Best Scholarships for Social Work Students

Financing a college degree in social work can be a significant challenge. In spite of this, there are many scholarships available to help ease the financial strain. Whether you’re drawn to areas like mental health, child welfare, or social justice, there are scholarships tailored to help you achieve your goals.

To help guide you, we’ve put together a list of scholarships specifically for aspiring social workers. The good news? Many of these programs don’t require you to demonstrate financial need or meet strict academic merit criteria, so you have a better chance of finding opportunities that fit your unique situation.

Looking for more opportunities beyond social work? Check out our lists of scholarships to find funding options tailored to a variety of fields and interests!

Social Worker Scholarships

Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship

Official page: NASW Foundation – Gosnell Memorial Scholarship
Summary: Supports MSW students committed to serving American Indian or Alaska Native and Hispanic or Latino communities.
Eligibility: NASW member, enrolled or accepted in a CSWE-accredited MSW program, GPA 3.0 or higher, preference to applicants with direct service experience.
Award: Up to 10 awards of $4,000 each.

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Lawanna Renee Barron Scholarship Endowment Fund

Official page: NASW Foundation – Lawanna Renee Barron Scholarship
Summary: For MSW students focused on rural practice and or mental health in African American communities.
Eligibility: NASW member in good standing, accepted into or enrolled in a CSWE-accredited MSW program.
Award: $2,000 for the 2025–2026 year.

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Neysa Fanwick Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Official page: NASW Foundation – Neysa Fanwick Memorial Scholarship
Summary: Recognizes MSW students addressing systemic injustices with innovative, health or mental-health-informed solutions.
Eligibility: NASW member, enrolled in or accepted to a CSWE-accredited MSW program.
Award: $5,000 total, split across fall and spring.

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Need-Based Scholarships – Columbia School of Social Work

Official page: Columbia CSSW – Need-Based Scholarships
Summary: Institutional aid for full-time MSSW students based on demonstrated financial need.
Eligibility: Full-time MSSW students at Columbia University who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or eligible non-citizens in good academic standing.
Award: Typically $5,000–$20,000 per year.

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Competitive Scholarships – Columbia School of Social Work

Official page: Columbia CSSW – Competitive Scholarships
Summary: Merit and need-based fellowships for students entering the Specialized Year.
Eligibility: Enrolled in at least 10.5 credits including practicum.
Award: Varies, some awards approach full tuition.

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Legacy Scholarship Program

Official page: National Association of Puerto Rican-Hispanic Social Workers – Legacy Scholarship
Summary: Four awards for graduate students serving Latino communities in social work or related human services fields.
Eligibility: First- or second-year grad students in accredited MSW, MHC, MFT, Psychology, or human services programs; age 21 or older; financial need; strong community commitment.
Award: $1,000.

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Social Work Racial Equity Scholarship Award

Official page: Laurel House – Social Work Racial Equity Scholarship
Summary: Supports Connecticut-based Black or Latino MSW students committed to improving mental health care access in underserved communities.
Eligibility: Connecticut residents enrolled in MSW programs in CT or NY; financial need; recommendation letter.
Award: $10,000 top award plus additional $1,000 and $500 awards.

Types of Social Work Scholarships Available

General Scholarships

General scholarships are broad-based financial aid that caters to a wide range of students pursuing social work degrees.

Example:

• The NASW Foundation Scholarships are open to graduate students pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in accredited social work programs.

Undergraduate Scholarships

Undergraduate scholarships focus on budding social workers at the start of their educational careers.

Example:

• The Truman Scholarship is a prestigious award designed for undergraduate students who are passionate about public service.

Graduate Scholarships

Graduate scholarships target advanced degree-seekers who are expanding their expertise within the field of social work. Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) or Doctorate often involves significant financial investment; these scholarships ease that burden.

Example:

• The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Minority Fellowship Program offers financial aid specifically aimed at minority students enrolled in master’s or doctoral-level social work programs.

Specialty-Focused Funding

Specialty-focused funding addresses niche areas within social work, allowing students to pursue specific interests or critical societal needs. Such funding promotes specialization, which is vital in addressing complex issues faced by communities today.

