Are you interested in the top scholarships for college students? In this article, you will find the top 70 scholarships for college students you can apply for.
1. Fulbright Scholarship Program Merit Badge
The Fulbright Scholarship Program, established by Senator J. William Fulbright, has supported over 250,000 students and educators in the past 70 years. This prestigious program offers participants enriching multicultural experiences, providing opportunities to collaborate with universities and other higher education institutions worldwide. Fields of study include Public Health, STEM, Communications, and Journalism. Learn more
2. Excelsior Scholarship Need-Based Badge
The Excelsior Scholarship could be the answer for those seeking tuition assistance at SUNY (State University of New York) or CUNY (City University of New York) colleges. This scholarship covers around 89 institutions under SUNY and CUNY and provides up to $5,500 for eligible programs. Requirements include New York State residency and a household gross income of $110,000 or less.
3. The Coca-Cola Scholarship Merit Badge
For over 25 years, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has empowered more than 1,450 high school students to attend top-tier colleges and universities. This program has enabled students to study at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Princeton, and Yale. Many Coca-Cola Scholars have become elected officials, entrepreneurs, college administrators, and Broadway actors. Learn more
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4. National Merit Scholarship Merit Badge
The National Merit Scholarship celebrates academic excellence by evaluating approximately 1.6 million students nationwide and awarding $2,500 scholarships to the top performers. To compete, students must take the PSAT/NMSQT. The selection process includes several rounds, where only the highest-scoring students advance. Ultimately, 7,500 finalists receive scholarships. Learn more
5. Hispanic Scholarship Fund Ethnicity Badge
Since 1975, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund has supported Hispanic families in pursuing college degrees. The fund helps students cover tuition, books, and other expenses by partnering with major corporations like Macy’s and NBA Cares. High school seniors, undergraduates, community college students aiming to transfer to four-year universities, and graduate students are eligible applicants. Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000, based on merit. Learn more
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6. Hope Scholarship Need-Based Badge
Founded in 2001 in memory of Valerie Grace Wheeler, who passed away from metastatic Ewing’s Sarcoma at age 15, the Hope Scholarship honors those who overcome challenges, support others, and value education. Valerie was known for her academic, athletic, artistic, and compassionate qualities. Over 18 years, the scholarship has awarded nearly $700,000 to deserving individuals.
7. The Gates Scholarship Ethnicity Badge
Established in 2017 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Scholarship assists minority students from low-income families by covering tuition costs not met by family contributions and financial aid. To be eligible, students must be in their senior year of high school and from a minority background. Each year, 300 students are awarded this scholarship. Learn more
8. The Gates Millennium Scholars Program Ethnicity Badge
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) Program helps minority students overcome financial barriers by providing tuition assistance. This program is open to undergraduates in any field of study and graduate students in science, public health, computer science, education, library science, or mathematics. Since 2010, the GMS Program has awarded $934,092,630 in scholarships, with an average award of $12,785. Learn more
9. Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship
The Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship offers students the chance to study or intern abroad, providing invaluable international experience. This scholarship has supported over 125,000 students in 145 countries. Its mission is to aid academically talented students who face financial challenges, helping them break cultural barriers and advance their careers through global exposure. Learn more
10. McKay Scholarship Need-Based Badge Location Badge
The McKay Scholarship, based in Florida, helps children with disabilities attend the school that best meets their needs. This program offers parents the flexibility to choose the most suitable public or private school for their child in grades K 12. During the 2016-2017 academic year, the McKay Scholarship assisted over 31,000 students in attending private schools. Learn more
11. Burger King Scholarship
The Burger King McLamore Foundation, established over a decade ago, has raised more than $35 million to support over 33,000 students. Founded by Burger King co-founder James W. McLamore, the foundation aims to help employees and their families pursue higher education. It serves students in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
12. Marshall Scholarship Community Badge Merit Badge
Established in 1954 with an initial cohort of 12 scholars, the Marshall Scholarship allows U.S. students to pursue graduate studies in the United Kingdom in any field. Today, the program awards scholarships to 40 students annually, encouraging them to become future U.S. ambassadors and leaders.
13. Dell Scholarship Need-Based Badge
Created by the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, the Dell Scholars program supports students who are often the first in their families to attend college. It offers tuition assistance, mentorship, and a network of high achievers. Scholars receive textbook credits, a laptop, and more. The program focuses on students from low-income households and provides comprehensive support to help them overcome challenges and succeed.
