Regardless of whether your passion is hip hop or ballet, there are a number of scholarships for students who are passionate about dance. Some of these opportunities are solely for students who plan to obtain a career in a dance-related field. Other scholarships are designed to help students obtain a degree in any field. See below for a list of dance scholarships that may help you afford a college degree:
Dance Discovery Foundation Scholarship Program
Dance Discovery Foundation Scholarship Program offers several scholarships to encourage students to pursue a degree in the arts as well as to increase the number of low-income students who enter the arts. Numerous scholarships exist, such as the Shine Scholarships Award, Accel Scholarship Award, Full Ride Years Tuition, and Dream Scholarship Award. The amount of these scholarships ranges from $500 to $10,000. The application cycle for the first three scholarships is open from April 1 to May 31st each year. Winners will be announced sometime in mid-late June of each year. The DREAM Scholarship is open until July 1st. In order to be eligible, students must have at least a 3.0 grade point average. Additionally, students will be selected based on talent, skill, financial need, and determination. All applicants must be older than eight years of age and be a citizen of the United States.
Northwood University Blue Crush Dance Scholarship
Northwood University Blue Crush Dance Scholarship offers seven awards of $5,000. In order to be eligible, students must be in their last year of high school with at least a 2.5 grade point average. Students must plan to attend Northwood University in Florida and an in-person audition may be required. The deadline to apply for this award is March 30th.
Hope College Distinguished Artist Awards for Dance
Hope College Distinguished Artist Awards for Dance provides funding awards worth $2,500 to eligible students. Students are required to attend an interview as well as complete an audition. Other requirements include two letters of recommendation and a photo.
National Young Arts Foundation
National Young Arts Foundation offers over 150 awards to students at various levels of training. The amounts of the awards vary and a maximum of $10,000 will be awarded. Students must submit a tape of their abilities. More information is available on the following website: http://www.youngarts.org/discipline/dance.
Princess Grace Foundation
Princess Grace Foundation scholarships are open to dance students who are attending a non-profit school. Students must be studying dance and must have been enrolled for at least one year. In addition, some fellowships are offered. In order to apply, students must complete an online application form and submit a resume. Furthermore, they must complete a personal statement that touches upon their most challenging dance experience and what lessons they have learned. Furthermore, work samples must be submitted along with a photograph. Additional information on eligibility and work sample guidelines can be found at the following website: https://www.pgfusa.org/grants-program/grant-applications/guidelines/dance.
Other opportunities
In addition to the above opportunities, students may want to inquire at their current dance school or high school about scholarships for dancers. Other scholarships for dancers can be found online. Students may also consider searching more broadly for arts scholarships or checking out the resources below: