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What does Science say about Worrying and Stress?

Chronic worrying activates the stress response, resulting in elevated cortisol levels. This stress hormone prepares the body and mind for a potentially life-threatening situation. It concentrates blood flow in your brain to help you face and overcome an intense challenge. In certain circumstances, such as giving a speech or interviewing for a job, cortisol is beneficial because it increases energy levels.

In the long term, however, adrenaline and other hormones overwhelm the body and mind, causing exhaustion and adrenal fatigue. Anxiety also activates the amygdala, an almond-shaped area in the brain’s limbic system that helps regulate and process emotions. This ancient part of our brain becomes hyperactive when exposed to persistent fear and tension, overpowering the rational part of the brain.

Studies show anxious children have a larger amygdala than their relaxed peers, resulting in poor attention spans and emotional dysregulation. Scientists have also discovered an enlarged amygdala in adults with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Connection Between Worrying and Physical Health

Worrying wreaks havoc on the entire mind-body system and can cause physical health problems. For example, studies have linked chronic stress to heart disease, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system. Anxiety puts immense pressure on the cardiovascular system since it increases heart rate and blood pressure. If left unchecked, it could lead to a heart attack, stroke, and elevated risk of blood clots.

Research also shows a link between stress and digestive issues, as anxiety affects appetite and causes gut dysbiosis. Since the gut communicates with the brain via the vagus nerve, worrying can disrupt this delicate connection. Elevated cortisol levels also affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients due to inflammation and stomach acid imbalances.

Finally, anxiety and fear suppress the immune system by reducing the number of lymphocytes, or white blood cells, that help fight diseases and infections. Weakened immunity makes you susceptible to common colds, flu, and other viruses. In extreme cases, stress may lead to autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and psoriasis.

Connection between Worrying and Mental Health

Over time, chronic worrying can trigger mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). When you have intrusive, repetitive thoughts, they can quickly become debilitating without treatment or stress-management techniques. Most people experience stress at some point, but it becomes a problem when it starts to control your life.

For instance, people with anxiety may be unable to complete daily tasks and chores due to excessive worries. Stress may also lead to depression if a person feels overwhelmed or hopeless about their situation. The cycle of rumination and negative thoughts can take a toll on the mind, making it impossible to see a path forward.

In summary, long-term worry and fear can cause structural changes in the brain that disrupt neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Countless studies have linked chemical imbalances to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Coping up with Worry and Stressful Situations

Initially, it may seem like an uphill battle, but you can beat anxiety by practicing mindfulness and meditation. Research shows that mindfulness can help you manage worrying by reducing stress and increasing self-awareness. As your mind becomes calmer, you learn to sit with painful thoughts or feelings without judging or suppressing them. By becoming more aware and mindful of your inner world, you can alleviate tension in the brain.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also help combat anxiety by reshaping stubborn negative thinking patterns. By breaking up the vicious cycles of rumination and worry, you can gain a new perspective on stressful situations and learn to overcome them.

CBT also focuses on exposure therapy to increase your resilience and help eliminate unwanted behaviors or beliefs. It works similarly to meditation because it teaches you to view stressful situations as they are rather than with cognitive distortions or preconceptions.

Impact of Worrying and Stress on Physical and Mental Health

Worrying may seem harmless, but it can impair mental and physical health. Numerous studies have found links between stress and anxiety, depression, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and many other ailments. Fear elevates cortisol levels and increases inflammation, making you more susceptible to illnesses and mental imbalances.

However, you can utilize many science-based strategies for managing worry, such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and CBT. These stress-management techniques will help you become more resilient against life’s demands and stressful situations. Seeking help and practicing these coping methods will give you a more positive perspective and rejuvenate your soul.

Chronic worrying activates the stress response, resulting in elevated cortisol levels. This stress hormone prepares the body and mind for a potentially life-threatening situation. It concentrates blood flow in your brain to help you face and overcome an intense challenge. In certain circumstances, such as giving a speech or interviewing for a job, cortisol is beneficial because it increases energy levels.

In the long term, however, adrenaline and other hormones overwhelm the body and mind, causing exhaustion and adrenal fatigue. Anxiety also activates the amygdala, an almond-shaped area in the brain’s limbic system that helps regulate and process emotions. This ancient part of our brain becomes hyperactive when exposed to persistent fear and tension, overpowering the rational part of the brain.

Studies show anxious children have a larger amygdala than their relaxed peers, resulting in poor attention spans and emotional dysregulation. Scientists have also discovered an enlarged amygdala in adults with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Connection Between Worrying and Physical Health

Worrying wreaks havoc on the entire mind-body system and can cause physical health problems. For example, studies have linked chronic stress to heart disease, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system. Anxiety puts immense pressure on the cardiovascular system since it increases heart rate and blood pressure. If left unchecked, it could lead to a heart attack, stroke, and elevated risk of blood clots.

Research also shows a link between stress and digestive issues, as anxiety affects appetite and causes gut dysbiosis. Since the gut communicates with the brain via the vagus nerve, worrying can disrupt this delicate connection. Elevated cortisol levels also affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients due to inflammation and stomach acid imbalances.

Finally, anxiety and fear suppress the immune system by reducing the number of lymphocytes, or white blood cells, that help fight diseases and infections. Weakened immunity makes you susceptible to common colds, flu, and other viruses. In extreme cases, stress may lead to autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and psoriasis.

Connection between Worrying and Mental Health

Over time, chronic worrying can trigger mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). When you have intrusive, repetitive thoughts, they can quickly become debilitating without treatment or stress-management techniques. Most people experience stress at some point, but it becomes a problem when it starts to control your life.

For instance, people with anxiety may be unable to complete daily tasks and chores due to excessive worries. Stress may also lead to depression if a person feels overwhelmed or hopeless about their situation. The cycle of rumination and negative thoughts can take a toll on the mind, making it impossible to see a path forward.

In summary, long-term worry and fear can cause structural changes in the brain that disrupt neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Countless studies have linked chemical imbalances to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Coping up with Worry and Stressful Situations

Initially, it may seem like an uphill battle, but you can beat anxiety by practicing mindfulness and meditation. Research shows that mindfulness can help you manage worrying by reducing stress and increasing self-awareness. As your mind becomes calmer, you learn to sit with painful thoughts or feelings without judging or suppressing them. By becoming more aware and mindful of your inner world, you can alleviate tension in the brain.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also help combat anxiety by reshaping stubborn negative thinking patterns. By breaking up the vicious cycles of rumination and worry, you can gain a new perspective on stressful situations and learn to overcome them.

CBT also focuses on exposure therapy to increase your resilience and help eliminate unwanted behaviors or beliefs. It works similarly to meditation because it teaches you to view stressful situations as they are rather than with cognitive distortions or preconceptions.

Impact of Worrying and Stress on Physical and Mental Health

Worrying may seem harmless, but it can impair mental and physical health. Numerous studies have found links between stress and anxiety, depression, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and many other ailments. Fear elevates cortisol levels and increases inflammation, making you more susceptible to illnesses and mental imbalances.

However, you can utilize many science-based strategies for managing worry, such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and CBT. These stress-management techniques will help you become more resilient against life’s demands and stressful situations. Seeking help and practicing these coping methods will give you a more positive perspective and rejuvenate your soul.

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30 Valuable Scholarships for Asian American Students in 2023

Taking the step to pursue higher education can be both extremely exciting and incredibly daunting. You’re about to start an exciting new chapter of your life, but how will you pay for it?

When you don’t want to saddle yourself with student loan debt, scholarships are the best way to supplement financial aid. If you’re an American student of Asian descent, check out this curated list of thirty valuable scholarships just for you. 

Check out this list of 30 Asian American scholarships for 2023

1. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

Amount: $30,000

Provider: Jackie Robinson Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American 
  • Plan to attend a four-year college within the United States or affiliated with a United States-based college or university
  • Graduating high school senior
  • Minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 21

Application Requirements: Letter of Recommendation, Headshot, SAT and/or ACT Scores, EssayThe Jackie Robinson Foundation offers this scholarship opportunity to make college education a reality for students from underrepresented groups – just like Jackie Robinson did for people of color in baseball. The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship generously awards up to $30,000 over four years of college to outstanding students who demonstrate financial need, leadership skills, and academic achievement. Scholarship recipients don’t just receive financial aid – they’re also matched with mentors and invited to attend a leadership conference in New York City.