14. Bright Futures Scholarship Merit Badge Location Badge
The Bright Futures Scholarship offers tuition assistance to Florida high school graduates who demonstrate academic excellence. Eligibility requirements include a high school diploma, completed FAFSA, and enrollment in at least 6 non-remedial semester credit hours. The scholarship is valid for up to 5 years after high school graduation.
15. Rhodes Scholarship Community Badge Merit Badge
One of the oldest international scholarships, the Rhodes Scholarship, is named after British businessman and politician Cecil J. Rhodes. It offers full tuition to the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom for qualified U.S. and U.S. territory applicants. Each year, 32 students are selected based on academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community service.
16. Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Need Based Badge Merit Badge
Founded in 2000, the Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship provides financial assistance to students from the 8th grade through graduate school. Over the last 18 years, the scholarship has awarded $190 million to more than 2,400 students. In addition to financial resources, recipients receive guidance on how to continue navigating their academic careers.
17. T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Need-Based Badge
T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education and Compensation Helps) Early Childhood Scholarship Program assists early care educators with obtaining an Associate’s and /or Bachelor’s degree and other credentials in early childhood education. Funded by the Florida Office of Early Learning, T.E.A.C.H. collaborates with more than 60 universities, colleges, community-based training institutions, and vocational-technical schools. The program covers most tuition, as expenses are shared between the sponsoring child care center, the recipient, and T.E.A.C.H.
18. Horatio Alger Scholarship Community Badge Need Based Badge Merit Badge Location Badge
The Horatio Alger Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to high school students who have faced great obstacles but are still academic achievers. As one of the nation’s largest scholarship programs, the Horatio Alger Scholarship Program consists of over 70 unique scholarships divided into 4 categories – State Scholarships, Career & Technical Scholarships, Targeted Scholarships, and National Scholarships. Deadlines and qualification requirements will vary with each specific scholarship.
19. U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Merit Badge Location Badge
Founded in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is dedicated to honoring some of the nation’s academically advanced high school seniors. A few decades after the program began, the program directors assisted students who excelled in visual, creative, and performing arts and the technical fields. Each year, 161 high school students are awarded one of the nation’s highest honors, a Presidential Scholar.
20. Stars Scholarship Merit Badge Location Badge
The STARS Scholarship, originally named South Texas Academic Rising Scholars, began in 2002 with the vision to help educate the South and West Texas community. Since then, the scholarship has partnered with hundreds of businesses, colleges, and organizations to disburse over 30 million dollars to over 14,500 students. Qualifications are based on financial need, scholarship, and academic achievement.
21. Regents Scholarship Merit Badge Location Badge
The Regents Scholarship offers tuition assistance to students aiming to attend one of the universities within the University System of Maryland (USM). For over 33 years, the scholarship has provided more than $9.7 million to 271 students. Recipients are chosen based on academic achievements, SAT scores, and GPAs.
22. West Point Preparatory Scholarship Merit Badge Location Badge
The West Point Preparatory Scholarship Program (WPPSP) financially supports outstanding students aspiring to attend the United States Military Academy (USMA). Recipients, categorized as athletes or scholars/leaders, receive partial scholarships for one year at military junior colleges or preparatory schools. Awardees are typically strong candidates for acceptance into USMA.
23. The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Merit Badge
Named after the 33rd president of the United States, the Harry S. Truman Scholarship promotes education and political engagement. Each school can submit up to four nominations, resulting in over 600 applicants annually. The advisory board selects 55-65 scholars each year based on academic excellence, leadership skills, and community service.
24. The Barry Goldwater Scholarship Merit Badge
Established in 1986, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship honors Senator Barry Goldwater’s 56 years of service. It provides financial aid to college sophomores and juniors pursuing research careers in mathematics, engineering, and natural sciences. Nearly half of the recipients go on to earn PhDs in these fields. The foundation has supported thousands of scholars, many of whom have received prestigious awards like the Churchill Scholarship.
25. Posse Scholarship Merit Badge
Since its inception in 1989, the Posse Scholarship has awarded $1.2 million in scholarships, backed by prominent figures including Barack Obama. The program partners with 10 cities nationwide—Atlanta, the Bay Area, Boston, Chicago, D.C., Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, and New York—to provide financial assistance to academically outstanding students who are also leaders in their school communities.
26. Tennessee Hope Scholarship Need-Based Badge Merit Badge Location Badge
The Tennessee Hope Scholarship supports incoming freshmen in Tennessee who enroll in eligible public or private colleges and universities in the state. Available for both four-year and two-year institutions, the scholarship requires applicants to meet residency, SAT score, and GPA criteria.
