scholarships for high school seniors 2023 no essay

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100 Great College Scholarships for High School Seniors – 2024

June 25, 2024

Our list of the 100 best college scholarships for high school seniors is intended to guide you toward a wide range of opportunities in the world of private scholarships. These include no essay scholarships as well as offerings for those pursuing specific majors like nursing or education as well as members of minority groups.

At the same time, we want to remind all prospective college students not to spend an excessive amount of time in pursuit of private scholarships, particularly at the expense of more fruitful avenues. In one recent year roughly $234 billion in total student aid was awarded to undergraduate students. The overwhelming majority of student aid comes from the federal government and institutional aid from colleges and universities is the second largest source, accounting for $71 billion; state governments give just $12 billion of total aid. Only 7% of the total aid handed out comes in the form of employer and private scholarships, a number that doesn’t quite support all of the hype

Focus on Merit Aid Directly from Colleges

In an effort to boost attendance and meet enrollment targets, many colleges have devoted an increasing share of their budgets to attracting desirable students via the offering of merit-based (i.e., non-need-based) financial aid. Using merit scholarships to lure high-achieving or high-scoring students can improve a college’s ranking and eventually its desirability, ultimately fueling enrollment. And because “high-achieving” and “desirable” are relative terms, students don’t have to be academic superstars to earn merit money. A number of reputable schools now offer sizable merit awards to “B” students.

Don’t Forget to Fill Out a FAFSA/CSS Profile

For those with significant financial need, the federal government continues to be the largest source of student aid. Each year, roughly 40 billion dollars, money that comes in the form of Pell Grants, work-study programs, and educational tax breaks is awarded to families. Additionally, the feds loan out close to 85 billion with a far more favorable terms than private lenders. That’s over 125 billion dollars handed out each year for higher education, a sum greater than the Gross National Product of all but 58 countries in the world. The bottom line is that there is a substantial amount of federal money available, so filling out a FAFSA is certainly worth your time.

100 Best College Scholarships for High School Seniors – 2024

No essay scholarships.

Looking for scholarships that you can apply for in less time than it takes to brush your teeth? Here are some legitimate entities that offer regular no essay scholarships that allow real students to take home cash for college.

1) Niche No Essay Scholarship

Niche is giving one student $2,000 to put toward tuition, housing, books or other college expenses — no essay required.

• Value: $2,000

2) Scholarships 360 No Essay Scholarship

The Scholarships 360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education.

• Value: $10,000

3) Sallie Mae Scholarship

Takes less than 2 minutes to enter. New winners drawn monthly.

College Scholarships for High School Seniors (Continued)

4) collegexpress no essay scholarship.

Those with an account on this site are automatically entered to win.

5) Be Bold No Essay Scholarship

The scholarship will be awarded to the student whose profile is most bold, according to these characteristics. Earnest, Determined, and Moving.

• Value: $25,000

6) Scholarship Owl No Essay Scholarship

50 winners per year. You’ll need to sign up for an account. 1/140,000 chance of winning.

• Value: $1,000

7) CollegeVine No Essay Scholarship

All students enrolled in high school or looking to attend college next year who apply by the deadline will qualify for the scholarship. The winner of the scholarship will be chosen based on a lottery system and notified via email.

8) US Bank Scholarship

Complete free, in-app lessons about personal finance topics. The more modules you finish, the more scholarship money you could win.

• Value: $20,000

9) Unigo No Essay Scholarship

This $10,000 Unigo Scholarship is open to any applicant who is 14 years of age or older and is a legal resident of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia.

10) College Board No Essay Scholarship

The $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is available to students who are seeking a postsecondary education, including returning adult learners. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are welcome to apply.

Merit-Based Scholarships – College Scholarships for High School Seniors

11) coca-cola scholarship .

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to students in their final year of high school. Students are recognized for their capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities. Visit our blog on How to Win a Coca-Cola Scholarship for more details. 150 Students are selected for a $20,000 award per year.

12) Equitable Excellence Scholarship

Equitable will provide 100 $5,000 annual scholarships that will be renewed to award recipients each academic year for four years, for a total of $20,000 per recipient.

13) Davidson Fellows Scholarship

We award $50,000, $25,000 and $10,000 scholarships to gifted and high-achieving students, 18 years old or under, who have completed a significant piece of work.

• Value: $10,000-$25,000

14) National Honor Society Scholarship

Each year, scholarship recipients are selected based on their demonstration of the four pillars of NHS: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character.

• Value: $3,200-$25,000

15) The Elks Foundation – Most Valuable Student 

The Elks National Foundation will award 500 four-year scholarships to the highest-rated applicants in the 2025 competition.

• Value: $1,000-$7,000

16) The Gates Scholarship 

This prestigious scholarship program is based on evidence that by eliminating the financial barriers to college, a last-dollar scholarship can enable high-potential, low-income minority students to excel in their coursework, graduate college, and continue to be leaders throughout their lives.

• Value: Full Cost of Attendance

17) Burger King Scholars Program

Offers a track for the general public as well as employees.

• Value: $1,000-$50,000

18) QuestBridge Match Scholarship 

Dream  big  and apply for full four-year scholarships to over 50 top colleges through QuestBridge.

• Value: Over $325,000

19) Cameron Impact Scholarship 

The Cameron Impact Scholarship is a four-year, full-tuition, impact-driven undergraduate scholarship awarded annually to 10-15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, community service, extracurricular activities, and academics.

20) Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program

Open to students who intend to pursue research careers in the natural sciences, mathematics and engineering.

• Value: Up to $55,000

Scholarships for African American Students – College Scholarships for High School Seniors

21) hbcu sustainable communities initiative scholarship.

Scholarship applications are open to students from eligible HBCUs majoring in STEM, business, and sustainability-related disciplines.

• Value: $5,000 (renewable)

22) APA Foundation Diversity Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded annually to students intending to pursue careers as practicing planners who will diversify the profession and who can demonstrate a genuine financial need.

• Value: $5,000

23) Lee Aca Thompson Performing Arts Scholarship

Any BIPOC undergraduate or graduate student who is pursuing the performing arts may apply for this scholarship.

24) HM Family Scholarship

This scholarship seeks to support ambitious BIPOC students who are exploring educational and professional STEM opportunities.

25) Endeavor Design Scholarship

The Endeavor Design Scholarship is offered in support of creating racial equity in the fields of Sportswear/Active Apparel Design, Fashion Apparel/Accessories Design & Footwear Design.

• Value: $1,865

26) Jerzee Foundation Scholarship

Any African American high school senior or undergraduate student with a minimum 2.5 GPA who is attending or will attend an HBCU may apply for this scholarship.

27) PlayStation Career Pathways Scholarship

PlayStation Career Pathways is a multi-year career readiness program that elevates the next generation of business, creative and technical talent, bridges the opportunity gap, and removes financial barriers to higher education. Pathways Scholars get access to scholarships, mentorships and insider gaming industry expertise.

• Value: Up to $30,000

28) CATALYSTS Scholarship

Black/African American undergraduate students are eligible to apply if they have a GPA of 2.8 or higher and have internship or work experience regarding social impact.

29) Anderson Engineering Scholarship

Any BIPOC undergraduate student who is pursuing engineering may apply for this scholarship opportunity, but applicants who are enrolled in co-op engineering programs are preferred.

• Value: $7,000

30) ESOF Scholarship

This scholarship seeks to support minority students who need monetary support to pursue higher education at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

• Value: $1,500

Scholarships for Hispanic Students – College Scholarships for High School Seniors

31) overcoming adversity carino scholarship.

Any Latinx high school senior student from the state of Washington who has a history of overcoming adversity may apply.

32) Futbol is Life Scholarship 

This scholarship seeks to celebrate and reward exceptional Hispanic students who exhibit outstanding academic performance and actively participate in a competitive soccer team.

• Value: $4,000

33) The Alliance/Merck Ciencia (Science) Hispanic Scholars Program

Open to students of Hispanic heritage who are seniors attending a high school in Brownsville, TX; Elizabeth, NJ; or Los Angeles, CA.

• Value: $2,000-$42,000

34) Se Vale Sonar Scholarship

This scholarship is to help and encourage first-generation, Latino/a, low-income high school students with academic success in pursuing a higher education.

35) Barreir Opportunity Scholarship 

Any high school senior or undergraduate student of Hispanic heritage who is from a single-parent, low-income household and displays academic potential and commitment to community service may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

36) Cybersecurity & The Latinx Community Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support Latinx students who are pursuing higher education in cybersecurity.

37) Hispanic Climb to Success Scholarship 

This scholarship is specifically designed to provide support to low-income Hispanic and Latinx students in New York,

38) El Café Del Futuro Scholarship

Each year, they offer multiple $5,000 scholarships to college students at institutions that are members of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).

39) Prospanica Foundation Scholarships

Prospanica is proud to offer a select number of scholarships for qualified undergraduate and graduate business students committed to making a positive change through their contributions to society.

• Value: Up to $5,000

40) Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards

Open to Latino high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community and for their excellence in various categories including: Business & Entrepreneurship, Community Service, Education, Healthcare & Science, Media & Entertainment, and Technology & Engineering.

• Value: $3,500

Scholarships for First-Generation Students – College Scholarships for High School Seniors

41) ifsa first generation college student scholarship.

Designed to give first-generation college students a chance to benefit from the life-changing experience of studying abroad.

• Value: $2,500

42) Dorrance Scholarship

The Dorrance Scholarship is a need-based award that aims to instill college-going traditions in future generations of Arizona families.

• Value: $12,000

43) I’m First! Scholarship

Students must demonstrate financial need and also show a strong interest in their communities through volunteer work.

• Value:$2,000

44) NFA First Generation in College Scholarship

The First Generation in College Scholarship is a merit-based, one-time monetary award granted to a flutist currently enrolled in or accepted to attend an accredited college, university or conservatory in the United States.

45) Golden Door Scholars Program 

Golden Door Scholars provides DACAmented & undocumented students with the financial aid and support needed to invest in their education and define their futures.

• Value: $40,000

46) StudySoup First in Family Scholarship

The winning student will be able to clearly demonstrate leadership qualities, commitment to their education, and a capacity to triumph over challenges.

47) UNCF Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship

The Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship is available to students who are the first in their family to attend a 4-year college or university.

48) Florida FGMG

Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution.

• Value: Varies

49) Sallie Mae and Hispanic College Fund First in My Family Scholarship

Applicants must be Hispanic and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States. They need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be an undergraduate attending school full-time in the United States or Puerto Rico.

• Value: $500-$5,000

50) Smith Scholarship Foundation

Applicants must be Alabama residents who are graduating high school seniors, have a minimum 2.3 GPA, and have taken or plan to take the SAT or ACT.

Scholarships for Women in Stem – College Scholarships for High School Seniors

51) engineering and technical science achievement scholarship.

Engineering and Technical Science Achievement Scholarship provides financial assistance to women who are working on an undergraduate degree in a field of engineering or technical science are eligible to apply.

• Value: Awards Vary

52) Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship

They hope to encourage women to pursue computer science, engineering, and technical studies, and to become leaders in these fields.

53) Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship

The “Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship” is dedicated to a female candidate majoring in engineering, math, or biological or physical sciences.

54) BHW Women in STEM Scholarship

Women who are pursuing an undergraduate or master’s degree and are majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

• Value: $3,000

55) Women at Microsoft Scholarship

The Women at Microsoft Scholarship is dedicated to supporting high school senior women and non-binary individuals who are targeting a career in STEAM fields.

56) Aysen Tunca Memorial Scholarship

Awarded to a female undergraduate student majoring in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) field, excelling in her studies, and demonstrating significant potential.

57) UPS Scholarship for Female Students

58) michigan council of women in technology undergraduate scholarship.

Our scholarship program encourages talented female students (high school seniors and current college/university students) to continue their higher education and ultimately help Michigan become the No. 1 state for girls and women in technology.

• Value: $1,000-$5,000

59) Learner Education Women in Mathematics Scholarship

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate mathematics or related fields degree program at a 4-year, 2-year, vocational, or technical institution in the United States OR a graduating high school senior who has plans to study mathematics or related fields.

60) SNC Women in STEM Scholarship

This scholarship program is designed to encourage women to pursue careers in currently underrepresented fields and industries.

• Value: $7,500

Scholarships for Native American Students – College Scholarships for High School Seniors

61) cherokee nation higher education scholarships.

Cherokee Nation scholarships are available for eligible tribal citizens residing within the Cherokee Nation reservation and contiguous boundaries or citizens who are eligible for the Pell grant and live outside those areas. Eligible high school juniors and seniors may also qualify for concurrent college classes.

• Value: Awards vary.

62) Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program

Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program provides postsecondary financial assistance to eligible Minnesota resident students who demonstrate financial need for an award.

63) Chickasaw Nation Scholarships

This program provides a wide variety of higher education grants, scholarships and incentives to Chickasaw college students each semester.

• Value: Up to $4,500

64) Hopi Tribe Grants and Scholarships Program

Their goal is to provide quality services to the Hopi people by enhancing a full range of educational opportunities.

65) Catching the Dream Program

Catching the Dream has three separate scholarship programs, the MESBEC, NALE, and TBM program.

66) American Indian College Fund Scholarship

The American Indian College Fund has a close relationship with the  35 accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU) . Students attending TCUs are eligible for all the different merit-based scholarship programs we offer.

• Value: $2,000-$3,000

67) Cobell Scholarship Program

Providing elevated opportunities for high achieving, community involved Native college students with leadership experience through empowering them with an impactful scholarship experience designed to support their success in higher education.

• Value: Up to $6,000

68) Ke Ali’I Pauahi Foundation

Many awards may be determined based on merit, while some are restricted for students who demonstrate financial need or for students applying from specific geographic regions.

69) Association on American Indian Affairs Scholarships

Be enrolled with your respective Tribe, either federally recognized or non-federally recognized Native Nation, from the continental US or Alaska and possess a minimum GPA of 2.5.

70) American Indian Services Scholarships

The AIS Scholarship program is to help  undergraduate Native American students  with financial support to attend college, maintain enrollment, and graduate.

Scholarships for High School Seniors – Education Majors

70) teach grant.

The TEACH Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 a year to students who are completing or plan to complete coursework needed to begin a career in teaching.

71) Epsilon Sigma Alpha Scholarship

The ESA Foundation has awarded  more than $3 million  in scholarships and continues to award numerous scholarships annually. You  do not have to be an ESA member to apply for a scholarship, and our application process is 100% online.

72) James F. Reville Scholarship

The James F. Reville Scholarship is presented to an individual who intends to pursue a career related to the field of intellectual or other developmental disabilities such as behavioral sciences, social work, nursing, healthcare administration and management or psychology.

• Value:$3,000

73) Early Childhood Educators Scholarship Program

The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Pennsylvania Scholarship Program offers early learning professionals a debt-free higher education, supporting them while they work to become stronger teachers and earn thriving wages.

• Value: Up to $4,500 per semester

74) Mrs. Prindables Future Educator Scholarship

Open to any incoming freshman or current student majoring in education.

75) Underwood-Smith Teacher Scholarship

The Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program is a competitive scholarship for recent high school graduates with a passion for teaching and a history of high academic achievement, community service, and active involvement in extracurricular activities while in high school.

• Value: $10,000 (renewable)

76) Middle Class Scholarship

The Middle Class Scholarship is for undergraduates and students in California pursuing a teaching credential with family income and assets up to $217,000.

77) Barbara Lotze Scholarship for Future Physics Teachers

The AAPT Board of Directors offers scholarships for future high school physics teachers. Undergraduate students enrolled, or planning to enroll, in physics teacher preparation curricula and high school seniors entering such programs are eligible.

78) Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship

The Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship provides high-achieving high school and college students interested in pursuing a career in education the opportunity to earn a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 each year for four academic years. In exchange, students agree to teach for five years at an eligible Indiana school or repay the corresponding, prorated amount of the scholarship.

• Value: $10,000 (renewable each year)

79) Teacher Education Scholarships

Every year, the American Montessori Society awards teacher education scholarships to aspiring Montessori teachers in support of their professional growth.

80) Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers

The Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers was designed to encourage and support Texas’ most promising students to pursue a career in teaching through one of the state’s best university-based teacher preparation programs.

• Value: $8,000-$10,000 per year

Scholarships for High School Seniors – Nursing Students

81) emergency nurses association foundation scholarships.

To further advance emergency nursing, the ENA Foundation proudly offers educational scholarships annually. Offerings include academic scholarships, available to members and nonmembers seeking to further their education with degrees ranging from associates to doctoral degrees.

82) National CPR Association

The National CPR Association invite you to join our Healthcare Training Scholarship Plan to aid you in your endeavors to become a qualified professional in your chosen field.

83) GoodRx Nurses for Change Scholarship

Be a current, enrolled student pursuing a healthcare or allied healthcare career at an accredited program recognized by the student’s state. Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent). Self-identify as a person from an underrepresented population in the healthcare field.

• Value: $5,000 (renewable for four years)

84) Philippe Forton Scholarship

The Philippe Forton Scholarship aims to honor Philippe by supporting high school seniors pursuing nursing in post-secondary education.

85) Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship

The Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship is designed to encourage enrollment in LPN or RN nursing programs by Kansans committed to practicing in Kansas. Recipients sign an agreement/promissory note with the State of Kansas to practice nursing at a specific facility one year for each year of scholarship support.

