Can Adults Get Scholarships? 

There are scholarships for adults returning to college after a gap. Adult scholarships may offset the cost of tuition, fees, and books. Even childcare. 

These awards are for many types of adults. Ones who did not earn a degree. Or, are “independent” per federal financial rules. Some awards help adult learners by funding a two year or four-year degree. So, you may have past credits to use. Or none at all. 

Others are for adults who want to enter or reenter the workforce. These may help finance a certified trade, professional, or technical program. 

Many adult scholarships are for the nontraditional student. Or, an adult who 

• Is 24 years and over
• Earned a GED or certificate but not a high school diploma 
• After high school, delayed going to college 
• Has family and financial limits  
• Works full time  
• Attended college but part time

Most college applicants are high school graduates. Data from the Current Population Survey (CPS) shows that the percentage of individuals aged 25 and over with a bachelor’s degree or higher increased from 30% to 38% between 2010 and 2021. In 2021, the percentage ranged from 62% for Asians to 20% for American Indian/Alaska Native individuals. However, adult students often face financial challenges when returning to school, making loans less ideal. Scholarships are grants, meaning you don’t have to repay the money as long as you adhere to the terms. 

Types of Adult Scholarships 

Any scholarship comes with rules about who can apply. And adult scholarships are the same. Some awards are for adults who are also part of a group. Adult women in STEM, for instance. Or single parents. Others are set aside for specific ages, or stages of study. Like adults ‘over 35’.

Here are a few of these types of adult scholarships. What they award. And, how to apply. 

Federal Financial Aid for Adult Students 

Pell Grants are for undergrads with high need. So, while an adult, you may still qualify. To know if you are eligible, you submit a FAFSA. Or, Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

The form becomes available on October 1st for the upcoming school year. It serves two purposes: determining your family’s income and comparing it to your college’s attendance cost. Award amounts may change each year, but until June 2024, the maximum is $7,395. 

Reentry Scholarships 

Reentry scholarships are designed to support adults who have taken a break from education and now wish to return to college. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria, such as an age range typically between 25 and 50 years old or a specific time frame of being out of school, such as two or five years. However, age is not the sole determining factor; applicants are usually required to demonstrate both academic promise and financial need to be considered for these scholarships.

Scholarships for Single Parents 

Numerous scholarship providers understand the challenges faced by single moms or parents – balancing work, finances, and raising kids. As a result, they allocate scholarships to those in dire need. A prime example is Helping Hands for Single Moms (HHSM), which assists low-income single moms in pursuing a college education to achieve financial independence and build a positive family legacy. 

Top Adult Scholarships for 2023 and Beyond

Here is a sampling of 8 scholarships for adult learners. Check out the criteria and apply before the deadlines.

In the United States, only 17% of Native American students pursue higher education after high school, and they constitute only 1% of the undergraduate population. The Postsecondary National Policy Institute indicates that even fewer Native American students continue to graduate school, with financial obstacles often playing a significant role. However, there are potential solutions in the form of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and opportunities provided by Tribal colleges, which can assist more Native American students in accessing college education. Financial aid options may be available to those who meet the eligibility criteria. 

Scholarships for Native American Students

Scholarships provide college funding without the burden of repayment. Numerous scholarships tailored for Native Americans focus on their specific ethnicity and can be offered by educational institutions, businesses, and non-profit organizations. Here are some Native American scholarships worth considering: 

