouses Visual Arts Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/31/2020
  • Amount: $3,000
  • The CBC Spouses Visual Arts Scholarship was established in 2006 to provide financial assistance to African-American or Black students who are pursuing a degree in the visual arts. Visual arts include architecture, ceramics, drawing, fashion, graphic design, illustration, interior design, painting, photography, sketching, video production, etc.

    Selected applicants will be constituents of a CBC [...] More

Charles Shelton Veterinarian Medicine/Technology Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/15/2020
  • Amount: $2,000
  • The Charles Shelton Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide educational scholarships to African-American students pursuing a degree in veterinarian medicine or veterinarian technology. Scholarships are awarded to individuals who have demonstrated an interest and commitment to animal welfare. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, be aa African-American [...] More

COAG Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/1/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Any Georgia high school senior (or a GED equivalency) who is a United States citizen graduating by the spring of the current academic year or any Georgia student currently enrolled in a school of accredited higher education located in Georgia is eligible to apply for a COAG scholarship. Applicants must present a letter of acceptance or enrollment from a school of accredited higher education [...] More

Connor Porter Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/30/2020
  • Amount: $2,000
  • The Connor Porter Memorial Scholarship was created in 2013 through a generous donation from Connor's family members. Connor passed away on July 26, 2012 in a plane crash with his father, Pat, and another friend shortly after winning bronze in the Division III foil event at the Summer Nationals in Anaheim. Connor had many friends in the fencing world and was well known for his sportsmanship and [...] More

Daughters of the Cincinnati Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/15/2020
  • Amount: $20,000
  • The Daughters of the Cincinnati have contributed generously to the scholarship fund for over a century. Applicants must be daughters of career commissioned officers in the United States military. If you are eligible, you must apply during your senior year in high school. The application process includes an essay, secondary school report, a letter of recommendation from a member of the applicant’s [...] More

Delete Cyberbullying Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 6/30/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Our project aims to educate parents and teens about the dangers of living in a connected world. Explore our site and then join us in the fight to stop online harassment. In an effort to get students committed to the cause of deleting cyberbullying, we are offering the Delete Cyberbullying Scholarship Award for high school, college and graduate student - a $1,000 scholarship to help cover [...] More

Elizabeth Horvath Swimming Scholarship Fund

  • Application Deadline: 3/15/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The Elizabeth Horvath Swimming Scholarship Fund will provide scholarships to seniors graduating from Berks County high schools who intend to further their education after high school in pursuit of a bachelor's degree, who swam on a high school or club swim team in at least their senior year of high school, and are intending to swim on the college team or the college club team. Applicants must [...] More

Ellen M. Cherry-Delawder Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 1/31/2020
  • Amount: Varies
  • This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has attained a minimum 2.0 GPA and is pursuing a program of study in a business-related field. Preference will be given to female students with dependent children. Students must show financial need. Along with the application, students must write a 500-word essay defining career and educational goals, and the benefits of a college education. For [...] More

Environmental Studies/Natural Science Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: 3/31/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Each year, the Friends of Volo Bog offers a scholarship for Environmental Studies/Natural Science college students. Applicant must be a high school senior applying to an accredited college/university to study environmental or natural science or a college/university student intending to continue studies of environmental or natural science at an accredited college. Submit at least one signed letter [...] More

EOD Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 2/22/2020
  • Amount: $2,000
  • Applicants must be the child, stepchild, spouse, or grandchild, or other DoD recognized dependent of a graduate of NAVSCOLEOD. NAVSCOLEOD graduates are not eligible for scholarship awards. Active Duty personnel are not eligible for scholarship awards. Military academy students are not eligible to receive EODMF Scholarships. Students may apply in case they are not accepted or decide not to attend [...] More

Eye Bank Young Ambassador Scholarship in Memory of Christopher Nordquist

  • Application Deadline: 5/15/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The Young Ambassador Scholarship in Memory of Christopher Nordquist is awarded in his memory and is intended to encourage young people to pursue learning and to help spread the message about the priceless gift almost anyone can leave after death - the gift of sight through eye donation. Eligible students must reside within New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Duchess & Putnam [...] More