2. The Gates Scholarship

Amount: Full cost of attendance

Provider: The Gates Scholarship

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American 
  • Plan to enroll full-time, in a four-year degree program
  • Graduating high school senior
  • Pell Grant eligible

Application Requirements: Transcript, Completed FAFSA, Financial Aid Award Letter, Proof of Acceptance, Resume, Headshot

Awarded to 300 student leaders, the Gates Scholarship recognizes students with great leadership abilities, personal success skills, and an exceptional high school academic record. The scholarship funds the full cost of attendance, including tuition, room, board, books, and transportation.

3. For A Bright Future Global Scholarship Program

Amount: Up to $10,000

Provider: For A Bright Future Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American 

Application Requirements: Transcript, Essay

Founded with the goal of improving quality of life for students of underrepresented groups, the For A Bright Future Foundation is committed to making higher education more accessible. Each year, applicants are eligible to receive the For A Bright Future Scholarship, which can range from $2,500 to $10,000. While the eligibility requirements for this scholarship are minimal, the selection committee looks for outstanding achievement in various areas – academics, community service, and even internships and work.

4.  AANAPISI Scholarship

Amount: Up to $5,000

Provider: Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American and/or Pacific Islander
  • Enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program at an APIA Scholars AANAPISI Partner Institutions

Application Requirements: Completed FAFSA

The AANAPISI Scholarship aims to support Asian and Pacific Islanders by helping students from these backgrounds in their quest for an undergraduate degree. While this award is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, the selection committee will place an emphasis on students from lower-income communities who are first-generation college students. Additionally, this group prefers to award students who demonstrate a passion for community service, leadership skills, and academic excellence.

5. EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program

Amount: Up to $45,000

Provider: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale
  • Attending a Minority-Serving Institution 
  • Enrolled as a full-time 2nd-year student in a four-year academic program; or transferring from a two-year to a four-year institution; or a 3rd-year student in a five-year program
  • Majoring in a STEM field related to/in support of NOAA’s mission

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Letters of Recommendation, Essay

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration researches our environment with the goal of preserving it for future generations. Through the EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program, the NOAA invests in students from Minority-Serving Institutions with an interest in science and climate work. If you’re passionate about saving our oceans and their species from extinction, be sure to check out this scholarship. In addition to the financial support, this program includes a paid summer internship with a housing allowance!

6. Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship

Amount: $10,000

Provider: Government Finance Officer Association

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
  • Majoring in public administration, accounting, finance, political science, economics, or business administration 

Application Requirements: Letter of Recommendation

Each year, the Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship is awarded to one lucky student from an underrepresented ethnic group. Endowed through the generosity of the Government Finance Officer Association, the aim of this specific scholarship is to encourage students with an interest in pursuing a career in the public financial sector, either at the state or local level. This award is open to both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as full-time and part-time students alike.

7. AICPA Scholarship Award for Minority Accounting Students

Amount: Up to $5,000

Provider: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American 
  • Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in the U.S. or its territories
  • Majoring in accounting or an accounting-related major
  • Plan to pursue the CPA licensure but not presently be a CPA
  • Completed at least 30 semester hours of coursework, including at least 6 semester hours in accounting
  • AICPA Student Affiliate member

The AICPA Foundation is passionate about attracting the next generation of bright, young minds to the field of accounting. To support this mission, they sponsor the AICPA Scholarship Award for Minority Accounting Students. To date, scholarship winners from underserved communities have been awarded over $14 million, and you could be next! To make your application stand out, highlight your academic excellence, community service, and passion for pursuing a career as a CPA.

8. Spectrum Scholarship Program

Amount: $5,000

Provider: American Library Association (ALA)

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, Middle Eastern/North African, and/or Native American 
  • Attending an ALA-accredited graduate program in library and information studies

Application Requirements: Transcript, Three Professional References, Personal StatementThe Spectrum Scholarship Program awards minority students who are pursuing a graduate degree in library and information studies. In addition to financial support, winners will also benefit from continuing education opportunities, mentorship, and even a complimentary student ALA membership for one year.

9.  ABA Diversity Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

Provider: American Bus Association

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American 
  • Undergraduate or graduate student
  • Majoring in a field related to the tourism industry

Application Requirements: EssayIf you’ve always wanted to pursue a career in the travel and tourism industry, check out the ABA Diversity Scholarship! Funded by the American Bus Association, this award is for undergraduate and graduate students from an underrepresented group – that can mean culturally, ethnically, or socioeconomically. To apply, you’ll write an essay about your goals for a future in the travel industry, and how those goals will advance the sector as a whole. 

10. The Tang Scholarship

Amount: $60,000

Provider: Silicon Valley Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of a California Bay Area county
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0
  • Asian American and/or Pacific Islander
  • LGBTQ+
  • Age 17-25
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Letters of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency, Personal Statement

The Tang Scholarship provides financial assistance to LGBTQ+ youth from the Bay Area. Endowed through the generosity of Mr. Edward C. Tang and the Silicon Valley Foundation, this award covers four years of higher education for students who meet the eligibility requirements and demonstrate financial need. To set yourself apart on the application, highlight your involvement in your local LGBTQ+ community and express your passion for your academic and social goals.

11. V&E Diversity Scholarship

Amount: $10,000

Provider: Vinson & Elkins LLP

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Houston, Austin, or Dallas, Texas areas for 7+ years
  • Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American, and/or LGBTQ+
  • Graduating High School Senior
  • Top 20% of Class
  • Minimum SAT score of 1100 or a minimum ACT score of 22

Application Requirements: Transcript, Two Letters of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, Essay, Resume

With its V&E Diversity Scholarship, the legendary Texas law firm, Vinson & Elkins LLP, hopes to promote diversity in the legal profession. Given to graduating high school seniors, this scholarship includes a monetary award as well as a paid summer internship at one of V&E’s offices. The ideal candidate for this scholarship will be a high academic achiever with an interest in pursuing a career as a lawyer.

12. Dominion Energy Educational Equity Scholarship Program

Amount: Up to $10,000

Provider: Dominion Energy 

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Connecticut, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Idaho, Wyoming, or Utah 
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American, and/or Native Alaskan
  • Plan to enroll full time in a two-year or four-year undergraduate program 

Application Requirements: Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, Tax Returns

As a part of its HBCU promise, Dominion Energy strives to promote diversity in educational institutions across the United States. The Dominion Energy Educational Equity Scholarship Program distributes a number of awards to students from traditionally underrepresented groups based on both financial need and academic merit. To stand out among other applicants, highlight your unique work experience, aspirations, and community service.

13. The OTEFE Foundation Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Provider: The OTEFE Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Korean or Korean American
  • U.S. or Korean citizenship

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Letters of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, Tax Returns, Proof of Acceptance, Essay

Founded with the belief that education is the cornerstone of success, the OTEFE Foundation aids Korean and Korean American students in their pursuit of college degrees. The OTEFE Foundation Scholarship has given out over $46,000 in award money since its inception. Award amounts vary and the selection committee prioritizes students with financial need and a love of their Korean community. This award is open to U.S. citizens and Korean citizens alike!

14. Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship

Amount: $3,000

Provider: AFCEA Educational Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  •  Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American, Native Alaskan, and/or female
  • Full-time graduate student in at least their second semester of study
  • Majoring in a STEM-related field 

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Letters of Recommendation, Personal Statement, Resume, Relevant Work Experience

The AFCEA Educational Foundation provides educational opportunities in the hard sciences. In support of this mission, AFCEA awards the Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship to full-time graduate students with a focus on a STEM field like engineering, cybersecurity, or telecommunications. The aim of this specific scholarship is to promote diversity in these fields, and in addition to seeking ethnic diversity, this scholarship also prioritizes gender diversity.

15. KASF Scholarship

Amount: Up to $5,000

Provider: Korean American Scholarship Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Korean
  • Full-time high school, undergraduate, or graduate student 

Application Requirements: Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, Essay

The KASF Scholarship is available to all Korean and Korean American students, regardless of citizenship status, and can be used to fund either undergrad or graduate school. The foundation awards scholarships based on location, so make sure you apply to your region’s scholarship. This award prioritizes scholarship awards based on need and academic achievements. Additionally, if you’re not Korean but have a family member who served in the Korean War, you may also qualify for one of these scholarship opportunities.

16. Minority Teachers of Illinois (MTI) Scholarship Program

Amount: $5,000

Provider: Illinois Student Assistance Commission

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Illinois
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
  • High school graduate or GED recipient 
  • Plan to teach at a non-profit, diverse school in Illinois following graduation

Application Requirements: Teaching Agreement/Promissory Note The Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program awards Illinois students who plan to teach within the state. To be eligible for this award, students must teach at a nonprofit Illinois public, private, or parochial preschool, elementary school, or secondary school in which the enrolled students include no less than 30 percent of African American/Black, Hispanic American, Asian American or Native American origin.

