Writing is one of the most important inventions of humankind. It enables ideas to be communicated across large distances and preserves those ideas for future generations. From this essential aspect of writing, essays have arisen as mediums of persuasion and personal expression. Thus, it’s no surprise that most scholarships require essays to assess the qualities of a candidate. It’s convenient, tried-and-true, and gives candidates the ability to convey parts of themselves without knowledge of complicated technological or artistic skills.
In this article, we’ll explore the best essay scholarships you should start applying for. To accompany this list, we’ll break down the basics of an essay scholarship, how to write an essay, and other scholarship opportunities to check out. Scholarship essays have an intimidating reputation, but if you view them as just another way to introduce yourself, they can seem a lot more approachable. Now, without further ado, let’s get into the best essay scholarships so you can start saving up for college or graduate school!
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Top Essay Scholarships to Apply for in July 2025
Access scholarships that are only available on Bold.org—apply easily for the best essay awards and secure your future funding now.

Dave Russell Memorial Scholarship for Skilled Trades
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Dave Russell by supporting students who are pursuing the skilled trades.

Bassed in PLUR Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who find inspiration in EDM and festival culture and who are passionate about furthering their education.

Anthony McPherson Memorial Automotive Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Anthony McPherson by raising awareness about drunk driving and supporting students pursuing careers in the automotive industry.

Austin Hays Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support Ohio students who need a helping hand, ensuring that they have the resources necessary to access a proper educational path.

"Most Gen Z Human Alive" Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who can convincingly—and creatively—show us that they are, without question, the most Gen Z person alive.

Bulkthreads.com's "Let's Aim Higher" Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are pursuing higher education in order to make a marked difference in the world.

Iliana Arie Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Iliana Arie Velez by supporting students who share her incredible spirit.

Gus Downing Retail Loss Prevention & Safety Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the field of safety.

Bright Lights Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who have had to overcome obstacles in order to pursue a college education.

Sweet Dreams Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who embody the spirit of community and hope so they can complete their education and become leaders.

Brattican Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are passionate about the trades so they can pursue their dreams and finance their education.

Alger Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who display the qualities of stellar work ethic, dedication to volunteerism, and eagerness to excel academically.

Slater Miller Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Slater Miller by supporting trade school students with financial need.

A Man Helping Women Helping Women Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support women who are pursuing higher education in order to uplift other women.

Matthew E. Minor Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to encourage the next generation to combat bullying and to protect children and teens on the internet.

Aryana Coelho Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the young life of Aryana Coelho by supporting students who have faced addiction or watched a loved one go through it.

Mema and Papa Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are preparing to finish high school and embark on their pursuit of higher education.

Ellen Melinda Smith Odeh Scholarship Fund
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Ellen Melinda by supporting students who share her passion for learning and helping others.

ACHE Southern California LIFT Scholarship
This scholarship aims to lift up the next generation of healthcare professionals so they can access the positions of their dreams.

Future Women In STEM Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to foster gender equity in male-dominated fields by supporting women who are pursuing STEM disciplines.

Charles Cheesman's Student Debt Reduction Scholarship
This scholarship will provide for college students or adults currently in a career, who have student debt. Students must be African American or Hispanic/Latino and first-generation students in order to apply.

Chef Marco “Gabby” Pantano Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Chef Marco Pantano by supporting aspiring chefs who plan to spend their careers in the culinary arts field.

Rooted in Change Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world around them.

First Generation College Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support first-generation immigrants who are paving a new path in their families through their pursuit of higher education.

Beacon of Light Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are pursuing higher education so they can afford to complete their degrees and go on to make a difference in the health and wellness of others.

Albert "Bert" Howie Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Albert Howie by supporting students who are pursuing higher education.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Scholarship
This scholarship aims to start a chain reaction of support by helping passionate students make a difference in people's lives and in advancing the field of nuclear medicine.

Shaffer Family First Responder Scholarship
This scholarship aims to help first responder families while investing in the next generation in order to express gratitude and commitment to those who serve and protect us every day.

Cariloop’s Caregiver Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support student caregivers so they can afford to pursue their dreams of higher education.