• Value: $4,500 (renewable each school year)

86) Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania nursing students at all levels of study are eligible to apply, provided they are matriculated in an accredited nursing school in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by the upcoming Fall semester. This includes students in their final year of high school who plan to pursue a nursing degree.

87) Hurst Review Services AACN Nursing Scholarship

Hurst Review and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) are partnering to offer this scholarship program that recognizes and rewards entry-level nursing students for outstanding academic performance. All applicants must already be enrolled in an AACN member institution and maintain at least a 3.2 grade point average in their current program or last school attended.

88) Gender-Inclusion Scholarship

The applications will be evaluated on a weighted scale using the following categories, listed with the areas of highest emphasis first: Personal statement, financial need, volunteer/community service history, professional associations, reference letter, academic status, honors/awards, resume, certifications, and workload.

89) Jane Delano Student Nurse Scholarship

The Jane Delano Nursing Student Scholarship which promotes nursing as a career and encourages new nurses to get involved with the Red Cross. A limited number of scholarships are awarded each year.

90) Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium Board of Directors Scholarship

The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) awards 10 competitive $5,000 scholarships to qualified Alaska Native and American Indian students. This scholarship is open statewide

Scholarships for High School Seniors – Psychology Majors

91) jake thomas williams memorial scholarship.

For a high school senior majoring in social work, therapy, or psychology and planning a career in mental health or suicide prevention.

• Value: $2,750

92) David L. Burns Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship aims to provide assistance to students in Missouri who are dedicated to supporting individuals grappling with addiction. It is open to students entering professions aimed at aiding individuals during their most challenging moments. Eligible fields include nursing, counseling/mental health, social work, and related careers.

93) Psi Chi Undergraduate Scholarships

The Psi Chi Undergraduate Scholarships help defray the direct educational costs (e.g., tuition, institutional fees, required textbooks) of exceptional Psi Chi undergraduate students.

94) Sharon Stephens Brehm Undergraduate Psychology Scholarships

Each year, their Sharon Stephens Brehm Undergraduate Psychology Scholarships award $5,000 to seven outstanding undergraduate psychology students who demonstrate financial need.

95) Inez Beverly Prosser Scholarship for Women of Color

This scholarship serves as a mechanism to empower women of color to complete their educational journey and pursue an advanced degree in psychology, and take a step toward supporting representation and impact of women of color in psychology, this scholarship will help defray the direct educational costs.

96) National Institutes of Health (NIH) Undergraduate Scholarship

A college scholarship program for undergraduate students committed to careers in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research.

97) Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant Program

To be considered for the Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant you must be a Maryland resident. If you are a dependent student, your parent must also be a Maryland resident. You must also enroll at a two-year or four-year Maryland college or university each semester.

98) Aya Healthcare Future Travel Nurse Scholarship

Scholarships are available to students with a 3.0 and an interest in becoming a traveling nurse.

99) Bethesda Lutheran Communities Scholarship

Supports Lutheran students pursuing undergraduate degrees and seminarian and post-graduate students that will prepare them for ministry (such as pastor, pre-seminary and deaconess studies, deaconess, director of Christian education, or special-needs teacher),

100) Bilingual School Psychologist Scholarships

Applicants are evaluated on their leadership, work experiences, and passion to transform the bilingual speech-language pathology field.

• Value: $7,000-$9,000

College Scholarships for High School Seniors – Additional Blogs of Interest

• 26 Most Expensive Colleges in 2024
• Automatic Scholarships Based on SAT/ACT Scores
• Best Scholarships for California Scholarships 
• Most Common Scholarship Interview Questions
• How to Win Merit Scholarships 
• National Merit Scholarship PSAT Score Cutoff by State
• How to Write a Scholarship Essay
• Costs & Financial Aid

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30 Best Scholarships for High School Seniors in 2023

What’s covered:, overview of scholarships, 30 best scholarships for high school seniors, tips for applying for scholarships.

The final two years of high school are filled with classes, activities, and friends. It’s also time to think about post-graduation and college. As you look at different colleges, you need to consider how you are going to pay for your education. It’s important to think realistically about what your school will offer in financial aid and how you will pay for your share of the cost. 

The difference between scholarships and loans is huge. Scholarships don’t require repayment and loans must be repaid, with interest. Sometimes, student loans are unavoidable. However, you want to ensure that you minimize the amount of student loan debt that you take on.  

Start your scholarship search early in your high school career. Create a calendar with deadlines for each scholarship that you will apply for. Add notes for the different requirements for each application, such as an essay, your latest transcript, or financial information. Some scholarships are available for you in your junior year and many deadlines will land in the summer before your senior year.  

There are scholarships based on merit and academic performance. Others are most interested in meeting financial needs. Some organizations are looking to support students who are interested in certain fields of study. Others are open to students from the same community or geographic region. Check with your high school guidance office as they will have information on opportunities that are unique to your school or community. Your employer may also have a scholarship program. Starbucks, Burger King, and McDonald’s are just a few businesses that support their employees in this way. There’s almost certainly something for every student.

Now, let’s get into some amazing scholarship opportunities.

General Opportunities

1. equitable excellence scholarship.

Amount: $2,500-5,000 (plus a $500 donation to the high school of winners)

Deadline: N/A

Eligibility:  

• High school seniors who demonstrate positive qualities such as courage and determination shown in community volunteer work 
• U.S. citizen, legal resident, or current resident in the U.S., District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico 

Application Requirements: Transcript

The Equitable Excellence Scholarship is awarded to driven and determined students of high character, with recipients coming from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. In addition to a scholarship, recipients are also provided with development opportunities such as mentoring, networking, and skill-building programs. 

2. Live Más Scholarship – Taco Bell Foundation

Amount: Up to $25,000

Deadline: January 11 

• Employed in a restaurant position with Taco Bell
• On track to apply to a post-high school or post-secondary program (both two- and four-year programs are eligible)
• Have not previously won a Live Más Scholarship

Application Requirements: A two-minute video describing your passion 

The Live Más Scholarship selects winners a little differently than the traditional scholarship award winners. The Taco Bell Foundation is less concerned with academic and athletic excellence and more interested in finding passionate students who blaze their own paths, pursue their dreams, and inspire others. Students who have already been awarded a Live Más Scholarship can apply for a renewal.

3. Too Cool to Pay for School  

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: Last day of the months of March, June, September, and December

Eligibility: Full-time high school, college, or graduate students

Application Requirements: Short application form 

The Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship is Access Scholarships’ contribution to help four lucky students each year cover school-related expenses. The scholarship can be used to cover any education-related expenses, such as tuition, textbooks, housing, and other fees. This scholarship is super quick and easy to enter (no essay required!), making it a great opportunity to apply for each quarter. 

4. GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program

Amount: Up to $40,000

• U.S. citizen
• A high school senior
• Demonstrated leadership, integrity, drive, and citizenship within the community, school, and workplace
• Planning on enrolling full-time in a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited four-year college or university

Application Requirements:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA 
• Personal statement 

Sponsored by General Electric (GE) and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, this scholarship is dedicated to honoring the legacy of the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan. Awarded to skilled and successful students, the scholarship promotes principles important to its namesake: individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. The GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program is looking for students with demonstrated leadership, drive, and citizenship. 

See our blog post on GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program for more information.

5. VFW Voice of Democracy Scholarship

Amount: Up to $35,000 

Deadline: October 31 

Eligibility:  

• 9th-12th grade students
• Enrolled in a public, private, or parochial school, or home study program in the U.S., its territories, or its possessions

Application Requirements: Three-five minute audio-essay

The VFW works to promote patriotism while investing in future generations, particularly “democracy-loving” high schoolers. Dating back to 1947, the Voice of Democracy Competition is an audio-essay program giving students the chance to express their thoughts through a recorded essay about democratic- and patriotic-themed principles. Essays are judged on three criteria: originality, content, and delivery. Applicants can win awards ranging from $1,000 to $35,000, making this an exciting scholarship opportunity.

6. Doodle 4 Google Competition

Amount: $30,000 for the student and $50,000 technology grant for their school

Deadline: March 7

• K-12 students
• U.S. citizen or legal resident 
• Enrolled in a U.S.-based school (including homeschool or a school in Puerto Rico, Guam, or the U.S. Virgin Islands)

Application Requirements: Unique doodle that includes the letters G-O-O-G-L-E

The Doodle 4 Google Competition gives applicants the opportunity to create one of the doodles that graces Google’s homepage every day. The competition’s themes change yearly (this year’s theme is to share what you appreciate the most) and the only requirement for them is that they must include the letters G-O-O-G-L-E. Applicants are encouraged to express themselves through whatever medium they desire—although if you create a 3D doodle, you’ll need to submit it in a 2D format. 

7. Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest

Amount: Up to $10,000 

Deadline: November 6

Eligibility: High school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student (no citizenship requirements)

Application Requirements: Original essay between 800 and 1,600 words

Applicants for the Atlas Shrugged Essay contest are tasked with writing an essay about one of three provided topics on Ayn Rand’s novel, Atlas Shrugged . Judges of the contest are looking for clear, articulate writing; well-organized thoughts; and an exceptional grasp of the philosophy underlying Rand’s book. 

8. Create-A-Greeting Card Scholarship

Amount: $10,000 (plus a $1,000 donation to the winner’s school)

Deadline: March 2

Eligibility: 

• 14 years of age or older
• High school, college, or university student enrolled in an academic program designed to conclude with a diploma or degree
• Legal resident of one of the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico
• International students who have a student visa to attend school in the United States are considered legal residents and are also eligible

Application Requirements: Submit a design for the front of a greeting card

Express your artistic side for a chance to win a $10,000 award from the Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship. Submit a photo, artwork, or computer graphic for use as the front of a greeting card that will both wow judges and win votes on the scholarship’s Facebook page for the chance to win this generous award. 

9. Tall Clubs International (TCI) Foundation Academic Scholarship  

Deadline: March 1

• Entering the first year of higher education 
• Meet height requirement: over 6′ 2″ for men and 5′ 10″ for women (in stocking feet) 
• Sponsorship from a TCI member club 
• Transcript 
• Essay between 550-650 words
• Two letters of recommendation 

This scholarship is aimed at students with their heads in the clouds, literally. Men must stand over 6′ 2″ and women 5′ 10″ in their stocking feet to qualify for the scholarship. In addition to meeting the height requirement, applicants must demonstrate merit in fields like academics, athletics, and community service to earn this award.

10. Niche $25,000 No Essay Scholarship

Amount: $25,000 

Deadline: March 29

Eligibility: High school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student 

Application Requirements: Create a Niche account 

You can enter for a chance to get a $25,000 scholarship in just minutes without the need to write an essay—all you need to do is create a Niche account for your chance to win. 

Scholarships for Academic Merit

11. cameron impact scholarship.

Amount: Full tuition 

Deadline: September 8

• High school seniors 
• Demonstrated excellence in leadership, activities, and community service or civic affairs
• Planning on enrolling full-time at an accredited four-year college or university
• Minimum 3.7 GPA 
• Letters of recommendation

This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who have demonstrated excellence in numerous pursuits—academics, extracurricular activities, and community service—with a desire to make a positive change in their communities and the world. Left intentionally broad, the scholarship welcomes students with the aspiration to make a positive impact in both the private and public sectors, and through any number of professional careers. A quarter of scholarships are allocated to students pursuing careers in education, nonprofits, government, and the military who have a goal of public service.

12. Coca-Cola Scholars Program

Amount : $20,000 

Eligibility:

• High school senior
• U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, asylee, Cuban-Haitian entrant, or Humanitarian Parole as defined by the U.S. Department of Education for Federal Financial Eligibility
• Planning to pursue a post-high school education
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Complete an eligibility quiz
• Must provide information on academic performance, leadership, and service

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is awarded to exceptional students with a thirst for knowledge and a desire to make a difference in the world. Coca-Cola Scholars are high achievers and demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to change in their school and community. 

13. Davidson Fellows Scholarship

Amount: $10,000-$50,000

Deadline: February 15

• 18 years old or younger
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Created a significant piece of work
• Nominations from two individuals who are not family members
• Available to attend an in-person or virtual awards ceremony 

Davidson Fellows are gifted students who experts believe have the potential to make significant contributions to society. These students have completed a significant and meaningful piece of work in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Literature, Music, Philosophy, or “Outside the Box”. This can include the creative application of existing knowledge, a high-impact new idea, an innovative solution with a broad range of implications, or a remarkable performance, just to name a few examples. 

14. National Elks Foundation Most Valuable Student (MVS)

Amount: $4,000-$50,000

• Plan to be a full-time student pursuing a four-year degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher learning

Applicants work through the ranks of local, district, and state levels to be considered for the MVS. The Foundation selects the top 500 students from these applications for the national semi-finalist competition. The top 20 students from the semi-final competition will participate in a Leadership Weekend with in-person interviews. The top two students (one male and one female) are awarded $50,000 scholarships. Runners-up receive $40,000 and $30,000 scholarships. The remaining 14 students receive $20,000. The additional 480 of the top 500 applicants earn a $4,000 scholarship.   

Opportunities for Students with Significant Financial Need

15. horatio alger association – targeted scholarships.

Amount: Up to $52,000

Deadline: Varies

• Critical financial need (defined as $55,000 or less gross adjusted household income)
• Demonstrated integrity and perseverance through overcoming adversity

Horatio Alger scholarships are awarded to promising young students from low-income families. These targeted scholarships are endowed by members of the Horatio Alger Association at several different universities and colleges. Some are also targeted to specific fields of study. 

16. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

Amount: Up to $55,000 per year

• Cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.5
• Demonstrated unmet financial need—applicants with a family annual gross income up to $95,000 are considered 
• JKCF uses the Common App (include JKCF as one of your “schools”)
• Common App asks for a recommendation from your school counselor and two teachers
• Several short essays
• Household financial information

The Cooke College Scholarship Program offers scholarships to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need. JKCF Scholars join a nationwide community with ongoing personal and professional support and development opportunities. Recipients can use their scholarship funds to cover tuition, living expenses, books, and required fees. 

17. Engebretson Foundation Scholarship

Amount: $5,000 per semester

• In need of financial assistance 
• Planning to attend a four-year college

Application Requirements: 

• Minimum 3.75 GPA and/or in the top 5% of graduating class
• Score of 28 or higher on the ACT 
• Teacher recommendation 

The Engebretson Foundation Scholarship is aimed at high-achieving, academically talented students with financial need. One winner is chosen annually to receive a $5,000 per semester scholarship. 

18. Dell Scholars Program

Amount: $20,000, a laptop, and $500 of textbook credits annually for four years 

• Enrolled in an approved college-readiness program, like College Possible or Upward Bound
• On track to graduate from high school in the coming academic year
• Demonstrated financial need 
• Pell-eligible

Application Requirements: Minimum 2.4 GPA

This program is for students with “grit, potential, and ambition” to strive for a college degree. Dell Scholars are also provided with wrap-around support for academic success, financial matters, and teletherapy professional counseling.

Opportunities for First-Generation Students 

19. colgate-palmolive haz la u educational grant program.

Amount: Up to $100,000

• Of Hispanic heritage (includes Spain, Brazil, Philippines)
• High school senior 
• Planning to enroll in an accredited institution of higher education 
• U.S. citizen, resident, or DACA-eligible
• 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale

This scholarship program is designed for Hispanic students who have maintained academic excellence throughout high school, participated in community service, and demonstrated leadership. Colgate-Palmolive offers this program in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation in support of higher education for Hispanics.

20. Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program

Amount: N/A

Deadline: March 18

• Planning to enroll in an accredited four-year higher education institution 
• Demonstrated financial need
• First-generation college student 
• Planning to study: Transportation Management, Math, Science, Engineering (any field), Architecture, Environmental Design, Pre-Med, Psychology, or Spanish Language/Literature
• Minimum 3.5 GPA
• Teacher/advisor letter of recommendation (optional, but highly recommended)

This scholarship seeks to support first-generation, underrepresented college students studying in select fields. The intent of the award is to help students who are passionate about pursuing higher education overcome barriers—like lack of resources and hardships encountered in their communities—and achieve successful futures.  

For more info, check out our list of first-gen scholarships . 

Opportunities for Students of Color

21. ron brown scholarship.

Amount: $40,000

• African American 
• Academically excellent  
• Community service participation 
• Two essays 

This scholarship program provides awards for academically gifted African Americans who are active within their communities. Applicants should have demonstrated an interest in public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship, and global citizenship—the four pillars of the late Ronald H. Brown’s mission to uplift people of all races, cultures, and ethnicities. 

22. McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship

Amount: $5,000-$100,000

• U.S. resident or a DREAMer/DACA recipient
• Under 21 years old 
• Have at least one parent of Hispanic heritage
• Minimum 2.8 GPA
• Letter of recommendation 
• List of community service projects

This scholarship program provides 30 college-bound students of Hispanic heritage awards ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Recipients are selected based on a variety of factors including academic achievement, community involvement, and financial need.

23. APIA (Asian Pacific Islander) Scholars

Amount: $2,500-$20,000

Deadline: January 19

• Asian or Pacific Islander ethnicity, heritage, or ancestry 
• Citizen, national, or permanent resident of the U.S
• Citizens of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau are also eligible
• Planning to enroll or continue in an accredited undergraduate program in the U.S.
• Minimum 2.7 GPA

This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students of Asian or Pacific Islander descent to receive valuable funds for college. APIA Scholars works to support underserved APIA students through their scholarships—a special focus is given to students who live at or below the poverty line, students who will be the first in their family to attend college, and students from backgrounds underrepresented in higher education. Strong applicants will have also demonstrated leadership and community service. 

24. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars

Amount: Up to $35,000 over four years 

Deadline: January 11

• High school seniors
• U.S. citizen 
• Excellent academic performance 
• Plan on attending a four-year, accredited college or university in the U.S.
• Four essays 
• Standardized test scores
• Household information

The Jackie Robinson Foundation goes beyond sponsoring scholarships, to guide minority students through the process of higher education. JRF Scholars have access to many benefits, including networking and mentorship, internship and employment opportunities, an annual conference, and year-round programming. 

25. National Society of High School Scholars STEM Scholarship

Deadline: October 13

• Planning to pursue a degree in a STEM field
• List of STEM activities

The NSHSS STEM Scholarship provides support for students from groups underrepresented in STEM fields. The goal is to increase diversity in STEM-related professions through college and university education. Check out the other NSHSS scholarship opportunities for high school and post-secondary students.

26. Native American Education Undergraduate Scholarship–American Indian Education Fund

Amount: Up to $2,000

Deadline: April 4

• Native American, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian
• All future undergraduate students in a two- or four-year college, university, vocational, or technical school are encouraged to apply
• Personal summary 
• Tribal enrollment card/documentation
• There is an essay of no more than four, double-spaced pages typed in 12-point font

The American Indian Education Fund believes that “education is one of the most important cornerstones of self-sufficiency and quality of life.” With that in mind, the AIEF works to end the cycle of poverty by providing scholarships, literacy programs, and school supplies to Native American students. A GPA between 2.0 and 3.5 is desirable—as is an ACT score of 14 or above—however, all current or future undergraduate students are encouraged to apply.

Opportunities for Student-Athletes

27. foot locker scholar athletes.

Amount: Up to $20,000 

Deadline: January 30

• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Legal Resident
• Entering an accredited four-year institution for an undergraduate degree
• Involved in high school sports, intramural sports, or community-based sports
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Two essays—one written and one video

Unlike most athletic scholarships, the Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program is as likely to reward the student who kept team spirit high as it is the student who led the state in scoring. This scholarship honors athletes exhibiting excellence and leadership cultivated on the field and in the locker room to positively change the lives of others. 

28. Sara Scholarship

Amount: $2,000 per year—renewable for four years for a total of $8,000

Deadline: April 30 

• Female high school seniors 
• Active engagement with the sport of golf as a hobby, as a member of a team, working as a caddy, or at a golf course
• Minimum 3.3 GPA 
• Standard application
• Personal essay
• Student Aid Report (SAR)

Established in 2012, the Sara Scholarship was founded in memory of Sara Sheehan through the Henry & Sara Sheehan foundation. This scholarship grants awards to high-achieving female high school seniors who demonstrate financial need, excellence of character, a passion for golf, and a plan to pursue a college degree.

29. Lindsey Vonn Foundation Scholarships

Amount: $5,000

Deadline: March 31

• Ages 10 to 18 
• Passion and promise in a sport
• Essay about you and your sport (students are encouraged to create submissions that will stand out)

The Lindsey Vonn Foundation provides scholarships, programs, and mentorship in order to support future generations by helping them pursue their passion, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. Applicants that are 200% below the Federal Poverty Line are prioritized. 

30. United States Tennis Association

Deadline: May 1

• High school seniors  
• Involved in community service or volunteering
• Participant in National Junior Tennis and Learning
• Two letters of recommendation
• Recent photo
• FAFSA student report

There are several endowed scholarships available through USTA and students are encouraged to apply to all those that they are eligible to receive.

31 (Bonus). CollegeVine Scholarships

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: Quarterly

Eligibility: high school student and US resident

Application Requirements: create a free CollegeVine account or fill out chancing profile if you already have an account.

CollegeVine provides a quarterly, no-essay scholarship of $2,000. All you have to do is sign up for a free account, which allows you to see your chances of acceptance at 1,600+ schools, get your essays reviewed by a peer, ask questions in our community forum, and more. If you already have an account, just make sure your chancing profile is filled out.

Awards will be paid out directly to students to help them cover any educational costs. Learn more about the CollegeVine scholarships .

More work = fewer applicants

The more work applying for a scholarship is, the smaller the applicant pool will likely be. Scholarships involving video production, such as the Live Más Scholarship, or a well-thought-out essay, like the Dell Scholars Program, all demand a healthy amount of hard work which keeps the competition at bay. 

Apply to a mix of larger and smaller awards

All the above scholarships are relatively well-known, so they will still be incredibly competitive even if they involve a lot of work. Don’t limit yourself to applying for huge national awards—look for local groups who may have smaller awards, but also smaller pools of candidates.

Research past winners

Scholarship committees tend to have an idea of “what they’re looking for.” To present yourself in the best light, research past winners to get a better sense of what scholarship committees want to see. Most scholarship pages will have a section dedicated to past winners, what their application was like, and where they are now. If not, you can always Google the name of the scholarship and “past winners.”

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Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

Top 2,998 Scholarships for High School Seniors in September 2024

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

Learn about our editorial policies

Gabriel Jimenez-Ekman is a content editor and writer at Scholarships360. He has managed communications and written content for a diverse array of organizations, including a farmer’s market, a concert venue, a student farm, an environmental NGO, and a PR agency. Gabriel graduated from Kenyon College with a degree in sociology.

With all the hustle and bustle of senior year, it’s easy to forget to apply for some scholarships for high school seniors. However, it’s a good idea to make some time in between your college applications, extracurriculars, and schoolwork to apply for scholarship opportunities.

Whether you are applying for merit-based or need-based scholarships, there are a lot of opportunities out there for high school seniors. Whether you are looking for opportunities in the fall, winter, spring, or summer, many organizations will be accepting applications.

Read on for our comprehensive list of scholarships for the class of 2023! No matter your intended major, location, or background, you’ll find a wealth of great scholarship matches ahead.

Why choose Scholarships360

We helped over 4 million students find scholarships in 2023

We've spent over 4,000 hours reviewing 3,000 scholarship programs

13+ years of experience helping students make smart education decisions

The Scholarships360 Research Team reviews all scholarships individually and strives to exclude any scholarship where any of the below applies:

• The scholarship requires a fee to apply
• The scholarship provider’s privacy policy allows for the misuse of student data
• The scholarship requires paid membership in an organization (with certain exceptions for reputable trade organizations and others)
• Student are required to sign up for a site or service to apply*
• The scholarship seems primarily used for lead generation** or idea harvesting purposes***
• The scholarship website has many grammatical errors and/or advertisements
• The scholarship or scholarship providing organization seem untrustworthy
• There is no evidence the scholarship was previously awarded
• The scholarship has not been awarded in the past 12 months
• There is no available contact information

If you believe a scholarship has been published in error, please reach out to [email protected] and we’ll take a look!

* There are certain exceptions to this, for example if the sponsoring organization is a major corporation or nonprofit with its own scholarship application system. ** Lead generation scholarships will require students to sign up for an app or website and require minimal (if any) application requirements. ***Idea harvesting scholarships will require students to submit blog posts or other materials that companies may use for marketing purposes.

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Offered by Niche

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Did you know you can win a $1,000 scholarship just by sharing Scholarships360 with your friends? The Sharing is Caring Scholarship is open to all… Show More

Did you know you can win a $1,000 scholarship just by sharing Scholarships360 with your friends? The Sharing is Caring Scholarship is open to all Scholarships360 users who refer their friends to Scholarships360. The more people you refer, the higher your chances of winning! To apply, just send your personal referral link to your friends. For every person who creates a Scholarships360 account using your personal referral link, you’ll gain an entry to the Sharing is Caring Scholarship. Get started by visiting the Scholarships360 Referral Center! Show Less

“Moving Mountains” Scholarship for Hispanic Students This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

This scholarship is open to Hispanic/Latino high school juniors and seniors, college, and graduate students who have moved mountains in their life. To move mountains… Show More

This scholarship is open to Hispanic/Latino high school juniors and seniors, college, and graduate students who have moved mountains in their life. To move mountains means to achieve something incredibly difficult. It means overcoming obstacles, persevering in the face of adversity, and achieving success against all the odds. Whether it’s passing a difficult class, completing a rigorous project, or excelling in sports, we all have our own way of moving mountains. We want to know about yours. See the “Application Information” section below for details regarding the essay prompt. Please note that applicants will be reviewed based on both the quality of their essay and quantity of scholarships applied for on the Scholarships360 platform. Scholarships360 users who are more active on the platform will be given higher consideration. We look forward to reading your application! Show Less

Edvisors $2,500 Monthly Scholarship

Offered by Edvisors

Easy $2,500 scholarship from ScholarshipPoints open to all students aged 17 and older.

Unigo $10,000 Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Unigo

This easy scholarship is open to all high school students who are at least 14 years of age. To apply, students must respond to the… Show More

This easy scholarship is open to all high school students who are at least 14 years of age. To apply, students must respond to the following essay prompt in 250 words (or less): "Would you rather be smart, funny or rich? Why?" On or about March 31, 2025, a qualified panel of judges will select one (1) potential winner based on the criteria of writing ability (25%), creativity (25%), originality (25%), and overall excellence (25%). Show Less

Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to… Show More

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to enter the workforce prematurely and leave his high school dreams behind. However, recognizing the limited job prospects available to him, he understood that obtaining his high school diploma was the key to unlocking a better life for his loved ones, and headed back to the classroom. This prestigious scholarship aims to honor the memory of Charles Pulling Sr. by empowering those who also wish to enhance their families' lives through education. Whether you are a high school or GED student, an undergraduate pursuing a non-traditional path, a first-generation student, a single parent, someone who took a break from education before returning, or over the age of 25, you are invited to apply. To apply, reveal what sets you apart as a non-traditional student and what fuels your relentless pursuit of greatness. Show Less

Top 10 scholarships for high school seniors overall

Our editors hand-picked these 10 scholarships by looking for prestigious organizations, large awards, and a variety of eligibility criteria, to ensure there is something for everyone. Apply with confidence to these top 10 scholarships for high school seniors:

• Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship – For high school seniors with high financial need who plan to study computer science in college. Worth $10,000 per year
• Ron Brown Scholarship – For Black high school seniors who plan to study global entrepreneurship and/or community engagement. Worth $10,000 per year
• Taco Bell Live Mas Scholarship – Video scholarship for students between 16 and 26 with a passion for the field they are pursuing. Worth up to $25,000
• Dream.US Opportunity Scholarship – For undocumented high school seniors and college freshmen with high financial need living in a state where public colleges do not offer in-state tuition to undocumented students. Worth $20,000 per year
• Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship – For high school seniors with financial need, worth up to $55,000 per year
• Questbridge College Match – For high school seniors with financial need, offers a full ride to college
• The Gates Scholarship – For low-income minority high school seniors, offers a full ride to college
• Dell Scholars Program – For Pell Grant-eligible high school seniors who participated in a college readiness program. Worth $20,000 with 500 scholarships awarded every year. Recipients also receive a free laptop, textbooks, and more
• Regeneron Science Talent Search – For high school seniors interested in pursuing an individual STEM research project. Worth anywhere between $2,000 and $250,000
• Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship – For Black high school seniors pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, computer information systems, or a business field. Worth up to $20,000

Top easy scholarships for high school seniors

These scholarships are easy to apply for, and all come from reputable organizations:

• $10,000 No Essay Scholarship  – With a high award and simple sign-up process that matches you with vetted scholarships, our 10k no essay scholarship is our #1 choice for easy scholarships! Open to high schoolers, college students, and grad students
• $2k Sallie Mae Easy Scholarship  – Easy scholarship open to high school upperclassmen, college students, and grad students
• $40,000 Big Future Scholarship  – Easy scholarship open to high school sophomores and juniors
• Niche $25k No Essay  – Easy scholarship open to high schoolers, college students, and grad students
• $25k “Be Bold” Scholarship  – Easy scholarship open to high schoolers, college students, and grad students

Top 5 scholarships for Black high school seniors

• Ron Brown Scholarship  – For Black high school seniors who plan to study global entrepreneurship and/or community engagement. Worth $10,000 per year
• Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship  – For Black high school seniors pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, computer information systems, or a business field. Worth up to $20,000
• The Gates Scholarship  – For low-income minority high school seniors, offers a full ride to college
• Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest  – For Black high school seniors or college students, worth $8,000
• Scholar Dollars Essay Scholarship for Black Students  – For Black high school upperclassmen, college students, and graduate students. Worth $500

How to win scholarships for high school seniors

Most scholarships receive a large amount of applications, so it’s important that your applications stand out! One of the most important parts of the scholarship application process is the essay, which allows the scholarship committee to learn more about you as a person. 

To get started, you can check out guide on how to start a scholarship essay, as well as our guide on how to write an essay about yourself.   Many essays will also have a word count limit, so you can also check out our articles on how to write a 250 word essay and how to write a 500 word essay.   As a final step in the essay writing process, students should be sure to have someone proofread their scholarship essay!

Some competitive scholarships might also require students to do an interview with the scholarship committee. This offers applicants another opportunity to stand out and share more about their goals, experiences, and interests. If you are prepping for a scholarship interview, you should spend some time reflecting on common scholarship interview questions so you can go into the interview well-prepared.

Expert Perspective

Will Geiger | Scholarships360 Co-Founder, Former Admissions Officer

Also see: The ultimate guide to finding and winning scholarships

College merit scholarships for high school seniors

While outside scholarships are offered by private companies, non-profits, and foundations, college merit scholarships are offered by individual colleges. Merit scholarships are awarded to students with demonstrated achievement in academics, extracurriculars , and leadership, but the primary factors are grades and tests scores. Merit scholarships are strong sources of financial aid because they generally are renewable for four years of college.

To apply for merit scholarships, students will need to follow each college’s specific scholarship application process. At some colleges, there will be a separate merit scholarship application and deadline, while at other colleges, all students will be considered for merit scholarships. To get started on your merit scholarship search, you can check out our top merit scholarships guide.

Scholarship spotlight for high school seniors

We’ve given you a rundown above, but here is a more in-depth guide to our 3 top scholarships for HS seniors:

Gates Scholarship

This full-ride scholarship is open to high school seniors who are low-income, part of a minority group, and demonstrate academic and extracurricular excellence. It’s been running since 2017 , and remains one of the best scholarships a student can obtain.

Coca Cola Scholars

One great thing about this $20,000 scholarship is the number of awards; 150 students receive the Coca Cola Scholars Program Scholarship every year. Even though they receive many applications, the number of awards gives each student a much higher chance of winning. They have programs for students pursuing a 4-year degree, as well as 2-year degrees at community colleges.

Cameron Impact Scholarship

This four-year, full-ride scholarship is open to all high school seniors who meet GPA and citizenship requirements. Unlike most full-ride scholarships, this one does not take into account a student’s cultural background or their socioeconomic status. So, if you have found yourself limited in your scholarship applications, make sure to give Cameron Impact a shot.

Tips for high school seniors applying for scholarships

• Ask for your letters of recommendation early. The last thing you want to do is rush your teachers when they are helping you out by writing you a letter. The earlier you ask, the more time they’ll have and the better they’ll make their letters.
• Apply for local scholarships . These scholarship programs typically have a lower award amount but they have far fewer applicants, so you have a much better chance of winning than national scholarships. A great place to start looking for local scholarships is your high school guidance counselor. Many local organizations like Elks Club and church communities offer scholarships to students in the area.
• Apply to a wide range of safety schools . These safety schools will have a better chance of awarding you merit scholarships that could cover a substantial part of your tuition.
• Before you start your applications, do some informal reflection. Talk to family members, friends, and trusted adults about your goals for the future and your strengths and weaknesses. Think about where you want to be in 10 years and write down the results of your brainstorming on a piece of paper. You can use bullet points or any type of notation that is easy for you. Then come back to this paper as you fill out your applications. It should give you good material to base your essays on and make the whole process much easier.
• Apply to at least one in-state public school. With in-state tuition rates, these typically end up being substantially cheaper than other options.

Frequently asked questions

Is it too late to apply for scholarships as a high school senior, should high school seniors fill out the fafsa, are student athletes eligible for scholarships, does financial need affect scholarships for graduating high school seniors, are there scholarships for african-american seniors in high school, explore these other scholarship categories.

• Top full ride scholarships for high school students
• Top scholarships for women
• Easy scholarships to apply for
• Top scholarships for Black students
• Top scholarships for nurses

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30 NO-ESSAY Scholarships for the Class of 2023

With so many application deadlines and SAT test dates piling up, applying for scholarships can quickly become overwhelming. Especially when those scholarships make you jump through hoops by writing essays and submitting transcripts. The stress of writing a scholarship essay on top of keeping up with school can deter students from taking advantage of free money . That’s not the case with these no essay scholarships. From surveys to sweepstakes these easy scholarship applications are a breeze. These programs want to help busy students like you pay for school, without adding extra stress to your life. Calling Class of 2023, these scholarships are looking for you! 

Applying to these scholarships is a no-brainer. Want more opportunities to score free money? 

Check out our other scholarship lists! 

Our Top Scholarship Pick

The $25,000 “be bold” no essay scholarship.

Rolling monthly application deadlines. Next deadline: June 1, 2023

Award: Awards $25,000

Overview: The $25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile. No-Essay Scholarship in just a few clicks! Fund your education with verified new scholarships, available only on Bold.org. New scholarships are added daily, and membership is 100% free for students.