17. David Hudak Memorial Essay Contest for Students of Color

Amount: Up to $3,500

Provider: Freedom From Religion Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
  • Age 17-21
  • Graduating high school senior or current college student
  • Humanist/Atheist

Application Requirements: Essay

Members of The Freedom From Religion Foundation care deeply about advancing social freedoms and preserving the separation of church and state. In support of this mission, they sponsor the David Hudak Memorial Essay Contest for Students of Color, which asks students to write an essay on humanism and its positive impact on their lives. This scholarship contest is open to graduating high school seniors or current college students who identify as an atheist/humanist and are from any non-white ethnic group.

18. Kimbo Foundation Scholarship

Amount: $2,000

Provider: The Kimbo Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Korean/Korean American
  • Current undergraduate student

Application Requirements: Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, Tax Returns, EssayThe mission of The Kimbo Foundation is to provide outstanding Korean American students with the support they need to become leaders in their communities. One step in this multifaceted goal is the Kimbo Foundation Scholarship, which awards students based on their financial needs. This award is limited to undergraduate students, and selection is heavily dependent on applicants’ personal essays, academic achievement, and community involvement.

19. Sports Task Force Journalism Scholarship

Amount: $2,000

Provider: Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA)

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American
  • Current undergraduate Student
  • Member of AAJA

Sponsored by Al Young, an award-winning Asian American sports journalist, the Sports Task Force Journalism Scholarship from the AAJA is given to one outstanding student each year. The AAJA seeks to amplify the voices of Asian Americans in journalism, and this particular scholarship aims to award students with an interest in sports. If you’re pursuing a career in media or sports journalism, this award could be a great way to offset the cost of your college tuition.

20. Chi Am Circle High School Scholarships

Amount: Up to $5,000

Provider: Chi Am Circle

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Santa Clara County, California
  • Minimum GPA of 3.30 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American
  • High school senior 

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Letters of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, SAT and/or ACT Scores

The Chi Am Circle High School Scholarships are awarded to Santa Clara County high school seniors of Asian descent. Applicants will be judged first on academic achievement, but also on extracurricular activities, like community service, performing arts, work, and athletics. Up to 40 scholarships between $1,000 and $5,000 will be awarded this year.

21. San Diego Chinese Women’s Association

Amount: A one-time $1,500 scholarship for use at a four-year university, or a one-time $1,000 scholarship for use at a two-year community college or vocational program.

Provider: San Diego Chinese Women’s Association

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Attending a San Diego County High School
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, if applying for the four-year scholarship
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, if applying for the community college scholarship
  • At least 25% of Chinese Descent

Application Requirements: Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, Essay, List of Extracurricular Activities

Each year, the San Diego Chinese Women’s Association Scholarship is awarded to outstanding students of Chinese descent with plans to attend college. This unique scholarship offers two different awards – one for students with plans to attend a four-year college, and another for students with plans to attend a two-year program. While it’s not required, the scholarship committee prefers applicants who identify strongly with their Asian heritage and participate in Chinese cultural activities.

22. Central California Asian Pacific Women Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Provider: CCAPW

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Central California
  • Asian American Woman
  • Undergraduate or Graduate student

Application Requirements: Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, Proof of Acceptance/Enrollment, Essay, Headshot, List of Honors and Awards, Bio

The Central California Asian Pacific Women Scholarship is awarded to Asian American women pursuing a graduate or undergraduate degree. Eligibility is limited to students from the following counties: Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, or Tulare. When choosing an award winner, the selection committee will look for applicants who have made significant contributions to their cultural community. 

23. AABA Law Foundation Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Provider: Asian American Bar Association (AABA) Law Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Asian American
  • Enrolled in law school

Application Requirements: Essay, Personal Statement, Resume

The goal of the AABA Law Foundation is to improve and develop the Asian American Bar. Each year, members of the foundation sponsor the AABA Law Foundation Scholarship, which is given to one law student who fits the criteria of the selection committee. The most important quality the AABA looks for in its applicants is a commitment to improving the quality of the Asian American community through the practice of law.

24. Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship

Amount: Up to $1,850

Provider: Kansas Board of Regents

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Kansas
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx
  • Enrolled full-time at a Kansas community college or four-year university
  • Minimum ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 990
  • High school rank in the upper 33% of one’s class
  • Completed Kansas Scholars Curriculum Selection by National Merit Corporation in any category  

Application Requirements: Completed FAFSA, State of Kansas Student Aid Application, Completed Ethnic Minority Scholarship Information Form from a high school official

In an effort to promote diversity and education, the Kansas Board of Regents sponsors the Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship, which grants up to $1,850 per year to African American, Alaskan Native, American Indian, Asian, Pacific Islander, or Hispanic students. Candidates should demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.

25. Cynthia H. Kuo Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

Provider: Silicon Valley Community Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Chinese 
  • Christian
  • Planning to or enrolled in a full time, four-year program

Application Requirements: Transcript, Two Letters of Recommendation, Completed FAFSA, Personal Statement

Named for Cynthia H. Kuo, who was passionate about creating a space for Chinese Christians, this scholarship is a great opportunity for students of faith. The Cynthia H. Kuo Scholarship is offered to Chinese students who are either first-generation or born overseas. Recipients must be involved in their Christian youth group or Christian faith for the past two years. This scholarship is limited to undergraduate students pursuing a four-year degree at a university or college in the U.S.

26. Orchard’s Scholarship for Women of Color in STEM

Amount: $2,500

Provider: Orchard

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American female
  • Full-time high school senior or current undergraduate student
  • Majoring in a STEM field 

Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Essays

Orchard is revolutionizing the way people buy and sell homes – and they want to revolutionize the way women participate in the workforce too! The Orchard’s Scholarship for Women of Color in STEM will go to one woman who wants to pursue a career in a STEM-related field. This scholarship is open to both graduating high school seniors as well as current undergraduate students. In your scholarship application, you’ll need to write two essays discussing your STEM goals and how this scholarship might help you realize them.

27. The Florida Fund for Minority Teacher Education Scholarship

Award: Varies

Provider: Florida Fund for Minority Teachers

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of Florida
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American 
  • Admitted into a teaching program at an FFMT participating university
  • College junior
  • Completed 60 credits or AA degree but no more than 18 hours of upper-division education courses

Application Requirements: Transcript, Essay

Are you pursuing a degree in education? The Florida Fund for Minority Teachers wants to find out why. In your application, you’ll be asked to write an essay about how your life experiences have led you to the field of education. Eligible applicants will have been accepted into a qualifying teacher education program in the state of Florida. After graduation, winners of the Florida Fund for Minority Teacher Education Scholarship are required to teach one year in a Florida public school for each year they received the scholarship.

28. Dream Corps TECH Scholarship Fund

Amount: $1,500

Provider: PwC Charitable Foundation

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Southeast Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American, and/or Native Alaskan 
  • Currently enrolled in or recently completed a tech certification program
  • High school graduate

Application Requirements: Essay

PwC Charitable Foundation knows that receiving a scholarship can help transform a student’s education experience, which is why they’ve established the Dream Corps TECH Scholarship Fund. This scholarship money doesn’t go to your college or university directly, but it should be used to fund tuition for a technical certification. These types of technical programs can help set you up for success in your future career, so if you’re a student with clear career goals after college, be sure to apply for this unique scholarship.

29. Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund

Amount: $5,000

Provider: Asian Pacific Fund

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Resident of California
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Filipino/Filipino American
  • Incoming freshman enrolled full-time
  • Majoring in engineering, mathematics, computer science, environmental or physical science

Application Requirements: Completed FAFSA

Underwritten by the Asian Pacific Fund, the Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund empowers future engineers and scientists to achieve their academic goals. If you’re at least fifty percent Filipino, this scholarship could be a great option for you. The award prioritizes students with financial need so be sure to submit your completed FAFSA along with your scholarship application. This scholarship is limited to certain Northern and Southern California counties including Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Merced, Monterey, Napa, Orange, Sacramento, San Benito, San Diego, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus or Yolo.

30. LiveLikeLyly Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: Against the Grain Productions

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • At least 25% Asian and/or Pacific Islander
  • A high school senior or a college student currently enrolled full-time 
  • Pursuing a major in fashion or graphic design 

Application Requirements: Transcript, Letter of Recommendation, Essay, Resume, Portfolio

The LiveLikeLyly Memorial Scholarship honors Lyly Koenig Mendez, an orphan brought to the U.S. via Operation Babylift. She supported Against the Grain, a nonprofit organization that promotes unity and leadership in the Asian American community. Lyly worked in TV and film production as well as graphic design and fashion. She passed away in 2015 after fighting breast cancer for eight years, and this scholarship honors students like Lyly who are dedicated to their community.

