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Top Scholarships for College Students - Find & Apply Today


Scholarships have helped students for centuries, with one of the first in the U.S. awarded to Harvard students in 1643 by philanthropist Lady Mowlson. Today, scholarships continue to provide financial assistance, opening doors to education for students across the country.

There are countless scholarships available, some offered by schools and others provided by organizations. Below, we explore various scholarships available to students in the U.S.

Understanding Scholarships

Scholarships come in many forms, supporting students based on academic achievement, financial need, career interests, and personal background.

When applying for scholarships, it's essential to:

  • Carefully review all requirements
  • Submit the correct materials (financial documents, personal statements, transcripts)
  • Ensure eligibility based on academic performance, financial status, or field of study

Career-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships are designed for students pursuing specific careers. These opportunities help students achieve their educational goals in specialized fields.

Tylenol Future Care Scholarship

Supports students in healthcare fields such as medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health. Applicants must be graduate students or college seniors entering graduate school.

Learn about applying for the Tylenol Future Care Scholarship here!

BMI Future Jazz Master Scholarship

Awarded by Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) to support aspiring jazz musicians. Applicants submit three audio recordings, including at least one original composition.

Learn about applying for the BMI Future Jazz Master Scholarship here!

Civil Air Patrol School-Specific Scholarships

Available to active Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members. These scholarships may cover tuition, room and board, and other expenses at partner colleges and universities.

Learn about applying for Civil Air Patrol School-Specific Scholarships here!

CBC Spouses Visual Arts Scholarship

Offered by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), this scholarship supports Black students pursuing visual arts degrees such as painting, illustration, and photography.

Learn about applying for the CBC Spouses Visual Arts Scholarship here

Novus Biologicals Scholarship

Encourages students in biology, molecular biology, and related sciences to contribute to future scientific advancements. Applicants must submit an essay about their dedication to the sciences.

Learn about applying for the Novus Biologicals Scholarship here!

Boren Scholarships

Funded by the National Security Education Program (NSEP), these scholarships support students studying languages and cultures in regions critical to national security. Recipients commit to federal service after graduation.

Learn about applying for Boren Scholarships here!

Scholarships Based on Demographics

Certain scholarships are available based on gender, ethnicity, disability, or first-generation college status. These awards help create equitable opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

Society of Women Engineers Scholarship

Supports women pursuing degrees in engineering, engineering technology, and computer science. Open to graduate and undergraduate students.

Learn about applying for the Society of Women Engineers Scholarship here!

Michele L. Durant Scholarship

Available to Black women, this scholarship supports higher education pursuits regardless of the field of study. Applicants submit a 400-600 word essay.

Learn about applying for the Michele L. Durant Scholarship here!

Dream.US Scholarship

Empowers undocumented students, including those with DACA status, to pursue higher education. Supports students facing financial or legal challenges in accessing in-state tuition.

Learn about applying for the Dream.US Scholarship here!

P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship

Provides financial assistance to women from other countries studying in the U.S. or Canada. Applicants must demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to global peace.

Learn about applying for the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship here!

The Chronicle Diversity in Media Scholarship

Supports students of color, disabled students, and underrepresented groups pursuing careers in journalism and media. Applicants should have newsroom experience and a commitment to covering race and identity in American institutions.

Learn about applying for The Chronicle Diversity in Media Scholarship here

First Gen Fund

Designed for first-generation college students, this scholarship helps alleviate financial barriers. No GPA requirement, but applicants must submit a personal statement.

Learn about applying for the First Gen Fund here!

General Scholarships for All Students

These scholarships are open to a broad range of students, regardless of career goals or demographics.

Coca-Cola Scholars Program

Awards 150 high school seniors annually with financial assistance and networking opportunities. Requires a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0.

Learn about applying for the Coca-Cola Scholars Program here!

Optimal Scholarships

Offers financial assistance through the Community College, Undergraduate, and Online Degree Scholarships. Applicants must submit a personal statement about their aspirations.

Learn about applying for Optimal Scholarships here

"Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship

Awards students based on the uniqueness of their personal profile, focusing on boldness, determination, and vision. No essay or GPA requirement.

Learn about applying for the “Be Bold” Scholarship here

The Carson Scholarship Fund

Founded by Dr. Ben Carson, this scholarship is available to students in grades 4-11 who excel academically and participate in community service.

Learn about applying for The Carson Scholarship Fund here!

James W. McLamore WHOPPER Scholarship

Offered by Burger King in honor of its co-founder. Supports high school seniors with strong academic records, leadership skills, and community service involvement.

Learn about applying for the James W. McLamore WHOPPER Scholarship here!

American Red Cross – Leaders Save Lives Scholarship

Encourages students to organize blood drives. Awards are based on the number of pints collected during the drive.

Learn about applying for the American Red Cross — Leaders Save Lives Scholarship here!

Finding the Right Scholarship

These are just a few of the many scholarships available nationwide. In addition to national programs, students should explore local scholarship opportunities and financial aid offered by their schools.

Looking to enroll in college but unsure where to start? Find schools near you and take the next step in your education!

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