FFRF Student Scholarship Essay Contests

  • Application Deadline: 6/1/2020
  • Amount: $3,000
  • The FFRF Student Scholarship Essay Contests are open to all high school seniors who graduate in spring and will be attending a North American college or university in the fall. Fill out the application and submit your essay no later than midnight, June 1st. Winners will be announced in July. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider's [...] More

Freedom From Religion Foundation Catherine Fahringer Memorial Award

  • Application Deadline: 6/21/2020
  • Amount: $2,500
  • The First In The Family Freedom From Religion Foundation Catherine Fahringer Memorial award is available to high school youth who live in the U.S. who identify as atheist, agnostic, humanist and/or secular, and are accepted into two or four-year colleges. Preference is given to students of color (Black/African American, Latino(a), Asian/Pacific Islander, Native American) who are (or have been) in [...] More

Helen Gee Chin Scholarship Foundation

  • Application Deadline: 6/15/2020
  • Amount: $2,500
  • The Helen Gee Chin Scholarship Foundation was founded on March 7, 2011, to honor the memory of Helen Gee Chin, wife of Sifu Chin of Calvin Chin's Martial Arts Academy, Inc. Simo was the administrator at CCMAA for 15 years and was involved with preserving the history and promoting the practice of traditional Chinese martial arts. She was beloved by her husband, the students of the Academy that she [...] More

HIAS College & Young Adult Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: Varies
  • The Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society of Chicago (HIAS Chicago) began in the hearts and deeds of the Chicago Jewish community around 1900. In order to apply, you must be a Jewish immigrant to the United States who immigrated with his or her family with the assistance of HIAS Chicago; a U.S.-born child or grandchild of a Jewish immigrant to the U.S. who was assisted by HIAS Chicago and have applied for [...] More

IFA Foundation Scholarship - Marriott Foundation

  • Application Deadline: 10/31/2019
  • Amount: $1,500
  • The IFA Foundation and the Marriott Foundation have collaborated to sponsor this scholarship award. A competitive one-time award will be presented annually. Additionally, the individual selected will be invited to the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Annual Convention and will receive a travel stipend (up to $1,500) to attend. To be eligible for this one-time award, each applicant [...] More

IFA Foundation Scholarship Sponsored by Choice Hotels International

  • Application Deadline: 10/31/2019
  • Amount: $2,000
  • The International Franchise Association Foundation individual selected will be invited to IFA's Annual Convention in February and will receive a travel stipend up to $1,500 to attend. Must be a sophomore, junior or senior enrolled in a U.S. accredited college or university with studies in business, hospitality or franchise management. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship [...] More

IIE Society for Health Systems Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 11/15/2019
  • Amount: $1,000
  • IIE's scholarship and fellowship program are in place to recognize graduate and undergraduate industrial engineering students for academic excellence and campus leadership. The Society for Health Systems Scholarship is available to undergraduate students enrolled full-time, who have a minimum 3.4 GPA and who are active Society for Health Systems student members. For more information or to apply, [...] More

Incight Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/1/2020
  • Amount: $2,500
  • Our Incight Scholarship Program is a long-term commitment to students with disabilities entering and attending college. It functions to help reduce the barriers of education advancement and completion by providing the necessary skills for youth with disabilities. We believe that this will enable young people to become self-supporting participants in their communities. Scholarship recipients are [...] More

International Bipolar Foundation Annual High School Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 11/30/2019
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The International Bipolar Foundation Annual High School Essay Contest is open to all high school students, ages 13 to 19. Applicants must Research the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equality Act and draft a letter to a politician or insurance/healthcare provider about one of the provided questions. Also in the letter, explain how mental health care is necessary for the wellbeing of all [...] More

Jill M. Balboni Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/23/2020
  • Amount: $5,000
  • High school seniors who complete the high school senior application and meet the following criteria may apply for this scholarship. Applicants must have a 3.2 GPA or better high school GPA and show dedication to giving back to their community (volunteer work, speaking engagements, club, and organization participation, etc.). Students will be required to attend school on a full-time basis and [...] More

Joe Cribari Scholarship Fund

  • Application Deadline: 4/1/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Named for the late Joe Cribari, professor at Colorado State University and dedicated coach, this scholarship is awarded to a graduating member of one of the four Poudre School District High School football teams. The applicant must have demonstrated leadership, good sportsmanship, and excelled in the sport of football. Applicants must also have a 3.5 or greater GPA, with goals to attend any [...] More

