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Showing 59 of 59 scholarships
Federal Pell Grant
Up to $7,395/year
Undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need (determined by FAFSA EFC).
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any college-bound student from a low or middle-income family. Maximum Pell typically goes to families with AGI under ~$60K, but partial Pell awards extend up to ~$100K-$120K AGI depending on family size and structure (under the new simplified formula).
What they actually look for
Pell is the FOUNDATIONAL federal grant for low/middle-income college students — pays up to $7,395 per year (2024-25, indexed annually) at most accredited US colleges. It's MONEY, not a loan. Critically, the 2024-25 FAFSA Simplification Act made it easier to qualify: families with SAI of -1500 (very low income) or lower get MAX Pell automatically. Filing FAFSA is the ONE financial-aid task no kid should skip, even if you think you make too much — the new formula's income thresholds are higher than people expect.
What you'll need
- File FAFSA (or California Dream Act Application for AB 540 / DACA students in California)
- US citizen OR eligible non-citizen (permanent resident, refugee, asylee, etc.)
- Demonstrated financial need based on FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI)
- Enrolled OR planning to enroll at an accredited US college (any degree level — but no prior bachelor's)
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress at your college to renew each year
- Up to ~12 semesters of total lifetime eligibility (so don't waste credits)
When to start
File FAFSA on October 1 of senior year (the day it opens). The earlier you file, the better — many states + schools allocate state and institutional aid on a first-come basis from FAFSA submissions, even though Pell itself isn't first-come.
Watch out for
Pell is FEDERAL — once you qualify, it's yours regardless of which eligible school you attend. But Pell has LIFETIME LIMIT (up to ~12 semesters total across your entire college career). If you take 5 years to finish your bachelor's, you may run out of Pell before graduation. Track your remaining Pell eligibility on studentaid.gov. Also: Pell-eligible students often qualify for state Pell-stacking programs (CA, IL, MN, NY, NJ, MA, etc.) — check your state's Pell-stacking grant.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
$100 – $4,000/year
Undergraduates with exceptional financial need. Pell Grant recipients get priority. Funds vary by school.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Federal Work-Study
Varies (hourly wages, typically $10–$20/hr)
Students with financial need who want to earn money through part-time employment while enrolled.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
National Merit Scholarship
$2,500 one-time (corporate/college-sponsored awards vary)
High school juniors who score in the top 1% on the PSAT/NMSQT and advance through the selection process.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
High-scoring juniors. Take the PSAT seriously in October of junior year — that one test determines everything that follows.
What they actually look for
This is the gateway to MASSIVE merit aid. Most kids see $2,500 from National Merit Corp itself, but the real value is the corporate-sponsored + COLLEGE-sponsored awards that come with being a Finalist. At ~150 schools (Alabama, Oklahoma, ASU Barrett, Texas Tech, etc.), being a NM Finalist triggers FULL TUITION OR MORE automatically. That's a $100K-$200K decision based on one PSAT score.
What you'll need
- Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October of your JUNIOR year (this is THE qualifying test)
- Score in the top ~1% of your state's juniors (cutoff varies — 218-223 typical Selection Index)
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident planning to attend a US college
- If you become a Semifinalist, complete the National Merit application (transcript + recs + essay)
- Take the SAT in fall of senior year (used to confirm the PSAT score)
When to start
Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October of JUNIOR year (10th grade Pre-PSAT scores don't count). Semifinalist notification comes in September of senior year.
Watch out for
Your junior-year PSAT is the ONLY one that counts. Test 1 senior year is too late — by then it's just the SAT to confirm your already-locked junior PSAT score. If you're aiming for National Merit, prep BEFORE October of junior year.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program
$20,000
High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA who demonstrate leadership and community service.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
HS seniors who can point to specific things they STARTED or LED — not just participated in.
What they actually look for
Weighted heavily toward demonstrated leadership and service IMPACT — not just hours. They want kids who've already started things, led organizations, or changed something. A founded club beats 200 service hours.
What you'll need
- 3.0+ GPA
- 5 short essays about leadership, service, and impact
- Two recommendations
- Detailed activities/leadership history (this is the heart of the application)
- US citizenship or DACA / refugee / asylum status
When to start
Late August of senior year. Deadline October 31. 91,000+ applicants → 1,700 semifinalists → 150 winners. Apply assuming long odds.
Watch out for
Generic 'leadership' won't make it past the first round. If you can't name a specific thing you started or led, the essays will read flat.
Gates Scholarship
Full cost of attendance (last-dollar funding)
Pell-eligible high school seniors who are Black, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, or Native American with a minimum 3.3 GPA.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Pell-eligible minority students with 3.3+ GPA who are aiming at expensive private/out-of-state schools where their need-based aid will fall short.