27. Zell Miller Scholarship
The Zell Miller Scholarship provides tuition assistance to applicants interested in attending a qualifying secondary school in Georgia. Recipients have over 50 public, private and technical schools to choose from. Applicants must meet qualifying requirements, such as Georgia residency and U.S Citizenship.
28. Army ROTC Scholarships
Army ROTC scholarships are available both for high school and college students, as well as enlisted soldiers. However, these scholarships are based on your merits and grades, not your financial needs. Scholarship options include full-tuition, two to four-year degrees, room and board options, and books and fee allowances.
29. Critical Language Scholarship
The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) is ideal for students seeking financial assistance for language-based education. CLS is a part of the government’s vision to increase the number of Americans who speak foreign languages. Some of the key languages include Bangla, Korean, Punjabi, and Turkish.
30. Jackie Robinson Scholarship
The Jackie Robinson Foundation is designed to help support minority and underprivileged undergraduate students pursue their education and career goals. First and foremost, they provide their approved scholars with up to $30,000 in grants to be given over a four-year period. But they do so much more to assist in your success. JRF will also provide year-round workshops, webinars, and personal hands-on mentoring throughout your college career. And for those who are interested in graduate school and/or advanced professional training, JRF has a program specifically designed to help you out.
31. College Board Scholarships Community Badge Need-Based Badge Merit Badge
The College Board has introduced a unique approach to awarding scholarships, offering a series of six activities to complete. Each activity grants a specific amount of scholarship funding. Completing all six makes you eligible for a drawing to win $40,000 towards your education.
32. United Negro College Fund Community Badge Ethnicity Badge Merit Badge
As one of the largest private scholarship funds serving minorities, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) awards over $100 million in scholarships to more than 10,000 students annually. The program partners with 36 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and over 1,000 other schools nationwide. To qualify, applicants must be enrolled full-time at a UNCF member institution, demonstrate financial need, and have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
33. Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship Merit Badge Location Badge
The HOPE (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) Program, funded by the Georgia Lottery for Education, encompasses several scholarship programs, including the HOPE Scholarship, HOPE Grant, Zell Miller Scholarship, Zell Miller Grant, HOPE GED Grant, and HOPE Career Grant. Established in 1992, this initiative has helped over 1.8 million students pay for secondary education in Georgia.
34. Walmart Scholarship
The Walmart Scholarship provides tuition assistance to Walmart employees and their high school dependents. Eligible associates must be enrolled in Walmart’s Lifelong Learning Program through American Public University or pursuing higher education at a qualifying institution in the United States. The scholarship is available to employees who have worked with Walmart for at least six consecutive months.
35. Scholarships for Black Women Community Badge Merit Badge
Focused on supporting African-American women already enrolled in college, the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs Inc. offers the National Scholarship. Each year, five female African-American sophomores or juniors receive this award. In partnership with the United Negro College Fund, Time Warner Inc. grants its scholars up to $10,000.
36. Foot Locker Scholarship Community Badge Ethnicity Badge Merit Badge
The Foot Locker Scholarship provides high school students with $20,000 towards their college tuition. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, participate on a school or community team, and demonstrate community service. Additionally, one of the 20 recipients will receive an extra $5,000 from Foot Locker’s former Chairman and CEO Ken C. Hicks.
37. Boren Scholarship
An initiative of the National Security Education Program, Boren Scholarships offers tuition assistance to students seeking to study abroad in underrepresented countries and study less commonly taught languages (Ex. Africa, Asia, Central Europe, Latin America, Middle East). Applicants must show interest in working with the Federal National Security, as scholars must commit to working with the federal government for at least one year after graduation. Scholars can receive between $8,000 – $20,000.
38. Ronald McDonald’s Scholarship
Ronald McDonald House Charities is a non-profit organization that strives to provide children everywhere with improvements in health and well-being. They also offer a minimum of $1000 to selected candidates of the RMHC U.S. Scholarship each year to be used for tuition, books, supplies, and other education-related Local RMHC chapters select these winners.
Regional chapters of Ronald McDonald House Charities award a variety of scholarships to local graduating high school seniors.
39. Questbridge Scholarship
The Questbridge National College Match is a program that enables high-achieving low-income students to find full four-year scholarships and admission to partner colleges. These may be some of the best colleges in the nation, meaning the amount given to some students may be upwards of $200,000 for all four years. All students attending a U.S. high school are allowed to apply.