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22 Easy Scholarships for Average Students

As college tuition rises, more students need to apply for financial aid whether they have a solid, average, or below-average academic record. The good news is there are plenty of scholarships you can apply for without being involved in athletics, arts, or having a strong academic record. Here are 22 scholarships for average students–with no GPA requirements, and no involvement in clubs or organizations required. 

1. Going Merry No Essay Scholarship

Amount: $250 every 3 months

Provider: Going Merry

Requirements: Online Application

Going Merry makes it easier for students to find and apply for scholarships. After signing up, you’ll answer a few brief questions to fill out a basic profile–and then get matched to hundreds of scholarships that you’re eligible for. You’ll also gain access to their seasonal Going Merry scholarships (Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall)–no essay or specific GPA required. Every three months, a student gets $250, just for using the website.

2. Hooked To Books Scholarship

Amount: Up to $1,000 per recipient

Provider: Hooked to Books

Requirements: Must be a high school senior, college student, or community college student

They acknowledge the importance of education and highly value knowledge. In an effort to promote reading and education among young people, they are pleased to announce the Hooked To Books Annual Scholarship for college students.

3. AFSA High School Senior Contest

Amount: $2,000

Provider: AFSA Scholarships

If you’re ready for an extra $2,000, simply fill out the online entry form on the AFSA website and be registered to win one of 10 prizes. The AFSA High School Senior Scholarship Contest is open to high school seniors during the school year and deadlines change on a yearly basis, so head to the scholarship website for the most up-to-date information.

4. HubBase Scholarship

Amount: Up to $500 per recipient

Provider: HubBase

Requirements: Must be a college student

HubBase is a small, yet very dedicated team of highly educated and highly capable professionals who found their groove after working together on several projects related to tech startups in Silicon Valley. They are pleased to offer the HubBase Scholarship to all students currently enrolled in a college in the United States.

5. The Best Hoverboard Scholarship

Amount: Up to $1,000 per recipient

Provider: The Best Hoverboard

Requirements: Open to everyone

The Best Hoverboard is an online platform that is putting its arm into education by providing this scholarship to students. The Best Hoverboard Scholarship is open to all students attending or planning to attend college with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

6. General Education Scholarship

Amount: Up to $1,000 per recipient

Provider: Westwind Recovery

Requirements: Open to everyone

Westwind Recovery is dedicated to helping to support general marketing education by providing their annual General Education Scholarship.

7. Live Bearded Academic Scholarship

Provider: Live Bearded

Amount: $2,500

Submit: A video

The Live Bearded team are focused on lending a hand to those building their future through higher education. While the company Live Bearded focuses on grooming products for men, the Live Bearded Academic Scholarship is open to males, females, high school students, college students, undergraduate, and graduate students. Send a 90-second video sharing your goals, facts about yourself, and why you deserve the scholarship. Upload your video to a social media platform, fill out your application with a link to your video, and you’re good to go!

8. The $1,000 SuperCollege Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: SuperCollege.com

In order to ease the pain of paying for college, SuperCollege offers a monthly drawing for a $1,000 scholarship. All you need to be eligible for The $1,000 SuperCollege Scholarship is to fill out the exceptionally short application form and you’re good to go!

9. The Customized Girl Annual Scholarship

Provider: Customized Girl

Amount: $500

Submit: An Instagram post

Customized Girl prints bold statements on customized shirts. Naturally, they know an eye-catching quote when they see one. To apply to The Customized uaGirl Annual Scholarship, post your statement as a caption on Instagram to be chosen as one of two winners, and your statement may be featured on a customized shirt! Check out past winners on the scholarship page for inspiration.

10. C.I.P. Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: College is Power

While this scholarship technically has an essay, it’s only a short 150 words, so we’re adding it in! To apply to the C.I.P. Scholarship, just fill out the super short application form and write a mini-essay about the goals you have for your university education.

11. $5,000 Course Hero Scholarships

Amount: $5,000

Provider: Course Hero

In order to win one of the $5,000 Course Hero Scholarships, simply answer a short prompt in 150 words or less, such as “How do you prepare and study to feel confident for your final exams?” If you have more than one college class you’d like to review, you can improve your chances by leaving as many reviews as you’d like!

12. Debt.com Scholarship for Aggressive Scholarship Applicants

Provider: Debt.com

Amount: $500

Submit: A short letter and proof of scholarship applications

Debt.com’s mission is to give scholarships to students who are consistently applying to scholarships. The Debt.com Scholarship for Aggressive Scholarship Applicants asks you to send all the tedious scholarship confirmation emails you received along with a short letter about yourself. Your letter can be about how you feel about applying to so many scholarships, or if you learned anything from the application process. Winners are announced every two months.

13. “Create Real Impact” Contest

Provider: Impact Teen Drivers

Amount: $500- $1,500

Submit: A video, music, creative writing, or graphic design

Students between 14-22 years old may apply. The “Create Real Impact” Contest seeks original work about a solution and strategy regarding reckless and distracted driving. Choose either video, music, creative writing, or artwork. There are many submission options and contest categories, so make sure to visit the scholarship page for details!

14. Axon Optics ‘Migraine Story’ Scholarship

Provider: Axon Optics

Amount: $1,000

Submit: A video, an image, or an essay

Share your story of dealing with migraines or light sensitivity. All full-time students of accredited two- or four-year American universities may apply. Choose from a video (less than 1 minute in length) or an image (photo, drawing, etc.). To qualify for the Axon Optic’s ‘Migraine Story’ Scholarship, the submission must be posted on at least one of the following social media platforms: YouTube, Facebook, Instagram.

15. HeadSetPlus.Com College Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: HeadSetPlus.Com

The HeadSetPlus.Com College Scholarship is designed to help you pay for college…no essay needed! Be creative and create a video with a maximum length of five minutes detailing why you deserve the scholarship and what inspired you to pursue a degree in your field.

16. Christian College Scholarship

Amount: $2,500

Provider: The Christian Connector Inc

If you’re planning on attending a two- or four-year Christian college, you’re eligible to enter the drawing for this $2,500 Christian College Scholarship. Simply fill out a short online survey and you’re good to go!

17. AFSA Second Chance Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: AFSA Scholarships

If you didn’t have the luck of winning the AFSA High School Senior Contest, try your luck again after graduation with the AFSA Second Chance Scholarship. This $1,000 award is awarded to five high school graduates during the summer months. Deadlines change on a yearly basis, so check out the scholarship website for the most up-to-date information.

18. Towel Supercenter Community Service Scholarship

Amount: Up to $500 per recipient

Provider: Towel Supercenter

Requirements: Essay

Towel Supercenter is committed to giving back to the community. They believe in the importance of education and want to see students succeed. By offering the Towel Supercenter Community Service Scholarship, their hope is that they are able to help someone afford education that they never would have been able to pay for on their own.

19. HOTH SEO Scholarship Program

Amount: Up to $1,000 per recipient

Provider: The Hoth

Requirements: Students who are currently studying at or have been accepted to an accredited university may apply to the HOTH SEO Scholarship Program.

20. SiW Internet Marketing Scholarship

Amount: Up to $1,200 per recipient

Provider: SEO is War Blog

Requirements: Open to everyone

They are happy to announce their “SiW Internet Marketing Scholarship” for all the young and hardworking students who dream to achieve in their future. They will pay $1200 to one student in this scholarship program.

21. MoolahSPOT Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: MoolahSPOT

Requirements: Essay

This scholarship helps students of any age pay for higher education. The MoolahSPOT Scholarship is a competition based on a short essay. Family income, grades and test scores are not used in selecting a winner. The award must be used for any education-related expenses such as tuition, fees, books and room and board.

22. Uplift’s College Scholarship Program

Amount: Up to $1,500 per recipient

Provider: Uplift Legal Funding

Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen, demonstrate a strong willingness to succeed despite challenges.

Uplift is excited to announce the Uplift College Scholarship Program. They founded this program so that Uplift can give back to its community. Since founding, Uplift has dedicated resources to giving back. Their firm’s culture thrives on helping those around us achieve greatness.

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Medical Scholarships

Scholarships open to students preparing to work in the medical or dental industry.

AISES A. T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship

Sponsor: American Indian Science and Engineering Society

Amount: Up to $2,000

Closing Date: May 31, 2023

Description: Scholarship is open to incoming and current undergraduate and graduate students who are Native American, Alaskan Native, or Native Hawaiian. Applicants must be pursuing a degree in Mathematics, Medical Science, Physical Sciences, Technology, Science, Engineering, or Natural Resources.