Josef Princ Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 1/31/2020
  • Amount: $2,000
  • CCSD male seniors who are of European descent may apply for the Josef Princ Memorial Scholarship. Applicants must also have a minimum 3.5 GPA, demonstrate financial need and planning to attend an accredited post-secondary college or university majoring in engineering, mathematics or science. Up to four scholarships in the amount of $2,000 each will be awarded. Must write a 400-500 essay on [...] More

JSU Alabama Leadership Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/1/2020
  • Amount: $16,000
  • The JSU Alabama Leadership Scholarship was established for entering freshman or transfer students who held offices in extracurricular activities. Students must be unconditionally admitted into JSU with a minimum 2.5 GPA.

    Based primarily on offices held in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community involvement. This scholarship is renewable for one year, based on continued [...] More

Khyentse Foundation Translation Studies Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: 3/1/2020
  • Amount: $5,000
  • The Khyentse Foundation has developed the KF Translation Studies Scholarship to support students in advanced degree programs in translation studies and Buddhist philosophy with the expressed purpose of training the translators of the future. Students must be currently enrolled in a program of translation studies or Buddhist philosophy and are on track to become translators or are currently [...] More

Layton Family Foundation

  • Application Deadline: 2/14/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • High school seniors residing in Shelby County (Ohio) and attending a school in Shelby County (Ohio) who will be a first-generation student (neither parent has a bachelor's degree or higher). You must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and will be enrolling as a full-time student in an accredited college or university in the coming academic year. The required essay cannot exceed 500 words. For more [...] More

Lee-Jackson Educational Foundation Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: $10,000
  • 18 scholarships will be awarded to Virginia high school juniors and seniors submitting outstanding analytical essays on any aspect--positive or negative--of the career, character, or legacy of General Robert E. Lee and/or General "Stonewall" Jackson.
    The Foundation will award one $2,000 scholarship and one $1,000 scholarship to students whose essays are judged to be the best in each of [...] More

Life Lessons Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: 3/1/2020
  • Amount: $15,000
  • The loss of a parent or guardian is one of life's most difficult ordeals. The emotional strain can be devastating to children and young adults. And for too many families, an untimely death also brings financial stress, making recovery all the more difficult. Recognizing the character and perseverance that so many young people show in the face of such adversity, Life Happens sponsors the annual [...] More

Mae & Mary Scholarship Fund

  • Application Deadline: 4/30/2020
  • Amount: Varies
  • The Mae & Mary Scholarship Fund's mission is to financially assist and to empower young people to experience their unlimited potential through education. We are a charitable educational organization dedicated to the advancement of African Americans pursuing careers in medical and healthcare related fields. Applicants must be African American, graduating high school seniors who plan on attending a [...] More

Mainely Character Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/1/2020
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Many scholarships for Maine high school seniors reward academic or athletic achievement. Few, however, focus on character development. Mainely Character makes character count. We reward exemplary individual behavior and make continuing education possible for deserving Maine students.

    Only half of Maine's high school graduates go on to post-secondary education. That is one of the lowest rates [...] More

Marguerite Young Endowment Fund

  • Application Deadline: 3/31/2020
  • Amount: $1,500
  • The Marguerite Young Endowment Fund was established to provide assistance for students pursuing theology. Marguerite Young was a sincere Christian woman who was a faithful member of her church and an unwavering supporter of theological education for the training of faithful Christian ministers. Applicants must pursue a degree or studies in Theology and be enrolled full-time in a [...] More

Massachusetts Youth Soccer Student Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 5/1/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Scholarship Program is for high school seniors who plan to attend a post-secondary educational institution. A scholarship of $1,000 will be awarded to one male and one female each year. To be eligible for this scholarship, the student-athlete must have been associated with Massachusetts Youth Soccer for at least the past two years. Each application (and supporting [...] More

McConnell Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 12/15/2019
  • Amount: Varies
  • The McConnell Scholars Program is a prestigious enrichment program aimed at Kentucky residents who have demonstrated outstanding leadership potential and are committed to the principles of scholarship, leadership, and service. There are 10 awards given each year, and the program has produced more than 200 successful alumni. The program is open to Kentucky high school graduates with a minimum 3.5 [...] More

Mhari Saito Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: Varies
  • This scholarship, which will be awarded annually in the amount of at least $1,000, has been established to help medical students, and other healthcare professionals in training attend a major educational or scientific conference of a national or international medical or professional association that relates to gastric cancer.