• Truman D. Picard Scholarship. Undergraduate students pursuing studies in natural resources and belonging to any recognized tribe are eligible to apply for the $2,500 annual award. The deadline for application is yet to be posted, so please visit the ITC for updates.
• United South & Eastern Tribes. Every year, the USET Education Committee provides financial awards to successful applicants from one of the 30 USET Member Tribal Nations. The deadline for applications is January 15. To be eligible, students must have a satisfactory GPA and be enrolled or accepted into a college degree program. 
• Zuni Tribal Scholarship. American Indian students belonging to the Zuni Tribe can apply for the Zuni Tribal Scholarship. The award amount varies, and applicants must be enrolled in college. The deadline for applications is October 30, and the scholarship requires yearly renewal.
• Full Circle Scholarship Fund. The American Indian College Fund offers this scholarship with varying award amounts, and the application deadline is annually on May 31st. To be eligible, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA. 
• Catching the Dream Program. Native American high school seniors can benefit from three different scholarship opportunities through this program. To qualify, a high GPA is necessary, and priority is given to those pursuing STEM topics. The award amount varies, and the application deadline is September 15.
• Chickasaw Nation Scholarship Program. Chickasaw Nation members who maintain a 3.0 GPA and take three or more credit hours per semester are eligible for this award. The amount varies depending on enrollment status and GPA. Application deadlines fall on February 15, July 1, and September 15. 
• Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship. Students who are members of federally recognized tribes are eligible to apply for this scholarship, which offers up to $5,000 per year and requires a minimum GPA of 2.7. The 2023 application deadline has already passed, so please refer to their website for any future updates. 
• Indian Health Services Scholarship. Scholarships are available for American Indian and Alaska Native health students, with varying award amounts. Applicants are usually required to submit an essay and demonstrate strong academic performance. The application process generally takes place during the winter each year.
• Daughters of the American Revolution American Indian Scholarship. The application period for this scholarship typically commences in November. It offers a one-time $4,000 award and is open to Native American students from any tribe with a minimum GPA requirement of 3.25 or higher. 
• Association on American Indian Affairs Scholarships. The association usually provides scholarships for Native American full-time students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Unfortunately, scholarship applications for the fall 2023 through spring 2024 term are now closed. Please visit their website for any updates regarding future opportunities. The award amount varies. 
• Gates Millennium Scholars Program. Native Americans are typically eligible for this scholarship as part of the minority student category. The scholarship may prioritize fields of study where their ethnic groups are underrepresented. The award amount and application deadline vary depending on the specific scholarship opportunity. 
• American Indian Education Fund Scholarship. This scholarship is usually available to individuals with tribal enrollment for themselves or their parents. It provides an award of up to $2,000 per year. The scholarship application period begins on February 1st annually, with a priority deadline of May 31st. However, the application remains open until January 30th of the following year. 
• Continental Society Daughters of Indian Wars, Inc., National American Scholarship. Tribal members who are enrolled in at least 8 semester hours and maintain a 3.0 average are eligible to apply for this renewable $5,000 award. The application deadline is June 15 each year. 
• Gates Post Graduate Scholarship. The esteemed award typically offers $5,000 to $30,000 per year for students engaged in post-graduate training in STEM fields. Applicants must apply by June 1 and demonstrate a commitment to pursuing STEM disciplines.

Grants for Native American Students

Apart from scholarships for Native Americans, there are also grants available for eligible individuals. Grants function similarly to scholarships and usually do not require repayment. In addition to meeting GPA and Native status criteria, many grants also take financial need into account. Here are some grants to consider: 

• Bureau of Indian Education Grant Program. The BIE (Bureau of Indian Education) offers a grant program specifically for Native Americans with at least ¼ Indian blood. To be eligible, students must be accepted or enrolled in a college program pursuing either an associate or four-year bachelor’s degree. Demonstrating clear financial need, often through the FAFSA application, is also a requirement for this grant. Additionally, individuals with blindness or vision loss may qualify for this program.
• Blackfeet Nation Higher Education Grant. Members of the Blackfeet Tribe can typically apply for this grant, which offers an award ranging from $2,800 to $3,000 to be used for their undergraduate education. The application process may involve demonstrating financial need and submitting an essay. 
• Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin Higher Education Grant. This grant typically provides up to $2,400 per academic year for full-time students who are tribal members. Additionally, the tribe may offer an adult vocational training grant with the same amount of funding. 
• Indian Higher Education Grant Program. This federal grant program offers help for Native American students with a proven financial need. 

