600+ Great STEM Scholarships You Can Apply for in 2023

STEM Scholarships

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. STEM Scholarships are a form of financial assistance and do not usually need to be repaid.

There are plenty of STEM-related jobs available but not enough qualified applicants to fill those jobs. In an effort to increase the number of qualified workers in the workforce, many companies, organizations, and foundations provide STEM scholarships to encourage students to pursue STEM majors. There are STEM Scholarships specifically to help women and underrepresented students succeed in these traditionally underrepresented disciplines. There is an increasing number of Stem Scholarships for Females and minority students.

STEM awards and scholarships range in value from $500-$15,000 or more. Students who apply for STEM Scholarships must be enrolled in a major or program related to the STEM fields. Some STEM scholarships may accept applicants in different majors such as business or literature and will have specific eligibility requirements and deadlines. You can find specific eligibility requirements on the scholarship providers website or application form.

Here are 20 general STEM Scholarships below you can apply for this year. Plus our guide to over 600 discipline-specific scholarships:

STEM Scholarships Guide

20 general STEM

150+ Sciences

200+ Technology

250+ Engineering

Mathematic scholarships

20 STEM Scholarships:

Aysen Tunca Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $2000
Deadline: March 15th
Eligibility: Open to female undergraduate students majoring in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) field, excelling in her studies, and demonstrating significant potential.
Url: https://www.spsnational.org/scholarships/tunca

MPower Women in STEM Scholarship
Amount: Up to $6000
Deadline: January 15th
Eligibility: 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.
Url: https://www.mpowerfinancing.com/scholarships/women-in-stem#womeninstem

RevPart 2023 STEM Scholarship
Amount: $250-$1000
Deadline: December 31st
Eligibility: Any student majoring in a STEM field that is attending an accredited college may apply.
Url: https://revpart.com/scholarship/

AfterCollege STEM Inclusion Scholarship
Amount: $500
Deadline: December 31st
Eligibility: Enrolled in STEM field. Underrepresented in their field of study. Underrepresented groups may be defined by: gender, race, ethnic background, disability, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, nationality and other non-visible differences. Minimum 3.0 GPA
Url: https://www.aftercollege.com/company/aftercollege-inc/10/scholarship/321/

American Water Inclusion and Diversity Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: January 10th
Eligibility: Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0+ and must be planning to enroll in full-time undergraduate study, pursuing a certificate or degree in a non-medical STEM or business-related field. Be female (any race) or underrepresented minority and be a resident of a qualifying state. Please see website for more details.
Url: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/american-water/

The Snapology Steam Studies Scholarship
Amount: $2500
Deadline: April 30th
Eligibility: (1) $2500 Scholarship awarded to female at the sole discretion of the review panel based on the response to essay question and an expressed interest in pursuing a STEAM Education
Url: https://www.snapology.com/scholarships

GMIS Scholarship
Amount: Up to $5000
Deadline: April 30th
Elligibility: National – Any graduating high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student, from a traditionally underserved or underrepresented group in science, technology, engineering, math or health.
Url: http://www.greatmindsinstem.org/scholarships/

MyBioSource Inc. Scholarship for STEM Majors
Amount: $1000
Deadline: June 30th
Eligibility: High School Seniors, Undergraduates, Graduates as well as international students can apply. Candidate must be enrolled as a freshman, undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited college or university for the Fall semester. Intended major in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics or related fields.
Url: https://www.mybiosource.com/scholarship-stem-majors

Battelle/NOGLSTP Out To Innovate Scholarships
Amount: $5000
Deadline: First Saturday of June
Eligibility: Successful completion of a minimum of two years of post-high school education at an accredited college or university. Maintenance of a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 for the entirety of college/university enrollment. A declared major in an accredited STEM or STEM-related teaching field. Be an active supporter of and participant in programs or organizations that promote LGBTQ inclusion and visibility. Students must be eligible for fall term registration and must not be under disciplinary sanction.
Url: https://noglstp.org/programs-projects/scholarships/

Atkins Foundation Scholarship for Women and Minorities in STEM
Amount: $2000
Deadline: March 31st, October 31st
Eligibility: The program is available to female students and students of African-American, Asian, Pacific Island, Native American, Native Alaskan, or Hispanic descent. A US citizen or permanent resident. A junior or senior, full-time, day-time student at an accredited and approved college or university.Enrolled in contiguous fall and spring semesters, carrying a minimum of 12 credits and earning a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) each semester.Working towards a baccalaureate degree in science, technology, engineering or math with at least 60 credits of college work prior to the submission of the application.
Url: https://careers.snclavalin.com/scholarship