What they actually look for
About 300 winners from 30,000+ applicants. They want minority students whose financial situation would otherwise limit which colleges they can attend. Demonstrate that you'd choose a different school without the scholarship.
What you'll need
- 3.3+ unweighted GPA
- Pell Grant eligibility (AGI roughly under $50K for family of four)
- Must identify as African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American
- 8 short essays (most are 150-300 words — manageable in chunks)
- Two recommendations
- Transcript + standardized test scores (optional but recommended if strong)
When to start
Early August of senior year — give yourself 6 weeks for the 8 essays. Deadline mid-September.
Watch out for
The 8 essays sound brutal but each is short — open a Google doc the day apps open and write one per day for a week.
Dell Scholars Program
$20,000 over 4 years + laptop + textbook credits
Students who have participated in an approved college-readiness program, demonstrate financial need, and have a minimum 2.4 GPA.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Low-income, first-gen, or otherwise-disadvantaged students currently in an approved college-readiness program with a story of overcoming serious challenges to get to college.
What they actually look for
Dell SPECIFICALLY wants kids who've overcome serious adversity. The 1.2 GPA floor is a signal — they look at trajectory and grit, not transcript prestige. The college-readiness program requirement is the real filter (most low-income kids without one are gently redirected to other awards). If you're in AVID or KIPP, this is worth real effort.
What you'll need
- 1.2 minimum GPA (this is the actual published floor — they want kids who PERSISTED in tough circumstances, not high-GPA kids)
- Pell Grant eligibility / demonstrated financial need
- Plan to attend a 4-yr accredited college
- Participation in a Dell-approved college-readiness program (AVID, College Possible, KIPP, GEAR UP, Upward Bound, and ~30 others)
- Multiple essays about your specific obstacles + how you've worked through them
When to start
October-November of senior year. Application opens early November, due December 1.
Watch out for
If you're NOT in one of the approved college-readiness programs, you're not eligible. Don't waste time on the application — your guidance counselor can tell you whether your high school participates. Also: the program continues to support you THROUGH college (laptop, textbooks, emergency funds) — way more value than the $20K headline number suggests.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship
Up to $55,000/year
High-achieving high school seniors with financial need (family income under $95,000). Minimum 3.5 GPA.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Top-of-class students from families that won't qualify for full need-based aid (the $50K-$95K AGI 'donut hole').
What they actually look for
About 60 winners selected from 5,000+ nominees. They want exceptional academic ability paired with significant service or leadership — not just high grades. A 'standout story' beats a perfect GPA.
What you'll need
- Your HIGH SCHOOL counselor (or principal) willing to nominate you — this is free and part of their job, not a paid private consultant
- Unweighted GPA 3.5+ (most winners are top 5-10% of class)
- Three teacher recommendations
- Several essays (personal statement + specific prompts)
- FAFSA + parent tax docs (looking at AGI under ~$95K)
- Full activity / leadership / work history
When to start
Talk to your high school counselor in October of senior year. App opens November, due late January.
Watch out for
Your HIGH SCHOOL counselor or principal MUST submit the nomination — you can't self-submit, and a paid private college consultant can't do it either (JKCF requires the school to confirm enrollment + GPA + class rank). If your school counselor doesn't know about the program, share jkcf.org with them — they'll usually agree to nominate.
QuestBridge National College Match
Full 4-year scholarship at partner colleges
High-achieving, low-income high school seniors (generally household income under $65,000).
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Top 5% low-income students with high test scores who want full-ride admission to elite schools without the financial stress.
What they actually look for
This isn't really a scholarship — it's an early-binding college admission with full ride at 50+ top schools (Stanford, MIT, Yale, etc.). If you 'match,' you MUST attend that school. Rank carefully — putting a school first means commitment.
What you'll need
- Top of your class academically (top 5-10%)
- Family income under ~$65K (median accepted student family income is ~$33K)
- 8 essays (including 1 long personal statement)
- 2 teacher recommendations + 1 letter from your high school counselor (free, not a paid private consultant)
- Family financial documents (W-2s, tax returns)
- Ranked list of partner colleges you'd commit to (binding match!)
When to start
End of junior year (June). Application opens early August, due late September. Match results December.
Watch out for
Once matched, you cannot apply elsewhere. Only rank schools you would genuinely attend. Don't put 'safety' schools first hoping to negotiate.
Regeneron Science Talent Search
Up to $250,000 (top award)
High school seniors who complete an independent science, math, or engineering research project.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
HS seniors with serious independent research already completed in math, science, engineering, or social science. NOT for kids 'starting a project for STS' — the work has to be substantial enough that a research scientist would call it real. If you're not sure your work qualifies, ask a research scientist mentor for an honest read.