Native American Fellowships

A fellowship typically awards a student money for college in return for service or work in a specific field. Students may need to get a job in a specific area or spend time volunteering in return for their funds. Some Native American fellowships to consider include:

• American Indian Graduate Center Fellowship Program. This program typically grants students pursuing graduate degrees in specific fields with awards ranging from $500 to $5,000. The application deadline for this grant is June 1.
• Frances C. Allen Fellowship for Women of American Indian Heritage. he fellowship is provided by The Newberry, an independent Chicago research library. Make sure to submit your application by December 15, and your field of study should align with the library’s collections. 
• Native American Residency Fellowship at the Vermont Studio Center. The fellowship typically offers a one-month residency, which includes room and board, a studio, and $500 for travel expenses, to Native American visual artists who want to study at the Vermont Studio Center. Applications are due in the fall.
• AISES Scholarships. AISES often collaborates with various businesses and non-profits to offer STEM scholarships to Native American students. The scholarship amounts and application deadlines vary depending on the chosen program.

Financial Aid for Native American Students

Many different types of financial assistance may be available to Native American students. Getting sufficient help paying for school requires that students understand all of these options. It also requires following the correct steps to apply for aid. Here’s what a student should do to get help paying for school.

Determine Your Status as a Native American

Not everyone who has Native American heritage qualifies for these scholarships. You typically must be an enrolled member of a recognized Native American Indian tribe or an Alaskan Native group to qualify. Another option may be to apply using what is called “blood quantum.” This means the student is at least ¼ Native American. Typically this is because one grandparent is full-blooded Native American. Students who need to prove their ancestry could use the US Dept. of the Interior’s Trace Indian Ancestry page to search their heritage. They may then apply to their tribe to enroll as a tribal member.

Complete the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) establishes a student’s financial need and eligibility for federal programs, like the Pell grant. Many Native American aid programs require proven financial aid. Completing the FAFSA is the first step in proving need.

Understand the Types of Financial Aid

In addition to scholarships, Native Americans typically have these main types of student aid offered to them. These are:

• Scholarships. Scholarships for Native Americans are awarded based on merit or ethnic status and usually do not have to be paid back.
• Grants. Grants also typically do not get paid back. They are often based on financial need.
• Fellowships. Fellowships pay students for work in a field specific to the group’s goals and needs.
• Loans. Loans provide money for school that must be repaid, with interest, after graduation.
• Work-Study. Work-study programs provide money for school in exchange for work at the college.

Check Out Other Sources for Financial Aid

While Native American students may have several financial aid options specific to them, there are other options too. Native American students should look for scholarship and grant options that does not use race or tribal status as a criterion. Scholarships and grants that look at a student’s grades, community service, and other activities could help cover the cost of school.

Challenges Native American College Students Face

Access to college and challenges with the cost of school both impact the native populations.

What are the biggest hurdles that are unique to Native American students when trying to gain admission into school?

Some of the challenges Native Americans face prevent them from getting into college. The cost of college, or the perception about that cost, is typically one hurdle. Sometimes the college admissions process is too complex for students to tackle on their own, and not having parents that went through the process may make this harder. In addition, reservation-based schools tend to have high staff turnover. Without strong relationships with guidance counselors and teachers, students may be less likely to find the perfect college or feel the importance of a college education.

What are some of the biggest challenges once these students are in school?

Many Native American students are likely to overcome these challenges and make it to school, only to find a new set of concerns. Many students find themselves on campuses with few Native students, creating a disconnect between their native culture and their new college community. Often, non-native students and teachers may not understand the cultural traditions of Native American students. If students need to miss class for cultural events, they may suffer socially or academically. Many Native students head to school as older adults. This tends to make finding appropriate, affordable housing difficult. Finally, many Native students may not be prepared well for the challenges of college life. They may feel overwhelmed with the new culture and academic courses.

American Indian College Fund

The American Indian College Fund invests in the education of Native and tribal students. This is the largest charity for this group in the nation. They typically have scholarships for Native American students, but they may also have programming that connects students to the support they need to succeed in college and beyond. Of all the resources available, this is usually one of the most helpful for new Native American college students.

Support Organizations for Native American Students

Support organizations both on campus and off provide could help to get students over these hurdles. Students could reach out to these groups to receive support and find opportunities for advancement. Some of these groups include:

• AICF. The American Indian College Fund is one of the most important and comprehensive support groups for native students.
• AIHEC. The American Indian Higher Education Consortium provides a network of support to sunbonnets while also working hard to change federal policies so they better support Native students.
• AIS. American Indian Services is a non profit group that creates programs and funding for Native Americans. The goal is to help them earn a quality education while maintaining their own heritage and culture.
• AISES. American Indian Science and Engineering Society provides support for Native Americans who are pursuing education and careers in STEM areas.
• PWNA. Partnership with Native Americans provides help and hope for those living on isolated or remote reservations. It gives aid to help improve the economic situation of these people.

What are Tribal Colleges?

Tribal colleges and universities are higher learning schools run by tribal leaders. This is a newer idea and an attempt to deal with some of the challenges Native students face.

How Could Tribal Colleges Help?

Tribal colleges typically assist students because they understand the traditions and cultures of their tribe or native group. This means students generally do not face conflicts between their education and their culture or beliefs.

Why are Tribal Colleges Important?

Tribal college sometimes provides the only college opportunity for local native populations. They are typically located close to the people who need them, sometimes even on the reservation, and have lower cost tuition. This all combines to likely make college more accessible for Native students.

List of Tribal Colleges

There are currently over 30 tribal schools throughout the United States. Many cater to the unique cultures of a specific tribal group, but all welcome Native and non-Native people. As long as students are wiling to embrace tribal culture, they may attend one of these schools:

Are there Graduate Scholarships for International Students?

International students interested in attending graduate school in the U.S. have the opportunity to apply for scholarships, which provide free funding that doesn’t require repayment if the terms are met. 

Numerous scholarships cater to non-U.S. students seeking master’s, PhD, or postgraduate certificate programs in the U.S. Additionally, there are specific scholarships available for international students pursuing different levels of education, such as master’s degrees or doctoral studies.

On the other hand, there are scholarships designed for U.S. students aspiring to pursue graduate degrees abroad, like the prestigious Rhodes Scholarships for studying at Oxford University. In this context, a U.S. student becomes an international student when they pursue their education outside the country. 

An international student (for admissions and financial aids purposes) into the U.S. is

• Not a U.S. citizen
• Not a permanent resident of the U.S.
• Does not have a refugee visa
• DACA recipient (in some cases)

Types of Graduate Scholarships for International Students

There are different kinds of scholarships that international grad students might look for.

University scholarships. Some schools offer scholarships to grad students from other countries. Financial scholarships. Usually, these awards go to people with a high financial need. But they may also check out your GPA. Merit scholarships. These may look at financial facts but want students with strong minds and high GPA or GRE scores. Country based scholarships. These awards may only be available for people in certain countries Privately funded scholarships. Often from businesses or foundations with funds set aside for certain groups (E.g. minority groups, by major) Part scholarships. These may take the form of a contest, sweeps or give away (E.g. Scholarship Points)

How can I apply for an international scholarship for graduate students?

To apply for one of these scholarship, you need to meet certain criteria. And apply on time!

That said, eligibility varies from one scholarship to the next. If you apply for a university scholarship, you may need to have:

• The U.S. equivalent of a bachelor’s degree (for acceptance into a master’s program)
• The U.S. equivalent of a master’s degree (for acceptance into a PhD program)
• Passing scores on an English proficiency exam (TOEFL / IELTS)

To decide who gets a scholarship, many providers also look at a student from all sides. Academic achievement, leadership, and financial need are common things that are considered. You may also need to be studying in a certain field with a track record of making a difference.

Why Consider Graduate Scholarships for International Students?

Around 948,519 international students are currently enrolled in U.S. schools, making a significant contribution of $33.8 billion to the U.S. economy, while also enriching campuses and workplaces with diverse cultural perspectives. 

Graduate students aspiring to study in the U.S. encounter various challenges, including dealing with unfavorable exchange rates to U.S. dollars, facing out-of-state costs, obtaining visas, and ensuring secure housing and other essential details. 

In the U.S., the tuition fees students pay for graduate school often vary based on their residency status. If you are a resident of the state where you study, you qualify for in-state tuition, which averages around $12,394 at public institutions. 

On the other hand, if you are not a resident, you are required to pay out-of-state costs, which can be higher. Currently, the average cost of graduate school at a private institution is approximately $26,621. 

Which U.S. Schools Give Graduate Scholarships to International Students?