$2,000 Nitro Scholarship

Deadline: March 3, 2022 

Award Amount: $23,410 20 winners, $1,170 each

Overview: The Skin Grip Diabetes Scholarship will be awarded to 20 individuals who live fearlessly and fight to make the world a better place despite their diagnosis.

To be eligible for this scholarship, you must be a high school senior or any undergraduate in a 2- or 4-year degree program who has diabetes. To apply, please upload a short video (can be filmed via cell phone, Zoom, etc) two minutes max, answering this question:

How do you live fearlessly with diabetes?

$1,000 Cappex Easy College Money Scholarship

Deadline: December 31, 2023

Award Amount: $2,000

Overview: Apply to Nitro’s monthly No-Essay Scholarship in seconds for a chance to win $2,000!

2022 HireAHelper Skilled Trade & Technology Scholarships

Deadline:  July 17, 2023.

Award: $2,000

Overview: Growing demand and lack of qualified workers in skilled trades like the moving industry means it’s a great time to go back to school and enter these lucrative and fast-growing industries. To help keep up with demand and assist the next generation of professionals, HireAHelper will award a $2,000 scholarship four times a year to eligible students.

Kahoot Live Scholarship

Deadline: May 26, 2023

Award Amount: $500

Overview: Do we have any Swifties in the house? If so, this Kahoot scholarship is just for you! We will quiz you on all things Taylor Swift to test out just how much of a Swiftie you really are.

Hop on our Instagram live on Thursday, May 25 at 9 PM Eastern to join us as we give away another $500 scholarship to the winner of this Swifie-fied Kahoot game!

As always, we must have at least 1,000 viewers on the live stream and 1,000+ players in the Kahoot game to award the scholarship, and you must be a current or future college student with a Bold.org profile to participate.

ScholarshipPoints Scholarships

Deadline: See Website

Award Amount: Up to $10,000

Overview: Complete the form to be automatically entered into our $10,000 scholarship!

Scholly No-Essay Scholarship

Deadline: June 1, 2023

Overview: Are you looking to secure funding for college or graduate school?

We’ve partnered with Scholly to create this exclusive scholarship for high school students, transfer students, college students, and current or prospective graduate students.

CampusReel No-Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:$500

Overview: Are you on the hunt for financial aid for college?

We’ve partnered with CampusReel to create this exclusive scholarship for high school students, transfer students, college students, and current or prospective graduate students.

AFSA High School Senior Contest

Deadline: January 1, 2024.

Overview:  The High School Senior College Scholarship Contest is open to high school seniors who are citizens or aliens legally residing in the USA. Scholarship funds are payable to the winner’s college/university or certified trade school in the United States; winner must enroll for classes beginning no later than Fall 2022 session. Winner selection is NOT based on financial need, GPA or demographic criteria. Home-schooled students may apply as long as course of study is equivalent to that of a senior in high school.

GoSkills Scholarship

Deadline: Fall Deadline: Sept. 15 (11:59PM PST) Fall Award Date: Oct. 15 Spring Deadline: March 15 (11:59PM PST) Spring Award Date: April 15

Overview: Okay, Female high school and college students, here is your time to debut your online business ambitions. There are open-ended questions on the application, but it’s more like a friendly conversation. The questions ask you about your concerns and your role models. Besides the application, you need to provide a link to your business plan (GoSkills provides instructions for your business plan right above the area for the link). If you don’t get excited about writing an essay, try your hand at mapping a business plan

Nitro Pay For College No-Essay Scholarship

Award Amount: $10,000

Overview: We’ve partnered with Nitro to create this exclusive no-essay scholarship for anyone thinking through how to pay for college.

Nitro is a leading financial aid and loan resource platform, guiding you on everything from the FAFSA to best practices for federal and private loans.

By applying, you’ll automatically get registered for Nitro, setting you up for success in funding your education in the most effective way. The scholarship will be awarded to applicants who get the most out of the Nitro platform.

Bold.org No-Essay Community Scholarship

Award Amount: $5,000

Overview: This scholarship is for students who recognize the value of a strong community, and are always on the lookout for ways to help their friends and strengthen their community. It will be awarded to a student who has invited many friends to join Bold.org.

To invite a friend, visit your Invite Friends page on the Bold.org dashboard to copy your unique invite code and text it to your friends. For each friend who creates a profile, your chances of winning the Community Scholarship go up.

AFSA $2,000 College Scholarship

Deadline: January 1, 2024

Overview: The Second Chance College Scholarships Contest is open to citizens and aliens legally residing in the USA with High School Diploma, GED or equivalent. Scholarship funds are payable to the winner’s college/university or certified trade school in the United States; winner must enroll or already be enrolled for Spring 2022 session. Winner selection is NOT based on financial need, GPA or demographic criteria.

Expand Your Horizons Scholarship

Deadline: April 28, 2024

Overview: Getting the most out of life requires both the courage to explore the world, and the kindness and openness to welcome and accept all those you meet along the way.

One student whose profile demonstrates an openness to learning about other cultures and sharing their own will receive $2,000 to help them continue on their path to travel and learn.

This may include studying new languages, traveling to study in a new place, teaching or learning art styles or cooking methods from a new culture, or anything else that demonstrates openness to new cultures in your school, work, or hobbies.

Launchy Web3 Scholarship

Deadline: April 30, 2024

Award Amount: $1,000

Overview: Chain Catalyst by Launchy is a free newsletter for web3 builders and investors.

We’ve partnered with Chain Catalyst by Launchy to create this exclusive scholarship. By applying, you’ll automatically be subscribed to the Chain Catalyst by Launchy newsletter, getting web3 tips, news, and insights delivered directly to your inbox.

The scholarship will be awarded to applicants who get the most out of Chain Catalyst by Launchy.

Scholarships4Moms

Deadline: June 15, 2023

Overview: Over $1.2 million in scholarships given away. You could be the next winner!

CARiD.com Scholarship

Deadline: May 31, 2023

Overview: CARiD is giving away $1,000 to offset your educational expenses for college! Just getting the essentials can add up quickly and CARiD wants to help – books, food, backpacks, some sweet spinners for your commuter vehicle, or whatever else you need to get ready for school! Most importantly – CARiD believes in higher education and wants to help you achieve your goals!

Barbara Lotze Scholarship

Deadline: December 1, 2023

Overview: Undergraduate students enrolled, or planning to enroll, in physics teacher preparation curricula and high school seniors entering such programs are eligible. Successful applicants receive a stipend of up to $2,000 and a complimentary AAPT Student Membership for one year. The scholarship may be granted to an individual for each of four years.

Richard “88 Fingers” Turner, Jr. Music Scholarship

Deadline: August 1, 2023

Overview: Richard “88 Fingers” Turner, Jr. is a beloved husband and talented pianist.

Known for his dexterity and musical talent, Richard has inspired the next generation of aspiring African American musicians. In order to truly thrive in the industry, it’s critical for musicians to have a strong educational foundation, which can often be inaccessible due to the high cost of college.

This scholarship seeks to honor Richard Turner, Jr. by supporting African American musicians in their pursuit of education.

Any African American two or four-year undergraduate student who is pursuing a music degree and career may apply for this scholarship.

To apply, submit a 2-3 minute video of yourself performing.

“A Bold Mind” Psychology No-Essay Scholarship

Overview: Psychology is a great career field for students with a deep sense of curiosity about human behavior and the mind.

This scholarship seeks to support students who are passionate about psychology so they can afford to pursue their education.

Any student who is pursuing psychology may apply for this exclusive no-essay scholarship!

“Science for Life” Biology and Health Sciences No-Essay Scholarship

Overview: Biology and health sciences can require significant education which can be difficult for the average student to afford without becoming buried in debt.

This scholarship aims to support students who are pursuing biology and the health sciences so that they can complete their degrees no matter their financial status.

Any student who is interested in studying biology or the health sciences may apply for this no-essay scholarship opportunity!

Milk Road Crypto and Web3 No-Essay Scholarship

Deadline: August 16, 2022

Packed with insights, analysis, and entertainment, The Milk Road helps you get smarter about crypto without ever feeling dumb, regardless of how much you already know.

We’ve partnered with The Milk Road to create this exclusive scholarship. By applying, you’ll automatically be subscribed to The Milk Road, giving you essential crypto insights straight to your inbox.

This scholarship will be awarded to applicants who get the most out of The Milk Road. You will be a strong applicant if you:

• Read The Milk Road every day
• Share The Milk Road with your friends
• Apply what you learn to accelerate your education and career

CollegeXpress No-Essay Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,200

Overview: Are you a high schooler preparing to navigate through your college experience?

We’ve partnered with CollegeXpress to create this exclusive scholarship for high school students who are interested in college resources, an opportunity related to our 30 other no-essay scholarship awards.

This scholarship is also unique in that it will favor students who apply earlier—who are bold and seize the day without procrastinating.

The Discover Student Loans Scholarship Award Sweepstakes

Overview: Sign up for emails to get helpful college tips and resources, and enter for the chance to win a scholarship! Throughout the year, 12 eligible students or parents will be randomly selected to win a $5,000 Discover Student Loans Scholarship Award to help cover college expenses.

Huntington’s College Scholarship Sweepstakes

Deadline: June 30, 2023

Award Amount: $4,000

Overview: Scholarship contest for college-bound students. Simply submit this Official Entry form by the deadline posted in the Official Rules and you could win a $4000 College Scholarship!

Italian Catholic Federation Scholarships

Deadline: See Website 

Award Amount: Up to $1,000

Overview:  Since 1964, the Italian Catholic Federation has awarded over $2,000,000.00 in scholarships to more than 6,000 high school students, of the Catholic faith, attending college. Each spring, the Italian Catholic Federation receives nearly 400 applications for its yearly scholarship awards. Applications are received from students in public as well as Catholic high schools in California, Arizona, Nevada, and Illinois.

No Essay Smart Owl Scholarship

Deadline: May 29, 2023

Award Amount: $7,000

Overview:  Apply Me, Inc. (“ScholarshipOwl”) is pleased to offer this scholarship sweepstakes (“Scholarship Sweepstakes”) in which you can apply for a chance to win a scholarship to be paid by ScholarshipOwl directly to your qualified high school, college or university.

For What It’s Worth Scholarship

Overview: We’ve partnered with For What It’s Worth to create this exclusive scholarship. By applying, you’ll automatically be subscribed to the For What It’s Worth newsletter, getting tips and news delivered directly to your inbox so you can invest in the world that you want.

The scholarship will be awarded to applicants who get the most out of For What It’s Worth. You will be a strong applicant if you:

• Read For What It’s Worth every week
• Share For What It’s Worth with your friends
• Engage with For What It’s Worth’s content

Stuck At Prom Scholarship Contest

Deadline: June 7, 2023 

Overview: We’re giving away $20,000 in cash scholarships to high school students who make the best prom attire out of Duck® Brand Duct Tape! New this year? You can document your journey to prom perfection in a short video or written essay. Plus, once the voting period starts, a live voting counter lets you see the results in real time.

“A Bold Life” No-Essay Scholarship

Deadline: July 31, 2023

Overview: Regardless of where you find yourself today, remember that you only have one life to live, and it’s up to you to make it count. Embracing the world with boldness can help you do that.

To encourage people to create an adventurous and exciting life as they define it, the “A Bold Life” No-Essay scholarship exists to support a student who will do what it takes to live life to the fullest.

The scholarship is open to all students and non-students from any field of study. The only requirement is that you’re committed to overcoming fear and relentlessly pursuing a life that will leave you fulfilled.

More Helpful Guides:

How to Find—and Win—Scholarships: Your Complete Guide

How I Landed My Dream Internship

Make a List, Check It Twice: A College Applications Guide

Three Difficult Conversations to Have About Affording College

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links to products and services. We may receive commissions for purchases made through these links.

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• Types of Scholarships

Top Scholarships for High School Seniors in 2023-24

With rising college costs, scholarships are essential for accessible education. This guide covers 50 national and local 2023 scholarship opportunities for ambitious high school seniors.

The senior year of high school is an exciting time filled with memories and milestones. It’s also the time to start thinking about how to pay for college . With tuition costs rising each year, scholarships provide a great opportunity to lower the financial burden. This article highlights the top national and regional scholarships available in 2023 and 2024, specifically for current high school seniors planning to attend college. Let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

Merit-Based Scholarships

These competitive scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership and well-rounded students.

• National Merit Scholarship Program – Finalists receive awards from $2,500 up to full tuition based on PSAT scores and application.
• Gates Millennium Scholars Program – Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this provides financial support through graduation for 1,000 outstanding minority students annually.
• Coca-Cola Scholars Program – Achievement-based program awards 150 students per year with $20,000 college scholarships. Deadline is October 31, 2022.
• Regeneron Science Talent Search – Awards 40 finalists $250,000 and 10 winners up to $400,000 for an original STEM research project. Deadline is November 2022.
• Burger King Scholars Program – Awards $1,000 to $50,000 to students based on GPA, work experience and community service. Deadline likely December 2022.
• Elks National Foundation Scholarship – Awards 250 four-year scholarships ranging from $1,000 per year to $12,500 per year for outstanding students. Deadline is November 14, 2022.
• Horatio Alger Scholarship – Awards over $25 million annually, with national scholarships up to $25,000. Deadline likely March 15, 2023.
• Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship – High-achieving students with financial need can receive up to $55,000 per year. Deadline is November 17, 2022.

Minority Scholarships for High School Seniors

These provide financial assistance specifically for underrepresented minority students.

• United Negro College Fund Scholarships – UNCF awards over $100 million annually so low-income African American students can afford college. Award amounts vary by program.
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund – HSF provides scholarships worth over $100 million each year to Latino students based on merit and financial need. They offer both national and regional awards.
• American Indian College Fund – Provides over 6,000 scholarships annually averaging $3,500 for Native American and Alaskan Native students.
• Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund – APIA Scholars offers scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 for Asian American and Pacific Islander students.
• Pride Foundation Scholarships – Scholarships awarded to LGBTQ+ students based on leadership, community service, academic success and financial need. Award amounts range from $5,000 to $14,000.

Athletic Scholarships

These allow student athletes to gain scholarship funding in exchange for participation in a college sports program.

• NCAA Division 1 Athletic Scholarships – Contact coaches early about scholarship options. Understand NCAA eligibility and commitment requirements before signing a National Letter of Intent. Men’s football, basketball, women’s basketball and volleyball tend to provide the most aid.
• National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association – Awards scholarships annually to high school senior swimmers planning to compete at the college level. Award amounts range from $1,000 to $2,000.
• National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholarships – Scholarship awards ranging from $500 to $2,000 for high school wrestlers continuing the sport collegiately at an NWCA member institution.
• US Lacrosse Scholarships – Annual scholarships awarded to high school lacrosse players, both men and women, who show academic and athletic achievement.

Need-Based Scholarships

For students demonstrating financial hardship, these provide tuition assistance based on family income levels.

• Pell Grants – Federal Pell Grants provide up to $6,895 annually to low-income undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need.
• Emergency Scholarship Grant – Need-based award for students facing unexpected hardship or health emergencies, with quick application turnaround. Awards vary from $500 to $2,000.
• Student Scholarship Grant – Simple application and quick turnaround for need-based scholarship aid. Awards vary from $1,000 to $10,000.
• Graduating High School Senior Scholarship – $1,000 scholarship for students completing high school demonstrating financial need.

Creative Scholarships

Apply your creative talents through these fun scholarship opportunities.

• Create-a-Greeting-Card Scholarship – Design a greeting card for a chance to win a $10,000 scholarship. Deadline is March 15, 2023. Open to high school students 14 and older.
• Artistic Excellence Scholarship – Submit artwork in any medium for a chance to earn a $1,000 scholarship. Deadline is June 30, 2023.
• Make Me Laugh Scholarship – Write a funny short story in 250 words or less for a chance to win a $1,500 scholarship. Deadline is June 30, 2023.
• Zumper Apartments Scholarship – Write a short essay for a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship. Biannual deadlines on April 30 and September 30.

Short Essay Scholarships

These scholarships simply require a short written response to qualify.

• Cirkled In Scholarship – Submit a 200-400 word essay on a given topic by the deadline for a chance to win a $2,500 scholarship. Biannual deadlines on February 28 and July 31.
• Do Something Scholarship – Write a 250-word essay describing a cause you care about to earn a $5,000 scholarship. Biannual deadlines on March 31 and October 31.
• sigmas-perhaps-the-best-ai-writing-assistant – $1,000 No Essay Scholarship – Short application with no essay required. Quarterly deadlines on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31.
• Resume Companion Scholarship – Submit a resume for review and complete a short form to qualify for a $1,000 scholarship. Monthly deadlines on the 25th of each month.

Local Community Scholarships

Local organizations provide smaller scholarships with less competition from fewer applicants.

• High School Guidance Counselors – Ask about local scholarships through community foundations or other area programs.
• Check Local Employers – Larger local employers may offer scholarships for employees’ children. Use the tool to find major area companies.
• Community Organizations – Rotary Clubs, Chambers of Commerce and other local groups often provide scholarships. Check their websites for applications.
• Local Scholarship Databases – Lookup databases like Scholarships.com and FastWeb to find location-based awards.

Sweepstakes Scholarships

These offer a chance to win a scholarship prize through a random drawing.