    To be eligible for this scholarship, applicant must be enrolled in [...] More

Michigan Pagan Scholarship Fund

  • Application Deadline: 4/15/2020
  • Amount: $500
  • Michigan Pagan Scholarship Fund is offering a $500.00 Pagan College Scholarship for a rising high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate. All applicants must live in Michigan. Applicants must be 17 years of age or older, have a current GPA of 2.85 or higher, be Pagan, and currently accepted in a full time course of study in any accredited four-year college or university. Applicants must [...] More

Missouri Mayflower Society Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/1/2020
  • Amount: $1,500
  • The Missouri Mayflower Society Scholarship contest is open to high school seniors who are citizens of the United States and residents of the State of Missouri, and who plan to attend an institution of higher learning in the fall. Three scholarship awards are offered by the Society of Mayflower Descendants in the State of Missouri. Requirements include demonstrating strong academic and personal [...] More

Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 3/2/2020
  • Amount: $1,800
  • The Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation seeks to encourage young people to treasure our Jewish heritage, reflect on our Jewish values, and better understand our contribution to civilization and culture. To this effort, the Foundation sponsors an annual essay contest open to both junior high and high school students. The Foundation also issues grants to a wide variety of educational, scientific [...] More

Natural Resources-Excellence in Education

  • Application Deadline: 7/31/2019
  • Amount: $10,000
  • The Texas Wildlife Association Foundation (TWAF) and the San Antonio Livestock Exposition, Inc. (SALE) have joined forces to offer five Natural Resource-Excellence in Education Scholarships in the fall. The scholarships will be awarded to five freshmen at Texas universities who are majoring in natural resource related field such as agricultural science, wildlife science, forestry, range science, [...] More

Nebraska High School Senior Animal Interest Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/2/2020
  • Amount: $500
  • Oxbow's Nebraska High School Senior Scholarship is for graduating high seniors in Nebraska with a strong interest in pursuing a career in the companion animal industry. To qualify, you must submit a 300-500 word essay explaining why you want to pursue a career in the pet industry or in the field of animal health. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider's website. [...] More

New York Financial Writers' Association Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/15/2020
  • Amount: Varies
  • The New York Financial Writers Association Scholarships are for journalism students in the New York City metropolitan area who wish to pursue a career in business or financial journalism.

    Complete the application providing your present address and telephone number and, if different, your permanent home address and telephone number. Applications should be available at your department or the [...] More

NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund Youth Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 12/31/2019
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund sponsors a scholarly writing contest for grades K-12. The theme for the essay is "What Does The Second Amendment Mean to You?" Essays will be judged in two categories: Senior (grades 9-12) and junior (grades 8 and below), with separate cash prizes awarded to the winners in each category. First place cash prizes are $1,000, $600 for second place, $200 for third [...] More

Oxbow Animal Health Undergraduate Companion Animal Interest Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/2/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Oxbow's Undergraduate Scholarship is for students currently enrolled in a college or university who have demonstrated a career interest in companion animals. To qualify, complete the application and submit a 300- to 500-word essay explaining why you want to pursue a career in the companion animal industry. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider's website. [...] More

Oxbow Animal Health Veterinary Medicine Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/2/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Non-traditional animal species are becoming more popular as pets throughout the world. There is a greater need for veterinarians who specialize in care and nutrition of these exotic pets. Oxbow’s Veterinary Medicine Scholarship is for students currently enrolled in a veterinary school and demonstrate an interest in small and exotic animal medicine.