What they actually look for
Regeneron STS (formerly Westinghouse, then Intel STS) is the most prestigious HS science research competition in the US. 300 scholars get $2,000; 40 finalists fly to DC for a week of judging + $25,000-$250,000 awards. Past finalists include 13 Nobel laureates, multiple Fields Medalists, Turing Award winners. The bar is publishable research — most finalists have done summer programs like RSI, Garcia, SSP, or have research lab placements.
What you'll need
- Original independent research project (typically completed over multiple summers / a year+ of focused work)
- 20-page research paper documenting the work
- Multiple essays (~10) on research process, scientific thinking, goals
- Two recommendations — at least one from a research mentor
- Transcript + standardized test scores (still required, despite the research focus)
- Online application — opens September, closes November of senior year
When to start
If you want to apply, you need research underway by JUNIOR year at the latest. Apply for summer research programs (RSI, Garcia, SSP, Clark Scholars, Simons, Telluride) in junior fall. Application opens September of senior year, closes early November.
Watch out for
STS does not accept group projects — your contribution must be clearly individual, even if the broader research was collaborative. If you co-authored a paper with grad students, be ready to specifically document which experiments / analysis / code / ideas were yours. Also: only ONE student per high school can win each year as a top-10 finalist (the others get scholar awards), so internal-school competition matters at top STEM magnets.
Siemens Competition (now part of Regeneron ISEF)
Up to $100,000
High school students who compete in regional and national ISEF-affiliated science fairs.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
FIRST Robotics Scholarships
Varies ($500 – $80,000)
Students who have participated in FIRST Robotics competitions. Over $80 million in scholarships from 200+ providers.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any current or past FIRST team member pursuing STEM in college. Particularly strong fit if you served as a team leader, programming lead, or build/design lead — those leadership roles get specifically called out by sponsoring companies.
What they actually look for
FIRST runs the LARGEST single STEM-scholarship database in the country — 100+ partner companies (Lockheed, BAE, Boeing, Northrop, Raytheon, GE, Caterpillar, Cargill, John Deere, plus dozens of universities) offer FIRST-specific scholarships. Total annual scholarship value: ~$80 MILLION. One application via the FIRST database routes you to ALL matching awards. If you've done FIRST and aren't applying through their database, you're literally leaving money on the table.
What you'll need
- Current or past member of a FIRST Robotics team (FIRST LEGO League, FTC, or FRC) in HS
- Plan to study STEM, engineering, computer science, or related at a 2-yr or 4-yr college
- Letter from your FIRST team mentor or coach confirming participation + role
- Essays on FIRST experience + technical learning + impact
- Strong academic record (3.5+ GPA typical for winners)
- Apply via the FIRST Scholarships Database — ONE application opens you to 100+ named scholarships
When to start
Database opens August-September of senior year, individual scholarship deadlines run from October through April. Check the database (firstinspires.org) monthly during senior year to catch new postings.
Watch out for
Many FIRST scholarships have INSTITUTIONAL eligibility (only paid IF you attend specific partner universities — common for company-funded ones), so check each award's school list. Also: some FIRST scholarships require specific majors (computer engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering) — don't assume any STEM major qualifies.
Barry Goldwater Scholarship
$7,500/year for up to 2 years
College sophomores and juniors pursuing research careers in STEM fields. Must be nominated by their institution.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship
$40,000 (4 years) + paid internship at Amazon
High school seniors planning to study computer science at an accredited US university.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Pell-eligible HS seniors planning to major in CS who haven't done a ton of programming yet but are committed to learning.
What they actually look for
Easier than it sounds. They're trying to BUILD the pipeline, so the bar is 'have you done any coding' rather than 'are you already a hacker.' Hour of Code completion is enough to demonstrate interest.
What you'll need
- Pell Grant eligibility
- Plan to major in CS / Computer Engineering at a partner 4-year college
- Demonstrated interest in CS (anything — Hour of Code, Codecademy, AP CSP, a project)
- 1 essay about your interest in tech
- Transcript
When to start
October of senior year. Deadline late January. Comes with a paid Amazon internship opportunity after freshman year.
Watch out for
You must attend one of the partner colleges (large list but check yours is on it). If you change majors out of CS, the scholarship can be revoked.
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
$1,000 – $10,000 (Gold Medal Portfolio awards)
Students in grades 7–12 who submit original works of art or writing in 29 categories.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any K-12 student creating original work in writing, visual arts, photography, or design. The 28 categories span everything — even fashion design, science fiction, journalism, video game design. If you make stuff, there's probably a category that fits.
What they actually look for
Scholastic Art & Writing is the LONGEST-RUNNING and most prestigious K-12 creative arts recognition in the US (Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, Joyce Carol Oates, Stephen King, Robert Redford were all winners). Regional Gold Key advances you to national review; National Gold Medal is a major credential on college apps. 'Best in Grade' portfolios at the national level win the largest cash awards.