Many U.S. schools give scholarships to int’l grad students. Here are 5 of them:

Capella U, online. Capella Progress Rewards are scholarships for eligible new students and are not need based. Value: $3,000 to $20,000. Walden U, online. Walden awards up to $25,000. They fund grad study in K through 12 or public policy. American U, Washington DC. AU offers merit based awards which int’l students may apply for. U of Southern California. USC offers a wide range of scholarships in many disciplines of grad study. NYU, NY. NYU offers Wagner Scholarships which are merit based awards.

11 Graduate Scholarships for International Students for 2023

Can I Apply for Grad School Scholarships? 

If you’re considering grad school, rest assured that numerous scholarships are available to support your educational journey. Certain scholarships cater to master’s degree programs, helping to alleviate the associated costs. Additionally, scholarships exist for PhD students, providing financial assistance for research endeavors. 

It’s worth noting that pursuing a graduate degree doesn’t necessarily require on-campus attendance. Many adults opt for online grad school programs, and scholarships are also available for those pursuing education in this format. 

Where Do I Find Grad Scholarships? 

Many scholarships come from grad schools themselves. But there are private donors and agencies that offer them too. In fact, if your field of study has an association of some type, it may be useful for a scholarship. Sometimes, these awards are only for members, so you may have a shot. 

Take the American Speech Language Hearing Foundation. They offer scholarships of $5,000. They go to grad students in communication science and disorders master’s or PhD programs. Because they are not loans, scholarships and grants typically don’t have to be paid back. You may have to abide by the terms of the grant or scholarship, though, so make sure to see what these are. 

How Do You Get Grad Scholarships for Grad School? 

To get a scholarship for grad school, you must apply. You may apply only if you meet the provider’s criteria for eligibility.  

Eligibility varies from one scholarship to the next but can include things such as:

• Merit (e.g., GPA range, creativity shown in a portfolio) 
• Financial need 
• Intent to pursue a grad degree in a specific field (e.g., Business admin, Social work, Architecture, Project Management, etc.)
• Plans to research in a chosen area (e.g., Archaeological Research) 
• Demonstrated qualities (e.g., History of leadership or Public Service) 
• U.S. citizen, permanent resident status 
• Live in a certain location 
• Be a member of the grantor organization or association

Graduate Scholarship Contests 

There are also scholarships that are more like contests. These may ask you to submit a video or some kind of portfolio, depending on the subject. One example is the Pelican Water Sustainability Scholarship. Applicants create a video to support the theme of water conservation for a chance to win up to $1,500.

Or, all you might need to do is create an account and put your name in the hat. One example is Scholarship Points, a $10K giveaway.   

Graduate Scholarships for Minority Students and Women 

Yet others are set aside for people that belong to a certain group. Like women, international students and minorities. An example is the Jonathon Lax Scholarship Fund for Gay Men. These tuition awards are for $5,000 to $10,000 each. They honor inventor Jonathon Lax an inventor and entrepreneur. Recipients are gay men pursuing more education who live in the five county Philadelphia region.

Another is the Holly A. Cornell Scholarship. This $7,500 annual award is from the American Water Works Society. It goes to talented female and/or minority students. Recipients must be going for their degree and research in the field of water supply and treatment.  

Why Consider Grad School Scholarships? 

A grad degree may lead to higher lifetime earnings and more job potential. One recent study compared salaries for people with and without a grad degree. It found that people with a grad degree earn more and experience less unemployment.   

Unemployment Rates and Weekly Earnings by Education Level 

But the average costs of grad school has been climbing. At last check, the average cost of grad school at a public in state school was $12,394. A degree program at a private school wa $26,621. 

While scholarship amounts vary, they may bring your goals within reach. They can help pay for tuition, travel fees, books, and other expenses. Especially if you have other spending needs like housing and children. 

Grad School Scholarships for 2022 and Beyond 

This curated list has eleven of the top grad school scholarships you can apply to in 2022. We selected a broad array of grad majors. Make sure to expand your search if you do not see one in your field.

What is a Military Scholarship?

A military scholarship essentially functions as a grant designed to assist military members in financing their college education. These scholarships vary in terms of award amounts, ranging from modest sums to comprehensive coverage of tuition, textbooks, board, and additional expenses.