    For more information or to apply, please [...] More

Oxbow Animal Health Veterinary Technology Scholarship (Exotic Animal Interest)

  • Application Deadline: 3/2/2020
  • Amount: $500
  • Oxbow's Veterinary Technology Scholarship is intended for veterinary technology students who show a strong interest in pursuing a career in small and exotic animal medicine. To qualify, please submit a 300-500 word essay explaining why you want to work in the exotic animal field. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider's website. [...] More

Presbyterian Student Opportunity Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 5/15/2020
  • Amount: $3,000
  • The Student Opportunity Scholarship program serves Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) college students by providing need-based aid for sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are full-time, first-degree students attending accredited institutions in the United States. Student Opportunity Scholarship applicants will explore who God created them to be in a series of essay questions intended for students to [...] More

Pride Foundation Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: 1/12/2020
  • Amount: $10,000
  • The Pride Foundation offers more than 50 different scholarships though there is only one application to complete. Scholarships are available to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and straight-ally (straight and supportive of LGBT issues) students as well as students from LGBT families. Students must either be residents of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon or Washington (but may study [...] More

Protect American River Canyons Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 3/5/2020
  • Amount: $2,500
  • To enter the PARC Essay Scholarship Contest, eligible students must write an original essay of 500 words or fewer responding to an essay prompt provided at the PARC website.

    Applicants must be high school seniors who are a resident of Placer, Nevada or El Dorado County, CA (can attend school in another county). Must be in good academic standing, on track to graduate.For more information or to [...] More

Queer Foundation High School Seniors English Essay Contest

  • Application Deadline: 2/14/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The purpose of the high school seniors English essay contest is to promote effective writing by, about, and/or for queer youth. The theme of the competition is pink ink: "We write not only about different things; we also write differently". The contest is open only to students aged 18 and under who have not yet graduated from high school. You must affirm that you are not a high school graduate [...] More

Rheumatoid Patient Foundation Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: 6/30/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Eligible applicants must be U.S. residents applying to a post-secondary/vocational institution or already enrolled at a college or vocational school. Applicant has a confirmed diagnosis of RA or JRA/JIA, or has a parent with such a diagnosis and will be required to submit an application form and a written paper in response to an essay prompt. Previous RPF Scholarship winners are not eligible. For [...] More

Richard Weinreis Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/31/2020
  • Amount: $300
  • The Richard Weinreis Memorial Scholarship provides funding to Marathon County (Wisconsin) students who have had formal court contact through the Marathon County Department of Social Services juvenile intake system within the past seven years and are able to demonstrate evidence of a plan for education or training that would provide for personal career advancements.

    Applicants must be a [...] More

Robert D. Blue Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 5/10/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The applicant must be an Iowa resident planning to attend an Iowa college/university during the coming school year. The applicant can be a current high school senior or someone already enrolled in a college/university. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider's [...] More

Ruth Clark Furniture Design Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/31/2020
  • Amount: $3,000
  • All applicants must have completed four design courses in post-secondary education at the time of application and be majoring in interior design or a related field and must be full-time undergraduate or graduate students majoring in design with a focus on residential upholstered and/or wood furniture design. The completed application packet must include a sealed transcript of course work that [...] More

Selby Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/1/2020
  • Amount: $7,000
  • "Selby Scholars" are undergraduate students with exceptional potential who embrace Mr. and Mrs. Selby's values of leadership and service. Like all of our funding, this scholarship program is only available to residents of Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte or DeSoto counties. Applicants must be either a graduating senior or a graduating Associate degree students from any state college in the four [...] More

Smithsonian Native American Awards Program

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: $6,000
  • The Native American Awards Internship falls within the Native American Awards Program which supports students, who are formally or informally affiliated with a Native American community or tribe, to visit the Institution to learn about research or other museum-related activities using its Native American-related resources.

    Internship Awards are available for students currently enrolled in an [...] More

Society of Women Engineers - Lehigh Valley Section

  • Application Deadline: 2/10/2020
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Since 2001, a major focus of SWE-LV has been to distribute scholarships for high school senior women who intend to major in engineering at their respective college or university. Scholarship funds are provided by area businesses and all of the work for administration of the program is provided by SWE volunteers. Evaluation is based on academic achievement, extracurricular and leadership [...] More

Soozie Courter Hemophilia Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: 5/3/2020
  • Amount: $4,000
  • Scholarships will be awarded to applicants with hemophilia A or hemophilia B who present the best combination of a creative and persuasive essay, excellent recommendations, and superior academic standing.