• Fastweb Invite a Friend Sweepstakes – Refer friends to Fastweb and be entered to win a $500 scholarship through a random drawing. Deadline is August 31, 2023.
• Planet Fitness High School Summer Pass Sweepstakes – Enter for a chance to be one of 51 winners of a $10,000 scholarship. Deadline is August 31, 2023.

Business & Innovation Scholarships

These aim to support young entrepreneurs and business leaders.

• Young Entrepreneur Scholarship – For high school students interested in business, submit an essay for a chance to win a $2,500 or $10,000 scholarship. Deadline is December 31, 2023.
• Junior Achievement Essay Competition – Write a 500-word essay on an entrepreneur you admire for a chance to win up to a $2,500 scholarship. Annual deadline is in May.

Unique Scholarships

These scholarships stand out for their unique and sometimes quirky applications.

• Tall Clubs International Scholarship – Awards up to $1,000 in scholarships for tall students under age 21. Must be at least 5’10” for women and 6’2″ for men. Deadline is March 2023.
• Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest – Put your duck calling skills to the test for a chance to win $2,500! Part of the annual World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest during the Stuttgart Duck Festival.
• VIP Voice Scholarship – Record a short video reviewing a brand or product for a chance to win a $2,500 scholarship. Quarterly video scholarship contests throughout the year.

Easy Application Scholarships

These scholarships have simple applications and quick turnarounds.

• No Essay Scholarship – Short application with no essay required. Quarterly deadlines on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31.

Niche Interest Scholarships

For students with particular backgrounds, interests or goals.

• Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship – Students have the chance to win $10,000 by writing a 200-word vegetarian-themed essay. Deadline is February 20, 2023.
• Women in Defense Scholarship – Female students can apply for merit-based national security scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Annual deadline is September 30.
• Ayn Rand Essay Contests – Write an essay related to Ayn Rand’s novels for a chance to win thousands in scholarship money. Annual deadlines in September and April.

This covers 50+ great scholarships available for the high school Class of 2023. With creativity and dedication, you can make college attainable through scholarships.

Bonus Reading for Tips to Help High School Students Land Scholarships!

Here are some unique tips for high school seniors to land scholarships that are lesser known:

• Look for scholarships in your intended college major – Many professional associations and industry groups offer scholarships for students pursuing degrees in their field. Search “[Your Major] Scholarships” to find opportunities.
• Compete in writing contests – Entering essay writing competitions, even on random topics, can earn scholarship money for high scoring entries. Look for contests by searching “essay contests”.
• Get creative with art, music and video – Scholarships exist for artistic talents like painting, songwriting, photography, dance or filmmaking. Submit creative work to contests that award scholarships.
• Leverage hobbies and interests – Niche scholarships are available for things like left-handed students, dog lovers, vegetarians and more. Don’t be afraid to get specific with your interests.
• Enter sweepstakes and giveaways – Local businesses and national brands often run scholarship giveaways and contests. Follow companies on social media for opportunities.
• Look within your community – Check local stores, restaurants, clubs and civic groups which may provide small scholarships that get few applicants.
• Do good deed projects – Start a charity event or collection drive for a cause you care about. Nonprofits may award project grants/scholarships.
• Ask relatives about ancestry – Lineage-based groups like German-American clubs or Italian-American societies offer scholarships to descendants.

Getting creative and thinking outside the box can uncover unexpected scholarship opportunities perfect for you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships for High School Seniors

When should high school seniors start applying for scholarships.

Begin scholarship applications in the fall of senior year. Deadlines are typically between November and May. Avoid waiting until spring to get started.

Where can high school seniors find scholarships they are eligible for?

Use free scholarship search tools like Fastweb and Scholarships.com that allow you to filter by grade level. Check with your guidance counselor for local awards.

What scholarships should high school seniors focus on?

Look for national awards like National Merit and scholarships through major programs and organizations. Also apply for smaller local scholarships with less competition.

How many scholarship applications should a high school senior submit?

Applying to 5-15 scholarships provides a good balance to maximize your chances without becoming overwhelmed.

Can high school seniors win multiple scholarships and combine awards?

Yes, you can often “stack” smaller scholarships. Larger full-ride awards may limit additional funding. Read all scholarship rules before combining awards.

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Top 60+ Scholarships for High School Seniors to Apply for in 2024

Introduction to Scholarships for High School Seniors

If you're a high school senior, then first off, congratulations! You're now in your fourth and final year of high school, which means a few different things... First, you're one step closer to becoming a college student - woohoo! Second, you're now officially able to start applying for scholarships for high school seniors. 

Scholarships are an AMAZING way to help you pay for college because the money you earn through scholarships does not ever need to be repaid.

Despite this, most students make the mistake of waiting to apply for scholarships until the very end of their senior year in high school, if not later, and miss out on so many great opportunities. 

To ensure maximum success, I suggest starting as early in the year as possible.

However, even if you're a little late to the game, luckily there are scholarships for high school seniors that are open and running throughout the entirety of the school year, and even into the summer after you graduate.

If you're completely new (or even relatively new) to the scholarship space, that's okay! I know from experience that the process of finding and applying for scholarships can be an overwhelming one. 

That's why, in this post, I have gathered some awesome scholarships for high school seniors that you can search through and apply for to get you started in attending college. 

But first...some frequently asked questions about scholarships for high school seniors

A scholarship is, to put it simply, free money that you can earn to put towards paying for college.

Unlike other types of financial aid (aka, loans), money that you earn from scholarships doesn't ever need to be repaid, which is what makes it so awesome. 

Nope, not at all! In fact, you're in a prime position when it comes to applying for scholarships because not only can you apply for scholarships that are open to high school students, but you can also begin to prepare for scholarships that are open to college students.

By starting the process as a senior in high school, you can get fully acquainted and comfortable with what it entails, so that once you get onto campus in the fall, you know exactly what you have to do to secure the bag! 

In addition to Access Scholarships , there are tons of other places and resources you can check out to help you search and apply for scholarships. 

You'll want to start by heading over to the website(s) run by your state that outline state-based financial aid and scholarship opportunities. 

Then, you'll want to reach out to your school counselor (and do research on Google) to learn about local scholarships that you can apply for. 

Another more unique way to find potential scholarship opportunities that are specific to you is actually through utilizing social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, even Pinterest!). You can follow hashtags on Instagram such as #TexasScholarships (if you live in Texas) so that anytime an organization posts a relevant scholarship with that hashtag, you can see it and apply if you're interested!  

Great question! One of the main ways that you can stand out through your application is through the extra requirements that you submit.

Whether it's an essay , a video, letters of recommendation, or other additional submissions, these are all places where you will want to dedicate extra time and effort to make sure that what you're sending in is authentically YOU, unique, eye-catching, and memorable. 

As a senior, I know that you must have a lot on your plate that you're trying to balance. My number one tip to get it all done (and be as successful as possible in the process) is to set goals AND stay organized - more on this in the tips section below the scholarships!

Easy Rolling Scholarships for High School Seniors 

Niche $25,000 scholarship.

Award Amount:  $25,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Monthly

Details: The Niche $25,000 No Essay Scholarship is open to high school seniors and is awarded monthly. 

ScholarshipPoints No Essay $2,500 Monthly Scholarship

Amount : $2,500 

Deadline : Expires on the last day of each month

Eligibility: The ScholarshipPoints Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

Smart Owl No Essay $1,000 Scholarship

Amount : $1,000 (4 awards per month!)

Deadline : Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month

Eligibility: The Smart Owl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

CollegeVine No Essay $2,000 Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,000

Details: Open to high school students of all grades in the US. 

$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  End of every month

Details: Sallie Mae offers a $2,000 scholarship every month, open to high school juniors & seniors and current college students. To be considered, all you need to do is fill out the application form on their website.

CollegExpress High School Senior Monthly Scholarship

Award Amount:  Varies, but usually $1,000 - $2,500

Scholarship Deadline:  Last day of each month

Details: Answer the question:  If you could have any celebrity or influencer visit your school, who would it be?

CampusReel $2,000 Scholarship

Details: The CampusReel No Essay Scholarship is awarded monthly and all you have to do is sign up on their website. It's that easy!

Christian Connector Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,500

Details:  The Christian Connector Scholarship is a scholarship for high school seniors (and juniors!) who are interested in or planning to enroll in a Christian college or university . 

Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship

Award Amount:  $10,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Rolling monthly

Details:  The Scholarships360 No Essay $10,000 Scholarship is one of the easiest scholarships to enter.

Be Bold Scholarship

Details:  The $25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the  boldest  profile.

Niche $2,000 Scholarship

Details: The Niche $2,000 No Essay Scholarship is open to high school seniors and is awarded monthly. 

Appily Easy Money Scholarship

Award Amount:  $1,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Rolling

Details:  The Cappex Easy Money Scholarship is open to all students - no minimum GPA or essay required.

Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline: Quarterly (Last day of the month in September, December, March, and June)

Details:  The Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship is our own contribution to helping students fund their higher education. Simply fill in some easy info about yourself and you're entered to win!

No-Essay Surveys

Award Amount:  $Varies

Scholarship Deadline: Rolling monthly

Details: Not a scholarship, but if you're looking to make a few extra bucks this upcoming semester, sign up to take surveys 

Scholarships for High School Seniors by Deadline Month

Uplifting others scholarship.

Award Amount : $1,000 (3 awards)

Scholarship Deadline : July 31

Details:  Open to high school students of all years. 

GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program

Award Amount : $10,000 - renewable for up to 4 years

Scholarship Deadline : January 4

Details: The GE Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program honors the legacy and character of our nation’s 40th President. It rewards college-bound students who demonstrate exemplary leadership (in their community and through extracurricular activities), drive, integrity, and citizenship with financial assistance to pursue higher education.

Live Más Scholarship

Award Amount:  $5,000 - $25,000

Scholarship Deadline:  January 11

Details:  The Live Más Scholarship is Taco Bell's contribution to helping students achieve their higher education goals. To apply, students must submit a video telling the story of their real, true passion. 

Profile in Courage Essay Contest

Award Amount:  $500 - $3,000

Scholarship Deadline:  January 12

Details:  The Profile in Courage Essay Contest is open to all high school students. Essays will be judged on the overall originality of the topic and the clear communication of ideas through language.

Sierra Nevada Corporation Women in STEM Scholarship

Award Amount:  $7,500

Scholarship Deadline:  January 18

Details:  Open to female-identifying high school seniors, undergraduate, and graduate school students pursuing non-medical STEM-related degrees .

Edison Scholars Program

Award Amount:  $40,000

Scholarship Deadline:  January 23

Details:  The Edison Scholars Program offers $40,000 scholarships to 30 high school seniors planning on pursuing STEM degrees at 4-year colleges and universities. Must live in Edison's service territory in Southern California. 

Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program

Award Amount:  $20,000

Scholarship Deadline:  January 30

Details:  The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes program honors student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and strong leadership skills in sports, in their schools, and within their communities.

Jet Future Business Leaders Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  January 31

Details: This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors and currently enrolled college students who are interested in pursuing a career in business.

Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship

Details:  The Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship is designed to help you understand the negative effects that technology and too much screen time can have on our lives. Open to high school students of all years. 

EngineerGirl Essay Contest

Award Amount:  $500

Scholarship Deadline:  February 1

Details:  The EngineerGirl Essay Contest is open to all high school students (not just women !), and asks for an essay discussing the vital contribution of engineers in responding to the pandemic.

Columbus Citizens Foundation College Scholarship Program

Award Amount: Varies

Scholarship Deadline: February 1

Details: The Columbus Citizens Foundation administers scholarship programs that help hundreds of students every year in elementary school, high school, college, and medical school, and graduate programs in the arts.  

Jackie Robinson Scholars Program

Award Amount: Up to $30,000

Details: Scholarship for students accepted to accredited four-year colleges or universities. Must be a minority student , United States citizen, involved in community service and demonstrate leadership potential and financial need.

McDonald's HACER Scholarship

Award Amount: U p to $25,000

Scholarship Deadline: February 3

Details: Open to high school seniors who have at least one parent with Hispanic heritage. Must be a US resident planning to attend a two or four-year college or university. Minimum 2.8 GPA.

Elks National Foundation Legacy Awards Scholarship

Award Amount : $4,000

Scholarship Deadline : February 5

Details: $4,000 four-year scholarships available for children and grandchildren of Elks in good standing. Parent or grandparent must have been an Elk for two years and continue to be a member in good standing. Must be high school senior and apply through the related member’s Elks Lodge.

Americanism Essay Scholarship

Award Amount: $100 - $1,200

Scholarship Deadline : First Friday in February

Details: The Americanism Essay Scholarship is open to Illinois high school students and requires an essay on Americanism and good citizenship.

AFA Teens for Alzheimer's Awareness College Scholarship

Award Amount: $5,000

Scholarship Deadline: February 15

Details: AFA’s Teens for Alzheimer’s Awareness College Scholarship Essay Contest is an annual competition for college-bound students.  Applicants are asked to write a 1,200 to 1,500-word essay that describes the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on themselves, their families or their communities, and what they have learned in light of coping with the brain disorder.

Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholarship

Award Amount: up to $5,000

Scholarship Deadline : February 14

Details: Merit-based awards for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, eligible non-citizens, or DACA students of Hispanic heritage with plans to enroll full time in an accredited U.S. 4-year university in the upcoming academic year (can be a high school senior, current undergraduate student, community college transfer , or graduate student). 

The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship

Award Amount: $10,000

Scholarship 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. Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, or fowl. Applicants will be judged on a strong commitment to promoting a peaceful world through a vegetarian diet/lifestyle.

Scholars Helping Collars Scholarship

Award Amount : $1,500

Scholarship Deadline : February 28

Details: P.L.A.Y knows there are plenty of young minds out there that are passionate about helping animals in need. In an effort to encourage students and promote this cause, P.L.A.Y. will be awarding a $1,500 scholarship to a graduating high school student who best exemplifies their core beliefs.

Engebretson Foundation Scholarship

Award Amount:  $5,000/semester

Scholarship Deadline:  March 1

Details: This need-based scholarship is pretty straightforward: it's awarded to one student each year who demonstrates not only financial need but also impressive academic performance and leadership ability.

Horatio Alger National Scholarships

Award Amount : $25,000

Scholarship Deadline : March 8

Details:  The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program is one of the major scholarship programs nationally that specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. Open to US high school students with critical financial need. Minimum 2.0 GPA.

Executive Women International Scholarship Program

Award Amount : Varies

Scholarship Deadline : March 26

Details: To qualify for the scholarship, a student must be nominated by his/her school counselor or administrator. Students apply and compete at the local Chapter for up to $10,000 in scholarships. The first-place winner from each Chapter will then be submitted to the Corporate level for the opportunity to win the Corporate Scholarship.

Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program

Award Amount : $10,000

Scholarship Deadline : March 27

Details: The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and The Sallie Mae Fund are proud to offer financial assistance to outstanding students. Twenty-five (25) students completing a two-year, four-year, or trade/vocational certificate/certification program will be selected to receive a scholarship of up to $10,000.

E-Waste Scholarship

Award Amount : $1,000

Scholarship Deadline : April 30

Details: The E-Waste Scholarship, sponsored by Digital Responsibility, challenges students to learn about the impact of e-waste and what can be done to minimize it.

RealtyHop Scholarship

Award Amount: $2,000

Scholarship Deadlines : April 30, August 31

The RealtyHop Scholarship awards up to $2,000 a year to eligible undergraduate students and high school seniors working towards a bachelor and/or associate degree program in the US who demonstrate the ambition, diligence, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit that is central to our company culture.

Rover Scholarship Contest

Award Amount : $2,500

Scholarship Deadline : May 1

Details: Higher education: that magical time when deadlines are tight and budgets are tighter. Rover would like to help fund your education. Just write a 400-500 word essay for your chance to win $2,500!

Visionary Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000 - $5,000

Details: The American College Foundation (ACF) offers the annual Visionary Scholarship program to financially support students in every grade level of high school.

Fountainhead Essay Contest

Award Amount: $500 - $1,000

Scholarship Deadline : June 7

Details: The Fountainhead Essay Contest is for high school juniors and seniors and has three essay prompt options.

Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  July 31

Details:  The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship is a merit-based program that helps students fulfill their dreams of a higher education. To apply, students must simply answer one of three essay questions ("feel free to re-use an essay that you wrote in class, for college admission or another scholarship competition.")!

Alex Austin's Overcoming Adversity Scholarship

Award Amount:  $500 - $1,000

Scholarship Deadline:  September 1

Details: Open to all high school and college students in the US, including DACA recipients . Students who identify as part of a minority or who will be first-generation college students are encouraged to apply.

Cameron Impact Scholarship

Award Amount:  Full-ride! 

Scholarship Deadline:  September 10

Details: The Cameron Impact Scholarship is a four-year, full-tuition , merit-based undergraduate scholarship awarded annually to 10-15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service. 

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.7 to apply.

Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship

Award Amount:  $40,000 per year 

Scholarship Deadline: November 18 

Details: The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program is an 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. 

Heisman High School Scholarship

Award Amount:  $1,000 - $10,000

Scholarship Deadline:  October 19

Details:  Open to high-achieving high school seniors in the US with at least a 3.0 GPA who participate in a wide range of sports as well as school and community activities.

Imagine America High School Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  December 1

Details: Imagine America, sponsored by the Imagine America Foundation (IAF), is a $1,000 career education award that is available to recent high school graduates who are pursuing postsecondary education at participating career colleges across the United States.

10x Digital Marketing Scholarship

Details: 10x digital awards a $2,000 scholarship each year to one talented student (twice a year) who is majoring in (or planning on majoring in) a field related to digital marketing. 