Charles Bowlus Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Charles Bowlus by supporting students who share his passion for business and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Jade Education Scholarship
This scholarship will help support African American women attending graduate school.

Female Athleticism Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to recognize the hard work and dedication of female athletes by supporting them as they prepare to pursue higher education.

Dr. Christine Lawther First in the Family Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are forging new paths for their families by obtaining college degrees.

Betty and Louie Dicks SCSU Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor Betty & Louie Dicks by supporting an undergraduate male student at South Carolina State University.

Fire and EMS Academy Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor and encourage people who dream of entering fire or EMS professions but need help paying for the schooling they need to get there.

Electric Cycle Studio Student Athlete Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support student-athletes who embody dedication, perseverance, and a strong commitment to both academics and athletics.

José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of José Melendez by supporting students who are currently pursuing or looking to begin an undergraduate degree.

Natalie Jude Women in the Arts Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Natalie Jude by supporting female and genderqueer students who share her passion for the arts.

Beacon of Opportunity Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support underserved students who may not have the resources or guidance they need to reach their full potential.

S.O.P.H.I.E Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are dedicated to serving others and making their communities better one day at a time.

Reginald "Reggie" Jackson Jr. Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life and legacy of Reginald Jackson Jr. by supporting students who share his devotion to health and wellness.

Mark A. Jefferson Teaching Scholarship
This scholarship will support one extremely ambitious African-American in their studies to become an educator for the future.

Dr. Alan V. Lee Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Dr. Alan V. Lee by supporting students who will be the medical professionals of the future.

Servela Theodore Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the legacy of Servela Theodore by supporting students who are pursuing careers in human services.

David L. Burns Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship will support undergraduate students from Missouri who are pursuing a career in helping people who have struggled with addiction.

HCCP Mentoring Program Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students from underserved communities who are entering health leadership careers across clinical care, health administration, research, and public health.

Hue Ta Asian American Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to celebrate and empower young leaders who are championing mental health and disability rights within the Asian American community and beyond.

Lou Marchello Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Lou Marchello by supporting students in his town as they prepare to attend college.

CW4 Savidge Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the legacy of CW4 Savidge by shining a light on mental health challenges among active-duty service members and veterans.

Wood-Bond Legacy Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who plan to dedicate their careers to nurse midwifery and advancing care for women and families.

Willie Mae Rawls Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the legacy of Willie Mae Rawls by supporting students pursuing an education at an HBCU who plan to make a positive impact on the world through their studies and future career goals.

Hannah Dollick Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Hannah Dollick by supporting aspiring female pilots who are self-motivated and dedicated to aviation.

Stevens Family Scholarship
This scholarship aims to give back to the Broadview community by helping newly graduated high school students pursue their dreams.

Marcello Rosino Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is designed to empower and support deserving students of Italian American heritage who share a passion for education, fostering the language language and culture, and embody the values of diligence and determination, and aspire to contribute positively to their communities, just as Marcello Rosino did.

Shidarion Clark Tech & Innovation Scholarship
This scholarship aims to empower students who demonstrate both academic potential and a strong interest in pursuing a career in STEM.

Miguel Mendez Social Justice Scholarship
This scholarship will support students who are passionate about social justice and seek to enact change in their communities.

Zavalla Students Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students from Zavalla so they can overcome the barriers they face, accomplish their goals, and uplift their community.

Bruce Tucker Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor students who exemplify exceptional work ethic, toughness, and service in their daily lives.

ADP Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who have big dreams of attending college but don’t have the family resources necessary to afford tuition.

Camari Hunt 4x Foundation Independent Living Expenses Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support and empower African-American and Black men who are striving to achieve their educational and personal goals while managing the challenges of independent living.

Be Skilled Find Success Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are dedicated, knowledgeable, and hard workers who are passionate about the trades.

Believe Achieve and Succeed Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are preparing to graduate high school, pursue their academic dreams, and take the business world by storm.

Byron and Michelle Johnson Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support underserved students as they navigate the world of higher education so they can afford to complete their degrees.

Young Achievers For Higher Education
This scholarship seeks to support students who are goal-oriented and devoted to achieving their dreams through higher education.

Charles E. Nettles Continued Education Scholarship
This scholarship aims to make higher education more accessible by supporting students who are passionate about expanding their minds.