HoshizakiIceMaker.com Supporting STEM Scholarship
Award: $1000
Deadline: June 30th
Eligibility: An applicant must: Be an undergraduate college student or high school senior. Have a cumulative minimum of 3.0 GPA. Maintain full-time enrollment of 12 credit hours or more per college term. Be a declared major in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematic field of study. Demonstrate passion for STEM subjects, strong moral character, and leadership ability. Reside in the U.S. attend a U.S. university, and be legally declared as a U.S. citizen.
Url: https://hoshizakiicemaker.com/stem-scholarship

Simform STEM Scholarship
Award: $1000
Deadline: March 15th
Eligibility: Open to U.S. permanent resident or residing U.S. resident or be stationed overseas due to active U.S. military duty. Pursuing a STEM field. Freshman or full-time student enrolled in their current university.
Url: https://www.simform.com/scholarship/

Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship
Award: $40,000
Deadline: January 20th
Eligibility: High school senior in the U.S. who is enrolled in or has completed a dual degree course where computer science, engineering or robotics is the subject.  Planning on majoring in STEM Field. Authorized to work in U.S. Minimum 2.3 GPA. Must demonstrate financial need. Please visit website for more details.
Url: https://www.amazonfutureengineer.com/scholarships

BHW Group STEM Scholarship
Award: $3000
Deadline: April 15th
Eligibility: Women who are pursuing an undergraduate degree or master’s degree and are majoring in science, technology, engineering, or math during the 2023 school year.
Url: https://thebhwgroup.com/scholarship

The Hubertus W.V. Willems Scholarship for Male Students
Award: Up to $3000 (20-40 available)
Deadline: May
Eligibility: awarded annually to a male, US citizen who attends an accredited institution in the United States and is majoring in one of the following fields: Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematical Sciences.
Url: http://www.poisefoundation.org/the-hubertus-wv-willems-scholarship-for-male-students

Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship
Award: $4000
Deadline: April 1st
Eligibility: 1. Applicant must be a full time undergraduate student enrolled in an accredited college that awards Bachelor of Science or Arts degrees. 2. Major must be Engineering, Math or Physical Sciences (e.g. Physics, Chemistry) or Science Fiction as Literature. 3. Open to residents of any country.
Url: http://www.heinleinsociety.org/scholarship-program/

The Science Ambassador Scholarship for Women in STEM
Award: Full Tuition
Deadline: December, Applications for the 2024 academic year open this fall.
Eligibility: The Science Ambassador Scholarship is a full tuition scholarship for a woman seeking an undergraduate degree in science, engineering, or math, funded by Cards Against Humanity.
Url: https://www.scienceambassadorscholarship.org/

Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship
Award: Up to $10,000
Deadline: March 17th
Eligibility: Open to women who are active, full-time undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited U.S., Canadian or Mexican college/university during the academic years that the scholarship is awarded, i.e., you must be enrolled in both the current and upcoming academic years. Are a freshman, sophomore, or junior who are majoring in or plan to major in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) fields. Identify as women. Have not been recipients in the past.
Url: https://www.palantir.com/careers/students/scholarship/wit-north-america/

The Development Fund for Black Students in Science and Technology (DFBSST)
Award: Up to $3000
Deadline: June 15th
Eligibility: African-American, undergraduate student majoring (or intending to major) in a technical field of study (i.e., engineering, math, science, etc.), Be enrolled (or identify his or her intention to enroll) at one of the predominantly Black colleges or universities listed below, and Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Url: http://www.dfbsstscholarship.org

The Dotcom-Monitor Women in Computing Scholarship $1,000 Annual Award
Award: $1000
Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: The Dotcom-Monitor Women in Computing Scholarship is open to female students currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate students at an accredited college or university in the U.S. or Canada for the 2022-2023 academic year. Applicants should have either already declared their major or have completed at least one academic year in computer science, computer engineering, or closely related technical field.
Url: https://www.loadview-testing.com/scholarship/

… More great STEM scholarships:

150+ Sciences scholarships

200+ Technology scholarships

250+ Engineering scholarships

Math scholarships

15 Scholarships with September Deadlines

**This page has been updated in September, 2021.**

Fall is here and for many of you who are returning to school or beginning college for the first time, it is an exciting but stressful time. We have compiled a list of 15 college scholarships with September deadlines to help you alleviate some of the financial burden associated with tuition and school expenses.

1. Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs Foundation Scholarships

Eligibility: Have a 2.5 GPA (or an 80 percent competency score) and be currently enrolled in or entering a certificate or degree program at a community, technical college, or trade school. Have a 3.0 GPA (or an 85 percent competency score) and be currently enrolled in or entering a university engineering program, or related field, to apply for an endowed scholarship. Submit an official high school or college transcript. Submit an on-line application.

Award: Up to $3500

Deadline:  March 31st and September 30th

Url: https://www.nutsandboltsfoundation.org/scholarships

2. Digital Responsibility Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

Eligibility: You must be a high school freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior or a current or entering college or graduate school student of any level. Home schooled students are also eligible. There is no age limit. You must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.