Undocumented students and international students studying in the US are eligible to apply.

Ron Brown Scholars Program

Details: RBSP competitively awards 45 – 50 four-year $40,000 scholarships ($10,000 each year) to the most talented and economically-challenged high school seniors who demonstrate a keen interest in public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship and global citizenship.

Applicants for the Ron Brown Scholarship  MUST  be Black/African American , US citizens or permanent residents, and a current high school senior at the time of their application.

National Honor Society Scholarship Program

Award Amount:  Varies

Details: The National Honor Society is committed to helping students achieve their secondary education goals, and provides the following resources to students and their families to help with the planning process. 600 scholarships are awarded each year to high school seniors who are members of the NHS.

Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship Program

Award Amount: $40,000

Scholarship Deadline : December 15

Details: A serious 2-for-1 scholarship for high school students interested in computer science. Win $40,000 for college AND a paid programming internship at Amazon. 

Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of academic performance, experience with computer science, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience, short answer responses, unusual personal or family circumstances, financial need, racial/ethnic/gender diversity, and an educator appraisal, preferred to be completed by a computer science teacher.

Burger King Scholars Program

Scholarship Deadline:  December 15

Details:  Open to high school seniors in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. 

Equitable Excellence Scholarship

Award Amount: up to $20,000 over four years

Scholarship Deadline:  December 17

Details:  Open to current high school seniors who plan to enroll full-time in an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the United States for the entire upcoming academic year. 

Around the Corner from College Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  December 31 (and June 30)

Details:  This scholarship is Access Scholarship's opportunity created just for high school students! Open to high school seniors, but also to students in grades 9-11. DACA/undocumented and international students are also eligible to apply. 

Cirkledin's No Sweat Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  December 31

Details: Apply in 4 easy steps: Go to www.cirkledin.com, create a free Cirkledin account, hit the “Apply Now” button, and tell us “What is one thing that, if it were in the Olympics, you would win gold in?”

Careers Through Culinary Arts Program Cooking Competition for Scholarships

Award Amount:  Varies (up to full-tuition)

Scholarship Deadline:  Varies 

Details: Applicants must be a senior in a C-CAP designated partner high school in Arizona; Prince George’s County, Maryland; Tidewater, Virginia; or the cities of Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, or Washington, DC. Applicants must be accepted into the cooking competition for scholarships. Check the CCAP website for local coordinator’s contact information. 

United States Senate Youth Program

Scholarship Deadline: Varies by state

Details: The United States Senate Youth Program is a scholarship for high school seniors (and juniors!) holding elected student offices. Two students are selected from each state.

Scholarships for High School Seniors: Tips for Searching & Applying!

Look, the search and application process for scholarships for high school seniors is not always a smooth-sailing process. But, the fact that you've made it this far in the post and are taking the initiative to learn more about scholarships is a great start in itself!

Here are a few quick tips to help you along your scholarship journey...

1. Set goals for yourself along the way.

I was a high school senior not too long ago, so I know exactly what it's like to have to create a balance between your schoolwork, extracurriculars, college applications, and scholarships. 

It's not always an easy task, but that's why you should work on setting goals for yourself and creating a scholarship strategy ! 

Your goals should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant/Realistic, Timely). Setting goals for things such as how much you are aiming to earn from scholarships and when you will set aside time to search and apply will help you to stay on track with what you want to achieve.

2. Know where to look.

If you're here and you're reading this, that means you know one great place to look! The  Access Scholarships Search Engine is an awesome resource with tons of scholarships for high school seniors. But beyond Access Scholarships, be sure to...

• Reach out to your school counselor to discuss some of the local scholarships that are out there for you to apply for
• Head over to your state's financial aid website to learn more about their grants and resources 
• Also be sure to fill out your free application for federal student aid (FAFSA).

3. Apply often.

Don't think of the scholarship process as one that you can engage in only once every few months and see success with.

The scholarship process requires consistency and dedication. If you want to have the best chance at winning scholarships, you need to be dedicated to the process (creating a healthy mix of mostly essay scholarships with some no-essay scholarships is a good strategy) and put in the effort!

4. Be organized, thorough, and on time.

Lots of students find it helpful to organize their scholarship application and search process using a spreadsheet (virtual or physical). These are extremely useful because you can keep track of important deadlines, requirements for each scholarship, and more.

TIP: Click here to view and download a copy of my own  scholarship tracker so you can get organized for yourself!

5. Think outside the box.

I have provided you with a ton of great scholarships for high school seniors right here in this post.

In addition to these, don't be afraid to venture out to find scholarships that are specific to YOU in all aspects! This means thinking critically about your hobbies and interests, and passions outside of academics.

It also means thinking about things that define who you are that you could potentially leverage in your scholarship search. For example, are you a soon-to-be first-generation college student?  Or maybe you're planning on pursuing a STEM degree ? These are just two areas that you can identify and use to search for scholarships! 

Top 15 No Essay Scholarships For High School Seniors

Scholarships are the financial assistances that help make a high schooler’s college education dream possible. The students with financial unavailability but with exceptional talent or academic excellence opt for scholarships to keep their studies’ plans fueled. Scholarships require students to fulfill certain criteria; submitting essay is one of them. Sometimes, essays make getting scholarships difficult because of the stringent checking procedures.

So, is there any way of getting scholarships without going through the grill of writing an essay?

The answer is yes. Let’s take a look at some of the no essay scholarships for high school seniors that offer easily available financial assistance.

No essay scholarships to watch for in 2022

1. be bold no essay scholarship.

Key features:

• Educational level: Any
• No of awardees: 1 per year
• Amount: $25,050

Be Bold No Essay Scholarship requires students to be well-determined to achieve a goal. They are required to build their profile in such a way that showcases their goals and achievements made. The most ‘Bold’ candidate is selected based on their profiles to grant a scholarship of $25,000.

Last date to apply: April 1, 2022

Scholarship announced in: November, 2022

Sponsorship Details

2. Hustle Tech & Business News No-Essay Scholarship

• Amount: $10,000

This scholarship provides educational grants to people interested in tech and business news or has plans to be an entrepreneur. Applying for this scholarship automatically makes you a subscriber to Hustle. You have to read Hustle every day, share the Hustle newsletter with friends, and apply learnings from the news to boost your career/education. On the basis of an interview, the winner of this scholarship is decided.

Winner announced in: June, 2022

Sponsorship details

3. Nitro Pay for College No Essay Scholarship

Key Features:

Nitro is a loan and financial assistance platform that helps students with debt issues. Those students who get the best support from Nitro and use it for various purposes are recognized by Bold.org funders. The candidate with the boldest Bold.org profile can apply for this scholarship. The application deadline is rolling every month. So, keep pouring the platform with applications whenever you get the chance.

Last date to apply: Every month

Scholarship awarded in: December, 2022

These are the three easiest scholarships to apply at Bold.org. Let’s move to other scholarships that allow you to have funds in hand without writing an essay.

4. Too Cool to Pay for School No Essay Scholarship

Key Features

Educational level: high school, undergraduate, graduates No of awardees: 1 per quarter Amount: $1,000

Too Cool to Pay for School No Essay Scholarship is open to all students studying at high school and above levels. It is announced for those who are currently enrolled in high school in a full-time course or plan to do so in the next 24 months. The winner is selected randomly and announced at the end of every quarter. All US residents, DACA, undocumented students, and international students studying in the US are eligible to apply for this no essay scholarship. One entry per student per quarter is allowed. This scholarship is an initiative of Access Scholarships.

Deadline: Last day of March, June, September, December

5. Ascent Monthly Shining Stars Scholarship Giveaway

• Educational level: high school and above
• No of awardees: 1 per month
• Amount: $1,000

To become eligible for this scholarship, the candidate needs to demonstrate his knowledge of how credit works. By answering a simple question about what they wish they knew about credit before getting a credit card, they can apply for this sponsorship. They need to like Ascent’s Instagram post on credit card and leave a comment that necessarily be followed by #AscentSponsored. This scholarship is open for high school seniors who are above 18 years of age and wish to pursue higher education.

Announcements made: Every month

6. Around the Corner from College Scholarship

Key features

• Educational level: high school seniors, sophomores, freshmen
• No of awardees: 1 per application period

Around the Corner from College Scholarship is open for US residents as well as those international students who intend to study in the US. The applications are invited online only. There is no purchasing required. Also, the response to the question asked in the sponsorship application is evaluated to decide the winner. Read other terms and conditions here .

Last date to apply: June 30th, Dec 31st.

Winner announced on: Drawing date intimated by email

Scholarship Details

7. Scholly’s $1,000 Tuition Relief Scholarship

• Educational level: high school students above 18 years of age

Scholly’s Tuition Relief Scholarship covers all vital expenses like tuition, student debt, etc. This scholarship is a joint initiative of Scholly and Aspiration. It does not require any essay submission. The applicants can submit their application form on their website and they need to open a cash management account at Aspiration to be eligible for this no essay scholarship for high school seniors.

Last date to apply: May 31st, 2022

8. $2,000 No Essay College Scholarship by Niche.com

• Education Level: High school
• No of awardees: 1
• Amount: $2,000

It is an easy scholarship to try to win. Students can apply for this scholarship every month. They are not required to submit any essay. All they need to do is apply for this scholarship online or via email and open an account with the sponsor Niche. Even GPA is not asked. They can get the scholarship for 2-year, 4-year college, and trade/technical school.

Winner announced: Every month

Scholarship details

9. Skin Grip Diabetes Scholarship

• Education Level: High school Senior, College
• No of awardees: 20
• Amount: $1,170 each

Just upload a video on how you live fearlessly with diabetes and continue to contribute to the world’s progress despite the condition and be eligible for this scholarship. Those diagnosed with diabetes can apply for this scholarship. Skin Grip Diabetes Scholarship can be helpful in managing various challenges that come with this medical condition and may cost students additional expenses

Last date to apply: March 03, 2022

Winner announcement date: March 31, 2022

10. The Discover Student Loans Scholarship Award

• Education Level: High school Senior, Junior, etc.
• No of awardees: 12
• Amount: $5,000

12 students who sign up for emails from Discover to know about college tips and other resources can enter this scholarship scheme. The students must be enrolled at least half-time in Bachelor’s degree program within a year of winning this scholarship. It is a no essay scholarship scheme that helps cover college expenses.

Last date to apply: Last day of every month

Result announced: Every Month or Quarterly

11. #FinancialFreedom No-Essay Scholarship

• Education Level: Any
• No. of Awardees: 1 every six months

Financial freedom no-essay scholarship requires you to submit an online application form only. By evaluating your profile based on your ambition, your want to become free financially, and the motivation to improve life through education, winners are selected for this sponsorship. This grant is sponsored by Calvin Rosser, a writer, and a startup owner, who supports people who want to rise above the odds and contribute to make the world a better place for all.

Last date to apply: May 31, 2022

Winner Announced: June 30, 2022

12. AFSA High School Senior Scholarship Contest

• Education Level: High School Senior
• No. of Awardees: 10

The AFSA High School Senior Scholarship Contest is open to all high school seniors who are legal U.S. residents. This scholarship program provides aid in pursuing college academics. The students are required to enroll in the classes no later than the Fall session ensuing immediately after the award. Students need to visit AFSA scholarship official website for applying online.

Last date to apply: April 01, 2022

Winner Announced: A fortnight of the contest end date

13. Top Friend Scholarship

• No. of Awardees: 1

Top Friend Scholarship is for those contestants who are invited to be a part of Bold.org. The contestant must have the place among the boldest profiles on Bold.org. This scholarship is quite easy to get and requires no essay submission. The selection is done solely on profile analysis and the number of friends made at Bold.org.

Last date to Apply: April 1, 2022

Winner Announced: November 2022

14. Dr. Magidson Memorial Theater Scholarship

Education Level: Any No. of Awardees: 1 Amount: $5,000

If you are aiming at excelling in theater arts and have no financial means to pursue your interest, this scholarship is for you. A background in theater is required for this scholarship. It is sponsored by the Magidson family. 5-10 minutes of video demonstrating your work in the theater is required along with the application form submitted online to prove candidature for this grant.

Last date to apply: Apr 20, 2022

Winner Announced: May 20, 2022

15. College Express Monthly Scholarship

Education Level: High school senior No. of Awardees: 1 Amount:$1,000-$2,500

Have an interest in sports and want to study beyond high school? Just mention in one sentence how you plan to pursue sports in college, that is it! It is an easy scholarship to apply for and helps you apply for a $10,000 scholarship draw automatically. You require to be a sports fanatic and demonstrate the need for finance through relevant documents. Apply online every month to increase your chances of winning.

Last date to apply: Rolling Winner Announced: Rolling

If the soccer sponsorships for high school sound tough to you due to essay requirements, you can opt for the grants mentioned above. With all conditions made as simple as possible, the sponsors stand by the high schoolers’ college education dream genuinely. Also, the segregation based on personality traits, specific medical conditions, or will to change the world around makes these sponsorships quite interesting to contend for. Apply for these to avoid finances becoming a hurdle in your path to higher education.

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

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National Merit Scholarship

About the scholarship.

National Merit Scholarship Program provides financial assistance for college to high school seniors who achieve outstanding scores on standardized tests.

• Essay Required : No
• Need-Based : No
• Merit-Based : Yes
• This program is open to students who are enrolled full-time in a secondary school, progressing normally toward graduation or completion of high school, and planning to enter college in the fall following high school graduation.
• Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen and be taking the PSAT/NMSQT at the proper time in the high school program and no later than the third year in grades 9 through 12, regardless of grade classification or educational pattern.
• On the basis of the PSAT/NMSQT results, approximately 16,000 of the highest scorers are designated as semifinalists; they are apportioned among states based on the number of graduating seniors in each state, to ensure equitable geographical representation.
• Finalists for National Merit Scholarships must be graduating seniors who are selected from among the semifinalists on the basis of SAT scores, academic performance in all of grades 912, and recommendations by high school principals.
• Country : US

• Student Loans

10 Scholarships For High School Seniors

Updated: Feb 21, 2024, 9:18am

There’s no such thing as free money—but scholarships come pretty close. These financial aid awards can be need-based, merit-based or academic-based. And they can help reduce the financial burden of a college education.

Before you start applying for scholarships, carefully consider your options and target the best scholarships that appeal to your talents, interests and academic merit.

10 College Scholarships for High School Seniors

1. elks national foundation scholarship program.

The Most Valuable Student scholarship from the Elks National Foundation awards 500 scholarships to high school seniors, ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 annually. You must also be a U.S. citizen to qualify.

Students must also pursue a four-year undergraduate degree full-time to qualify, and the foundation doesn’t require you to be related to an Elks member to apply.

The organization will consider financial need, grades and leadership skills when selecting winners.

2. National Washington Crossing Foundation Scholarship

High school seniors planning to work in government service can apply for the National Washington Crossing Foundation Scholarship .

Only U.S. citizens are eligible. The one-year scholarship can range from $500 to $5,000. Students must write a one-page essay in 300 words or less describing their motivation for government work and exploring any inspiration from George Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River.

Students must also include a letter of recommendation from a high school principal or guidance counselor and a copy of their transcript.

3. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards $3.55 million in scholarships to over 1,400 students annually. There are three different scholarship programs, including one for community colleges and one for two-year colleges.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is available to those attending a four-year program. Both U.S. citizens and permanent residents qualify for this award, and you must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA to qualify. The scholarship is awarded to 150 students, with each receiving a $20,000 scholarship.

4. Cooke College Scholarship Program

The Cooke College Scholarship Program is available to high school seniors planning to pursue an undergraduate degree after graduation. Students must demonstrate financial need to qualify, with a maximum family income of $95,000. The program also requires students to have a 3.5 GPA or higher.

The program awards up to $55,000 annually, depending on the cost of tuition and other scholarships that the student has received. Only those planning to attend college full-time are eligible.

5. QuestBridge National College Match

This scholarship program is designed for low-income high-school seniors who demonstrate financial need to cover college tuition. The QuestBride Match Scholarship offers recipients a four-year scholarship worth over $200,000. The scholarship program may also include matching students with other types of financial aid like grants and work-study.

Students must attend one of the program’s partner institutions, which include Brown University, Yale, Stanford and more. Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents can apply.

6. BigFuture Scholarship

This scholarship from the College Board is more like a lottery drawing than a traditional scholarship. There are two types of drawings: one for $500 and one for $40,000.

The scholarship incentivizes students to start the college application process and complete the steps necessary to get accepted and find enough financial aid.

To apply, you must finish each step by the respective deadline. Not only will completing the tasks render you eligible for the scholarship drawing, but they will also help you apply to college and qualify for more financial aid.

There is no minimum GPA or test score requirement to be eligible, and there is no essay component.

7. GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship

Students who apply for the GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship can receive a $10,000 annual scholarship for four years in total. The foundation also covers an all-expenses-paid retreat to California. They can use the money to cover tuition, living expenses, books, fees and more.

Students must have a 3.0 GPA, be U.S. citizens and plan to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree. To apply, you need a letter of recommendation from a community leader or a school principal. Proof of financial need and a strong academic record is also required.

8. Engebretson Foundation

The Engebretson Foundation provides scholarships to high school seniors attending a four-year college.

In addition to demonstrating financial need, you must score a 28 on the ACT or a 1240 on the SAT, and have a 3.75 GPA or be in the top 5% of your graduating class. A completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is also required to qualify.