Boundless Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support a student in Duval County, Florida, who has defied the odds by graduating at the top of their class while battling poverty and/or homelessness.

GKD Advancement in STEM Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are passionate about pursuing education in STEM and making an impact through their work.

Robin G. Thomas Sizemore Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Robin G. Thomas Sizemore by supporting students who are pursuing careers in healthcare.

Paul Sullivan Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Paul Sullivan and to keep his memory alive by supporting students who share his passion for tennis.

Charles Brown Culinary Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Charles Brown by supporting the dreams of students who share his passion for cooking.

Dr. Dumas A. Harshaw & Sharon Harshaw Legacy Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the lives of Dr. Dumas A. Harshaw, Jr. and Mrs. Sharon Harshaw by supporting African American students in the Wake County Public School System.

Shullman Legal Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are interested in pursuing legal studies but need financial students in order to succeed.

Tausha Hobbs Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to reflect the selflessness and kindness of Tausha Hobbs by supporting students who are pursuing higher education.

Compassion in Action Future Medical Leaders Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support Christian students who are of mixed Asian and white descent and pursuing the medical field.

Jorge Campos Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Jorge Campos by supporting students who share his commitment to kindness and community.

OMC Graduate Scholarships
This scholarship aims to empower the next generation of professionals by supporting students who are dedicated to making a difference through their graduate studies.

Debra S. Jackson New Horizons Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the legacy of Debra S. Jackson by supporting students who are making the brave decision to return to school later in life.

Joshua L. Finney Perseverance and Resilience Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who have faced life-threatening illnesses yet remain focused on their academic goals.

Marshall and Dorothy Smith Music Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memories of Marshall and Dorothy Smith by supporting students who are passionate about music.

Middle Eastern Scholarship for Political Science
This scholarship seeks to support young women who are going to college to help society and lower the political barriers placed against women.

Female Musician Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support women who are passionate about music as they pursue higher education.

Andrea Claire Matason Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support high school seniors and undergraduate students who are pursuing a veterinary career.

Minority Women in STEM
This scholarship seeks to support and encourage female and minority students to pursue STEM majors in college or tech schools so that they can focus on their studies rather than worrying about the costs of attendance.

LGBTQ+ Wellness in Action Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support and empower LGBTQ+ students who exemplify the importance of self-care and well-being.

CEW IV Foundation Scholarship Program
This scholarship aims to support underrepresented students so they can pursue higher education, regardless of financial status.

University of Northern Colorado Interfraternity Council Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support men who strive to make a positive impact both in and out of the classroom.

Mabel Kiracofe Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who attended Coleman Place Elementary School as they prepare to finish high school and move on to pursuing higher education.

Gone & Here Annual Scholarship
This scholarship aims to uplift the youth and raise awareness of mental health crises by supporting students who have lost a sibling due to suicide.

Love Island Fan Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are fans of "Love Island" and are invested in the stories on screen.

Kenyada Me'Chon Thomas Legacy Scholarship
This scholarship will support BIPOC high school seniors with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Samantha S. Roberts Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Samantha S. Roberts by supporting students from the Midwest who are passionate about art.

Brent Garvin Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Brent Garvin by supporting students who are passionate about studying abroad.

15 and the Mahomies Foundation – Kansas City Area Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students from the Kansas City area who are exceptional members of their community and who are hoping to give back through their pursuit of higher education.

15 and the Mahomies Foundation – Lubbock County Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students from Lubbock County who are exceptional members of their community and who are hoping to give back through their pursuit of higher education.

15 and the Mahomies Foundation – Tyler, TX Area Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students from Tyler County who are exceptional members of their community and who are hoping to give back through their pursuit of higher education.

Marie Jean Baptiste Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who embody Marie's commitment to education and community service.

Zachary Scheppat Memorial Science Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Zachary Scheppat by supporting students pursuing degrees in science or science education.

"A Daring Path" No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship exists to support a bold person who wants to get the most out of this world.

Abran Arreola-Hernandez Latino Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to a Latinx student who is pursuing higher education and who believes in the power of community!

W. Tong and A.C. Wong 2025 Legacy Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students with financial need as they pursue their goals of higher education in order to create the life of their dreams.