Award: $1000

Deadline: September 30

Url: http://www.digitalresponsibility.org/dont-text-and-drive-scholarship

3. JonesTshirts.com Scholarship

Eligibility: Open to any student who will be enrolled in a college or University at the time of the next deadline. This scholarship is limited to students attending school in the 50 U.S. states.

Award: $1000

Deadline: September 10th (Fall) January 10th (Winter)

Url: https://www.jonestshirts.com/pages/scholarship

4. The Cameron Impact Scholarship 

Eligibility: Scholarship is awarded annually to 10-15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service.

Award: Up to $50,000

Deadline: September 10th

Url: https://www.bryancameroneducationfoundation.org/

5. FitMyCar $1,000 ‘Next Generation’ Scholarship

Eligibility: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected both the outlooks and future prospects of many university students. Some have delayed their graduations due to canceled internships or workplace layoffs/furloughs, working students have lost jobs, and some cannot continue with their studies at all due to the downturn in finances. This scholarship is to ensure the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs are able to maintain expenses such as tuition fees, internet costs, counselling and mental health support, along with various other expenditures.

This scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students attending an accredited university or college within Australia or the United States.

Award: $1000

Deadline: September 21st

Url: https://www.fitmycar.com/au/scholarships

6. Black Winemaker Scholarship

Eligibility: The Black Winemakers Scholarship Program is a merit-based scholarship to support full-time, African American sophomores, juniors, seniors or graduate students (MS and/or Ph.D.) attending any U.S. accredited, four-year or graduate college or university during the fall of 2021.

Award: $5000

Deadline: September 23rd

Url: https://scholarships.uncf.org/Program/Details/daeffe0e-3c3c-46e5-8c28-3a838af9fb9b

7. Atlas Shrugged Scholarship 

Eligibility: Scholarship is open to high school seniors, college undergraduates, and graduate students worldwide. Applicant must submit an essay on a topic related to Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shurgged.

Award: Up to $10,000

Deadline: September 27th

Url: https://aynrand.org/students/essay-contests/#tab-5-2018

8. Courage to Grow Scholarship

Eligibility: Scholarship is open to juniors and seniors in high school and college students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Applicant must explain in 250 words or less why they believe they should be awarded the scholarship.

Award: $500

Deadline: September 30th

Url: https://couragetogrowscholarship.com/

9. The Skin Care Ox: Beauty + Wellness Scholarship for Women

Eligibility: Applicant must write essay on how dental health can contribute to the well-being of families and children demonstrates excellence. Must be enrolled in an accredited high school, college or university in the United States. Students must either be in the final year of high school, enrolled as an undergraduate, or a graduate student in an U.S accredited institution. Considered in academic Good Standing at current institution – i.e not on academic probation or suspension. Minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent).

Award: College Award is $1000 plus Organic Beauty Basket. The High School Award is $500 plus Organic Beauty Basket.

Fall Deadline: September 30th

Url: https://www.skincareox.com/scholarship/#scholarship-application

10. National CPR Foundation Healthcare and Education Scholarship Program

Eligibility: Scholarship is open to incoming and current college students who are at least 18 years of age and have a minimum GPA of 2.8. Applicant must be currently or planning to be enrolled in school majoring in a healthcare or education-related field.

Award: $500

Deadline: September 30th

Url: https://www.nationalcprfoundation.com/scholarship/

11. The Cirkled In “No Sweat” Scholarship

Eligibility: Applicant must be at least 13-years-old, U.S. Permanent Resident and currently enrolled in 8th – 12th grade in a school. Homeschool qualifies as well.

Award: $2500 Cash Award

Deadline: September 30th

Url: https://www.cirkledin.com/scholarships/

12. SkillPointe Foundation Scholarship

Eligibility: Scholarship is open to U.S. citizens of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia who are 16 years of age or older. Applicant must be pursuing non-credit courses at an approved community college, technical college, or other training institution.

Award: September 30th

Deadline: $1000

Url: https://www.myscholarship.app/skillpointefoundation

13. Angela and Reginal Goins Scholarship

Eligibility: Scholarship is open to full-time undergraduate students attending a four-year HBCU. Applicant must reside or be a permanent resident of New York City, Chicago or metro Detroit.

Award: $5000

Deadline: September 1st

Url: https://scholarships.uncf.org/Program/Details/bdb2af38-8a41-4f17-8591-3d7e6f1b6e94

14. Beldon Scholarship

Eligibility: Applicant must be seeking a degree in business, management, communications, marketing or related field. Have a minimum 3.5 GPA. Submit a 1,500-2,000 word essay entitled “BELDON® Scholarship.” Include their full name and .edu email address in essay document.

Award: $1000

Deadline: September 1st

Url: https://www.beldon.com/scholarship

15. MaxHome Scholarship

Eligibility: To be eligible, applicant must have a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA and submit a 1,000 – 1,500 word essay entitled “MaxHome Scholarship”. Student must be a U.S. undergrad in business, business management, advertising, marketing, or related fields.

Award: $1500

Deadline: September 1st

Url: https://www.maxhomenow.com/scholarship/

For additional scholarship opportunities, visit: https://www.collegeresourcenetwork.com

Good Luck! 🙂

20 College Scholarships…you probably haven’t heard of

We have compiled a list of 20 college scholarships for you to enjoy and hopefully win! While there are many other scholarships worth more money, we choose 20 award programs that should appeal to just about everyone. The awards are from $100-$5000 and are open to a wide range of students. Whether you are a high school senior, current undergraduate or graduate student, non-traditional student or international student, you should be able to find some good resources in this list. Good luck!

1. Study Soup Future Innovator Scholarship Program – Open to high school, undergraduate and graduate students.

2. The SwissGear.com Ultimate Backpack Scholarship – Open to incoming college freshman for the fall 2016 academic semester or a current undergraduate or graduate student that is enrolled by August 31, 2016 at any accredited two or four year college, university or institute.

3. The Family Rentals ‘Create Your Ideal Event’ Scholarship – The Family Rentals (Create Your Ideal Event) Scholarship is open to high school seniors and any student enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program by August 31, 2016 at any accredited U.S. college, university or institute.

4. The Stop-Painting.com Scholarship – Open to any student currently enrolled at an accredited college, university, or related technical program. All majors, programs of study, and class years are encouraged to apply.

5. Bant.io Scholarship Opportunity – Open to all students who are currently enrolled in a high school, college, university, or trade school, and who complete the scholarship application online at www.bant.io/scholarship/. Applicants must be enrolled (or enroll no later than the fall of 2016) in a college or university within the United States or United Kingdom.

6. Vol & Tier Digital Excellence in Entrepreneurship Scholarship – Toronto-based digital marketing company, Vol & Tier provides one $4,000 annual scholarship to an undergraduate student enrolled in an academic institution (College or University) with both a high level of business acumen and a strong entrepreneurial mindset. Applicants cannot be in their final year of study and must be enrolled full-time. The scholarship is limited to Canadian and U.S. residents only.

7. TikiLIVE Television Takeover Scholarship – The TikiLIVE “Television Takeover’’ Scholarship – Open to any student enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program by January 1, 2016 at any accredited U.S. college, university or institute.

8. The NOAH’S Event Venue Scholarship – is a merit-based scholarship program. Financial need is not considered in the selection of the scholarship recipient. Winners are selected based on the quality of their essay. It is open to all current students attending an accredited U.S. college or university.

9. SimpleTexting $1,000 College Scholarship – SimpleTexting is offering a $1,000 College Scholarship for a deserving high school senior or current college student. If you are currently enrolled in college or headed there in 2016-17 and want to win a $1000 college scholarship to help cover expenses, consider entering the SimpleTexting College Scholarship Contest.

10. Spreadsheet Sherpa Bi-Annual Scholarship – Offers a bi-yearly (February & July) $1,000 scholarship to individuals who are currently attending or planning to attend undergraduate or graduate school in the near future.

11. Giva’s Corporate Student Scholarship and Worldwide Community Ambassador Award – Open to anyone attending a college or university worldwide. This scholarship grant is aimed at assisting undergraduate or graduate students further their education as well as expand their social responsibility and community service footprint in the world. There is no specific course of study or major required.

12. JustJobs Scholarship – JustJobs Scholarship Program offers (1) $3000 scholarship per year. Applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergrad or graduate program at one of their registered schools in the US.  For a list of registered schools, visit: http://academy.justjobs.com/registered-schools/

13. The HotelsCheap Scholarship Program – is a need-based scholarship that rewards students who are looking to better themselves, who have goals and dreams, and who are committed to achieving a college degree. U.S. students who are 16 years of age or older are encouraged to apply. High school students, undergraduate students, master degree students, and adult learners are all encouraged to apply.

14. The Lang Antiques Fine Arts Scholarship – Open to any student enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program by September 1st at any accredited U.S. college, university or institute.

15. The Opportunity Influence of Social Media Scholarship – Open to any student enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program by September 1st at any accredited U.S. college, university or institute.

16. Simon Youth Community Scholarship Program – Must Be a high school senior attending school and living within 50 miles of the Simon® property associated with the application. For a list of Simon properties, visit: http://m.simon.com/malllist.aspx Applicant must be a legal U.S. resident. Plan to enroll full-time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational/technical school in Fall 2016. Demonstrate academic promise and financial need. Applicants will be evaluated based on academic promise, financial need, essay response, work experience and community/extracurricular involvement.