Example:

• The International Federation of Social Workers offers opportunities for advocacy and recognition in the field of human rights. They collaborate with organizations like the Council of International Fellowship to promote programs such as the International Professional Exchange Programs, which offer social workers opportunities for international exchanges and cross-cultural experiences.

How to Find Social Work Scholarships

Finding scholarships can feel challenging, but with the right strategies, it becomes much more manageable. Here’s how to get started:

1. Start with Online Resources

The internet is one of the best places to search for scholarships.

• Scholarship Websites: Many websites are dedicated to showcasing scholarships for students. Use these platforms to filter scholarships by eligibility and save opportunities for later.
• Bookmark Future Opportunities: If you don’t qualify for a scholarship now, bookmark it for future semesters when you might meet the criteria.

2. Use Campus Resources

If you’re already enrolled in college, your school can be a goldmine for scholarship opportunities.

• Talk to Your Advisor: Academic advisors often know about school-sponsored scholarships or lesser-known opportunities with fewer applicants, increasing your chances of winning.
• Ask Fellow Students: Other students might have insights into scholarships they’ve applied for or tips on where to look.

3. Seek Guidance

Your advisor’s role is to help you succeed academically and financially.

• If they don’t have direct recommendations for scholarships, they can connect you with another administrator or school resource for personalized support.

Tips for Scholarship Success as a Social Worker Student

Navigating the scholarship application requirements for social work students can seem daunting, but understanding typical eligibility criteria is key to success:

1. Minimum GPA Requirements

Many scholarships demand a baseline GPA. It’s vital to maintain strong academic performance to meet these thresholds and stand out among applicants.

2. Relevant Coursework

Highlighting coursework that directly relates to social work demonstrates your commitment and passion for the field. Courses in psychology, sociology, and human services often strengthen an application.

3. Field Experience

Practical experience in social work settings can be a significant advantage. Internships, volunteer work, and related job experiences showcase practical skills and dedication.

Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work Scholarships

1. How Many Social Work Scholarships Can You Get?

There is no limit to the number of scholarships you can apply for or receive as an undergraduate or graduate student. This means you don’t need to limit yourself when submitting applications—cast a wide net to increase your chances of securing funding.

However, you may encounter situations where you need to decline certain awards. For instance, if you apply for multiple scholarships that are specifically for students attending a particular graduate school, you might have to turn down awards from schools you ultimately decided not to attend. Carefully review the requirements and terms of each scholarship to ensure they align with your educational plans and eligibility.

2. Are There Scholarships Specifically for Full-Time Graduate Students in Social Work?

Yes, many scholarships prioritize full-time graduate students enrolled in social work programs. These often require consistent academic performance and a demonstrated commitment to the field.

3. How Can I Qualify for Scholarships Based on Academic Excellence?

Many scholarships for social workers reward academic excellence. Students with high GPAs, membership in organizations like the Phi Alpha Honor Society, or outstanding achievements in their undergraduate studies may qualify.

4. What Is the Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship?

The Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship is awarded to master’s degree candidates in social work who have demonstrated a commitment to working with, or who have a special affinity with, American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino populations. Candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to working with public or voluntary nonprofit agencies or with local grassroots groups in the United States are also eligible.

Are you pursuing graduate-level studies? Already enrolled in a graduate program? Check out our graduate school scholarships to help you pay for your graduate degree.

5. Can Federal Student Aid Be Combined With Social Work Scholarships?

Absolutely. Federal student aid, such as loans and grants, can often be used in conjunction with scholarships to reduce the overall financial burden of attending school.

6. Are There Scholarships for Part-Time Students or Those Taking Online Graduate Programs?

While many scholarships cater to full-time students, some programs also accommodate part-time students or those enrolled in online graduate programs. Be sure to check the specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship.

7. Are There Any Scholarships for Students Pursuing Advanced Social Work Degrees in Specialized Areas?

Yes, scholarships exist for students pursuing specialized areas in social work, such as clinical practice, community advocacy, or policy work, often tied to programs emphasizing social justice and service to underrepresented communities.

Full-time graduate students who plan to attend college to advance their social work career will find helpful resources about scholarship applications, the best schools, and tips for college on our blog. Check them out today.