Burlington North Santa Fe (BNSF) Foundation Scholarship

Sponsor: American Indian Science and Engineering Society | Burlington North Santa Fe Foundation

Amount: $2,500

Closing Date: May 31, 2023

Description: Scholarship is open to Native American, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians who are graduating high school seniors and live in a state serviced by BNSF (Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, and Washington). Applicants must be planning to study Business, Finance, Mathematics, Natural/Physical Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Education, Medicine, or Health Administration.

Seasons in Malibu Scholarship

Sponsor: Seasons in Malibu

Amount: $1,500

Closing Date: May 31, 2023

Description: Scholarship is open to current college students who want to become a mental health professional. Applicants must submit an essay on a given topic related to mental health.

Allied Health Scholarships

Sponsor: Allied Travel Careers

Amount: $1,000

Closing Date: June 1, 2023

Description: Scholarship is open to U.S. legal residents who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or Ph.D. in allied health at an accredited U.S. institution.

Sandusky County Communities Foundation Scholarships

Sponsor: Sandusky County Communities Foundation

Amount: Varies

Closing Date: June 1, 2023

Description: Scholarships are open to students who attended a high school in Sandusky County (Ohio) high school and are currently enrolled and have completed (by June 1, 2023) one year in a health care associate program or a minimum of two years in a healthcare bachelor or graduate degree program.

Cancer Scholarship

Sponsor: Labored Earles Law Firm LLC

Amount: $2,500

Closing Date: June 15, 2023

Description: Scholarship is open to current college students who are studying medicine, public health, toxicology, or another related field. Applicants must write a policy brief to their Congressperson or local politician detailing the gaps in the current policy and why increased regulations will be good for public health.

PA Student Scholarships

Sponsor: PA Foundation

Amount: Up to $2,000

Closing Date: June 16, 2023

Description: Scholarships are open to AAPA student members who attend an ARC-PA accredited PA program and have successfully completed at least one semester of Physician Assistant studies and are in good standing.

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Architecture Scholarships

Architects are known for designing homes, churches, schools, skyscrapers, and many other buildings. Landscape architects are responsible for designing outdoor spaces. If you are studying a form of architecture, there are scholarships for you!

AISES Chevron Scholarship
Sponsor:American Indian Science and Engineering Society | Chevron
Amount: $5,000
Closing Date: May 31, 2023
Description: Scholarship is open to Native American undergraduate and graduate students who are studying Computer Science or IT, Earth Science, Engineering, Health Environment and Safety, or Naval Architecture.

Indiana Garden Club Scholarship
Sponsor: Indiana Garden Club
Amount: Minimum of $500
Closing Date: June 15, 2023
Description: Scholarship is open to residents of Indiana County, Pennsylvania. Applicant must be majoring in ecology, horticulture, landscape design, landscape architecture, conservation, botany, forestry, agriculture, earth sciences, arboriculture, food science, forest ecosystems, plant pathology, or plant sciences.

Tom Cory Scholarship
Sponsor: Architectural Precast Association
Amount: $2,000
Closing Date: June 30, 2023
Description: Scholarship is open to current undergraduate and graduate students who are in pursuit for an architectural degree. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA and must be involved in activities related to the architectural field.

NEWH | Chicago Chapter Scholarship
Sponsor: NEWH: The Hospitality Industry Network – Chicago Chapter
Amount: Varies
Closing Date: August 3, 2023
Description: Scholarship is open to students attending an accredited college in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, or Wisconsin. Applicants must have completed at least half the requirements for a degree and must be pursuing a career objective in the Hospitality industry (Hotel/Restaurant management, Culinary, Food Service, Architecture, Design, etc.)

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Scholarships for Student Athletes

Looking for some extra cash for college? Check out these scholarships for student athletes!

Disclaimer: Some scholarship websites or organizations found on this list may sell your personal information to third parties, including (but not limited to): your name, email address, home address, and phone number. While we aim to share scholarships and scholarship websites that do not sell any student data, we know that those with larger money scholarships may. We encourage you to always be intentional about the scholarships you apply to and the information you share with them.

Looking for more? We have lots of resources to help you in your scholarship search!

BigSun Scholarship 

Amount: $500

Deadline: June 19, 2023

Both high school and college students that are student-athletes are eligible for this scholarship. Students need to submit a 500-1,000 word essay about the influence participation in sports had on them and how participation influenced their future career goals.

Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship 

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: August 1, 2023

This scholarship is available to high school seniors and current college students that are planning to pursue a degree in a health or fitness-oriented field. Must answer three essay questions, transcript, and a letter of recommendation when applying.

Race Entry Student Scholarships

Amount: $500

Deadline: August 15, 2023

This scholarship is open to undergraduate students who are passionate about running and have participated in a race – i.e. 5k, 10k, half-marathon, or marathon. Applicants must submit a short essay explaining what inspired you to run, what challenges you faced, and what you learned through the experience.

TrophyCentral Sportsmanship Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: September 30, 2023

College-bound high school seniors who play a sport and demonstrate sportsmanship and kindness are encouraged to apply to this scholarship. Must write a 500-word statement about sportsmanship and acts of compassion. 

The Evans Scholarship 

Amount: Full tuition and housing

Deadline: October 15, 2023

This scholarship will be awarded to high-achieving golf caddies with financial need. Applicants must have caddied for at least two years.

NSHSS Student Athlete Scholarships 

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: October 27, 2023

NSHSS has created this scholarship dedicated to student athletes who are passionate about and excel within their respective sports. Athletes of all genders and of all sports are encouraged to apply. Must write a 500-800-word essay answering the following prompt: “What are the benefits and challenges of balancing your academics with your sport participation? What is it about your sport that makes you passionate? Offer up examples that help to illustrate your point.” 

Francis Ouimet Scholarship 

Amount: $1,000-$15,000

Deadline: December 1, 2023

Students from Massachusetts who have served as golf caddies for 2+ years are eligible for this renewable scholarship. In addition to their applications, students must submit three essays, recommendations from their high school counselor, and recommendations from their golf club’s supervisor, as well as an Ouimet club chairman or club member recommendation.

Missed the deadline on any of these scholarships? That’s okay! We’ll save this list so you can apply next year.

New York Ramblers Scholarship 

Amount: $2,500

Deadline: May 1, 2023

This scholarship is for undergraduate student athletes who are members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community. Applicants for the scholarship are reviewed based on financial need, leadership in sports, LGBTQIA2S+ advocacy, academic excellence, and potential for impact based on their future goals.

The Sara Scholarship 

Amount: $2,000 per year

Deadline: April 30, 2023

To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must be a female high school senior with the intention to graduate at the end of the school year, have above a 3.3 GPA, and demonstrate an active involvement with the sport of golf.

Girls in Football Scholarship 

Amount: $5,000

Deadline: April 20, 2023

Female high school seniors participating in a form of football (touch, flag, tackle, etc.) are eligible for this scholarship. Must plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited four-year college or university for the entire upcoming academic year. Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Must write an essay (500 words or less) outlining how they will use their career choice to make a positive impact in the sports industry.

Marc E. Lewis Youth Scholarship 

Amount: $5,000

Deadline: April 7, 2023

This scholarship is awarded annually to students from Massachusetts who 1) are student athletes and 2) have made their schools or sports programs safer and more inclusive for LGBTQ+ community members.

Brian Pearson Memorial Scholarship 

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: April 3, 2023

Eligible recipients for the 2022 scholarship are those students who will be in their junior or senior year of high school during the 2022-2023 school year. Applicants must be involved with the Iowa Games, and live/attend school in Iowa.

Team DC Student-Athlete Scholarships 

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: March 3, 2023

This scholarship is available to self-identified members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are student-athletes. Must live in the DC area to be considered.

CIF Scholar-Athlete of the Year 

Amount: $1,500-$10,000

Deadline: March 7, 2023

This scholarship will be awarded to high school seniors who possess integrity and honesty, and have exemplary academic and athletic accomplishments. The student must have played at least two years on a varsity sports team within California, and have a GPA of 3.5 or above.

Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program 

Amount: $20,000

Deadline: January 30, 2023

This scholarship is awarded to a student athlete that demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, good sportsmanship, strong moral character, and is committed to empowering their community.

Heisman High School Scholarship 

Amount: Varies

Deadline: October 20, 2022

Student-athletes who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and are leaders in their schools and communities are eligible to apply. One school official must review your application before submitting it.

Billy Welu Scholarship 

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: June 22, 2022

This scholarship will be awarded to an amateur bowler in college who has at least a 2.5 GPA and demonstrates academic excellence and outstanding bowling talents.

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Top Scholarships for Cancer Survivors in May 2023

Fighting and overcoming a serious, life-threatening disease like cancer is one of the hardest, yet most inspiring things someone can do. If you are already attending college or higher education is in your future, we compiled a list of vetted scholarships just for cancer survivors. 