17. The Daily Steals ‘What’s Your Utensil Type?’ Scholarship – Open to any student enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program by January 1st, 2016 at any accredited U.S. college, university or institute.

18. The Urban Mattress Scholarship – The Urban Mattress Scholarship is a $2500 merit-based scholarship awarded once per year for students pursuing higher education with an emphasis on the social sciences, liberal arts, philanthropy, volunteer work, or any other related field. Urban Mattress locations are each locally owned and operated and we positively impact our communities by giving back 2% of each purchase to local non-profit groups. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a minimum GPA of 3.0 enrolled in or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university during application year.

19. Goedeker’s Appliances Annual College Book Scholarship – Goedeker’s is a St. Louis-based, family-oriented company that has been in operation since 1951. Any student that is enrolled in an accredited college is eligible to participate. This includes any grade level, freshman to senior; undergrad and graduate alike are eligible. Even if you are a transfer student, non-traditional student, studying abroad, or taking classes online, you can enter. Any major or field of study is acceptable.

High school seniors that are enrolled in an accredited college, either for a dual credit program or for the upcoming semester, are eligible to enter as well.

You must either be enrolled for the spring 2017 or registered for the fall 2017 semester. Being enrolled in summer classes does not make you eligible to enter.

20. The Diamond Herbs Scholarship Award – The $1000 scholarship aims to help students reach their education and career goals by assisting with the cost of tuition and books. Open to any student currently enrolled in school with a GPA of 3.0. To apply; the student must write an essay of the benefits of alternative medicine compared to pharmaceutical drugs.

We hope you found this list of 20 college scholarships helpful. For more great scholarships, visit our free scholarship database at www.collegeresourcenetwork.com

8 Tips to Help You Win Scholarships for College

I’m sure you have heard that there are thousands of college scholarships out there just waiting for applicants to apply. I am here to tell you that it is VERY TRUE and not just a myth. There are scholarships for everyone regardless of gender, age, race, religion or sexual orientation. Initially, applying for scholarships can seem intimidating but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you win scholarships for college.

 

1.  Check the Correct Deadline with the Scholarship Provider. Many times scholarship deadlines change or are incorrect on various search engines or list sources. It is always BEST to check with the ACTUAL provider first to make sure the scholarship is still being offered and to confirm the correct deadline and information.

2. Apply for as Many Scholarships as Possible. As long as you are eligible, you can apply for as many scholarships as you would like. There is no limit to the amount of scholarships you can apply for. The more scholarships you apply for, the more chances you will have to win. Note: Check with your financial aid office to see how scholarships will affect your overall financial aid package.

3. Apply to Smaller and/or Less Familiar Scholarships. It is true some scholarships are much more advertised and therefore much more competitive. If there are only 2 scholarships available at $1000 each and there are over 6000 applicants, your chances are very unlikely that you will get that scholarship. Not to say that it is impossible, just very unlikely. There are thousands and thousands of available scholarships with most not being highly advertised or even heard about.

4. Fully Complete Your Application and Submit ALL Required Documents. Any missing documents or information will most likely automatically disqualify you from the application process. Check off the requirement list and recheck before you send your application.

5. Make Sure the Mailing Address and Postage is Correct. It is best to contact the scholarship provider for the most current mailing address. Keep in mind some providers only accept online applications and prefer a certain format. If that is the case, make sure you have the correct contact person and e-mail. If mailing your scholarship application, check your local post office to make sure you have the correct postage. There is nothing more heart breaking than receiving a returned envelope with your application and missing a scholarship deadline because you didn’t have the correct postage.

6. Write a Winning Essayand Keep within the Word Requirements. Many scholarships require that you write an essay to be submitted along with your scholarship application. Keep within the word requirement guidelines and personalize your essay. If an essay requirement is 500-1000 words, stick within that range. Sometimes, the essay question is very direct and sometimes it is an open-ended question. Scholarship providers want to know why they should award YOU with the scholarship. It is always best to answer the question asked and put your best qualities out there. Provide evidence and examples such as leadership or volunteer experience.

7. Spell and Grammar Check Your Application. This is perhaps one of the most important and sometimes overlooked portions of the application process. Unfortunately, it doesn’t matter how great an application and essay you submit. If you have spelling and/or grammar errors, your application can be rejected. It is best to check several times and have a friend or family member look it over also. Spell check programs are great but not foolproof.

8. Submit a Neat and LEGIBLE Scholarship Application. Make sure your application is typed or neatly hand-written (check requirements). It is the neatness of your application that will initially impress the scholarship reviewers. If your scholarship application is messy or illegible then you may automatically be disqualified.