40. Elks Scholarship
The Elks National Foundation (ENF) offers four scholarships for those seeking financial support for post-secondary education. Most are available to Elk members or their children/grandchildren. The ENF also has a program meant specifically for medical students seeking certification. Local lodges and Elks’ associations may offer more scholarships as well.
41. NROTC Scholarships
The Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps offers several scholarships to those seeking higher education within the Navy or Marine Corps. The NROTC has a national scholarship, scholarships for two to three years as a Marine, nurse, or navy member, and a college program for those already attending college. Winning candidates will receive tuition assistance, living stipends, books, uniforms, and other fee help, and possible promotion within ranks upon graduation.
42. No Essay Scholarships
Niche offers the most popular no-essay scholarship. This scholarship awards students with $2000. There are no major eligibility requirements other than the application. This scholarship can be awarded to students of any major or degree type.
43. Google Scholarships
Google, one of the world’s most successful technology companies, offers funding opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in technology. Some of the Google Scholarships include the Women Techmakers Scholars Program, Google Europe Students with Disabilities Scholarship, and Google Lime Scholarship. Google also provides travel and conference grants to assist students with attending technology conferences across the country.
44. North Carolina Scholarships
A well sought-after scholarship specific to the state of North Carolina is the Cheatham-White Scholarship. This is awarded to 20 students each year for both North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University and North Carolina Central University, fully covering tuition, room and board, textbooks, student fees, travel, and personal expenses for up to four years. These students must be incoming freshmen into a bachelor’s degree program and have high marks in academics and extracurricular activities.
45. Academic Scholarships
ABA Academic Merit Scholarship is available to second-year university or college students with declared majors related to transportation or the travel/tourism industry. These students must also possess a high GPA and strong academic achievement. This scholarship is associated with the American Bus Association (ABA), so those with ABA memberships will be given greater consideration.
46. Gardiner Scholarship
The Gardiner Scholarship is awarded to children eligible to enroll in kindergarten through 12th grades in the state of Florida. These students must also have a diagnosed disability and an IEP filed with the State Board of Education. The amount awarded to such students is dependent on several factors, with the average being around $10,000. This can be used for tuition, specialized services and therapies, supplies, and college funding accounts.
47. Scholarship America
This organization focuses on raising funds each year for students who need financial assistance to reach their educational goals. They offer and help support 13,000 education assistance and scholarship programs worldwide for all students and degree types. Many of these are open to employees of sponsoring companies and their families, while others are open to anyone.
48. SMART Scholarship
The Department of Defense (DoD) funds the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) scholarship to raise the number of civilian engineers and scientists that work at DoD facilities. The awarded students must be pursuing technical degrees in STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). This scholarship will include full tuition and related fees, summer internships, health insurance, mentoring, supply allowances, and DoD employment placement after graduation.
49. Florida Scholarships Merit Badge Location Badge
The ABLE (Access to Better Learning and Education) Grant Program provides tuition assistance to undergraduate students in Florida who enroll in degree programs at private colleges or universities in the state. The award amount is set annually by the Legislature in the General Appropriations Act. Eligibility is determined by the postsecondary institution to which you apply.
50. Left-Handed Scholarships
One of the top scholarships for left-handed students is the Frederick and Mary F. Buckley Scholarship. Valued at $1,000 to $1,500 per year, this award is for high-achieving sophomores, juniors, and seniors at Juniata College, a small liberal arts school in Pennsylvania. Although the application asks if you are left-handed, right-handers have also been known to win.
51. Alabama Scholarships Need-Based Badge Merit Badge Location Badge
The CollegeCounts Scholarship Program in Alabama awards $4,000 to incoming first-time college freshmen to assist with their college education. Applicants must reside in Alabama and plan to enroll in an Alabama college or university. Eligibility is based on academic achievements and financial need.
52. South Carolina Scholarships Merit Badge Location Badge
The Palmetto Fellows Scholarship provides financial assistance to in-state high school students in South Carolina with excellent academic records. Funded by the state lottery, this scholarship offers up to $6,700 for the first college year and up to $7,500 for the remaining three years of post-secondary education in South Carolina.
53. Taco Bell Scholarship Community Badge
The Live Más Scholarship by Taco Bell is designed for creators, dreamers, and innovators. Eligibility is not based on grades, essays, or athletic abilities but on a student’s passion and innovative spirit to make a positive impact in their community. The scholarship fund distributes $1 million among new applicants, $2.5 million to renewals, and $750,000 to Taco Bell employees.
