The Ultimate Scholarship Guide for College: 2025 – 2026 Edition

Scholarships are the holy grail of financial aid. You don’t have to pay them back, and they don’t come with added interest. If you think collegiate scholarships are hard to come by, think again. Research shows that 58% of families use scholarships to fund all or part of college tuition.

We’ve gathered scholarships for students with various GPAs, talents, and even heights. (You read that right: heights.) Keep reading for everything you need to know about college scholarships.

No-essay scholarships

Many scholarships don’t require a personal statement or essay at all. With no or minimal GPA requirements and quick, streamlined applications, no-essay scholarships are some of the easiest opportunities to apply for. Learn more about no-essay scholarships and explore options below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
ScholarshipOwl	$1,000	Ongoing (awarded monthly)
Appily Easy Money Scholarship	$1,000	Ongoing (awarded monthly)
Niche “No Essay” Scholarship	$2,000	September 30
The “No Sweat” Scholarship	$2,500	September 30

Merit-based scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on a student’s achievements: academic, athletic, artistic, or extracurricular. These awards can come directly from the university or from independent organizations that want to support high-performing students. We’ve listed some examples below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
St. John’s University Freshman Merit Scholarship	Varies	With admission application; December 1 for early action or February 1 for regular decision
SBB Research Group STEM Scholarship	$2,500	November 30
Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship	$1,000	December 31

Scholarships for low GPAs

You don’t need a perfect 4.0 to get a scholarship. Eligibility for some scholarships isn’t solely tied to your academic performance, making them accessible to a broader range of students. Read more about low-GPA scholarships here, and explore some of our recommendations below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Equitable Excellence Scholarship	$20,000	Sign up for 2027 updates
Courage to Grow Scholarship	$1,000	September 30
E-waste Scholarship	$1,000	April 30

Transfer scholarships

Transfer scholarships are designed specifically for students moving from one college or university to another—often from a community college to a four-year institution. These awards can help cover tuition gaps and recognize academic achievement, leadership, or financial need during the transition.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
St. John’s University Transfer Distinction Award	$23,000	With admission application; December 1 for early action or February 1 for regular decision
St. John’s University Transfer Merit Scholarship	Up to $26,000	With admission application; December 1 for early action or February 1 for regular decision
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship	Up to $55,000	December 9

Collegiate scholarships for past-due tuition

Falling behind on tuition payments doesn’t necessarily mean your college journey has to end. Some scholarships and emergency aid programs are designed specifically to help students cover past-due balances. Read more about scholarships and loans for past-due tuition.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
UNCF Emergency Student Aid (ESA)	Up to $10,000	Multiple scholarships due on different dates in September
Bold.org Scholarships Finder	Varies by scholarship	Multiple scholarships due on different dates

Service scholarships

Service scholarships are awarded to students who serve their communities—or whose family members do. This includes children of police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and military service members. Some awards come from individual colleges, while others are national programs available to anyone who meets the criteria.

Scholarships for children of public servants

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
St. John’s University Service Awards (Children of police officers, firefighters, or military service members)	Up to $2,000 each for up to 4 years	With admission application; December 1 for early action or February 1 for regular decision
First Responders Children’s Foundation Scholarships	Varies by scholarship	TBA

Scholarships for veterans and military families

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Scholarship	$1,000 – $2,500	Spring
Kathern F. Gruber Scholarship Program	4 awards valued at $2,500 each	April 30
CTU Patriot Scholarship	Full tuition	June 30

Scholarships for felons

In recent years, federal legislation expanded financial aid access to people impacted by incarceration. Scholarships for people with felonies, like those listed below, continue to be a consistent source of educational funding.

Scholarship	Amounts
The Prison Education Foundation (PEF) Scholarship	4 – 16 credit hours
Transcending Through Education Foundation (TTEF) Scholarship	$1,000
Charles W. Colson Scholarship	Assistance with full tuition and on-campus room and board for single students. Full tuition and housing for married students.
Willy the Plumber Scholarship	Varies

Collegiate scholarships for athletes

Student-athletes can take advantage of a vast pool of scholarships, particularly if they perform well academically while giving it their all during matches and competitions. Whether you’re a star quarterback or captain of the dance team, learn more about athletic scholarships here and check out specific examples below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Michigan High School Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete Award	$2,000 each	December 4
Women’s Western Golf Association (WWGA) Scholarship	$20,000	March 7
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Scholarship	Varies	October 15
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship	$24,000	January 5