Jump ahead to:

  • Scholarships for cancer survivors 
  • Upcoming scholarships
  • How to win scholarships for cancer survivors
  • Frequently asked questions about scholarships for cancer survivors

If you are a cancer survivor and are looking to get some help affording college, keep reading to find out about the top scholarships for cancer survivors!  

Top scholarships for cancer survivors

#RAREis Scholarship Fund

  • Eligibility: Open to U.S. residents who have been diagnosed with any form of rare disease, regardless of treatment status. 
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: May 7, 2023

Mesothelioma.com Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Those who have battled against cancer at any point in their life or those who have a loved one who has battled or is currently fighting cancer. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at a postsecondary institution and have a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Amount: $4,000
  • Deadline: March 31, 2024

See Also: Top Scholarships for Disabled Students or How to Get Scholarships for Hearing Impairment

Upcoming scholarships

Beyond the Cure Ambassador Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Childhood cancer survivors under the age of 25 and diagnosed with cancer before the age of 18. Applicants must have been accepted into a postsecondary institution for the fall semester of the upcoming academic year
  • Amount: Varies

Bristol-Myers Squibb Scholarship for Cancer Survivors

  • Eligibility: Cancer survivors under age 25 who are high school seniors/graduates or postsecondary undergraduates. Applicants must be planning to enroll in a postsecondary institution for the upcoming academic year
  • Amount: $10,000

Cancer for College Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Current and incoming postsecondary students in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with cancer
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Opens: November 1, 2023

Children’s Cancer Connection Empowering Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Individuals who have had (or have a sibling who had) cancer before age 18. Applicants must be also living or treated/diagnosed in the state of Iowa and be planning on a postsecondary institution
  • Amount: Varies

Jennifer Casey Alderman Legacy Scholarship Award

  • Eligibility: Young adults who have lost a parent to metastatic breast cancer or have financial hardship due to a parent currently living with metastatic breast cancer who wishes to seek higher education as a post-high school graduate. Applicants must be from Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, or Tennessee.
  • Amount: $10,000

Michael A. Hunter Memorial Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors, community college students, or 4-year university students who are Leukemia/Lymphoma survivors or whose parents are survivors. Applicants must be full-time students, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate financial need
  • Amount: Between $2,000 and $5,000

Northwestern Mutual Survivor Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Childhood cancer survivors under 25 years of age who are enrolled as full-time undergraduate students at an accredited university or vocational school (for the entire academic year). Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA
  • Amount: $5,000 

The Simon Cancer Foundation Scholarship

  • Eligibility: Students enrolled in a four-year university within the U.S. in Fall 2022 with a minimum GPA of 3.5. Graduate students are also eligible to apply. All applicants must have had cancer at some point in their lifetime
  • Amount: Varies
  • Opens: October 2023

How to win scholarships for cancer survivors

As with any type of scholarship, scholarships for cancer survivors are highly competitive. It’s important to craft applications that stand out from the pack if you want to earn money to put towards your education.

One of the best ways to do this is by doing some reflection before you begin writing. Think about how you grew as a result of your experience with cancer and any lessons you learned. Cancer is a terrible ordeal to go through, and it leads to a lot of loss and tragedy. However, it’s a good idea to use your application to emphasize how you grew as a result of this struggle, and how you hope to use the strength you exhibited throughout the process as you go on with life.

Remember, scholarship providers are looking for applicants who are going to make a positive change in the world. Don’t spend too much of your application talking about the struggle you went through. Talk about your plans and hopes for the future.

Writing effective essays

Once you’ve done your reflection, it’s time to sit down and start writing. We’ve got a host of guides to help you through the writing process. These include guides on starting and ending scholarship essays, writing essays about yourself, and writing a winning scholarship essay. We can also help you tailor your writing to 250 or 500 word limits. Good luck!

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Scholarships for Education Majors

UNESCO data estimates that the world will need close to 69 million new teachers across primary and secondary education by 2030 (less than 10 years from now!) in order to keep up with the increasing demands of the education sector.

So, if you’re considering (or already planning on) becoming a teacher of any kind, good for you, our world certainly needs you!

While it certainly has its difficulties at times, the process towards becoming a teacher, as well as the act of actually teaching and working with kids, is without a doubt a rewarding one.

Getting an education-related degree, just like getting any other, can be expensive. Luckily, for students who are planning on becoming teachers of any and all kinds, there are lots of great education scholarships out there to help you achieve your goals.

20 education scholarships for all types of students

  • Applegate/Jackson/Parks Future Teacher Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: January 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • Scholarship available to all education majors (undergraduate and graduate) currently attending institutions of higher learning in the United States.
  • High School Senior Scholarship Application for Future Teachers
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: February 2
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to high school seniors in Georgia who are planning on attending a Georgia college or university
  • -Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Dr. Marc Hull Special Education Leadership Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,500
  • Deadline: February 11
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Must be a Vermont resident and a US citizen
  • -Must be seeking a certificate or license in special education
  • -Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • James Madison Graduate Fellowship
  • Amount: $24,000
  • Deadline: March 1
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to individuals desiring to become outstanding teachers of the American Constitution at the secondary school level
  • -Must be a US citizen
  • Minority Teachers of Illinois (MTI) Scholarship Program
  • Amount: up to $5,000 per year
  • Deadline: March 1
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen or meet the “undocumented student” criteria of the RISE Act
  • -Must be a resident of Illinois
  • -Must be a minority student of either African American/Black, Hispanic American, Asian American, or Native American origin
  • -Minimum 2.5 GPA 
  • -Must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at an Illinois institution of higher education in a course of study which, upon completion, qualifies you to be licensed as a preschool, elementary, or secondary school teacher 
  • The Sister Mary Petronia Van Straten Scholarship
  • Amount: $2,000
  • Deadline: March 1
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to students who are currently enrolled in teacher education programs at Wisconsin institutions studying mathematics education
  • -Minimum 3.0 GPA 
  • NFB Pearson Scholarship
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: March 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Must be legally blind in both eyes 
  • -For students planning on pursuing a career in education
  • PDK Educational Foundation Scholarship Program
  • Amount: $500 – $5,000
  • Deadline: April 5
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -For undergraduate students and higher pursuing careers in public education
  • -Must be a member of one of the organizations listed on the scholarship page 
  • -Open to international students
  • Sarah Elizabeth Klenke Memorial Teaching Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: April 15
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to high school seniors and current college students planning to or currently majoring in Education
  • -Minimum 2.0 GPA
  • -Must show participation in JROTC or a team sport
  • Prospective Middle School Mathematics Teacher Course Work Scholarship
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: May 1
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Minimum 3.0 GPA 
  • -Must be a student member of NCTM 
  • -Must be in your junior year of college
  • STEM Teacher Graduate Scholarships
  • Amount: $2,500
  • Deadline: May 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -For students pursuing a graduate degree and majoring in education for the purpose of teaching a STEM subject
  • -Must have completed a bachelor’s degree in a STEM major
  •  
  • William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship
  • Amount: N/A
  • Deadline: August 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to Black and Hispanic students who intend to pursue a course of study to be able to teach in an accredited school in Indiana 
  • Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program
  • Amount: Varies
  • Deadline: August 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to STEM undergraduate majors and professionals who have goals of becoming effective K-12 STEM teachers
  • Caroline M. Hewins Scholarship
  • Amount: $4,000
  • Deadline: September 1
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Preference will be given to applicants who plan to pursue a career in public library service
  • Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program Grants
  • Amount: Varies
  • Deadline: October 12
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Must be a citizen or national of the United States of America at the time of application.
  • -Must meet the language requirements of the award to which you are applying and demonstrate sufficient competency to complete your project and adjust to life in the host country.
  • -Must have a conferred bachelor’s degree or equivalent before the start of the grant
  • TEACH Grant
  • Amount: up to $4,000
  • Deadline: October 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Must be enrolled as an undergraduate, post baccalaureate, or graduate student at a school that participates in the TEACH Grant Program
  • -Minimum 3.25 GPA 
  • -Must file the FAFSA
  • Nancy Larson Foundation Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: November 15
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to college juniors and seniors as well as graduate students
  • -Must have a declared major in elementary education 
  • Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program
  • Amount: $10,000 per year
  • Deadline: December 31
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to recent high school graduates with a passion for teaching
  • -Scholars must agree to teach in a West Virginia public school in an area of critical need (math, science, elementary education or special education) for a period of five years after graduating from college
  • -The scholarship may be used at any eligible West Virginia public or private, non-profit college or university offering West Virginia Board of Education-approved teacher preparation programs in math, science, elementary education, or special education
  • Minority Teacher Education Scholarship
  • Amount: Varies
  • Deadline: Varies
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Open to Florida residents
  • -Must be a college junior or senior or a graduate school student participating in a state-approved teacher education program 
  • New York State Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program
  • Amount: $6,780
  • Deadline: N/A
  • Eligibility/Details:
  • -Awards are made to students attending school at the undergraduate and/or graduate degree level in exchange for five years of full-time employment as math or science teachers in secondary education in New York State
  • -Must be a US citizen
  • -Minimum 2.5 GPA

Where else can I find education scholarships, or other scholarships for school?