What you'll need
- Original creative work in any of 28 categories (painting, photography, writing, film, fashion design, sculpture, more)
- Submission via Scholastic's online portal — typically December-January regional deadlines
- Most work is judged at REGIONAL level first; Gold Keys advance to national
- National judging in February-March; National Medal recipients announced March
- National Gold Medal portfolios can win $1,000-$10,000 scholarships
- No essays separately — your work IS the application (with a short artist statement per piece)
When to start
Submit to your regional affiliate (find yours at artandwriting.org) by their deadline — most are mid-December. National judging happens after regional Gold Keys are announced. Work submitted should ideally be your strongest 2-3 pieces, not a quantity dump.
Watch out for
Each region has different deadlines (NYC is one of the earliest, mid-October). Check your specific region's deadline at artandwriting.org/affiliates. Also: writing categories require manuscripts in specific formats — read submission guidelines BEFORE you submit, not after. Improperly formatted work is auto-disqualified.
YoungArts Foundation
Up to $10,000 cash + mentorship
Students ages 15–18 (or grades 10–12) in visual, literary, or performing arts.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Serious teenage artists in any discipline at the level where they're already producing work at college-portfolio or audition-ready quality. NOT for casual hobbyists — YoungArts genuinely evaluates work at a professional-trajectory level.
What they actually look for
YoungArts (formerly NFAA) is the most prestigious arts recognition for US high schoolers — the pipeline to U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts (top 20 YoungArts Award winners get nominated for this honor). Awards $250 to $10,000 + invitation to National YoungArts Week in Miami (all expenses paid, with the country's top working artists as teachers). About 700 Awards Winners per year across all 10 disciplines.
What you'll need
- Aged 15-18 at time of application
- Original creative work in one of 10 disciplines: visual arts, design arts, photography, film, classical music, jazz, voice, theater, dance, writing
- Submit portfolio/audition tape via YoungArts online portal
- Application fee: $35 (waivers available for documented financial need)
- Optional short essay on your artistic practice
- No academic-stats minimum — YoungArts is portfolio-only
When to start
Application opens June, closes October 14 (firm). Notification November-December. National YoungArts Week is mid-January in Miami.
Watch out for
October 14 is FIRM — no extensions, no exceptions, even for school orchestra trips or AP testing conflicts. Submit by October 1 to avoid technical glitches at deadline. Also: discipline-specific submission requirements are strict (writing wants 10-15 pages typed, music wants specific repertoire requirements, etc.) — read your discipline's requirements in JUNE, not at deadline.
National YoungArts Week
Up to $10,000 + Presidential Scholar nomination
YoungArts winners invited to Miami for masterclasses and performances with top artists.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
DECA Scholarships
Varies ($500 – $10,000)
DECA members who have competed at state or international events in marketing, finance, hospitality, or management.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
NFTE (Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship) Awards
Up to $25,000
Students who participate in NFTE entrepreneurship programs and compete in the national business plan competition.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
SkillsUSA Scholarships
$1,000 – $10,000
SkillsUSA members pursuing careers in trade, technical, or skilled service occupations.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Mike Rowe Works Foundation Work Ethic Scholarship
Varies (typically $5,000 – $10,000)
Students planning to pursue a career in the skilled trades. Must demonstrate work ethic and commitment to a trade skill.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
High school seniors confident about pursuing skilled trades through community college, trade school, or apprenticeship. Particularly strong fit if you've already worked summer jobs in a trade or done shop classes / pre-apprenticeship work.
What they actually look for
Mike Rowe Works is one of the only big-name scholarship programs that DOESN'T penalize you for not going to a 4-year college. Award sizes range from $1,000 to $5,000 per scholar; about 200 winners/yr from ~10,000 applicants. The SWEAT Pledge alone filters out most casual applicants — Rowe's foundation explicitly hunts for kids who chose trades by conviction, not because they had no other option.
What you'll need
- Plan to enroll in a skilled-trades program: welding, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, machining, automotive, construction trades, etc.
- An accredited trade or technical school (NOT 4-year university — Mike Rowe is trades-specific)
- Sign Mike Rowe's 'SWEAT Pledge' — a one-page commitment to work-ethic principles
- Short essays on your work ethic, trade interest, and goals
- Letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your work ethic (employer, coach, mentor)
- Transcript with at least a 2.5 GPA
When to start
Application window typically opens in late winter and closes in spring (March-May). Sign the SWEAT Pledge AT application time, not before — it's part of the application form.
Watch out for
Apply ONLY for the specific program you'll actually enroll in. The foundation pays the trade school directly, not the student — so make sure your trade school is accredited and on Mike Rowe's eligibility list (mikeroweworks.org). 4-year university programs are NOT eligible, even if you'd study a trade-adjacent field like construction management.