We hope these tips help you in your scholarship application process. Best of Luck to you!!

5 Anti-Bullying and Cyber-Bullying Scholarships for Students

Today is Spirit Day #spiritday and in support of LGBTQ Youth across the nation, we are highlighting 5 anti-bullying scholarships that students can apply for.  Here at College Resource Network (www.collegeresourcenetwork.com), we fully support diversity and the right for all people to exist. We consider ourselves an ally to the LGBTQ community and have created one the most extensive LGBTQ scholarship databases in the U.S.. In honor of Spirit Day, we would like to share 5 anti-bullying scholarships.

1. The Brand UR Anti-Bullying Scholarship

Open to high school students who stand up against bullying.

  • Award: Varies
  • Number of Awards: Varies
  • Deadline: Contact
  • Contact: The Brand UR Scholarship Committee C/O Jodi LaFountain CEO P.O. Box 20 Carver, Massachusetts 02330 www.thebrandur.com

2. Ambercrombie and Fitch Anti-Bullying Scholarship

Open to outstanding students who have academically persevered while experiencing bullying and to those who have led anti-bullying efforts in their schools and communities. Eligibility requirements include high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants may be from the U.S. or international.

  • Award: Varies
  • Number of Awards: Varies
  • Deadline: February 1
  • Contact: A&F Anti-Bully Scholarship NSHSS Foundation 1936 N. Druid Hills Road Atlanta, GA 30319 USA E-mail: [email protected] Website:www.nshssfounation.org

3. The Carl Joseph Walker- Hoover Foundation Anti-Bullying Scholarship

Open to outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated efforts to combat bullying in their schools and communities.

  • Award: $500-$1000
  • Number of Awards: Varies
  • Deadline: February 28
  • Contact:  P.O. Box 4316 Springfield, MA 01101 Phone: 413-219-3118 E-mail:  [email protected] Website: www.carljoseph.org

4. Chely Wright “Like Me” Scholarship

Open to graduating high school seniors who can show that they have actively advocated for LGBT issues, such as respect and inclusion for LGBT youth, community service at an LGBT resource, involvement and/or attendance of LGBT events, working against teen bullying or teen suicide, and any other activities that improve the condition of the LGBT community and/or improve cultural conditions for LGBT youth. This list serves as examples only, and each student’s personal, individual advocacy will be different.

5. Megan Meier Memorial Scholarship Against Bullying and Cyber-Bullying

Must be  enrolled as a full time student, either within his or her high school.Currently possess senior status as determined by his or her school for one academic year. Minimum 2.5GPA. Obtain a written recommendation from member of the faculty or staff at the school in which he or she is enrolled. This recommendation is to serve as validation that the applicants’ words and actions promote an environment of acceptance and tolerance of differences within the school community.

  • Award: Varies
  • Number of Awards: Varies
  • Deadline: November 7
  • Contact:  Phone: 636.757.3501  
[email protected]

Great High School Scholarships with January and February Deadlines

High school students looking for ways to help ease the financial burden of college tuition and expenses can apply for these great scholarships and awards with January and February deadlines. To find hundreds of other similar scholarships, visit our free and easy to use scholarship search engine, College Resource Network (www.collegeresourcenetwork.com).

JFK Profile in Courage Essay Contest
Description: The Profile in Courage Essay Contest invites United States high school students to consider the concept of political courage by writing an essay on a U.S. elected official who has chosen to do what is right, rather than what is expedient.

  • Award: Up to $10,000
  • Number of Awards: 7
  • Deadline: January 6
  • Website: www.jfklibrary.org

GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship
Description: Open to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate exemplary leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship at school, at home, at the workplace, and within the community.

Burger King Scholars Program
Description:  Open to graduating high school seniors who plan to enroll in an accredited two-year or four-year college, university or vocational/technical school by the fall term. Students do not have to work at Burger King to apply.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Description: Open to African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American or Hispanic American students who plan to enroll full-time in a two-year or four-year college or university program in 2014. The scholarship is renewable and may be used in the freshman, sophomore, junior, senior or graduate years. Sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The Princeton Prize in Race Relations
Description: To recognize, support and encourage the young people who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the cause of positive race relations. Must be currently enrolled in grades 9 through 12 and have been actively involved in a volunteer activity in the past 12 months that has had a significant impact on race relations in his or her school or community.

Abercrombie and Fitch Anti-Bullying Scholarship
Description: Abercrombie & Fitch is launching an ongoing college scholarships program for outstanding students who have academically persevered while experiencing bullying and for those who have led anti-bullying efforts in their schools and communities. Eligibility requirements include high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants may be from the U.S. or international.

Al Neuharth Free Spirit Scholarship
Description: Open to high school seniors who demonstrate the qualities of a free spirit. Must be committed to pursuing a career in journalism.