AROC AI/ML Scholarship
This scholarship aims to narrow the gap in access to STEM education so that all students can pursue the careers of their dreams.

El Jefe Entrepreneurial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support high school students who are passionate about entrepreneurship so they can afford to pursue higher education.

Stephen "Mike" Flinders Agriculture and Animal Care Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Stephen “Mike” Flinders by supporting students who share his passion for the care of animals and agriculture.

Kathleen Dilger Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor and support individuals who share Kathleen’s passion for reading and recognize its transformative power.

Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship
The Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship exists to move the tech industry in the right direction by empowering the next generation of extraordinary women leaders.

Oregon Aerospace Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are interested in and working towards a career in the aerospace industry, with an emphasis on those who contribute to the diversity of the industry.

Fakhri Abukhater Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Fakhri Abukhater by supporting the goals and hopes of Palestinian students as they pursue higher education.

Constance W. Thompson Empowerment Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who share Constance W. Thompson’s passion for education, leadership, and societal impact.

Chandler Wall Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Chandler Wall by supporting students who share his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

No Essay Scholarship by Sallie
This exclusive no-essay scholarship is for anyone thinking through how to pay for college.

Akilli's House Autism Support Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are dedicating their careers to uplifting those with autism so they can overcome any obstacles they face.

Akilli's House Autism Empowerment Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support autistic students as they prepare to complete their high school years and pursue their higher education goals.

500 Bold Points No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to the student whose Bold.org profile is the most bold, and who has earned at least 500 Bold Points.

1000 Bold Points No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to the student whose Bold.org profile is the most bold, and who has earned at least 1000 Bold Points.

200 Bold Points No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to the student whose Bold.org profile is the most bold, and who has earned at least 200 Bold Points.

300 Bold Points No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to the student whose Bold.org profile is the most bold, and who has earned at least 300 Bold Points.

100 Bold Points No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to the student whose Bold.org profile is the most bold, and who has earned at least 100 Bold Points.

Post Malone Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of Post Malone who have been impacted by his music and career as they pursue higher education.

Wicked Fan Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of Wicked who are excited about the new movie adaptation of the story!

Wicked Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of Wicked who are excited about the new movie adaptation of the story!

Survey Junkie Brand Influencer No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship is great for anyone who loves getting paid for sharing their opinions on products and services.

GUTS- Olivia Rodrigo Fan Scholarship
This scholarship is perfect for students who have been impacted by Olivia Rodrigo's "Guts" album!

Henry Respert Alzheimer's and Dementia Awareness Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are pursuing majors in healthcare or medical research so they can complete their degrees and make the world a better place.

Catholic Colleges No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship is perfect for high school or transfer students who are interested in Catholic College tips and resources.

Weeknd Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of The Weeknd and his boundary-pushing music!

Chappell Roan Superfan Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of Chappell Roan who have been impacted by her music.

Miley Cyrus Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to uplift fans of Miley Cyrus who have been impacted by her music or her career.

Sabrina Carpenter Superfan Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of Sabrina Carpenter who have been impacted by her career.

David "Beefy" Alderfer Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor Beefy’s lasting legacy by supporting wrestlers who exemplify his tenacity, dedication, and commitment to self-improvement.

K-POP Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who have been impacted by the incredible artists and music of K-Pop!

SZA Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of SZA’s incredible music and lyrics so they can pursue their dreams!

Alice M. Williams Legacy Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor Alice M. Williams and her unwavering commitment to education by supporting students who are pursuing higher education.

Tate McRae Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support fans of Tate McRae who enjoy her music, dancing, and performances!

Gracie Abrams Fan No-Essay Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support fans of Gracie Abrams who love the way her music makes them feel!

ESOF Academic Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support minority students who need monetary support to pursue higher education at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship will support high school seniors and undergraduates pursuing a career in the medical field.

Learner Calculus Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to commend students who are taking on the challenge of studying STEM by helping to relieve the burden of tuition.

Billie Eilish Fan Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are fans of Billie Eilish and have been impacted by her music.

LeBron James Fan Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are fans of LeBron James and have been inspired by his career.