While many military scholarships are exclusively available to active-duty service members and veterans, some extend their support to include spouses and dependent children. In fact, the latest statistics indicate that a substantial 87% of spouses and dependents have received financial aid, with a majority pursuing undergraduate degrees. It’s important to note that unlike loans, military scholarships do not require repayment. However, certain scholarships may impose specific terms and conditions that recipients must adhere to.

Some providers give scholarships to honor your service. Or, to honor the memory of a fallen hero. As a result, you may find unique programs in each branch of the military:

• Air Force 
• Army
• Coast Guard
• Marine Corps
• Navy

Military scholarships also come from diverse other sources. From the VA and gov’t agencies. To colleges, nonprofits and private donors. Each award program comes with its own criteria. These tell you if you are eligible. And, how to apply.

Types of Military Scholarships

Military scholarships come in various forms, primarily categorized as merit-based and need-based awards. Merit-based scholarships often take into account academic performance, while need-based scholarships address financial constraints in affording tuition expenses. These scholarships serve as valuable resources for financing college, career, or technical education.

Military scholarships can also serve distinct purposes. Some are designed to prepare recipients for civilian roles upon completion of their education, while others provide financial support in exchange for participation in officer training programs.

ROTC Scholarships 

Many colleges collaborate with the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) to provide scholarship opportunities. The ROTC serves as a training program tailored for college students, and if you meet their eligibility criteria, you can pursue these scholarships. Basic requirements include U.S. citizenship and possession of a high school diploma, with GPA and test scores often factored into the selection process.

ROTC scholarships have the potential to cover tuition expenses, fees, and textbook costs for a four-year duration. Additionally, some recipients receive a monthly stipend to assist with various expenses. In return for this financial support, recipients commit to serving in the U.S. military and participate in ROTC training while pursuing their education.

While you serve after college, the number of years varies by branch. Here are a few examples:

• Army ROTC scholarships holders serve 8 years (4 years of active duty and 4 years in the reserves) 
• The Navy contract is 4 to 5 years of active duty 
• Air Force ROTC service is 4 to 6 years of active duty. Plus, 10 years for cadets trained as pilots 

Scholarships for Military Spouses 

Scholarships designed for military spouses play a crucial role in alleviating the financial burden of tuition expenses. These scholarships, akin to other forms of financial aid, are often directed towards individuals with significant financial need. A military spouse is defined as the husband or wife of a member serving in the nation’s armed forces, encompassing spouses of active duty service members, veterans, as well as widows.

These awards can typically be found through each branch of the military, with programs like the Spouse Education Assistance Program standing out. Sponsored by the U.S. Army, this is a need-based scholarship specifically accessible to spouses of Army soldiers seeking to pursue a college degree.

Scholarships for Military Dependents 

Scholarships specifically earmarked for military dependents and survivors are instrumental in supporting higher education, whether for college or vocational school pursuits.

Military dependents encompass spouses and children of service members, extending to family members of those who are actively serving, retired, or have tragically fallen in the line of duty. To access these scholarships, you may be required to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application aids in evaluating the appropriate financial assistance to be provided, although it is not always the sole determining factor.

In certain instances, a strong academic record, including test scores and GPA, along with a demonstrated history of community service may also be prerequisites.

Fortunately, numerous avenues exist for sourcing such scholarships, with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) being a notable resource. An example is the Fry Scholarship, designed for children and spouses of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, but specifically after September 10, 2001.

Scholarships for Veterans 

Scholarships support veterans who want to start, continue or finish a degree. They are for use at accredited schools and at many levels of study. 

There are also scholarships you may use at approved vocational or technical schools. These help veterans enter or advance a career in a skilled trade. Like TTT, Troops for Teachers. TTT is for current and former members of the Armed Forces. The program helps them shift to a career as a K 12 teacher. And is available in 31 states. To do so, it gives a $5,000 stipend or $10,000 bonus. Based on eligibility.

Often, the scholarships fill a gap. The one between GI Bill benefits and the cost of school. So, they may kick in to pay for tuition, housing and fees. To be eligible, you must have an honorable discharge from military service. But other criteria vary by program.