Courageous Persuaders Scholarship
Description: High School students in grades 9-12 are encouraged to use their creative talents to create 30-second television commercials that stress the message of the dangers of underage drinking, while middle school classrooms judge and determine the scholarship winners.

AFA Teens for Alzheimer’s Awareness Scholarship
Description: Open to high school seniors. Must submit essay on how Alzheimer’s has affected family and/or community.

  • Award: Up to $5000
  • Number of Awards: 10
  • Deadline: February 15
  • Website:  www.afateens.org

The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship
Description: Open to high school students who promote vegetarianism (no meat, fish or fowl) in their schools or communities. Must be U.S. citizen to apply.

  • Award: $5000
  • Number of Awards: 2
  • Deadline: February 20
  • Website: www.vrg.org

For more scholarship opportunities:

Mental Health Scholarships: Where Are They?

mental health scholarships

As an owner of a scholarship search engine, I have spent a lot of time researching available scholarships over the past 4-5 years. I have found a multitude of college scholarships available to just about everyone. Our scholarship search engine, College Resource Network (collegeresourcenetwork.com) focuses on providing scholarships to minority and disadvantaged students.

Of all the scholarships I have researched, I have found the least amount available to the mentally ill and their families. This has been both alarming and disheartening given the staggering number of mentally ill adults (and children) in the United States.The National Institute of Mental Health reports that one in four adults-approximately 61.5 million Americans-experience a mental health disorder in a given year. One in 17−about 13.6 million−live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder. Approximately 20 percent of youth ages 13 to 18 experience severe mental disorders in a given year. For ages 8 to 15, the estimate is 13 percent.

Why is it important to provide mentally ill students and their families with scholarship money for college?

People who have been diagnosed with a mental illness whether it is depression, bi-polar disorder, manic depression or schizophrenia have to deal with obstacles many others cannot understand unless they have gone through it themselves. Society labels and rejects people with mental illness and makes it harder for them to function in day-to-day life and become accepted members of society. Many times, it is a daily struggle for survival.

Progress does not follow the same linear fashion as it may for the average college student. It may take longer and many more attempts to complete a college class or a degree program. The value of education and enrichment is invaluable for someone who is facing or has been through mental illness. It can offer a sense of self-esteem and accomplishment which can help one overcome his inner battle or at least contribute to their sense of well-being.

I have seen first-hand what mental illness can do to those who suffer from it on a daily basis and the effects it has on the family members who love them. Both my sister and my mother suffered from mental illness for most of their lives. My mother has been severely depressed for as long as I can remember. My sister Annette was diagnosed with Schizophrenia at the age of 16 and was in and out of mental hospitals until her untimely death at the age of 26.

For her, she struggled immensely with so many of the issues that people with mental illnesses face: medication side effects, stigma and labels, finding work, living independently. She graduated high school later than her peers due to her struggles but she found solace in taking classes at a local community college. It gave her a sense of pride and enrichment although she had to work so much harder than her classmates. By providing scholarships to mentally ill students and their families, it can enrich and empower them as they are often overlooked by the rest of society.

Scholarships for the mentally ill can help ease the financial burden associated with college expenses and provide much-needed support and encouragement. In the end, it ends up benefiting society as a whole by helping to prevent the mentally ill from living on the streets or in jails and falling through the cracks of a faulty mental health system. Scholarships can give opportunities for enrichment and a greater chance of success in not only life but in the personal struggle with self that all persons with mental illness face.

Some of the scholarships I have found for people suffering from mental illness are:

Jerry Greenspan Student Voice of Mental Health Award
Amount: $3000 cash award, Recognition on The Jed Foundation’s website, a trip to New York to attend JED’s Annual Gala.
Deadline: February 24th
Eligibility/About: an annual award honoring a student who is reducing prejudice around mental illness, raising awareness of mental health issues on campus, and encouraging help-seeking among their peers. It was established in 2008 through a contribution made by Carol Ullman and the late Joseph Greenspan, in memory of their son, Jerry Greenspan. This award is designed to encourage dialogue about mental health on campuses, reduce prejudice around emotional disorders, and raise visibility of the outstanding students who are tackling these issues at schools across the country.
Url: https://www.jedfoundation.org/student-voice-award/

JC Runyon Foundation General Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline: March 5th
Eligibility/About: Open to undergraduate students with behavioral health disorders including but not limited to depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, emotional and PTSD. Must have completed an In-Patient program in a facility, hospital, unit, or wing dedicated to behavioral health (psychiatric, substance abuse, eating or similar) treatment. Must be admitted to a college, university or trade school (note if you have not decided or are awaiting admission confirmation, please indicate on your application).
Url: https://jcrunyonfoundation.org/apply-now