Dance scholarships

Dance scholarships recognize students with exceptional talent, dedication, and potential in dance. Offered by colleges, private organizations, and foundations, they often require an audition, portfolio, or personal statement. These awards help reduce educational costs while supporting artistic growth.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Hope College Distinguished Artist Awards for Dance	$3,000/year	February 22
National YoungArts Foundation – Dance	$250-$10,000	October 6
Princess Grace Foundation – Grace Kelly Training Scholarships	$10,000	Feb. 15, 2025
Princess Grace Foundation – Grace Kelly Scholarships	$6,000 total	TBA

Swimming scholarships

Swimming scholarships recognize student-athletes who excel in academics and competitive swimming. They may be awarded by colleges, athletic foundations, or major scholarship programs, with eligibility often based on GPA, leadership, community involvement, and ongoing participation in the sport.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
University of Georgia Swimming Scholarship Endowment Program	Varies	TBA
Walter Byers Postgraduate Scholarships Program	$24,000	January 5

Weightlifting

While few scholarships are exclusively for weightlifters, there are several awards that support students in fitness-related fields or who compete in strength-based events. These scholarships often emphasize personal drive, community involvement, and passion for fitness—whether or not you’re pursuing an athletic major. Read more about options here and check out the example below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Arnold Sports Festival Columbus Rotary Scholarship	$2,000	February 15

Scholarships by height

Not all scholarships are based on academics or athletics—some are awarded based on physical traits like height. Whether you’re tall or short, there may be money on the table just for being you.

Scholarships for tall people

Women around 5’10” or higher and men generally at least 6’2″ may qualify for scholarships meant for tall people. Read more about scholarships for tall people and check out examples below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Tall Club International (TCI) Memorial Scholarship	At least $1,000	TBA: Registration opens in January
Boston Beanstalks Tall Club (BBTC) Scholarship	$500	TBA

Scholarships for short people

Some scholarships support students of shorter stature, often focusing on those with forms of dwarfism or related conditions. These awards typically consider factors like community involvement, academic achievement, and membership in relevant organizations. Read more about scholarships for short people here.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Little People of America (LPA) Scholarship	$250 – $1,000 (sometimes more)	April 5

Scholarships for redheaded students

Yes—you read that right. Some scholarships are awarded based on your hair color (or at least use it as a quirky theme for eligibility or selection). These lighthearted awards could give you a financial boost, and a good story to tell.

Read more about scholarships for red-haired students here.

Scholarship	Value	Deadline
RedHead Scholarship	$500	TBA

Scholarships for lefties

While scholarships exclusively for left-handed students are rare, a few still exist—and they often reward uniqueness, creativity, and personal growth. Whether you’re pursuing culinary arts or simply want to showcase your southpaw story, these scholarships for lefties are a great place to start.

Scholarships for people with glasses

You can find scholarships for students with impaired vision, like these.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Fred Scheigert Scholarship Program	$3,000	February
National Federation of the Blind	$10,000	TBA
American Council of the Blind (ACB) Scholarship	$2,000 – $7,500	February 14

Mental health scholarships

Scholarships exist that are specific to students with mental health diagnoses and students who have struggled with their mental health.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Jared Monroe Foundation Scholarship	$250 – $2,300	May
The Andrew Q. Peschard Memorial Scholarship	$1,000	March

Scholarships for students with disabilities

Some scholarships are reserved for students with mental, physical, and intellectual disabilities, including the ones below. Learn more about paying for college for people with disabilities.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
The Lep Foundation for Youth Education	Up to $5,000	May
Jack Scura Fund Annual Scholarship	$10,000	TBA
Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C. Disability Scholarship Program	$1,000	October 1

Collegiate scholarships for students with disabled parents

Even if you don’t have a disability yourself, you might qualify for scholarships for students impacted by a relative’s disability.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Mesothelioma.com Scholarship	$4,000	March 31
Millie Brother Scholarship	Varies	February

Scholarships for women

Women, too, have historically been barred from pursuing higher education opportunities. These scholarships for women can help make earning a college degree more affordable.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Women in STEM Scholarship	$3,000	April 30
American Association of University Women (AAUW) fellowships	Varies	Sept. 30, 2026
Rae Lee Siporin Scholarship for Women	$1,000	TBA

Scholarships for LGBTQ+ students

Queer and transgender students continue to face barriers to access when it comes to critical needs, like healthcare, housing, and education. Admission to a college or university can help LGBTQ+ students meet those needs, making scholarships for LGBTQ+ students an invaluable funding resource.