If you’ve read through this blog post and you’re still looking for more education scholarships beyond the ones I’ve featured, you’re in luck!

You can start by heading over to my scholarship search and entering your information. Don’t forget to input “Education” or “Special Education” for the major so you get results that are as specific to Education as possible!

After that, you can get creative with your search by leveraging the organizations that are listed above, along with our good friend Google, to find even more education scholarships that you might be eligible to apply for.

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21 Scholarships for Engineering Students

In 2017, 191,336 degrees were awarded to students majoring in engineering, including STEM majors.

According to Data USA, the median tuition costs for engineering majors at in-state public colleges is approximately $8,000, while the median tuition cost for these majors at out-of-state private colleges is approximately $42,000 per year.

Regardless of what type of institution you attend to earn your engineering degree, there is no doubt that earning an engineering degree is expensive.

Despite the fact that earning a degree in engineering is likely to lead you to a high-paying job down the line, it can often be difficult to see that far into the future when you are focused on figuring out exactly how you are going to fund your degree. 

So, if you’re looking for scholarship opportunities to help fund your engineering degree, you have come to the right place! Below, we have highlighted some great scholarships that are currently being offered for engineering students of all disciplines. 

  • Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: Quarterly
  • Details: Our no-essay scholarship is open to high school, college, and graduate students of all years. Undocumented students and international students in the US are also eligible. Students pursuing any area of study (including engineering!) are encouraged to apply.
  • National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Program
  • Amount: up to $30,000
  • Deadline: early January
  • Details:
  • -Open to U.S. citizens at or near the beginning of their graduate studies in science and/or engineering programs
  • -The fellowships are for three year tenures
  • -Full tuition and fees and a health insurance allowance are included as part of the program
  • Optiv’s Black Employee Network Scholarship
  • Amount: $10,000 per year for 4 years
  • Deadline: January 8
  • Details:
  • -Open to graduating high school seniors accepted into STEM degree programs
  • -Minimum 3.5/4.0 high school GPA
  • -Must identify as Black and/or African American
  • -Must be a US citizen
  • CISE Undergraduate Scholarship
  • Amount: $2,000
  • Deadline: February 1
  • Details:
  • -Must be pursuing a degree in industrial engineering
  • -Minimum 3.4 GPA
  • SME Education Foundation Scholarships (multiple)
  • Amount: up to $40,000 (varies by scholarship)
  • Deadline: February 1
  • Details:
  • -Dozens of scholarships, open to high school seniors, college students (at four-year and community colleges), and graduate school students
  • -Must be pursuing a career in an engineering or manufacturing-related field 
  • -Students must be attending a US or Canada university 
  • American Society of Naval Engineers Scholarship
  • Amount: $3,000 – $4,000
  • Deadline: February 15
  • Details:
  • -Must be pursuing a degree in naval engineering or a related discipline
  • -Open to college seniors and graduate students
  • Society of Women Engineers Upperclassmen Scholarships
  • Amount: Varies
  • Deadline: February 15
  • Details:
  • -Must identify as a female/woman 
  • -Must be pursuing a bachelor or graduate degree in an ABET-accredited program
  • -International students are welcome to apply!
  • Maureen L. & Howard N. Blitman, P.E., Scholarship to Promote Diversity in Engineering
  • Amount: $2,500
  • Deadline: March 1
  • Details:
  • -Open to high school seniors from ethnic minorities who have been accepted into an ABET-accredited engineering program at a four-year college or university
  • -Must be a US citizen
  • Marjorie Roy Rothermel Scholarship
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: March 3
  • Details:
  • -Award for graduate students working towards a Master’s degree in engineering 
  • -Must be a US citizen
  • -Must be enrolled in a full-time mechanical engineering program at the time of application
  • Elisabeth M. and Winchell M. Parsons Scholarship
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: March 3
  • Details:
  • -Open to students working toward a Ph.D./doctoral degree in engineering
  • -The applicant must be a U.S. citizen and be enrolled in a full-time mechanical engineering program
  • Donald and Barbara Mozley Scholarship
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: March 15
  • Details:
  • -Open to all applicants – freshman through senior – pursuing a degree in engineering at an ABET accredited college or university
  • -GPA requirements: 3.75 for high school applicants and a 3.0 cumulative college GPA for upperclassmen
  • Ohio Environmental Science and Engineering Scholarships
  • Amount: $2,500
  • Deadline: April 15
  • Details:
  • -Merit-based, non-renewable, tuition-only scholarships awarded to undergraduate students admitted to Ohio state or private colleges and universities
  • -Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to careers in environmental sciences or environmental engineering
  • -18 awards per year
  • Marine Studies Scholarships
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: April 15
  • Details:
  • -Open to college graduate, undergraduate, and senior high school students who have been accepted into full-time marine-related programs (with a focus on marine technology, marine engineering, or marine science)
  • -Must be a MTS member (costs $25/year)
  • The MTS Student Scholarship for Two-Year, Technical, Engineering and Community College Students
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: April 17
  • Details:
  • -Scholarship open to MTS members enrolled in a two-year, technical, engineering, or community college in a marine-related field.
  • Calculated Genius STEMINIST Scholarship
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: April 16
  • Details:
  • -Open to college-bound WOMEN from the Chicago metropolitan area who will be majoring in engineering. Min 3.0 GPA
  • Guglielmo Marconi Engineering Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,250
  • Deadline: April 15
  • Details:
  • -Open to college sophomores, juniors, and seniors 
  • -Can be majoring in any engineering-related discipline
  • -Must be a US citizen and of Italian descent
  • CitizenshipTests.org Engineering and Science Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: April 30
  • Details:
  • -Open to legal residents of Canada and the 50 United States and the District of Columbia
  • -Must be a current college junior or senior pursuing a degree in an engineering or science-related discipline
  • ASCO Engineering Scholarship
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: May 1
  • Details:
  • -Open to U.S. engineering students who are pursuing careers in industrial automation-related disciplines
  • -Merit-based scholarships 
  • Asian-American Architects and Engineers Foundation Scholarships
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: May 28
  • Details:
  • -Open to full-time students in the US (international students in the US can apply!) pursuing a career in the AEC Industry (architecture, engineering, construction, etc.)
  • -Must have demonstrated a measurable level of involvement/ service to the Asian-Pacific Islander community
  • -Must be a student member of AAa/e
  • Minority Scholarship Awards for College Students
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: July 15
  • Details:
  • -Award for college undergraduates who are studying chemical engineering
  • -Must be a member of a minority group that is underrepresented in chemical engineering
  • -Must be an AICHE national student member at the time of application
  • Lynn G. Bellenger Engineering Technology Scholarship
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: December 1
  • Details:
  • -Open to qualified female undergraduate engineering technology students
  • -Must be pursuing either an associate or bachelor’s degree 
  • -Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Catching the Dream Scholarships
  • Amount: up to $5,000
  • Deadline: Varies (March 15, April 30, and September 15)
  • Details:
  • -Open to Native American students planning to study math, engineering, science, business, education, and computers, or presently studying in these fields
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Scholarships for Undocumented Students

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

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

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

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

Applying for scholarships!