Jared Monroe Foundation Scholarships for Students with Bi-Polar Disorder 
Amount: $500-$2300
Deadline: May 1st
Eligibility/About: The Foundation Pools donors’ contributions and awards scholarships to students with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder who are currently in treatment. The students may be graduating high school seniors, or freshmen, sophomores or juniors attending college. These awards can be used toward tuition, fees, books, and room & board.
Url: http://jaredmonroefoundation.org/scholarshipapplication/

Buckfire P.C., Disability Scholarship
Amount: $1000
Deadline: October 1st
Eligibility/About: For those with mental or psychiatric disorders including depression but also applicable to people with other disabilities or medical conditions.
Url: https://buckfirelaw.com/scholarships/disability/

Baer Reintegration Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline: January 17th
Eligibility: Scholarships available to U.S. students suffering from bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder.
Url: https://www.reintegration.com

Tips on finding additional scholarships:

Check with your local mental health organizations which may provide grants or scholarships for college.
Check memorial scholarships for mental illness, many times it is the families who will start a scholarship fund to benefit those with a mental illness

Check disabled scholarships. Sometimes organizations may offer scholarships to individuals with a mental or physical disadvantage. Contact the sponsoring organization and check with them about eligibility requirements.

Search scholarship search engines such as collegeresourcenetwork.com or fastweb.com.

Hopefully, there will be many more scholarship opportunities in the future to bring both awareness and support to mentally ill students and their families.
If you or a loved one are facing a mental illness, you are not alone. Seek support from a mental health organization such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness: Helpline: (800) 950-6264<
Helpful links to help find health care providers and treatment:

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help/index.shtml

For a comprehensive list of mental health associations and resources, visit Nami.org

Additional Community Resources:

Reach Out – An excellent resource with fact sheets written on topics such as depression, anxiety, family relationships, self-harm, substance and alcohol abuse, romance, LGBTQ issues, loss and grief, suicide and eating issues. Reachout fact sheets are written by young people for young people and are edited by mental health professionals. There are also real stories of people coping with difficult and painful experiences. Learn how to reach out for help or help someone you love by visiting the Get Help section. You can also visit the forum section of the website. Like the rest of ReachOut.com, the forums are a safe, anonymous online space where teens and young adults can go for immediate support and information free of judgment. 

The Trevor Project Program and Resources – The Trevor Project offers accredited life-saving, life-affirming programs and services to LGBTQ youth that create safe, accepting and inclusive environments over the phone, online and through text.

HelpGuide.org – An excellent guide and resource for a variety of mental health issues including post-traumatic stress disorder, emotional health, caregiving resources and support, depression, suicide prevention, grief and loss, stress, addictions, family and relationship issues, teen issues and more.

Love Our Children U.S.A. – Provides an excellent list of emergency toll-free hotlines. They are mostly focused on children and teens but there are also hotlines for adults. There are organizations and help hotlines for those suffering from child abuse, drug abuse, rape, alcohol addiction, eating disorders, domestic violence, dating violence, cutting and self-mutilation.

Additional Resources 

Supporting College and University Students with Invisible Disabilities: A Guide for Faculty and Staff Working with Students with Autism, AD/HD, …Disorders, Anxiety, and Mental Illness by Christy Oslund – “Students with invisible disabilities are often academically talented but struggle with certain aspects of higher education such as keeping track of appointments or maintaining concentration in lecture halls. By providing detailed information on a range of disabilities including autism, AD/HD, dyslexia, OCD, and affective disorders, this book facilitates a better understanding of the unique needs of these students and what their strengths and limitations may be.”  Recommended reading material for university professors, faculty, counsellors or anyone wanting an in-depth guide book on mental illness. On Amazon.com  Also, available on Kindle.

Jed Foundation Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: What Can Parents Do?  –  contains some helpful advice and mental health resources for parents with college-age students. Outlines ways parents can communicate with their son or daughter and offer support.

http://jedfoundation.org/assets/Programs/Program_downloads/parentsguide.pdf

College of the Overwhelmed: The Campus Mental Health Crisis and What to Do About It by Richard Kadison – “Written for parents, students, college counselors, and administrators, College of the Overwhelmed is a landmark book that explores the stressors that cause so many college students to suffer psychological problems. The book is filled with insights and stories about the current mental health crisis on our nation’s campuses and offers:

A hands-on guide for helping students overcome stress and succeed in a college environment.

An examination of the effects of such commonplace stress factors such as: identity development, relationships, sexuality, roommate problems, academic pressures, extracurricular demands, parental expectations, and racial and cultural differences that affect self-worth.

Personal stories of students under stress and describes how they overcame a variety of problems.

The warning signs and symptoms of common problems, including depression, sleep disorders, substance abuse, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, impulsive behaviors, and suicide.”  Available on Amazon.com