One is AMVETS National Scholarships. The American Veterans is a service agency that helps veterans. Each year they offer a few scholarships. Of them, two go Veterans, Active Duty, Guard/Reserves. One is only for their spouses. And another two only for their children and grandchildren.

College Specific Military Scholarships 

Numerous military-friendly colleges actively support military students by offering scholarships, some of which are exclusive to their institution. These scholarships may bear the names of local heroes or commemorate distinguished alumni who have served their country. These awards not only facilitate the educational pursuits of military students but often extend their benefits to direct family members as well.

To apply for these scholarships, individuals must gain admission to both the college and their chosen degree program. Following admission, eligible candidates can submit applications for the scholarship of their choice. In this context, a compelling essay with a clear and impactful message can significantly enhance your chances of securing the award.

Military Scholarships for 2023 

Below is a sampling of military scholarships that you might apply to in 2023/2024.   

HotelPlanner Graduate Technology Scholarship for Military Veterans

The HotelPlanner Scholarship Program caters to United States veterans and extends its reach to include their family members, including spouses, partners, and children aged 16 and older. This initiative disburses $1,000 to each of its ten chosen applicants on two occasions annually. The primary objective of this program is to provide financial support for pursuing a technology degree, regardless of whether it’s at the undergraduate or graduate level.

Amount: $1,000 each
Deadline: Summer – Apply by August 15th / Notified by September and Fall – Apply by December 15th / Notified March
Requirements: To apply, you need to show financial need. You also write an essay or present a video. This must explain how the military spiked your interest in tech.  

NMCCG Enlisted Dependent Spouse Scholarship

Annually, the Navy Wives Clubs of America, Inc. (NWCA) awards a total of 30 scholarships, including two specifically designated for spouses, widows, and widowers: the NMCCG Enlisted Dependent Spouse Scholarships. Eligible spouses can be affiliated with retired or enlisted members of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard who are currently on active duty.

Amount: $500 – $1,000 each
Deadline: March 31st 
Requirements: To apply, you need to submit a copy of the military ID card. Also, attach a copy of your tax returns.

Blinded Veterans Association Scholarships 

The Blinded Veterans Association is a national agency. BVA members are blinded veterans. And help other blinded veterans. Each year, they award two merit scholarships. While they do not auto renew, you can re apply up to 4 times. One award is the Kathern F. Gruber Scholarship. It gives 6 people scholarships for $2,000 each. The other is the Thomas H. Miller Scholarship Program. This award goes to one person and is for $1,000. It  

Amount: $1,000 – $2,000 each
Deadline: April 
Requirements: To be eligible you need to be a dependent child, grandchild, or spouse of a blinded veteran. But do not need to be a member of the BVA.

Maryland Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship

Each year, the Maryland Higher Education Commission offers about 125 awards. The Maryland Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarships. Armed forced personnel who served in these conflicts are eligible to apply. As well as their sons, daughters and spouses. Awards amounts vary and adjust based on VA benefits. But may cover up to $10,655 per year.

Amount: up to $10,655
Deadline: March 2020
Requirements: To apply, you need to fill out a FAFSA by March 1^st each year. You can also renew the awards if you keep your GPA at 2.5 or higher.

Mike and Gail Donley Air Force Spouse Scholarship

The Air Force Association offers a few award programs each year. One is the he AFA Mike & Gail Donley Spouse Scholarship program. It awards two $2,500 scholarships on an annual basis. And aims to help Air Force spouses worldwide pursue a college degree at any level.

Amount: $2,500
Deadline: April 30, 2020
Requirements: The Air Force Spouse Scholarship program is designed to encourage Air Force spouses to pursue associate or bachelor undergraduate or graduate/post graduate degrees.

Pat Tillman Scholars Program

Each year the Pat Tillman Foundation offers awards. These are for military members, veterans and spouses. Tillman scholarship amounts vary. But give annual funding for academic expenses. So, things like tuition, books and living expenses. The average award amount last year was $6,567 per year. Others range from $1,500 to $23,000.

Amount: $1,500 – $23,000
Deadline: February 28
Requirements: To get one, you need to show selfless leadership. And dedicate yourself to make an impact. You will also have to write two essays. Plus, supply references, finances and have a 3.0 GPA.