National FFA Organization Scholarships
$1,000 – $25,000
Current or former FFA members pursuing degrees in agriculture or related fields.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Prudential Emerging Visionaries (formerly Spirit of Community)
$2,500 – $15,000
Students in grades 5–12 who have demonstrated outstanding community service and social impact.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student
Up to $60,000 over 4 years
High school seniors who are US citizens. Judged on academics, leadership, and financial need.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Well-rounded high school seniors with both academic strength AND a track record of community leadership (not just service hours — actual leadership).
What they actually look for
Leadership, financial need, scholastic ability — weighted in that order. Demonstrated service to your Elks lodge community is a meaningful boost. Lodges often nominate based on personal knowledge of the applicant.
What you'll need
- 2 essays (one on community service, one on leadership)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcript + class rank
- Financial need documentation
- Application submitted through your LOCAL Elks lodge (find via elks.org)
When to start
Apply through your local lodge by November of senior year. Top state winners advance to nationals (~$50K), ~500 students get $4K state awards.
Watch out for
Your application goes through a local Elks lodge first — find your nearest one early. Some lodges are way more active than others.
AXA Achievement Scholarship
$10,000 – $25,000
High school seniors who demonstrate ambition and drive through outstanding achievement in school or community activities.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
HS seniors who can point to a specific project, club, or initiative they STARTED (not just participated in).
What they actually look for
AXA wants kids who've INITIATED something — started a club, organized a fundraiser, built something. They specifically don't want generic 'good student' essays. Name the specific thing you started and tell that story.
What you'll need
- Be a high school senior (US citizen, national, or permanent resident)
- 2.5+ GPA
- 1 essay about an achievement you've initiated or completed
- Online application (~30 minutes)
When to start
October of senior year. Deadline mid-December. ~52 awards/yr — one $25K national winner + one per state at $10K + 26 at $2,500.
Watch out for
Sweepstakes-style means odds are low for the big award. But the application is short enough that even the $2,500 awards are worth pursuing — you'll only sink 1-2 hours total.
NACE (National Association of Collegiate Esports) Scholarships
Varies ($500 – full tuition at member schools)
Students who compete in varsity esports at NACE member colleges. Over 170 member schools offer scholarships.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship
Full tuition at any Indiana college + $900/year stipend
Indiana residents with strong academics, leadership, and community involvement. Awarded through local community foundations.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
United Methodist Church Scholarships
$500 – $5,000
Active members of the United Methodist Church who are enrolled or planning to enroll at UMC-related colleges.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Civil Air Patrol Scholarships
$1,000 – $7,500
CAP cadet members pursuing aerospace, aviation, or STEM studies.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
UNCF Scholarships (United Negro College Fund)
Varies ($500 – $10,000+, many specific programs)
African American students with financial need attending UNCF member institutions or other accredited colleges.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
$500 – $5,000
Students of Hispanic heritage with a minimum 3.0 GPA who are US citizens or eligible non-citizens.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any Hispanic/Latino HS senior or current college student. Especially valuable for first-gen Hispanic students at competitive colleges.
What they actually look for
HSF is the single largest Hispanic-focused scholarship program in the US — ~10,000 awards/year. The General award is small ($500-$5K) but they auto-consider you for partner-corporate awards (AT&T, Wells Fargo, etc.) that are larger. The application is one form for all of them — high EV.
What you'll need
- Identify as Hispanic / Latino (one Hispanic parent or grandparent qualifies)
- 3.0+ GPA
- FAFSA + financial info (HSF prioritizes need but awards regardless)
- 1 personal essay
- Transcript and basic activities list
- US citizen / DACA / permanent resident
When to start
Application opens January, deadline mid-February. Apply junior year if eligible (renewable) OR senior year — both work.
Watch out for
Need-aware: some awards have income caps but the General scholarship doesn't. Self-identification is fine — one Hispanic grandparent counts; no documentation of heritage required.
APIA Scholars (Asian & Pacific Islander American)
Up to $20,000
Asian or Pacific Islander American students with financial need and community involvement.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any AAPI student (including mixed heritage) who has demonstrated community involvement — particularly in the AAPI community. The 2.7 GPA floor means this is one of the rare 'real' scholarships open to B-students, not just valedictorians.
What they actually look for
APIA is the largest scholarship program for AAPI students. Award amounts range from $2,500 (general) to $20,000 (named scholarships like AT&T or Bank of America). The general application opens you up to MULTIPLE awards from one submission — they internally route your app to all eligible named scholarships. Most kids only know about the general track and miss the higher-dollar named ones.
What you'll need
- Self-identify as Asian/Pacific Islander (broadly defined — see apiascholars.org for the full list of qualifying heritages)
- Minimum 2.7 GPA (yes, really — APIA is one of the few merit-aware demographic scholarships with a low GPA floor)
- FAFSA filed (need demonstrated)
- Two recommendations (one academic, one community)
- Multiple essays on heritage, community involvement, and goals
- Optional: indicate interest in sub-programs (healthcare, business, AT&T-funded tracks)
When to start
Application opens October, closes mid-January. Start essays in November so you have time to draft, revise, and have a counselor or teacher review them.