Scholarship	Amount	Eligibility
Stonewall Community Foundation scholarships	$5,000 – $7,500 each	TBA
LEAGUE Foundation Scholarships	Varies	April

For additional scholarships, browse the Horizon Foundation LGBTQ+ scholarship directory.

Scholarships created by companies

While many scholarships come from nonprofit or athletic organizations, you’ll also find several scholarships from big-name companies. You might recognize some of your favorite brands and banks in the list below.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
U.S. Bank Student Scholarship	Up to $20,000	October 30
Dell Scholars program	$20,000	February 15
Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation	$20,000	September 30
Pepsi Community Scholarship Fund	$1,000	March

Fast food scholarships

Working or having ties to the fast food industry can open doors—literally. Several chains offer scholarships to support students pursuing higher education, often rewarding leadership, community service, and resilience. Whether you’re flipping burgers or envisioning a future in management, these programs can provide serious financial flavor. Learn more about fast food scholarships.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
KFC REACH Educational Grant Program	Up to $20,000	TBA
McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship	Not disclosed	TBA
Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship	Not disclosed	TBA

Lion’s Club scholarships

Lions Club scholarships are typically offered by local chapters of Lions Clubs International, aimed at high school seniors who demonstrate academic dedication, community involvement, and good citizenship. Since each chapter sets its own criteria, awards can vary widely—but for students rooted in their communities, these local scholarships are well worth exploring.

Scholarship	Amount	Deadline
Sanibel Captiva Lions Club – Francis Bailey Scholarship	$3,000/year (renewable up to 4 years)	May 1
Union Lions Club (Northern IL)	$1,500	April 5
4 County Lions Club (MD)	Varies; based on application	March 31

Weird scholarships

Sometimes the most unusual paths lead to money for school. If you’re ready to think outside the box—and maybe even outside the realm of logic—here are a few scholarships that reward the delightfully odd. Read our full scholarship guide here.

Scholarship	Award	Deadline
Theodore Gordon Flyfishers Founders Fund Scholarship	$5,000	June 30
The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarships	$5,000 – $10,000	February 20
Illustrators of the Future Contest	$500 each per quarter	First quarter: December 31 Second quarter: March 31 Third quarter: June 30 Fourth quarter: September 30

What can I do if I don’t qualify for these scholarships?

We understand that college is expensive. Scholarships can be a great way to pay for school, but if you don’t see a scholarship that you’re eligible for and you’ve applied for no-essay scholarships like ScholarshipOwl, there are still plenty of options.

Check with community service and faith-based organizations in your area, and research professional groups for the degree programs or career fields you’re considering.

You might also have luck perusing our list of one-of-a-kind scholarships you probably didn’t know existed.

If you’ve exhausted all options and still face a tuition shortfall, borrowing may be your next step. Compare the pros and cons of private student loans to determine if it’s the right choice to close your funding gap.

How to apply for a scholarship

Every scholarship has its requirements, and how you’ll apply depends on what kind of organization sponsors the scholarship:

• Private scholarships: These are offered by corporations, small businesses, and nonprofits. You usually have to apply to these one by one.
• Institutional scholarships: These are offered by colleges, universities, and trade schools. You may be required to apply to these individually, or your school may automatically consider you for its scholarships when you’re granted admission.

You shouldn’t have to complete the FAFSA as part of a private scholarship application. However, your school may require you to submit the FAFSA before it can disburse scholarship awards.  

If you’re applying for individual scholarships, whether private or school-based, this is what you can expect to do:

1. Understand the scholarship’s requirements: Read through the eligibility and application requirements list and note the deadline. Gather any listed materials well in advance of the due date.
2. Update your resume: You may need to list your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, or work or volunteer experience.
3. Request transcripts and letters of recommendation: You might have to show proof of academic achievement or provide character references. If you’re requesting college transcripts, you may have to pay a small processing fee (usually no more than $20).
4. Enter your personal and academic information: You’ll need to provide your name and contact details. You may also need to share what school you’re attending and what you plan to study.
5. Answer application questions or write supporting essays: You may need to convince the selection committee why you’re the best pick or tell them how the scholarship will help further your education.
6. Upload audition tapes, highlight reels, or copies of your work (if needed): This usually only applies to scholarships for musicians, athletes, and artists.
7. Submit your application, and hang tight for a decision: The next step is often getting a yay or nay from the scholarship committee. However, you may be asked to participate in interviews or in-person auditions before finding out if you’re selected.