Students must submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher with their application. You must mail or email the application form by the deadline.

9. Bryan Cameron Education Foundation

The Bryan Cameron Education Foundation offers four-year, full-tuition scholarships to students who demonstrate excellence in leadership, community service, extracurricular activities and academics. Between 10 and 15 deserving students are selected annually.

Students must have a 3.7 GPA and be U.S. citizens. High school seniors planning to attend a four-year college can apply for this scholarship. You must submit two letters of recommendation and a transcript.

10. Unigo $10K Scholarship

While many of the above-mentioned scholarships have high standards and strict application requirements, the Unigo $10K Scholarship is much easier to apply for. Students must write a 250-word essay answering the question, “Would you rather be smart, funny or rich?”

Only legal U.S. residents can apply, but there are no GPA requirements.

Can a Scholarship Affect Your Financial Aid?

External scholarships, which aren’t offered by your institution, can reduce your financial aid award from your school. If your total aid amount including scholarships, institutional aid and government funding exceeds your calculated need by $300, the government may reduce your need-based aid amount.

If you don’t report outside scholarships to your college’s financial aid office, you may need to repay some of your aid. Make sure you review your college’s policy on outside scholarships before you apply.

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Scholarships for High School Seniors

Key takeaways:.

• According to the National Center for Education Statistics , for the 2021-2022 academic year, student's were awarded an average scholarship or grant of $8,080 for a public school and $21,718 for a private school.
• Scholarships are awarded based on various criteria including academic, athletic and artistic merit as well as community service involvement.
• Completing the FAFSA is essential for accessing many scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

If you’re going to college, your senior year of high school will be filled with a long to-do list. You’ll have to apply to college, sort through financial aid information and decide what school to attend - on top of finishing your high school education.

In the midst of that chaos, applying for scholarships can get lost in the shuffle. However, while they may seem like an afterthought, scholarships are absolutely crucial if you want to reduce your college costs.

In the article, we'll show you how to find and apply to scholarships for high school seniors.

About scholarships for high school seniors

Scholarships generally fall into two main categories, merit-based and need-based . Scholarships for high school seniors may also be awarded based on academic, athletic or artistic merit as well as community service involvement. Most scholarships have specific eligibility requirements.

Scholarships.com helps you find scholarships you qualify for by providing a personalized list of scholarship matches.

Well-known scholarships for high school seniors

The coca-cola scholars program scholarship.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program awards 1,400 students with scholarships each year, awarding $3.55 million annually. The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship for high school seniors who are committed to making a positive impact in their school and community.

One third of the 2024 Coke Scholars are members of the Scholarships.com community. According to the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, " less than 1/6th of 1% of applicants were chosen ", a testament to the leadership, service, and academic achievements of the Scholarships.com community.

The Gates Scholarship

The Gates Scholarship is both a merit-based and need-based scholarship focused on supporting minority high school seniors from low-income households. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.3 however, The Gates Scholarship is highly selective. TGS scholars receive a scholarship for the full cost of college attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid.

Cooke College Scholarship Program

The Cooke College Scholarship Program is open to high school seniors with financial need who plan to attend one of the nation's top four-year colleges and universities. The program is for high-achieving students with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5. The selection criteria is based on academic achievements, leadership, persistence, and financial need. According to the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, “the award, which is last dollar funding after all institutional aid, can provide as much as $55,000 per year to pursue a bachelor’s degree at any accredited undergraduate institution.”

Find less competitive scholarships for high school seniors

Well-known scholarships are always worth applying to however, they are much more competitive. Scholarships.com specializes in finding you less competitive scholarships as well. Our scholarship database consists of many local scholarships in your city and state.

Continue reading the article below the scholarship list.

25 Scholarships for High School Seniors with Approaching Deadlines

Lilly endowment community scholarship.

• Amount Varies
• Deadline September 4, 2024

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program (LECSP) provides scholarships for full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis, leading to a baccalaureate degree at any Indiana public or private non-profit college or university accredited by the North Central

DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG)

• Amount $10,000
• Deadline September 6, 2024

DCTAG provides up to $10,000 toward the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at public colleges and universities throughout the U.S., Guam and Puerto Rico. DCTAG also provides up to $2,500 per academic year toward tuition at private colleges and universities in the District and private Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide. DCTAG applicants, who were not

Balanced Man Scholarship - Georgia Institute of Technology

• Amount $2,500
• Deadline September 8, 2024

Ninety percent of college takes place outside of the classroom. It’s in this part of the college experience — the unplanned, unstructured hours — that students discover their passions and plan their futures. For our brothers, much of this time is spent with their chapters — it’s where they build close bonds of friendship and learn how to communicate and work with others, to lead, and to speak in

Albert Baker Fund Scholarships

• Amount $5,000

The Albert Baker Fund provides tuition scholarships to Christian Scientists pursuing degrees or certificates at accredited post-secondary institutions including community colleges, colleges, universities, graduate schools and vocational training programs. Scholarship funds are made payable directly to the educational institution. Apart from the Albert Baker Scholarship (which is $3,500), you may

Don & Roy Splawn Charitable Foundation West Scholarship

• Amount $2,750
• Deadline September 15, 2024

The Don and Roy Splawn Charitable Foundation West Scholarship Grant Program is open to financially disadvantaged students who wish to further their pursuit of post-secondary education; whether it be of an academic or vocational nature. Our goal is to minimally assist and provide a spark of meritorial acknowledgement in the form of monetary funds upon high school graduation and shepherd these

Catching The Dream Program

Throughout the United States, Native American communities suffer from a lack of qualified professionals—teachers, engineers, doctors, communication specialists, business managers, social workers and technicians. Well-paying jobs exist in Indian communities, but few Indians are prepared to fill them. Hospitals, dental clinics, schools, engineering and agricultural projects remain understaffed and

Edvisors $2,500 Scholarship

Edvisors offers resources on everything from planning & paying for college to creating your first budget. Let us start to help you on your journey through one of our monthly scholarship opportunities! Applicant Requirements: At least thirteen (13) years of age or older on the date of entry A U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident of the fifty (50) united States or District of

Chickasaw Nation Scholarships

This program provides a wide variety of higher education grants, scholarships and incentives to Chickasaw college students each semester. To be eligible to apply, you must be a Chickasaw citizen. Applicants must provide a final high school transcript (if you are an incoming freshman) and an unofficial college transcript with previous semester grades and hours as well as a semester schedule with

The Frank Annunzio Scholarship

• Amount $2,000

In order to be given priority consideration for the Frank Annunzio Scholarship, the applicant is required to: be of 50% or more of Italian extraction; have demonstrated leadership and community service experience; have high academic achievement and a resident of Illinois; and be enrolled or admitted into an accredited institution of higher education and show proof of their acceptance/enrollment.

CDGA Foundation Veteran Scholarship

The CDGA Foundation Scholarship is awarded to disabled veterans or dependents of deceased or disabled veterans living or hospitalized in the Chicago District. Awards are given on the basis of financial need, scholastic achievement, community service and personal goals. Applicants must be a disabled veteran or a dependent of a disabled or deceased veteran with intent to enroll in an accredited

Sponsoring True Advocacy for Challenged Youth Scholarship

• Amount $1,000

The selected applicant(s) will receive up to a $1,000.00 scholarship to help fund their college tuition and/or miscellaneous education expenses. Completing the application will provide the STACY Board members with information about each applicant. Eligibility Must at least seventeen (17) years of age Must have residency in one of the following California counties: Sacramento, Contra

Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers & Firemen Scholarship

The Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers and Fireman Scholarship Program offers financial assistance to dependent children and spouses of any Mississippi law enforcement officer, full-time firefighter or volunteer firefighter who has suffered fatal injuries or wounds or become permanently and totally disabled as a result of injuries or wounds which occurred in the performance of the official and

Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant

Created by the Mississippi Legislature, the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant is designed to provide financial assistance to Mississippi residents attending state approved public and private not-for-profit two-year and four-year eligible colleges and universities. The primary objective of MTAG is to provide educational opportunities for students who wish to pursue postsecondary education in

ACHE Student Grant Program

• Amount $3,000

The Alabama Student Grant Program is available only to students at an eligible independent Alabama college or university. This is not a need based program. Grant amounts vary from year-to-year based on the availability of funds, but cannot exceed $3,000 per academic year. Applications are available from the financial aid office at the institution you plan to attend. Applicants must be residents

Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grants

Created by the Mississippi Legislature, this program is designed to provide financial assistance to Mississippi residents attending state approved public and private not-for-profit two-year and four-year eligible colleges and universities. The primary objective of MESG is to provide educational opportunities for high-achieving high school students who wish to pursue postsecondary education in the

$2,500 Monthly No Essay CollegeVine Scholarship

CollegeVine is an AI company that leverages its vast student network, data, and AI agents to transform student recruitment. We’re focused on applying the latest AI technologies to our student network of millions to produce incredible outcomes for our students and the educational opportunities they seek. Join CollegeVine’s network to unlock early admissions offers and scholarships from top

Heart Warrior Achievement Scholarship

The Heart Warrior Acheivement Scholarship provides financial assistance to undergraduates and high school seniors who suffer from CHDs, in hopes of reducing some of their burden from an already hard journey with CHD. Eligibility U.S. citizens and either in the process of entering an accredited undergraduate college/university or trade school or are currently enrolled. GPA of 3.0 or

Inter-Tribal Council Johnson-O'Malley Scholarship

Each year the Chickasaw Nation awards this scholarship to one male and one female graduating high school senior (awarded one time only). The students must be attending a school with a Johnson-O’Malley (JOM) program within the Chickasaw Nation. Applicants must submit one letter of recommendation and a 500-word essay by Sept. 15. Scholarship Details Awarded to one male and one female graduating

Alaska Space Grant Program- Undergraduate

The Alaska Space Grant Program (ASGP) invites applications from U.S. citizens for undergraduate funding awards. These awards are offered to students majoring in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) or STEM education fields. Stipends available under this program are limited to students attending Alaska institutions of higher education. Women, under-represented minorities and

• Amount $160,000

The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding minority high school seniors from low-income households. Each year, TGS awards exceptional student leaders, aiming to help them realize their maximum potential. Scholarship Details Scholars receive funding for the full cost of attendance that is not covered by other financial aid and the

Balanced Man Scholarship- University of Virginia

• Amount $1,500
• Deadline September 18, 2024

How do you lead your life? Are you a UVA male undergraduate student who lives a healthy, balanced lifestyle with a continuous-growth mindset, a commitment to be a community leader and an aspiration to make an impact on your peers? Are you looking for a scholarship that recognizes your achievements inside and outside of the classroom? SigEp is awarding scholarships to individuals who have achieved

UT Austin Acacia Man of Faith Scholarship

• Deadline September 20, 2024

The University of Texas Chapter of Acacia Fraternity is offering one Man of Faith scholarship up to $1,000. Men of all faiths are eligible to receive this scholarship and membership in Acacia Fraternity is not required. The scholarship is intended to help male students who have been involved in helping their community and have shown leadership in a number of different

UT Austin Acacia Fraternity Fall Leadership Scholarship

The University of Texas Chapter of Acacia Fraternity is offering Leadership Scholarships up to $1,000 for the upcoming fall. Membership in Acacia Fraternity is not a prerequisite for the award. Application deadline is September 15th. Applicants should be active in their respective communities, be a full-time male student at the University of Texas for the academic year the scholarship is to be

Acorn Equality Fund Scholarships

• Amount $4,000
• Deadline September 23, 2024

Acorn Equality Fund Scholarships provide financial support for college for gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender students; allies; or the children of gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender parents from Downstate Illinois. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $4,000 with $35,000 being disbursed in total. There are five types of scholarships awarded by the Acorn Equality Fund. You may apply for all

QuestBridge National College Match

• Amount $325,000
• Deadline September 26, 2024

Are you a low-income high school senior who has excelled academically, but feels that the nation’s best colleges are financially out of reach? The QuestBridge National College Match can be your pathway to a top college. Through this college and scholarship application process, you can apply for free to the nation’s best colleges and be considered for early admission and a full four-year

Where to find scholarships for high school seniors

High school seniors can search our Scholarship Directory where all the scholarships in our database are accessible by category. The directory is designed to help students and parents find scholarships they may qualify for based on academic major , school year , geographic location and other demographics and attributes. For a more personalized experience, high school seniors can create an account to match with scholarships you qualify for.

Another great place to find scholarships is through the school you're applying to. When you fill out a basic college application, you may be automatically considered for many internal awards. Some schools may require additional documents for you to be eligible for those scholarships. Contact the financial aid department and ask them how you can maximize your scholarship opportunities.

Make sure to ask your high school counselor, community foundations, professional organizations, and places of worship for additional access to local scholarships.

How to apply for scholarships for high school seniors

Scholarships.com matches you with scholarships you qualify for but now you have to apply. The most important thing is to stay organized. Our platform allows you to mark your favorite scholarships, those you have applied to, and more. It is a good idea to create a Google Sheets with more detailed scholarship information such as deadlines, scholarship application requirements, and award amounts.

Make sure to follow the scholarship application requirements and reach out to the scholarship provider directly with questions and/or to confirm receipt of your application.

If you're attending college next year, you will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) during your senior year of high school. The FAFSA is the official form that students must complete to receive federal student loans and grants.

Most students don't know that completing the FAFSA also gives them access to scholarships they would not otherwise receive. Most schools require that students submit the FAFSA to receive their own grants and scholarships. Even if you don't think you'll qualify for need-based aid, you may still need to fill out the FAFSA to receive merit scholarships.

And contrary to popular opinion, you should still fill out the FAFSA even after you're enrolled in college. It has to be completed every year that you want to receive financial aid.

You should try to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after the application has been opened. Some institutional scholarships and grants are only given on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you wait too long to apply, you won’t receive those awards.

Also, make sure to monitor two specific deadlines: the school’s financial aid deadline and the state’s financial aid deadline. You should write down whichever deadline is soonest on your calendar and make sure to submit all required materials on or before that date. Missing these deadlines could result in you being ineligible for thousands or even tens of thousands of potential financial aid.

Frequently asked questions about scholarships for high school seniors

Before you start filling out those scholarship applications, make sure to read through the following questions to learn everything you should know about these awards:

While most students assume that senior year is their only chance to apply for scholarships, this is a false assumption. You can start applying for scholarships at almost any point in your academic career. There are some scholarships that are open for middle school or even elementary school students.

Some students and parents also think that students aren’t eligible for new awards once they’re enrolled in college. But current college students still qualify for many scholarships and other types of financial aid. In short, you should start applying for scholarships as soon as possible and not stop until you graduate.

High school seniors have access to some of the most generous scholarships available. In fact, there are a number of scholarships that offer tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands in financial aid to deserving students. The best scholarships depend on factors such as academic achievements, demographics, extracurricular involvement, financial need, and unique characteristics. Let's provide you with the best scholarships based on data and research.

Nursing Scholarship

Nursing is the top major selected on Scholarships.com with over 10% of our community interested in pursuing a nursing degree. Nursing students can apply to the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program . According to the Health Resources & Services Administration "if accepted, we pay your tuition, fees, and other educational costs, along with a monthly stipend. In return, after you graduate, you work at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses (critical shortage facility)."

Texas Scholarship

Texas is the most frequently selected state on Scholarships.com, with over 13% of our community residing there. High school seniors in Texas can apply for the Terry Traditional Scholarship . Scholarships are awarded to Texas high school seniors who have been accepted for admission to one of the Terry-affiliated public universities in Texas. The program awards scholarships based on academic achievement, community leadership, financial need, and college admission to a Terry-affiliated college.

California Scholarship

California is the second most frequently selected state on Scholarships.com, with over 10% of our community residing there. High school seniors in Southern California can apply to the Edison Scholars Program . This program awards thirty $50,000 scholarships to students who have at least a cumulative 3.0 GPA, plan to major in STEM fields, and demonstrate financial need. Edison Scholars are students focused on shaping a clean energy future.

Some scholarships only allow high school seniors to apply, whereas others will accept students from several different grade levels.

For example, the Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholarship is only given to high school seniors who can submit original scientific research solving a major world problem. Approximately 300 students will receive a $2,000 scholarship and can also apply for a summer internship program with Regeneron.

Forty finalists will be chosen for this scholarship, with a top prize of $250,000. These finalists will also receive a one-week trip to Washington, D.C., where they can meet with award-winning scientists.

This is one of the most rigorous scholarship applications because applicants have to conduct independent scientific research to be eligible. Students attending high school in the U.S. are eligible, even if they are not from the U.S.

While some scholarships are fairly broad, others have strict requirements and eligibility rules. In fact, you might be surprised at how narrow some scholarships are.

For example, the Organization of Latino Actuaries Scholarship Program is open to Latino students who are interested in becoming actuaries. The winner will receive a $5,000 or $7,500 scholarship, as well as a relevant internship. You must be attending a U.S.-based college or university next year to be eligible.

Students who are part of any minority group may be able to find scholarships they are eligible for. And if you already have a career or industry in mind, then you should look for scholarships specifically geared toward that as well. Remember, the odds of winning a niche award are higher than winning a general award.

While many scholarships are available to students from across the country, some scholarships have guidelines restricting who can apply for them.

For example, the Vicki Soto Memorial Scholarship is given to four students. Two recipients must be from Stratford, Connecticut, one must be from Connecticut in general, and the final one can be from anywhere in the country. This scholarship is worth $12,000 and can be renewed for four years.

