Top 29 Scholarships for College Students

Discovering and applying for scholarships for college students can be an overwhelming task. With so many opportunities available, it's essential to understand the various types of scholarships and their unique requirements. This comprehensive guide will provide you with an overview of some of the most popular and sought-after scholarships, helping you navigate the complex world of financial aid for higher education.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, or talent. These scholarships often require a high GPA, outstanding test scores, or a proven track record of success in a particular field. Some well-known merit-based scholarships include:

1.1. Fulbright Scholarship Program

The Fulbright Scholarship Program offers opportunities for students and teachers to work with universities and other higher education institutions in other countries. The program supports various disciplines, including Public Health, STEM, Communications, and Journalism. Learn more

1.2. National Merit Scholarship

The National Merit Scholarship program awards $2,500 scholarships to students with the highest PSAT/NMSQT scores. Approximately 1.6 million students participate in the competition, and 7,500 finalists receive an award. Learn more

1.3. The Coca-Cola Scholarship

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides scholarships to 150 high school students each year, selected from a pool of around 100,000 applicants. Scholars have attended elite institutions such as Harvard, Princeton, and Yale. Learn more

2. Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships often require applicants to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or provide information about their family's income. Some popular need-based scholarships include:

2.1. Excelsior Scholarship

The Excelsior Scholarship provides tuition assistance for students attending SUNY or CUNY colleges in New York State. Eligible applicants must have a gross income of $110,000 or less. Learn more

2.2. Pell Grant

The Pell Grant is a federal need-based grant for undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. Award amounts vary based on the student's financial need and the cost of attendance at their chosen institution. Learn more

2.3. Hope Scholarship

The Hope Scholarship honors Valerie Grace Wheeler, who passed away at age 15. The scholarship seeks to award individuals who have overcome obstacles, provided a helping hand to others, and believe in the power of education. Learn more

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3. Athletic Scholarships

Athletic scholarships are awarded to students who excel in a particular sport and plan to compete at the collegiate level. These scholarships can be offered by colleges, universities, or private organizations. Examples of athletic scholarships include:

3.1. NCAA Scholarships

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) awards scholarships to student-athletes in various sports. Division I and II schools offer athletic scholarships, while Division III schools provide financial aid packages that may include merit and need-based scholarships. Learn more

3.2. NAIA Scholarships

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) also offers scholarships to student-athletes. Eligibility requirements and award amounts vary by institution and sport. Learn more

4. Ethnicity-Based Scholarships

Ethnicity-based scholarships are designed to support students from specific racial or ethnic backgrounds. These scholarships often aim to promote diversity and provide opportunities for underrepresented groups in higher education. Some examples include:

4.1. Hispanic Scholarship Fund

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund assists families of Hispanic heritage in earning a college degree. Awards range from $500 to $5,000, based on merit. Learn more

4.2. United Negro College Fund (UNCF)

The UNCF provides scholarships and financial support to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and their students. Awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements. Learn more

4.3. Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF)

The APIASF offers scholarships to Asian American and Pacific Islander students with financial needs. Awards range from $2,500 to $20,000. Learn more

5. Major-Specific Scholarships

Major-specific scholarships are awarded to students pursuing a specific field of study. These scholarships can be offered by colleges, universities, professional organizations, or private foundations. Some examples include:

5.1. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships

SWE offers scholarships to female students pursuing careers in engineering, engineering technology, or computer science. Awards range from $1,000 to $15,000. Learn more

5.2. American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Scholarships

AICPA offers various scholarships for students pursuing a degree in accounting. Awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements. Learn more

5.3. Journalism Education Association (JEA) Scholarships

JEA offers scholarships to high school seniors and college students who plan to pursue careers in journalism. Awards range from $1,000 to $3,000. Learn more

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6. State-Specific Scholarships

State-specific scholarships are available to students who reside in or plan to attend college in a particular state. These scholarships can be offered by state governments, colleges, universities, or private organizations. Some examples include:

6.1. Bright Futures Scholarship (Florida)

The Bright Futures Scholarship provides tuition assistance to Florida high school graduates who demonstrate academic excellence. Learn more

6.2. Cal Grant (California)

Cal Grants are need-based grants for California residents attending college in the state. Awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements. Learn more

6.3. Texas Grant (Texas)

The Texas Grant program provides financial assistance to Texas residents with demonstrated financial need. Awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements. Learn more

7. Military Scholarships

Military scholarships are available to current and former service members, as well as their spouses and dependents. These scholarships can be offered by the military branches themselves or private organizations. Some examples include:

7.1. GI Bill

The GI Bill provides educational benefits to service members, veterans, and their dependents. Benefits can be used for college tuition, housing, books, and more. Learn more

7.2. ROTC Scholarships

The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) offers scholarships to students who commit to serving in the military after college. Awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements. Learn more

7.3. Military Spouse and Family Educational Assistance Programs

Various scholarships and assistance programs are available to military spouses and dependents. These programs can help cover the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses. Learn more

8. Corporate Scholarships

Corporate scholarships are sponsored by large corporations and are often awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, or community service. Some examples include:

8.1. Burger King Scholarship

The Burger King McLamore Foundation awards scholarships to employees and their families, as well as high school seniors. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded to over 3,400 students each year. Learn more

8.2. Dell Scholarship

The Dell Scholars program provides tuition assistance, mentorship, and resources to students who are often the first in their families to pursue higher education. Learn more

8.3. Google Scholarships

Google offers various scholarships for students pursuing careers in computer science, technology, and related fields. Awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements. Learn more

9. Community Service Scholarships

Community service scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to serving their communities. These scholarships often require applicants to submit a record of their volunteer work and an essay describing their experiences. Some examples include:

9.1. Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards recognizes middle and high school students who have made meaningful contributions to their communities through volunteer service. Learn more

9.2. AXA Achievement Scholarship

The AXA Achievement Scholarship awards scholarships to students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, integrity, and excellence in diversity. Learn more

9.3. DoSomething.org Scholarships

DoSomething.org offers scholarships to students who participate in their volunteer campaigns. Awards range from $1,000 to $5,000. Learn more

10. Scholarships for Adult and Nontraditional Students

Many scholarships are available for adult and nontraditional students who are returning to college or pursuing a degree for the first time. These scholarships often have unique eligibility requirements and may be offered by colleges, universities, or private organizations. Some examples include:

10.1. College JumpStart Scholarship Fund

The College JumpStart Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to 10th, 11th, or 12th-grade high school, college, or adult students. Awards can be used for tuition, room and board, books, or any related educational expense. Learn more

10.2. MoolahSPOT Scholarship

The MoolahSPOT Scholarship is open to students who are at least 16 years old and plan to attend or currently attend college or graduate school. A short personal statement is required. Learn more

10.3. 1 For 2 Education Foundation Scholarship

The 1 For 2 Education Foundation Scholarship awards up to $20,000 to students enrolling as full-time students at an accredited four-year college or university and maintaining a 3.0 GPA. Recipients agree to provide scholarships in the future. Learn more

With so many scholarships for college students available, it's essential to research and apply for the opportunities that best fit your unique needs and goals. By understanding the various types of scholarships and their requirements, you can maximize your chances of receiving financial aid and achieving your dreams of higher education.