Women’s Health Research & Innovation Scholarship
This scholarship aims to empower students who are passionate about making a difference in the field of women’s health.

Shape the News No-Essay Survey Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support opinionated students who want to make their voices heard in order to drive change.

B.R.I.G.H.T (Be.Radiant.Ignite.Growth.Heroic.Teaching) Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor Sierra's kindness and passion by uplifting students who share her calling to teaching.

Brett Brakel Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support a student who shares Brett’s passions for learning and the game so they can excel in higher education.

Artense Lenell Sam Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are interested in pursuing or furthering their education and making a difference in the world.

Ross Mitchell Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who embody Ross’ zest for discovery, personal growth, and academic excellence.

Olympians Academy Leadership Wings Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students pursuing professional leadership or management so they can lead the world to a better future.

Kelly S. Ellis Athletic Training Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are working hard to become athletic trainers so they can improve wellness and treatment in the sports field.

Dr. William Evans Lycoming College Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the legacy of William Evans by supporting students at Lycoming College who are passionate about their fields of study.

Emerging Leaders in STEM Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to provide financial assistance and motivation to students who are eager to make a positive impact in their chosen field.

Dave Cross Design Arts Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to make the arts more accessible by supporting students who are passionate about letting their creativity shine.

Walter and Linnie Francis Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the lives of Walter and Linnie Francis by supporting students who are preparing to pursue higher education.

Sarah F. Watson and James E. Dashiell Scholarship
This scholarship will support students attending a Historically Black College or University.

Mad Grad Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to provide financial assistance and support to students who are pursuing the visual or performing arts.

This Woman's Worth Scholarship
This scholarship will support women to follow their passions, despite any challenges that stand in their way.

Deborah Thomas Scholarship Award
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Deborah Thomas by supporting students who are seeking higher education so they have the resources necessary to complete their degrees.

Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship
To honor the life and legacy of Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt, this scholarship will be awarded to one student from a minority background who has big aspirations for their artistic career.

OHS Class of 2005 Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support the Class of 2025 and to reach out across generations and say, "We see you. We believe in you. And we want to help you soar."

Gregory Flowers Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Gregory Flowers by supporting underrepresented students who are pursuing higher education.

Hilda Ann Stahl Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support aspiring writers who dream of making a difference in the lives of their readers.

C's Get Degrees Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who may not have had the highest GPAs in high school but are ready to embrace the growth and opportunities that college can bring.

Charlene K. Howard Chogo Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Charlene Howard by supporting students who share her commitment to education.

Sandy Eggo's Future Humanitarians Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are dedicating their college years and their careers to making this world a better place for all.

Ultrafabrics Inc. Scholarship Award
This scholarship aims to support the next generation of designers who are committed to prioritizing environmental and social sustainability.

Reaudi Mills Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Reaudi Mills by supporting students who need financial assistance in order to fulfill their collegiate ambitions.

Eitel Scholarship
This scholarship aims to aid female students who are pursuing higher education at a Baptist college.

Gregory A. DeCanio Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship supports students who are pursuing careers in the emergency services.

TJ Crowson Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of TJ Crowson by supporting students with financial need who are pursuing law.

Jake Thomas Williams Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor Jake Thomas Williams’ life by providing support to students who want to make a difference in mental health and suicide prevention.

Concrete Rose Scholarship Award
This scholarship's mission is to help women of color reach their potential to achieve their dreams, making a significant contribution to a more inclusive and prosperous world for all.

SnapWell Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are passionate about mental, emotional, physical, or social wellness.

Rosa A. Wilson Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support young women who seek to address injustice and systemic challenges through their careers.

Marvin Bozarth Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Marvin Bozarth by supporting students who are pursuing the transportation or automotive industry.

Powering Up.org: Empowering Pathways Into Energy Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support the next generation of skilled professionals pursuing careers in the energy sector.

Cooper Congress Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to bridge divides through dialogue and policy by supporting the next generation of political leaders and encouraging them to work together.

Jorge A. Quizhpi Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship will support a Hispanic high school senior planning to attend a two or four year university or college.

Angela Engelson Memorial Scholarship for Women Artists
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Angela Engelson by supporting young women who are the first in their families to pursue a college education.