NMCRS Gold Star Scholarship

The U.S. Navy Marine Corps Relief Society sponsors the Gold Star Scholarship Program. It is for the dependent children and spouses of Navy and Marine personnel. Ones who were killed in the line of duty. Awards range from $500 to $2500 per academic year. And, there are about 30 recipients each year. If you are studying oceanography, NMCRS offers another award. The McAlinden Divers Scholarship. It awards from $500 to $3,000. And is for active duty or retired Sailors, Marines and family members.    

Amount: $500 – $3,000
Deadline: May 
Requirements:  To get an award, the committee looks at two things. Financial need and academic merit (3.0 GPA and above).

American Legion Scholarship

Every year, the American Legion helps children of fallen soldiers. One way they do this is through the Legacy Scholarship. The Legacy Scholarship amounts vary as do the number of people who get one. But past awards were about $1,785.

Amount: Varies
Deadline: April 
Requirements: Awards go to children of post-9/11 veterans who died on active duty. Or who have a combined VA disability rating of 50 percent or greater. 

Military Order of the Purple Heart Scholarship 

A grant from Mr. Frederick W. Smith funds the Purple Heart Scholarship. It is a competitive program, and awards $3,000. 

Amount: $3,000
Deadline: February 15
Requirements: To be eligible, you must meet a few sets of criteria. One is to be a Purple Heart recipient and member of MOPH. You can also apply if you are the spouse or lineal descendant of someone who is or was. But not a great grandchild. Other criteria include being a full time undergrad at an accredited US school. You may also need a GPA of 2.75 and up.

Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund

CPOSF is a nonprofit. Their mission is to help qualified family members of US Navy Chief Petty Officers pay for education. Last year, they awarded 30 scholarships. Amounts were $2,000 each. 

Amount: $2,000 each
Deadline: April 1, 2020
Requirements: To qualify, you need to be a non uniformed spouse or dependent child. You also need to have a GED and be on track for an associate or bachelor’s degree. 

Make it Count Scholarship

The Make it Count Scholarship honors Spencer C Duncan. He was an Army Specialist, killed in action is August 2011. Each year, Grantham University offers 4 awards to deserving applicants. Valued at $5,000, you can apply the funds to any degree program at the school.

Amount: $5,000
Deadline: Varies
Requirements: To apply, you need to meet admissions criteria. Then, qualify for the scholarship. The scholarship is also open to a parent, child, spouse or sibling. As long as their family member served or is serving in the US Armed Forces. 

Army Nurse Corps Scholarship 

Every year, the Army Nurse Corps offers scholarships. Its goal is to support nursing education. 

Amount The 2020 ANCA scholarships will be $3,000 per selected applicant. 
Deadline: March 31
Requirements: To apply, there are a few rules to meet. For one, you need to be serving or have served in any branch or rank of the US Army. You also need to be enrolled in an accredited bachelor’s, graduate nursing or anesthesia program. But, cannot be also receiving GI Bill benefits or an ROTC scholarship.

My CAA Scholarship

My CAA scholarship is an award for military spouses. It is part of the Department of Defense Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program. Awards only pay for tuition for credentials, certificates, or associate degrees. Or, to pursue a recognized license or industry certification. Certificates and credentials may be for post graduate work also. 

Amount: The scholarship provides up to $4,000 with an annual fiscal year cap of $2,000.  
Deadline:  Varies
Requirements: To qualify, you need to be a military spouse with a high school diploma. And, need the extra education to prep for a career. Spouses can be of service members on Active Duty, under Title 10 orders. Or, spouses of service members with pay grades of E1 through E-5, W1 through W-2, O-1 through O-2.

Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute – MERIT Scholarship

New York State’s Division of Veteran’s Services offers annual awards. One is the Military Service Recognition Scholarship (MSRS). MSRS awards vary but in amounts. But may pay about 20 people up to $21,250 each. MSRS awards are for family members of New York State fallen veterans of the US Armed Forces.

Amount: up to $21,250
Deadline: Varies
Requirements: The awards are for spouses and dependents of US Armed Forces or state organized militia. Ones who, at any time on or after Aug. 2, 1990, while a NY State resident, died. Or became disabled while engaged in hostilities or training for it.