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

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

  • Latin American Educational Foundation Scholarships
  • Amount: Varies
  • Deadline: January 17
  • Details:  Open to high school and college students who are Colorado residents and who are of Hispanic/Latino origin or who are actively involved in the Hispanic/Latino community. Minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • GSBA Scholarship Fund
  • Amount: up to $13,000
  • Deadline: January 8
  • Details:  GSBA awards educational scholarships to LGBTQ and allied undergraduate and graduate students who are committed to making a difference in the world. 
  • MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship
  • Amount: up to $3,000
  • Deadline: January 15
  • Details: Scholarships awarded annually to female international/DACA students who are currently enrolled or accepted to study full-time in a STEM degree program at a program MPOWER supports in the United States or Canada.
  • eQuality Scholarships for High School Graduates
  • Amount: $6,000
  • Deadline: January 30
  • Details: eQuality Scholarships for high school graduates recognize graduating high school seniors and recent graduates in northern and central California students for their service to the LGBTQ community. Applicants must plan to attend or have begun attending an accredited post-secondary institution for the first time in the award year.
  • EmPOWERED to Serve Scholarship (program paused)
  • Amount: $10,000
  • Deadline: January 31
  • Details: All currently enrolled college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who are working to improve community health and wellness are eligible to apply. No minimum GPA, although 3.0 or higher is preferred. 
  • Ascend Educational Fund
  • Amount: up to $20,000
  • Deadline: February 4
  • Details:  Ascend Educational Fund awards scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 to immigrant students and children of immigrants who are graduating from a New York City high school to attend public or private colleges and universities, regardless of ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status. 
  • Peninsula College Fund Scholarship
  • Amount: $3,000
  • Deadline: February 19
  • Details:  As a PCF scholar, you will be paired with a mentor through your college career, required to attend college and career workshops, and you will receive internship support. Minimum 2.8 GPA, must be a first-generation college student. 
  • The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship
  • Amount: $10,000
  • Deadline: February 20
  • Details: Three scholarships (one $10,000; two $5,000) will be awarded to graduating U.S. high school students who promoted vegetarianism (includes veganism) in their schools and/or communities. 
  • The DREAM Scholarship for High School and Community College Graduates
  • Amount: up to $37,000
  • Deadline: February 25
  • Details: We think of our National Scholarship as the “Pell Grant” for highly motivated DREAMers with significant, unmet financial need. While we consider your GPA and test scores, we place great emphasis on your demonstrated commitment to community service and your ability to overcome the barriers and challenges that DREAMers face each and every day. Minimum 2.5 GPA.
  • Red Thread Foundation for Women Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: February 26
  • Details: The Red Thread Scholarship is available to college-bound women of international backgrounds who will be entering an American college or university in the coming fall.
  • LAGRANT Foundation Scholarship for Graduates
  • Amount: $3,750
  • Deadline: February 26
  • Details:  Twenty awards will be given to graduate and Ph.D. students. Must have a minimum of 3.2 GPA and MUST major in a field of study that has an emphasis in advertising, marketing, or public relations.
  • Pursuit of Excellence Scholarships (multiple)
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: February 28
  • Details: The Pursuit of Excellence scholarship program is a local program focused on high school seniors and community college transfers for whom additional funds can be the tipping point in allowing them to attend a four-year college. Scholarship recipients typically have challenging backgrounds and are determined to go to college. 
  • California DREAM Act Scholarship
  • Amount: N/A
  • Deadline: March 2
  • Details: The California Dream Act allows undocumented and nonresident students (U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens) who qualify for a non-resident exemption under Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540) to receive certain types of financial aid such as private scholarships funded through public universities, state-administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and Cal Grants.
  • In addition, the California Dream Act, allows eligible students to pay in-state tuition at any public college in California.
  • McConnell Foundation Scholars Program
  • Amount: $30,000
  • Deadline: March 5
  • Details: The purpose of The McConnell Foundation Scholars Program is to identify and support students qualified to bring about positive change in their communities. Ideal candidates are high-achieving students, are among the first generation in their family to attend college, have overcome personal challenges, have positive influence on younger siblings or community members, and demonstrate commitment to the values of giving back and caring for others. 
  • Social Justice Scholarship
  • Amount: $12,000
  • Deadline: March 6
  • Details: For graduating high school students of a school in the Sequoia Union High School District or EastSide College Preparatory in East Palo Alto, Calif. Must have demonstrated activities or community involvement in social justice efforts that address immigrant issues. Minimum 2.5 GPA.
  • Que Llueva Cafe Scholarship
  • Amount: $500
  • Deadline: March 15
  • Details: For graduating high school seniors who will enroll for the first time in an accredited college or university in the U.S. or Puerto Rico.
  • American Political Science Association Minority Fellows Program
  • Amount: $4,000
  • Deadline: March 19
  • Details: The Minority Fellows Program (MFP) is a fellowship competition for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds applying to or in the early stages of doctoral programs in political science. Eligibility requirements include being a member of African Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, Latinos/as, American Indians or Alaska Natives, or Native Hawaiians community. Minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • The Esperanza Education Fund Scholarship
  • Amount: $20,000
  • Deadline: April 1 
  • Details/Eligibility: Applicant must be born outside the U.S. or have two parents born outside the U.S; Applicant must be planning to enroll full-time at an accredited public college or university in the academic year the award is offered; Applicant must be either a graduating senior at a high school in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia or a recent GED grad residing in DC, Maryland or Virginia.
  • SCW DREAMers Scholarship
  • Amount: $2,500
  • Deadline: April 15
  • Details: Must be a DREAMer with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This is a video submission scholarship. Minimum 3.0 GPA to apply. 
  • Calculated Genius STEMINIST Scholarship
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: April 17
  • Details: Open to college-bound women from the Chicago metropolitan area who will be majoring in engineering. Minimum 3.0 GPA. 
  • Best Foot Forward Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: April 20
  • Details: The applicant must be a high school senior on track to graduate or a college student enrolled in an accredited four-year university/college, or currently enrolled in a two-year college and planning to transfer to a four-year university/college upon completion. Current high school students in Georgia who are planning on attending college outside of Georgia may also apply. 
  • The Earnest Scholarship Fund
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: June 30
  • Details: Earnest believes in helping people realize their hopes and dreams through further education. To help more students get to school, they created the Earnest Scholarship – a no-essay scholarship – as a way to award 50 students who best articulate how their education will enable their dreams.
  • There are no minimum GPA, residency, or major requirements to apply!
  •  
  • MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship
  • Amount: $5,000
  • Deadline: July 20
  • Details: In recognition of the extraordinary potential of these students, we’ve created the MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship. We’ve intentionally designed this scholarship program to be as broad as possible to match the broad, diverse experiences of international students. Scholarships awarded annually to international and DACA students enrolled at Universities MPOWER supports.
  • Golden Door Scholars Program
  • Amount: full-tuition! 
  • Deadline: October 23
  • Details: Scholarship recipients will receive funding for a four-year degree at Golden Door partner schools. Applicants must have DACA, TPS, or be undocumented, meaning currently not have lawful status in the US. Must also have high financial need.
  • Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program
  • Amount: $40,000 per year
  • Deadline: October 30
  • Details: The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program is a full-ride undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Minimum 3.5 GPA.
  • PS – because the Cooke scholarship deadline is around the beginning of your senior year, if you are interested in applying to this competitive scholarship, you should begin to research and plan around the end of your junior year!
  • Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr. Scholarship
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: November 30
  • Details: The Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for young Hispanic leaders seeks to recognize Hispanic students who share Dr. Andrade’s lifelong commitment to servant leadership.
  • Applicants must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as full-time undergraduate students, in an accredited four-year or two-year institution in the U.S. or U.S. territories, and demonstrate a verifiable need for financial support.
  • Questbridge National College Match Program
  • Amount: over $200,000
  • Deadline: mid-late September 
  • Details: We are looking for high school seniors who have shown outstanding academic ability despite financial challenges. We take a holistic approach to reviewing applications, and we do not have absolute criteria or cut-offs for GPA, standardized test scores, income, or other factors.
  • The National College Match is open to all U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents OR students, regardless of citizenship, currently attending high school in the United States.
  • Act Six Scholars Program
  • Amount: Full-ride!
  • Deadline: December 1
  • Details: The Science Act Six Scholars Program is a full-ride scholarship for high school students who love their community and want to use their college education to make a difference as a leader on campus and at home, and who live in one of the seven Act Six program site areas.
  • Urbina Dreamers Foundation Scholarship
  • Amount: $2,000
  • Deadline: December 1
  • Details: Scholarship applicants must be DACA recipients, living within the United States, and enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program within the United States. High school seniors who will be enrolled in college before the application deadline of December 1 are also encouraged to apply.
  • Applicants must also have a minimum GPA of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate that they are actively involved as a volunteer in the Hispanic community.
  • 10x Digital Marketing Scholarship
  • Amount: $2,000
  • Deadline: December 1
  • Details: 10x digital awards a $2,000 scholarship each year to one talented high school senior or college student (twice a year) who is majoring in a field related to digital marketing. Undocumented students are eligible to apply. 
  • Science Ambassador Scholarship
  • Amount: Full-ride!
  • Deadline: December 14
  • Details: The Science Ambassador Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship for undergraduate women in STEM majors (science, technology, engineering, or math), funded by Cards Against Humanity. 
  • Renthop College Scholarship Program
  • Amount: $1,000
  • Deadline: Rolling 
  • Details: Open to undergraduate students who demonstrate the ambition, diligence, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit that is central to their company culture.

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

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