If you’re awarded a scholarship, the selection committee will let you know how it’ll disburse those funds. Usually, your scholarship money will go directly to your school. Sometimes, though, you might get the funds as a paper check or bank deposit.

Tips for scholarship applications 

Scholarships are arguably the most affordable way to pay for college, and they can be competitive. Read through these tips before you apply for scholarships to up your odds of getting free money for school:

1. Start early: Applications take time, especially if you need reference letters or transcripts. Plan for a minimum of two weeks to request and receive those documents, and give yourself plenty of time to fulfill any additional requirements in advance of the deadline.
2. Tailor your resume to each scholarship: If you have to submit a resume, draw the committee’s attention to your most relevant extracurriculars, academic achievements, and professional or community service experience.
3. Provide your resume when you request letters of recommendation: When you do this, you’re basically saying, “These are things I want the scholarship committee to know about me.” Don’t assume your recommenders know what to include or what to highlight.
4. Tell your recommenders about the scholarship: The more information your recommenders have about the scholarship and its selection criteria, the better equipped they’ll be to focus on the right things in your letter of recommendation.
5. Submit your documents correctly: Each application may require you to use certain file types or restrict your ability to see your letters of reference. Follow instructions to the letter, or risk your application being denied on a technicality.
6. Be authentic: Unless you’re applying for the World’s Best Rocket Scientist Scholarship (which isn’t a thing, by the way), the scholarship committee isn’t expecting you to be a Nobel Prize-level candidate. They’re looking for real students with real goals and real potential. You don’t need to lie or embellish; you just need to be yourself.

Just as importantly, don’t get disheartened if you’re not selected. Some scholarships have thousands of applicants, and others draw winners at random. It’s not a reflection of your ability or value if you aren’t chosen.

Continue applying to other scholarships in the meantime, and reapply to any scholarships you missed out on during the next submission cycle. 

You could even ask the scholarship committee for insight on how to improve your application the next time around. They may or may not be able to provide that feedback, but it’s worth a shot.

Avoid collegiate scholarship red flags

As you apply for scholarships, stay alert for scams. Less-than-reputable scholarship sites can mimic legitimate ones quite well, and other “scholarship opportunities” are just data-mining operations in disguise. If you see any of these red flags, steer clear:

• Too many pop-ups, and zero privacy disclosures: If a scholarship site flashes ad after ad and doesn’t have an easy-to-find privacy policy, something’s amiss.
• Sensitive information required: No legitimate scholarship will ask for your Social Security number, bank account details, or credit card information. 
• No contact information listed: If a scholarship application asks for your details but doesn’t provide any of its own, hit the back button immediately.
• Sounds too good to be true: Scholarships aren’t guaranteed. Any site that makes lofty promises likely isn’t operating on the up and up.
• Pay to apply: Scholarships don’t cost money, ever. If you’re asked to pay a fee as part of your application, run.
• Unsolicited contact: If you get a text, call, or email from someone claiming that you won a scholarship you never applied to, it’s likely a scam. This is especially true if the spammer creates a sense of urgency around accepting your “award.”

Of course, scholarship green flags exist, too. Here are signs that a potential scholarship opportunity is legit:

• The website is compliant: The privacy policy, terms of use, and terms and conditions are all accessible and updated within the last year.
• Eligibility criteria are clearly listed: Even if a scholarship has lenient requirements, awards are financial in nature and subject to regulation. That regulatory information, at the very least, should be readily accessible.
• The sponsoring organization exists outside of the application page: If you find news articles and active social media accounts for the company funding the scholarship, that’s a good sign. (Bonus points if those articles or posts feature past winners!) 
• You can easily contact the scholarship committee: Working contact information is another indicator that you’ve found a reputable opportunity. 

When in doubt, reach out. Ask questions about the scholarship, and gauge how helpful the organization’s responses are. A trustworthy scholarship source will be forthright and transparent. 

If at any point you feel pressured, uncomfortable, or guilty for doing your research, trust your gut and walk away. There are far too many ways to pay for college to risk your information falling into the wrong hands.