Watch out for
DON'T assume you need to be 'Asian enough' to apply. APIA covers 50+ ethnic heritages including Native Hawaiian, Filipino, Hmong, Vietnamese, South Asian, and Pacific Islander backgrounds — many of which are dramatically under-represented in their applicant pool. If you're mixed heritage, you still qualify.
American Indian College Fund
Varies ($1,000 – $10,000)
Native American and Alaska Native students attending tribal colleges or mainstream universities.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any Native student at a 2-year or 4-year college. The low GPA floor (2.0 for many awards) means this is genuinely accessible — not just for top students. Also strong for students attending Tribal Colleges (TCUs) where AICF directly funds many awards.
What they actually look for
American Indian College Fund is the largest scholarship provider to Native students in the US. ONE general application opens you to 200+ named scholarships — they internally match you to all eligible ones. The average award is ~$2,000, but you can win multiple in the same year. This stacks well with other Native-specific awards (Cobell, Gates, Udall, AISES).
What you'll need
- Enrolled member of a federally-recognized tribe (or descendant — check specific scholarship rules)
- Minimum 2.0 GPA for most awards (some named scholarships require higher)
- FAFSA filed
- Enrollment in a Tribal College, University, or accredited US college
- Short essays on goals, community involvement, and tribal connection
- Tribal enrollment documentation (CDIB card or tribal letter)
When to start
Main application opens January, closes May. Re-apply every year — this is an annual award, not a four-year commitment. Some Tribal-College-specific scholarships have rolling deadlines.
Watch out for
Some applicants forget to upload tribal enrollment documentation — your app will be auto-disqualified without it. If you're a descendant rather than an enrolled member, check the specific scholarship rules carefully — most AICF programs require enrollment, but a few accept descendants with documentation.
Point Foundation (LGBTQ+ Scholarships)
Varies (average $10,000–$15,000/year, renewable)
LGBTQ+ students with strong academics and leadership who face financial barriers to education.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
First Scholars Network (NASPA)
Varies by institution
First-generation college students at First Scholars Network member institutions. Support includes mentorship and financial aid.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Ron Brown Scholar Program
$40,000 over 4 years
African American high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community service.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Black HS seniors with 3.0+ GPA AND a track record of community leadership or organizing.
What they actually look for
Ron Brown picks 10-20 'service-driven Black leaders' from thousands of applicants. Community work is the differentiator — not just school clubs, but real community impact (mentoring, organizing, founding something).
What you'll need
- Identify as Black / African American
- 2 substantial essays (one personal, one on a community issue)
- Two strong recommendation letters
- Transcript + financial documentation
- Availability for the interview weekend in Charlottesville, VA (finalists only)
When to start
October of senior year. Two deadlines: November early action (more attention from readers), January regular (more competitive pool).
Watch out for
If you apply November and don't make finals, you can't reapply in January — choose your deadline carefully.
Post-9/11 GI Bill
Full tuition + housing + books (at public in-state rates, or private cap)
Veterans and service members with at least 90 days of aggregate active duty service after 9/10/2001. Benefits transferable to dependents.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Army ROTC Scholarship
Full tuition + $1,200/year books + monthly stipend
High school seniors or current college students who commit to Army service after graduation. Must meet physical and academic standards.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Navy ROTC Scholarship
Full tuition + books + fees + monthly stipend
US citizens age 17–23 who meet academic and physical requirements and commit to Navy or Marine Corps service.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Air Force ROTC Scholarship
Full tuition + $900/year books + monthly stipend
US citizens who meet academic (GPA/SAT/ACT) and physical requirements. Available for 3- and 4-year awards.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship
Varies (covers unmet educational expenses)
Active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional degrees.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Fisher House Foundation Scholarships for Military Children
$2,000
Unmarried children (under 23) of active duty, reserve, or retired military members. Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any military dependent in high school or college. The locality of the competition is the key insight — if you live in a smaller military community (or a base abroad), your odds are particularly strong.
What they actually look for
The Fisher House Scholarships for Military Children award $2,000 to one student per commissary location each year — meaning your competition is LOCAL (kids whose parents shop at YOUR commissary), not national. The applicant pool is small at any given commissary, and the odds are dramatically better than the national headcount suggests. About 700 winners/yr nationally.
What you'll need
- Dependent (child) of an active-duty, retired, or deceased US military service member — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or Space Force
- Under age 23 + unmarried + currently in high school OR enrolled in college
- Sponsor must be / have been a service member (not just military civilian employee)
- Short essays on military family life and goals
- Transcript + military ID copy
- Apply through your local commissary (yes — through the commissary, not online)
When to start
Application opens in winter (typically December-January), closes late February. Pick up the application from your nearest commissary's customer service desk OR download from militaryscholar.org.