    Applicants must have been diagnosed with hemophilia A or hemophilia B, must be a U.S. resident attending a school in the U.S. and be a high school senior or graduate, have completed high [...] More

Sophie and Hans Scholl Memorial Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 1/31/2020
  • Amount: $1,200
  • The Sophie and Hans Scholl Memorial Scholarship is open to all Nevada public high school seniors. The scholarship is for Nevada high school seniors wishing to study political science, German language or a German-related field. Students who also wish to enroll in a university in Germany are eligible to apply. Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA. For more information or to apply, please visit the [...] More

Stephen J. Roy Memorial Scholarship Fund

  • Application Deadline: 4/1/2020
  • Amount: Varies
  • This scholarship provides assistance to students with financial need who have resided in, or have substantial ties to, Larimer County and have an interest in the study of law or our system of government, debate or other similar law-related educational activities. Students attending Windsor High School are eligible to apply. Requires an essay submission. For more information or to apply, please [...] More

TACTYC Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: 3/1/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Teachers of Accounting at Two-Year Colleges (TACTYC) is pleased to announce that multiple scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each will be awarded to two-year college graduating students that are pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting at a four-year college during the upcoming academic year. Scholarship awards must be used during the upcoming academic year or be forfeited.

    Applicants must [...] More

TCA Beef Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: 12/1/2019
  • Amount: $600
  • Three scholarships of $600 will be awarded to outstanding students who are pursuing careers in the beef industry. Fields of study may include education, communications, production, research or any other area involved in the beef industry. The purpose of this program is to identify and encourage talented and thoughtful students who will emerge as industry leaders.

    Applicants must be a [...] More

The AAF-Greater Evansville Scholarship Award

  • Application Deadline: 3/25/2020
  • Amount: $5,000
  • The AAF-Greater Evansville awards scholarships to deserving high school and/or college students yearly in April. Over the past 40 years, AAF-Greater Evansville has distributed over $158,000 in scholarship awards. To be eligible, students must plan to pursue a career in advertising, marketing, public relations or graphic design. The application deadline varies yearly, but is typically in early [...] More

The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation

  • Application Deadline: 5/15/2020
  • Amount: $20,000
  • The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation believes it is important to acknowledge the accomplishments of high-achieving students. The Maxwell Foundation is offering financial aid for freshmen starting a four-year private college program during the upcoming academic year. The scholarship is renewable for four years. Students who plan to pursue a four-year degree at an accredited private college or [...] More

The Harold K. Douthit Regional Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/19/2020
  • Amount: $2,000
  • The Ohio Newspapers Foundation will award a scholarship to a student from northern Ohio who is currently enrolled and majoring in a field relevant to our industry, particularly journalism, advertising, marketing, or communications degree program at an Ohio college or university. The scholarship is named for Harold K. Douthit, founder of Douthit Communications, Inc., Sandusky, and a former [...] More

The Jewel Continuum Foundation

  • Application Deadline: 5/1/2020
  • Amount: $500
  • The Jewel Continuum Foundation Scholarship is a $500 scholarship that will be awarded based on the completion of the current essay topic and the unanimous selection of the review committee. Verification of enrollment in a two-year or four-year institution is required to receive this scholarship. Verification of enrollment includes: an official letter of acceptance from the college or university, [...] More

The Pinnacol Foundation College Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: 2/15/2020
  • Amount: $4,500
  • The Pinnacol Foundation College Scholarship Program ensures that the children of seriously injured and killed Colorado workers have the opportunity to pursue their dreams by continuing their education. Applicants must be the natural child, adopted child, stepchild or full dependent of a worker who was injured or killed in a compensable work-related accident during the course and scope of [...] More

The PreJax Foundation Scholarship for Kids of MS

  • Application Deadline: 4/30/2020
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The PreJax Foundation awards scholarships to students who either have been definitively diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) or have a parent with MS. Scholarships are awarded based on an applicant's academic excellence, school activities, leadership, and community service.

    Applicants must be current high school seniors, high school graduates, or current undergraduate students planning to, [...] More

The Vegetarian Resource Group College Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 2/20/2020
  • Amount: $10,000
  • Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, The Vegetarian Resource Group each year will award $20,000 in college scholarship money to graduating U.S. high school students who have promoted vegetarianism in their schools and/or communities. Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, or fowl. Vegans are vegetarians who do not use other animal products such as dairy or eggs. Entries may only be sent by [...] More

TMCF Lowe's Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 3/30/2020
  • Amount: $7,500
  • The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), in partnership with Lowe's, is pleased to provide financial assistance scholarships to undergraduate students at TMCF member-schools who are in their final semester of their degree program and scheduled to graduate in the spring semester. Students must have an unmet financial need ranging from $500 to $3,100.