54. Athletic Scholarships Merit Badge
Athletic scholarships are awarded to thousands of students annually across various sports. These scholarships are provided by specific schools to attract skilled athletes or by professional leagues to promote sports. For example, the NCAA offers over $2.9 million in scholarships each year to about 150,000 students at Division I and II schools, often covering tuition, room and board, books, and other fees.
55. BYU Scholarships Need-Based Badge Merit Badge Location Badge
Brigham Young University offers a range of scholarships to students based on merit, academic achievements, and personal information. One of the most sought-after scholarships is the Russell M. Nelson Scholarship, which awards incoming freshmen 150% of LDS tuition for eight semesters.
56. Military Spouse Scholarships
Each branch of the U.S. Military offers some sort of assistance to spouses and family members of those enlisted. The Spouse Education Assistance Program provides financial support to army soldier spouses seeking undergraduate degrees. The Gold Star Scholarship Program is for spouses and dependent children of Navy and Marine personnel who were killed in the line of duty. The Joseph A. McAlinden Divers Scholarships are awarded to spouses of active duty Navy divers. (ASVAB Practice Tests)
57. Utah Scholarships Merit Badge Location Badge
Utah is the fastest growing state in the country, and with that growth comes a need for more students to attend college. The Utah New Century Scholarship helps resident students to earn an associate’s degree while still in high school. This scholarship can be used at any four-year public college or university in the state, as well as Brigham Young University and Westminster College. The amount of award varies.
58. Drake Scholarships Merit Badge Location Badge
At Drake University, about 98% of all undergraduate students receive financial aid. Drake offers several scholarships to first-year, transfer, and international students. Among those are Presidential Scholarships that range from $18,000 to $22,000 each year. Every Drake student is eligible and considered for this and other scholarships. All scholarships are renewable each year depending on GPA and academic standing.
59. Scholarships for International Students
Boro Scholarships are offered to all qualifying international students who are studying in the U.S. This scholarship is worth $2,000. Students from any U.S. college or university can apply, regardless of their major or degree type. The only requirement is that you live in the U.S. on an F1 visa to complete your studies.
65. MBA Scholarships
Accenture American Indian – Graduate Level Scholarships provide funding to qualified American Indian and Alaska Native students who are seeking a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). This awards Accenture Fellows two-year scholarships of $15,000 and Finalist Scholarships for two years of $5,000 each. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, leadership abilities, and your preservation of culture.
66. Latino Scholarships Community Badge Merit Badge
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund is offering the ALPFA scholarship for students of Hispanic and Latino descent seeking a business and/or finance degree. The award ranges from $2000 to $10,000 each. Students must be full-time college sophomores, juniors, or seniors at a four-year university or college and be members of the Association of Latino Professionals for America.
67. Engineering Scholarships Community Badge
The National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholarship is annually given to high school seniors and undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a career and higher education in on the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics). This can be used for any accredited college or university in the U.S. Eligible and winning students will be awarded $10,000 to assist in their college education.
68. Music Scholarships Merit Badge Location Badge
Wartburg College offers the Meistersinger Music Scholarship to talented music students each year. This scholarship award can be up to $5,000 annually for vocal, keyboard, and instrumental music students. Wartburg offers more than $500,000 in music scholarships each year.
69. NYU Scholarships Need-Based Badge Merit Badge Location Badge
One of the most generous scholarships awarded at New York University (NYU) is the AnBryce Scholarship. This is given to first generation incoming college students who possess high academic marks and have financial needs. This award completely covers tuition and is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study at NYU.
70. Courage to Grow Scholarship Need Based Badge Merit Badge
The Courage to Grow Scholarship was created to help students who dream of higher education make that a reality. This award can be for up to $500 and is given to determined students with a GPA of 2.5 or better on a scale of 4.0. Students must also be able to show courage and passion to live out their dreams.
Conclusion on Top Scholarships for College Students
Pursuing higher education can be financially challenging, but numerous scholarships are available to help students achieve their academic goals. This comprehensive list of top scholarships demonstrates the diverse range of opportunities for college students across various fields, backgrounds, and needs.
From merit-based awards to need-based grants, these scholarships cater to a wide array of students, including those pursuing specific majors, belonging to certain communities, or demonstrating outstanding achievements. Notable examples include the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, the Horatio Alger Scholarship for those who’ve overcome adversity, and the SMART Scholarship for STEM students.
Many of these scholarships provide financial support and offer additional benefits such as mentoring, internships, and networking opportunities. Some, like the Questbridge Scholarship, even provide full rides to top universities.
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