Watch out for
The form must be SUBMITTED at a specific commissary location — even though you can download it online, your scholarship is tied to which commissary you submit through. Pick the commissary you actually shop at, not the one with the lowest perceived competition (commissaries verify your military ID matches their location).
Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
Up to $10,000 (higher for STEM)
Children of Marines, Navy Corpsmen, and other eligible sponsors with family income below $108,000.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Cal Grant (California)
Up to $14,296/year (Cal Grant A) or $1,656/year (Cal Grant B)
California residents attending eligible California colleges. Based on GPA and financial need via FAFSA/CADAA.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
California residents from families with annual income under approximately $115,000 (Cal Grant A) or $60,000 (Cal Grant B). Also good for AB 540 / California Dream Act-eligible students who can't file FAFSA — they use CADAA instead.
What they actually look for
Cal Grant A covers tuition at UCs and CSUs (or partial at private CA schools) — this is the biggest in-state aid program in California, and most eligible kids don't even know to apply. The March 2 deadline is firm; missing it means you wait a full year. Cal Grant B adds a stipend for very-low-income students.
What you'll need
- California resident with a Social Security Number OR AB 540 / DACA / qualifying CA Dream Act status
- Graduate from a California high school OR meet residency-based eligibility
- Submit FAFSA OR California Dream Act Application (CADAA) by March 2 of your senior year
- Your high school MUST submit your verified GPA to the California Student Aid Commission by March 2
- Family income + assets below state thresholds (varies by award type and household size)
- Plan to attend a UC, CSU, California Community College, or qualifying private CA college
When to start
January of senior year: file FAFSA or CADAA. February: confirm your high school has submitted your GPA verification to CSAC. March 2: hard deadline. After March 2 you're locked out for the year.
Watch out for
The GPA verification step is the silent killer. Your high school must submit it via the CSAC portal — many counselors don't know this is automatic at their school vs. manual at others. Ask your counselor in October: 'How does our school submit Cal Grant GPA verification, and what's the deadline?' Don't assume it happens automatically.
TEXAS Grant
Up to $10,614/year (varies by institution)
Texas residents with financial need attending public Texas universities. Must complete FAFSA and meet academic requirements.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Texas seniors from low/middle-income families attending Texas public 4-year colleges. Stacks with Pell + institutional aid. The award is automatic once you're enrolled and meet the criteria — you don't write essays.
What they actually look for
TEXAS Grant is need-based and pays roughly the AVERAGE in-state tuition + fees at Texas public 4-year colleges — about $5,000/yr at most schools, up to $7,000 at the more expensive ones. The January 15 priority deadline is critical because the grant runs out of money each year and later applicants get waitlisted.
What you'll need
- Texas resident graduating from an eligible Texas high school
- Demonstrated financial need (TEXAS Grant uses FAFSA / TASFA EFC threshold — typically under $5,500)
- Completed the Recommended or Advanced/Distinguished HS program (most college-bound kids hit this automatically)
- Submit FAFSA OR TASFA (Texas Application for State Financial Aid for non-citizens) by January 15
- Plan to attend an eligible Texas public university (UT/A&M system schools, Texas Tech, UH, Texas State, etc.)
When to start
Submit FAFSA / TASFA in October when it opens, no later than January 15. Confirm with your target Texas college's financial aid office that you're on their TEXAS Grant list.
Watch out for
TEXAS Grant is funded annually and runs out — kids who apply for FAFSA in March often get told 'qualifies but waitlisted, check back next year.' The January 15 deadline isn't legally enforced but is practically the cutoff. Also: maintaining the grant requires a 2.5+ GPA in college + 24 credit hours per year — drop below that and you can lose it.
New York TAP (Tuition Assistance Program)
Up to $5,665/year
New York State residents attending approved NY colleges. Based on taxable income (under $80,000 for dependent students).
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Florida Bright Futures Scholarship
75% – 100% of tuition (depending on tier)
Florida residents with strong academics (GPA + SAT/ACT) who attend eligible Florida institutions. Three tiers based on achievement.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any Florida high school student planning to attend a Florida public university. Even if Bright Futures isn't your only aid, it stacks with everything else and dramatically cuts cost.
What they actually look for
Bright Futures is the closest thing to 'free college' for Florida residents — Academic Scholars covers 100% of tuition + fees at Florida public colleges (basically a full ride if you live at home). Medallion covers 75%. Roughly 40% of Florida HS graduates qualify for one of the tiers. Tracking your service hours from FRESHMAN year on is the biggest mistake-prevention move.