    Applicants must be a graduating college [...] More

Union Pacific DREAM College Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: Varies
  • Amount: $1,000
  • The DREAM Scholarship Program is funded by the Union Pacific Railroad DREAM Organization. It was created to reward outstanding and talented graduates from Omaha North High Magnet School and Missouri Valley High School, who have been involved in the UPRR DREAM organization.

    Our scholarship is an award of up to $1,000 to be applied toward tuition fees, books, and room and board (at university [...] More

Upper Midwest Emmy Chapter/Foundation Scholarships

  • Application Deadline: 2/5/2020
  • Amount: $3,000
  • The NATAS-Upper Midwest Chapter/Foundation offers $2,500 student scholarship grants to be used for tuition & books. Scholarships are open to high school and college/university students living in the five-state area served by the Upper Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. (Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa & western Wisconsin).

    Applicants must [...] More

VFW Voice of Democracy Competition

  • Application Deadline: 10/31/2019
  • Amount: $30,000
  • The VFW established the Voice of Democracy program (VOD) in 1947 to provide students grades 9-12 the opportunity to express themselves in regards to democratic ideas and principles. Prizes and scholarships can be awarded at the Post, District, state and national level. The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college or [...] More

Watts Humanitarian Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 5/1/2020
  • Amount: $500
  • The Watts Humanitarian Scholarship Fund is a non-profit 501c3 corporation that offers a $500 a year award plus
    laptops to recognize graduating seniors with potential for service and leadership. We believe these qualities are essential
    to leading a balanced life and would like to aid students who choose to pursue philanthropic endeavors. The WHSF
    Board of Directors named this scholarship in [...] More

WIIT Scholarship Program

  • Application Deadline: 10/1/2019
  • Amount: $1,500
  • Our merit-based scholarships are awarded twice per year to support and encourage women studying International Trade and Global Development. Applicants must identify as female and be currently enrolled at an accredited U.S. university or college, either full-time or part-time. Applicants must be Juniors or Seniors in undergraduate or enrolled in graduate studies.
    Awards ($1,500) will be based [...] More

William J. Blair Scholarship Fund

  • Application Deadline: 2/28/2020
  • Amount: $1,500
  • This fund was created through an estate gift from William J. Blair. Scholarships provide assistance to graduating seniors and families from any Fort Collins high school who are unable to pay for a college or vocational school education. Applicant must be a graduating senior, attending a post-secondary college or vocational school, and rank in the upper 50% of their graduating class. An essay [...] More

William Vatavuk Scholarship

  • Application Deadline: 4/5/2020
  • Amount: $800
  • The William Vatavuk Scholarship will be awarded to a deserving high school senior who currently attends an accredited North Carolina high school and plans on attending a two- or four-year college or university. Students must be a high school senior who has a minimum 3.0 GPA. Three written essays of 400-600 words each are also required; essay prompts can be found on the scholarship application. [...] More

Latest College & Financial Aid News

Proposed Pell Grant Expansion for Short-Term Training Programs

July 9, 2019

by Susan Dutca-Lovell

Lawmakers are considering extending Pell Grants to people who pursue short-term training in order to land better jobs, faster. Federal student aid in the form of Pell Grants can currently be used for college degrees and qualifying certificate programs. [...]

3 Women Charged in $1M Student Financial Aid Fraud

July 2, 2019

by Susan Dutca-Lovell

Three San Bernardino County women who have been accused of stealing $1 million in federal financial aid from Fullerton college, in California, have been arrested by the U.S. Justice Department and are charged with various counts of mail and wire fraud. The scheme involved enrolling hundreds of mainly non-existent students, successfully applying for grants and loans and pocketing the money. [...]

Patriotic Scholarships that Celebrate America

June 27, 2019

by Susan Dutca-Lovell

Nothing says 'Merica like these Patriotic Scholarships as we approach Independence Day and remember how, in America, education is a great equalizer. Whether you are an American citizen searching for college scholarships or are studying abroad in the USA, these American-themed scholarships are for those who truly believe in the American dream. In the land of the free, we have plenty of free college scholarships to help you achieve your higher education dreams. [...]

Last Reviewed: July 2019

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