When it comes to financing your education, many grants fly under the radar but offer substantial support. Here are 25 lesser-known education grants that you should consider.
1. The Roothbert Fund Scholarships
Awarded to students in the United States who demonstrate a strong commitment to education and community service.
2. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
For low-income women aged 35 and older pursuing a technical or vocational education, an associate’s degree, or a first bachelor’s degree.
3. American Welding Society Foundation Scholarships
Provides financial aid to students pursuing a career in welding and related fields.
4. The Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund
Offers scholarships to students of Greek descent pursuing higher education in the United States.
5. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
A federal grant for undergraduates with exceptional financial need.
6. The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship
Awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors who have promoted vegetarianism in their schools and communities.
7. Dell Scholars Program
Provides financial and support services to low-income, highly motivated students.
8. Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Competition
Offers scholarships to high school seniors based on academics, leadership, and financial need.
9. The Point Foundation Scholarship
Supports LGBTQ students who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, and financial need.
10. The American Legion Legacy Scholarship
For children of post-9/11 veterans who died on active duty or have a combined VA disability rating of 50% or higher.
11. Scholarships for Military Children Program
Provides grants to children of active duty, reserve/guard, or retired military personnel.
12. Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)
Assists survivors of intimate partner abuse in pursuing an education to improve their circumstances.
13. Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship
For women pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace-related sciences and engineering.
14. The Union Plus Scholarship Program
Available to current and retired union members and their families for undergraduate and graduate education.
15. The LaGrant Foundation Scholarship Program
Supports students pursuing degrees in advertising, marketing, or public relations.
16. The Google Lime Scholarship
For students with disabilities pursuing computer science degrees.
17. The Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contests
Awards scholarships to students based on their essays on Ayn Rand’s novels.
18. The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) Foundation STEM Scholarships
Provides scholarships to students pursuing a degree in a STEM field.
19. The Beinecke Scholarship Program
For students planning to pursue a graduate degree in the arts, humanities, or social sciences.
20. The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
Supports children of U.S. Marines and Navy Corpsmen pursuing post-secondary education.
21. The Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation Scholarship Program
For students who have survived pediatric cancer and are now pursuing higher education.
22. The American Indian College Fund Scholarships
Provides scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native students.
23. The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund
Supports students who are actively working for peace and justice.
24. The Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship
Offers financial aid to students based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.
25. The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
Awards grants to minority high school students demonstrating leadership potential and financial need to attend an accredited four-year college or university.
Why These Grants Matter
Broadening Access
These grants often target specific demographics or fields of study, broadening access to higher education for underrepresented groups.
Encouraging Diversity
By providing financial aid to diverse groups, these grants help cultivate a varied and inclusive academic environment.
Supporting Specialized Fields
Grants like the Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship or the American Welding Society Foundation Scholarships encourage students to enter specialized fields that might otherwise lack sufficient funding opportunities.
Fostering Leadership and Service
Many of these grants, such as the Point Foundation Scholarship and the Roothbert Fund Scholarships, focus on leadership and community service, promoting civic engagement alongside academic achievement.
The Importance of Lesser-Known Grants
Less Competition
Since these grants are not as widely known, applicants may face less competition compared to more prominent grants and scholarships.
Unique Opportunities
These grants offer unique opportunities tailored to specific interests, backgrounds, and career goals that may not be covered by more general scholarships.
Comprehensive Support
Some grants, like the Dell Scholars Program, provide not only financial assistance but also support services to help students succeed in their educational journey.
Impact on Personal Growth
Receiving a grant can significantly impact a student’s personal and academic growth, providing them with the resources and confidence to pursue their goals.
Exploring lesser-known education grants can uncover valuable opportunities to support your academic journey. By understanding these options, you can find grants that align with your unique background and career aspirations. These grants not only ease the financial burden but also open doors to diverse educational experiences and career paths. Stay proactive in your search and take advantage of these often-overlooked opportunities.