What you'll need
- Florida resident graduating from a Florida high school
- Specific GPA + test score thresholds (Academic Scholars: 3.5 weighted GPA + 1340 SAT or 29 ACT; Medallion Scholars: 3.0 GPA + 1210 SAT or 25 ACT)
- Community service hours (Academic Scholars: 100 hours; Medallion: 75 hours)
- Submit FAFSA (Florida uses it for confirmation)
- Submit the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) by the August 31 deadline of your enrollment year
- Plan to attend an eligible Florida college (public + many private)
When to start
Track service hours from 9th grade — they must be PRE-APPROVED by your high school counselor or the sponsoring organization. Take SAT/ACT by senior fall to confirm threshold. Submit FFAA by August 31 of the year you enroll.
Watch out for
The service hours requirement is the single biggest reason kids miss this scholarship. Hours must be DOCUMENTED on a school-approved form with the sponsoring organization's contact info, and many counselors won't accept hours submitted retroactively in May of senior year. Track them as you go. Also: Bright Futures is for FL public schools — at private FL schools the award is lower, and at out-of-state schools it doesn't apply at all.
Illinois MAP Grant
Up to $7,044/year
Illinois residents with financial need attending approved Illinois colleges. Based on FAFSA (funds run out quickly).
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Ohio College Opportunity Grant
Up to $3,500/year
Ohio residents with an EFC of $2,190 or less attending eligible Ohio or Pennsylvania institutions.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Georgia HOPE Scholarship
Covers tuition at Georgia public colleges (or partial at private)
Georgia residents who graduate from an eligible high school with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Must maintain 3.0 GPA in college.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Best fit for
Any Georgia high school student planning to attend a Georgia public university. If you can hit Zell Miller thresholds (3.7 HOPE GPA + 1200 SAT or 26 ACT), the difference between HOPE and Zell is roughly $2,000-$4,000/yr at UGA / GT.
What they actually look for
HOPE pays a percentage of tuition at Georgia public colleges (about 90% of in-state tuition at UGA/Georgia Tech/etc.). The Zell Miller Scholarship is the higher tier — pays full tuition for kids with 3.7+ HOPE GPA + 1200 SAT or 26 ACT. Most Georgia kids qualify for HOPE; Zell Miller is the upgrade play.
What you'll need
- Georgia resident graduating from an eligible Georgia high school
- 3.0 minimum HOPE GPA (calculated on academic courses only — NOT weighted with PE/electives)
- Submit FAFSA OR the GSFAPPS (Georgia Student Finance Application) by the priority deadline
- Enroll in an eligible Georgia public or private college within 7 years of graduation
- U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen + Georgia residency for 24 consecutive months before enrollment
When to start
Track your HOPE GPA from 9th grade — it's calculated differently from your school's transcript GPA. Use the Georgia Student Finance Commission's HOPE GPA calculator (gafutures.org) to verify. Submit FAFSA/GSFAPPS by January of senior year.
Watch out for
The HOPE GPA calculation excludes PE, JROTC, and some elective courses — so your transcript GPA might be 3.8 while your HOPE GPA is 3.4. Use the official calculator at gafutures.org BEFORE senior year so you can adjust course selection. Also: HOPE has a 127-credit-hour cap — you lose it if you change majors a lot or take too many electives.
North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship (ELS)
Up to $3,200/year at UNC schools
NC residents attending UNC system schools with financial need (EFC of $5,846 or less).
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Pennsylvania State Grant
Up to $5,750/year
Pennsylvania residents attending approved PA or reciprocal-state schools. Based on financial need via FAFSA.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Washington College Bound Scholarship
Full tuition + $500/books at public WA colleges
WA students who sign up in 7th or 8th grade, graduate high school, and have family income at or below 65% of state MFI.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
University Automatic Merit Scholarships
$2,000 – $25,000+/year (varies by school)
Many universities automatically award merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores at admission. No separate application needed. Examples: University of Alabama, Arizona State, University of Kentucky, Iowa State, and hundreds more.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
University Competitive Merit Scholarships
$5,000 – full tuition
Prestigious named scholarships at individual universities that require a separate application, essays, and often interviews. Examples: Stamps Scholarship, Morehead-Cain (UNC), Robertson (Duke), Jefferson (UVA).
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Local Community Foundation Scholarships
$500 – $10,000 (typically)
Community foundations in nearly every US county offer scholarships with very few applicants. Search your local community foundation's website. Eligibility often based on residency, high school attended, or field of study.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Rotary Club Scholarships
$500 – $30,000
Students in the local Rotary Club district. Awards vary widely by club. Contact your local Rotary Club or search their district website.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Kiwanis Club Scholarships
$500 – $5,000
Students connected to local Kiwanis clubs through Key Club membership or community involvement.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.
Local Elks Lodge Scholarships
$1,000 – $4,000
Students who live within the jurisdiction of a local Elks Lodge. Separate from the national MVS award.
Opens the foundation's site — search there for current scholarship details and the application link.