Some geographic-based scholarships may require that students attend school in the same state to be eligible, but that’s not always true. You can still look for regional scholarships even if you're not going to school nearby. Just make sure you understand the eligibility requirements.

When you attend college, the number of credit hours you take determines if you’re a full-time, part-time, or less than part-time student. This will impact how much financial aid you can receive. For example, if you’re eligible for the Pell Grant , you’ll receive less funding if you’re a part-time student than if you’re a full-time student.

Many scholarships will also require that you be at least a part-time student to be eligible, and some will only award scholarships to full-time students.

This also means that if your status decreases at any point, you may lose some awards. If you’re dropping any classes, make sure you understand how this may impact your scholarship funding.

It's best to start looking for scholarships as soon as possible, even before your senior year officially begins. That’s because scholarship deadlines may be different than deadlines for college applications. For example, some may even be due the summer before senior year, months before college application deadlines.

Think of applying for scholarships as an extracurricular activity that you must dedicate time to regularly. Set aside a few hours a week to search for scholarships and organize required materials.

You don't have to know exactly what you want to major in or what school you're attending to start applying for scholarships. Just remember that if a scholarship requires that you attend a certain kind of school and you don't, then you may have to give back the award. Make sure to keep that in mind when you’re deciding where to attend.

Contrary to what most people think, you may still qualify for scholarships even if you’re not the best student in high school. Nowadays, many scholarships also don’t require a certain SAT or ACT score to be eligible.

As far as your GPA, the typical minimum is a 3.0, but this may vary depending on the specific scholarship. Some may be as low as 2.5 or 2.0, while others can be as high as 3.5.

For example, the California Credit Union Student Scholarship only asks that students have a 3.0 GPA or higher. To be eligible for this scholarship, you must be planning to attend a four-year school. You must currently be a high school senior or a community college student.

You must also live in one of the following counties in California:

• Los Angeles

If you don’t meet those residential criteria, you can also qualify for the award if you’re a member or dependent of a member of the California or North Island Credit Union. This award is worth $1,000.

During the early part of the Covid-19 pandemic, many colleges stopped requiring that students take the SAT or ACT exam due to lockdown procedures. And since that time, dozens of schools have kept that test-optional policy in place.

Some scholarships have also followed suit, but there are still awards that require students to provide SAT or ACT results.

The 10 best scholarships for high school seniors

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Scholarships are a form of financial aid that can be need-based, merit-based or academic-based. Scholarships are gifts; they do not have to be repaid. Some scholarships are renewed automatically every year you’re in school, while others are given on a one-time basis.

Many scholarships are available for high school seniors about to start their first year of college. While the best way to find relevant scholarships is to use a scholarship search engine, below you can find a list of the most popular, simple and unique scholarships for high school seniors available.

The “best” scholarships to apply for will depend on your unique strengths. Try to focus your efforts on awards that appeal to your talents and interests, where you can submit a strong application. The stronger your qualifications for a certain award, the better a chance you will have of winning.

10 best scholarships for high school seniors

Thousands of scholarships for high school seniors are available, many of which are focused on specific majors, hobbies or interests. The scholarships below are a good place to start your search.

1. Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship

Both high school and college students are eligible for the Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship, which requires a 140-character answer to the question, “Instead of spending time with technology, I’d rather…” Finalists for this award will be asked to submit a 500- to 1,000-word essay about technology addiction.

Amount: $1,000 Application deadline: January 30, 2024 Apply for the Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship

2. Unigo $10K Scholarship

Students at least 14 years old can apply for the Unigo $10K Scholarship, which requires a 250-word essay on the question, “Would you rather be smart, funny or rich? Why?”

Amount: $10,000 Application deadline: December 31, 2023 Apply for the Unigo $10k scholarship

3. U.S. Bank Student Scholarship

The U.S. Bank Student Scholarship is open to senior high school students who’ve already been accepted to a two-year or four-year college or university and are at least 17 years old. To enter, you must fill out a form with your personal information and complete at least 35 one- to two-minute personal finance modules on U.S. Bank’s online learning platform. The more lessons you complete, the more money you could win.

Amount: Up to $20,000 Application deadline: October 30, 2023 Apply for the U.S. Bank Student Scholarship

4. Young Filmmakers Contest

Creative students can submit a film for the chance to win the Young Filmmakers Contest, which offers a $1,000 scholarship for high school seniors and college students, plus a $1,000 matching grant. The subject should be the environment. Live-action films must be between three and eight minutes long, while animated or stop-motion films must be at least 45 seconds long.

Amount: $1,000, plus a matching grant Application deadline: 2023 admissions closed; 2024 deadline not yet announced Apply for the Young Filmmakers Contest

5. Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

The Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship program offers 150 scholarships, each worth $20,000. Students must have a 3.0 unweighted GPA. Students are chosen based on their leadership skills and academic achievement; candidates are evaluated based on their “capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities.”

Amount: $20,000 Application deadline: Submissions accepted August 1 – October 2, 2023 Apply for the Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

6. United States Senate Youth Program

High school students passionate about government and public policy can apply for the United States Senate Youth Program, which provides a $10,000 award and a special week-long educational program in Washington, D.C. Winners will be chosen from each state and the District of Columbia. Students must be interested in public service and have held an elected position in either their student body or their community.

Amount: $10,000 Application deadline: Depends on the state – throughout September & October 2023 Apply for the United States Senate Youth Program

7. $1,000 All Star Verified Scholarship

If you’ve been browsing and applying for scholarships as if your life depended on it, now it’s your chance to win $1,000 just for sharing your experience. The $1,000 All Star Verified Scholarship is open to both high school students and parents of college-bound students. The only thing you need to do is answer the question “What is the best or worst part about finding or applying to scholarships?” in 450 characters or less.

Amount: $1,000 Application deadline: Rolling, throughout 2023 Apply to the All Star Verified Scholarship

8. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

In addition to financial support, this scholarship provides academic support, programming, travel abroad, internship and career opportunities for award winners. With an award of up to $35,000 over four years of schooling, winners are well-supported throughout their college educations. The Foundation looks for candidates who represent the core values of discipline, integrity, humility, compassion, and courage.

Amount: Up to $35,000 over four years, plus financial sponsorship to attend leadership and development opportunities Application deadline: January 10, 2024 Apply to the Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

9. College Board BigFuture Scholarships

If you’re a college-bound high school senior, chances are you’re already working toward the steps required for entry to the College Board’s BigFuture scholarship drawings. From starting your scholarship list to applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the steps you are taking anyway will make you eligible for scholarship drawings ranging from $500 to $40,000 each– no essay required.

Amount: Between $500 and $40,000 per drawing Application deadline: Throughout the year , beginning the summer after your junior year of high school Apply to the College Board BigFuture Scholarships

10. Niche.com $2,000 No Essay Scholarship

If you’re tired of writing essays or illuminating the same strengths for other scholarship applications, the Niche.com No Essay Scholarship is awarded by a random drawing, with one winner selected every month. Simply create a free account on this data-driven website for access to the application.

Amount: $2,000 Application deadline: Monthly deadline with monthly awards announced Apply to the Niche.com $2,000 No Essay Scholarship

Where to find scholarships for high school seniors

The more scholarships you apply to, the greater the chances of earning money for school. That’s why looking for scholarships from various sources is so important. The easiest way to do that is through scholarship search engines , which compile thousands of scholarships and let you filter by specific criteria. The following sites are the best for finding scholarships if you’re a high school senior attending college next year.

• CollegeScholarships.org.
• College Board.
• Going Merry.
• Peterson’s.
• ScholarshipOwl.
• Scholarships.com.

You can also search for scholarships through local organizations, such as rotary clubs or local businesses. Colleges may also have scholarships available, which you can inquire about when you apply.

How scholarships affect your financial aid package

A scholarship may affect how much federal aid you’re eligible to receive. Scholarships reduce the cost of attendance , and you can’t be offered more financial aid than the total cost. The exception is the Pell Grant , which will not be reduced if you receive a private scholarship. If your total scholarships and the Pell Grant exceed the cost of attendance, the college will pay the difference directly to you.

However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t apply for scholarships. Scholarships don’t have to be paid back. In contrast, student loans do, so it’s almost always in your best interest to go after as many scholarships as possible before applying for federal aid like student loans.

To find the best scholarships for you as you graduate high school, research and find scholarships specific to you — whether it’s because of your state, your future major or your interests and activities. Apply to as many scholarships as possible. Every dollar you earn in aid is one less dollar you have to borrow in student loans.

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More than $6 billion in scholarship money is awarded each year, with 63% of all undergraduate college students receiving at least one grant or scholarship. However, applying for scholarships can be a lengthy process. With everything else going on in your life, such as keeping up with schoolwork, participating in extracurriculars, and applying for colleges, writing scholarship essays can be a drag. 

Easy scholarships are an alternative that allows high school and college students to quickly apply for financial aid , all while still putting their best foot forward. There are actually tons of scholarships that don’t require an essay submission to be considered. These low-effort scholarships are one of the easiest ways to minimize your need for student loans.

The requirements for these scholarships are much less time-consuming and offer similar award money. To increase your chances of winning one of these no-essay scholarships , make sure to apply early and often!

To make things easier for you, we’ve assembled this exclusive easy scholarship list. These scholarships are unique to Bold.org and will not be found anywhere else. Select one of the featured scholarships in this list to create your free account, and start sending applications today! 

Here at Bold.org, you can apply for exclusive scholarships that are just for you. Sign up here and check which scholarships you are eligible to apply for right now.

What Are Easy Scholarships?

Easy scholarships can take many forms but are generally no-essay scholarships that require little effort to apply. Many easy scholarships on Bold.org require no content to be submitted and sometimes require applicants to install a free and helpful resource.

Other scholarships just require a quick click of the “apply” button to enter. In this way, easy scholarships often offer quick, stress-free applications for high school and college students.

Additionally, some easy scholarships allow you to access your creative side by asking for a video, photograph, or other media in place of an essay. This not only spares students the time necessary to craft a winning essay but also offers a change of pace from typical essay-based applications.

Why Are Easy Scholarships Important?

Higher education is the driving force for social mobility for households across the country. On average, those who receive their bachelor’s degree earn more annually than those who only complete their high school diploma. While opportunities in higher education often pay dividends down the road in blossoming careers, they can also plunge students into staggering debt. In fact, compared to those who only receive their bachelor’s degree, grad school students take on an additional $54,000 of debt!

People deserve to use their education to propel themselves toward their dreams without utilizing student loans and falling victim to the debt crisis that plagues the US today.

Why Easy Scholarships?

Today, a lot is expected of prospective and current college students. Showing academic excellence, extra-curricular participation, and volunteer experience still sometimes isn’t enough when colleges are considering applicants.

These activities are usually incredibly time-consuming and can, unfortunately, weigh heavily on your mental health, as stress and anxiety are rampant in academic settings. As a result, many high school and college students find it difficult to carve out time to submit regular scholarship applications with well-written essays.

Most scholarship programs have application processes that aren't exactly time-friendly. Easy scholarships give you the chance to submit stress-free scholarship applications in just a few minutes. They're a very small investment that, in the end, could earn you free and easy scholarship money toward your education. Every scholarship in this easy scholarship list is exclusive to Bold.org and can be applied to in just one click with your profile.

They all have upcoming deadlines, so pick an easy scholarship and get started now!

What Qualifies as an Easy Scholarship?

On Bold.org, there are a plethora of scholarship opportunities for students to take advantage of for tuition assistance and general financial aid. None are more convenient than easy scholarships, though! Here are a few qualifications that make up easy scholarships.

No Essay Required

A large majority of scholarships on Bold.org require specialized essays to be submitted in order to apply. Easy scholarships don’t require an essay, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be spending time to maximize your chances of winning one! Many easy scholarships have rolling monthly deadlines, so the earlier you apply, the more likely you are to win. Also, when reviewing easy scholarship applications, a fully polished student profile will typically do much better than a less refined student profile. Apply early and fill your profile with relevant and essential information!

Timeless and Easy Application

Easy, no-essay scholarships are also known for their minimal application processes. Easy scholarships typically take just a few minutes to apply for and require just a few clicks to be automatically entered!

Broad Eligibility Requirements

Many easy scholarships are open to all high school students, college students, or both. Additionally, most easy scholarships don’t require applicants to be in a certain field of study. The broad eligibility requirements of many scholarships mean that you should be able to find plenty of scholarships that you qualify for!

How to Find Easy Scholarships to Apply For

Once you create your profile on Bold.org , you will receive scholarship recommendations that will help you find good-fitting scholarships based on your profile information. You may even be nominated by another user or a donor for a scholarship that they think you’re a good fit for!

You can browse through all of the scholarships currently available on Bold.org, or you can filter by category to pull up scholarships that are relevant to your major, hobbies, or personal identity. You can also choose to display only scholarships that don’t require an essay, which will then leave you with most of the easy scholarships offered on Bold.org .

When to Start Applying for Easy Scholarships

On Bold.org, there are easy scholarships available for students at all levels of education , so there’s no need to wait until college to start your search for financial aid. Many students start their search as high school seniors , but you can begin applying for easy scholarships at any point in high school, and any money won will be held for you until you enroll in a college or university. 

However, it’s never too late to begin finding and winning scholarships. Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, there are easy scholarships designed just for you. Start applying as soon as possible so you can maximize your chances of winning easy scholarships. 

What to Consider When Applying for Scholarships

It can feel like you have no control over your chances of winning when you apply for an easy scholarship since many don’t allow for the personal touch of an essay or any other application materials. 

However, don’t get discouraged if you haven’t won an easy scholarship yet, as there are many strategies to increase your chances of winning. Keep reading to learn about our recommendations for boosting your chances of winning an easy scholarship and funding your college education.

Tips for Winning Easy Scholarships

It may seem like easy, no-essay scholarships just go to one random winner since many students apply. However, there are several things that scholarship winners do to increase their chances of securing a no-essay scholarship.

Start as Early as Possible

Many easy scholarships will have monthly rolling application deadlines, meaning that a new application deadline is set each month until the scholarship is awarded. In these cases, students who apply during earlier application windows will have the best chance of winning, so don’t wait to apply.

Submit Applications to as Many Easy Scholarships as You Can

Easy scholarships are very popular amongst students and often receive many applications as a result. Since many easy scholarships require no application materials, i t’s difficult to make yourself stand out and win a scholarship. 

Applying for many scholarships will increase your chances of winning one, and the quick nature of easy scholarship applications makes it possible to apply for numerous scholarships very quickly. 

Look for Easy Scholarships with Limited Eligibility

Another way to boost your chances of winning an easy scholarship is to find scholarships that have specific criteria and are not open to all students. Additional eligibility requirements will limit the number of applications, resulting in less competition!

There are many easy scholarships that have eligibility restrictions. You can use the filter feature to find these scholarships and boost your chances of winning. 

Make Your Bold.org Profile Strong

One more way you can increase your chances of winning an easy scholarship is to strengthen your profile on Bold.org . Having a detailed, fully filled-out profile can attract the attention of donors, and a high number of Bold Points can increase your chances of winning. 

Frequently Asked Questions

No-essay scholarships are typically the quickest to apply for. When searching for scholarships on Bold.org, you can use the filter feature to find all of our no-essay scholarships. Easy scholarships with limited eligibility, such as the Stride Funding Affordable Tuition Scholarship, are also great as there are fewer applicants, increasing your chances of winning.

There are many examples of scholarships that are difficult to earn; merit-based scholarships and athletic scholarships are two examples of that. With merit-based scholarships, it's often important to excel academically (as most of these scholarships have a GPA requirement). For athletic scholarships, it's important excel in a sport (sometimes multiple sports) as well as demonstrate leadership qualities.

Easy scholarships often get many applications due to the minimal requirements, but you can still make your application stand out. Earn as many Bold Points as possible, have a detailed profile, and apply in early application windows to increase your chances of winning easy scholarships. Make sure you also apply for as many scholarships as possible to increase your likelihood of winning free money to cover tuition.

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• Youth & Education

Youth Scholarships

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Before submitting your essay, download the  2024-2025 entry form here  and find your sponsoring  local VFW Post  as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 . 

The 2024-25 theme is:  "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?"

About the 2023-2024 winner ...

Sophia Lin, a high school junior at BASIS Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona, was named the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Sophia's speech on the theme, "What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?" won her a $35,000 college scholarship. Sophia was sponsored by Scottsdale VFW Post 3513. Watch as Sophia delivered her speech during the VFW's Parade of Winners award  ceremony or read it here .

Want to catch up on everything that happened this year? You can watch the full Parade of Winners ceremony which was streamed live on Facebook, or see this year's complete list of winners .

Patriot's Pen

Each year, nearly 68,800 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000! 

The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting your essay,  download the 2024-2025 entry form here  and find your sponsoring local VFW Post  as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 . 

The 2024-25 theme is:  "My Voice in America's Democracy?"

Bryant Day, an eighth grade student from Ashland, Ohio, was named the 2023-2024 Patriot's Pen first place winner. His essay on the theme, "How Are You Inspired by America?" won the national first place $5,000 award. Bryant was sponsored by VFW Post 9943 and its Auxiliary in Mansfield, Ohio.

Watch as Bryant delivered his winning essay during the VFW's Parade of Winners streamed live on Facebook, or read  his essay here.  See the complete list of 2024 national winners .

Youth Scholarships Additional Resources

2023-2024 VOD Winners

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