Aktipis Entrepreneurship Fellowship
This scholarship aims to provide financial support to students who exemplify Stelios Aktipis' values and drive as they pursue higher education.

David Hinsdale Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of David Hinsdale by supporting students who share Dave’s passion for craftsmanship.

Build and Bless Leadership Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support Christian students to exemplify the power of the community in uplifting people and helping them reach their goals.

RollinOn 3 Kentucky Presents D.B.C. Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Derick Canty by supporting young adults who have faced mental struggles but are continuing to pursue their dreams.

Kim Beneschott Creative Arts Scholarship
Today, with high-quality phone cameras readily accessible and the rise of online platforms for creators like YouTube, Instagram, Dribbble, and others, creative pursuits are becoming more and more readily available.

Mattie K Peterson Higher Education Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Mattie K Peterson by supporting students who are active members of their communities.

Carlos F. Garcia Muentes Scholarship
In honor and memory of Carlos Fredy Garcia Muentes, this scholarship will support immigrant students that have a passion for learning and want to create a better life for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Andrea N. Santore Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Andrea N. Santore by supporting students who are pursuing her fields of interest.

Old Florida Vibes Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students exploring studies in art activism, environmental communications, climate change, water quality, wildlife conservation, wildland management, and recreation so they can achieve their goals and make a difference in the earth’s protection.

Larry Joe Gardner Memorial Scholarship for Public Policy
This scholarship aims to increase representation in public services by making higher education more accessible to minority students.

Edward Dorsey, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support Black students as they pursue higher education, enabling them to succeed and become the business leaders of tomorrow.

Lyon County Community Engagement Youth Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who are committed to fostering change in their communities through their pursuit of higher education.

Baby OG: Next Gen Female Visionary Scholarship
This scholarship aims to further equity in education and the workplace by ensuring that all students are able to pursue their academic and professional goals.

David Mann Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of David Mann by supporting individuals who share his generosity and are pursuing careers in firefighting or emergency medical services (EMS).

Zedikiah Randolph Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support BIPOC students who are pursuing higher education so they can overcome the barriers they face and be an inspiration to those who follow them.

Dr. Monique Dupree Scholarship for BIPOC Students
This scholarship aims to honor the life of Dr. Monique Dupree by supporting and inspiring future physical therapists.

Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship
The 2025 Doc & Glo Scholarship, created by tennis champion and philanthropist Sloane Stephens, will award six students the opportunity to pursue their education and achieve their dreams. High school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students with a 2.5 GPA or higher are encouraged to apply.

Hector Javier Palacios Law Enforcement Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Hector Javier Palacios by supporting students who plan to spend their careers giving back through law enforcement.

Pro-Life Advocates Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to one student who recognizes the dignity and humanity of a human life, from the moment of their conception to natural death. This person embraces the value of every human life on this planet, especially the unborn, and lives out this conviction in their daily lives.

Diversity in Music Education Scholarship
This scholarship will support three aspiring musicians in their musical studies and budding career.

Jesus Baez-Santos Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Jesus-Baez-Santos by supporting students who have faced obstacles when pursuing higher education.

Gracefully Chosen Foundation Fine Art Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support students who love to make art so they can afford to pursue their dreams and passions.

Morgan Levine Dolan Union and Construction Safety Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support students who are passionate about the construction industry and about making an impact through their careers.

Pet Pals Pack Compassion Award
This scholarship aims to support students who are passionate about completing their college education so they can go on to careers helping animals.

GraceFest Empowering Futures Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support underprivileged mothers in Alabama so they can overcome the challenges they face and remain committed to their education and goals.

Sangha Support Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support young Buddhists, so they have the resources they need to pursue their goals.

Lance Gillingham Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the bravery and sacrifices of veterans by supporting them as they reenter civilian life and pursue higher education.

Legacy Golf College Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to help students from lower socioeconomic classes who are passionate about golf further their education.

Wendy Alders Cartland Visual Arts Scholarship
This scholarship aims to honor the legacy of Wendy Alders Cartland by supporting low-income students pursuing the visual arts.

Hilda Klinger Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Hilda Klinger by supporting students who are pursuing degrees in the arts.

Dulce Vida First Generation Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to support first-generation students so they can continue to go after their dreams despite their financial limitations.

Lynch Engineering Scholarship
This scholarship aims to support smart, self-driven, ambitious, kind, and generous engineers so they can pay for their college tuition.

Rex and Gladys Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship seeks to honor the lives of Rex and Gladys by supporting students who share their passion for nursing.

Martha Brooks Culinary Arts Scholarship
This scholarship will support high school students interested in pursuing a career in the culinary arts.
Essay Scholarships: The Traditional Scholarship
An essay scholarship is a form of financial aid that requires students to submit an original essay as part of the application process. These scholarships are often awarded based on the quality of the applicant’s writing, their ability to engage with the given topic, and how effectively they can communicate their ideas. The topics for essay scholarships vary widely, ranging from personal stories and experiences to more academic or socially focused themes.
Essay scholarships are available to high school students, undergraduate and graduate students alike. However, it’s most important for graduating high school seniors and current college students to start thinking about the scholarship process since they have college fees needing to be paid.
Key Characteristics of Essay Scholarships:
- Prompt-Based: Most essay scholarships provide a prompt or topic that applicants must respond to within a specific word count. The prompt can be personal (e.g., “Describe a challenge you’ve overcome”), societal (e.g., “How can we address climate change?”), or related to the sponsor’s mission (e.g., “Why is financial literacy important?”).
- Judged on Quality: Applications are judged based on content, originality, structure, and adherence to the prompt. Some scholarships may also factor in grammar, spelling, and style, so attention to detail is crucial.
- Personal Insight: Many essay prompts encourage students to share personal experiences, challenges, or goals. This aspect allows the scholarship committee to get to know the student on a deeper level and assess their potential beyond grades and test scores.
If you’re pursuing higher education, you should check out these scholarships for undergraduate students!

Essay Scholarship vs No-Essay Scholarships
While essay scholarships focus on written submissions, no-essay scholarships remove that requirement entirely. No-essay scholarships are designed for students who may not have the time or resources to craft an essay but still wish to seek financial aid. These scholarships often have simpler application processes, such as filling out a form or meeting basic eligibility criteria.
Essay scholarships, on the other hand, may offer more substantial awards due to the effort involved, but they can be more competitive. No-essay scholarships are often more accessible but may come with smaller awards or other trade-offs, such as being based entirely on luck or specific criteria like location or background. Applying to multiple scholarships of this type is the best way to maximize your chances.
Being a graduate student can be tough, but these grad school scholarships can alleviate some of that financial burden!

How to Write an Essay for a Scholarship
Writing an essay for a scholarship is no small feat, but there are certain strategies you can use to make the process easier and more engaging. Remember, scholarship essays can be your gateway to securing financial support for your education, and they provide a platform to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a stellar, winning essay.
1. Understand the Prompt
The first step in writing a scholarship essay is to thoroughly understand the essay prompt. Scholarship providers often ask specific questions or set particular themes to gauge your ability to respond thoughtfully and creatively. Read the prompt several times to ensure you fully grasp what is being asked. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the main topic or theme?
- What specific aspects of the topic does the prompt want you to address?
- Are there any underlying expectations, such as personal insight, leadership, or community involvement?
It’s crucial to stay on topic and answer the question directly. Straying from the prompt can weaken your application, no matter how well-written the essay is.
2. Research the Scholarship Organization
Each scholarship is provided by an organization or individual with a specific mission or goal. Whether it’s a company, nonprofit, or educational institution, understanding the values of the scholarship provider can help you tailor your essay to align with their mission. For instance, if the scholarship is from an art organization, you might want to emphasize your imaginative flair and ability to see beauty outside of the ordinary.
Researching the scholarship provider allows you to understand what qualities or experiences they might value most in an applicant. This research can also inspire examples and experiences you might want to include in your essay.
Pro Tip: If you’re applying to creative writing scholarships, don’t be afraid to utilize lots of rhetorical and literary devices. For these scholarships, your writing style matters as much as the content.
Apply for these art scholarships with the tips from our example about art organizations!

3. Brainstorm and Outline Your Ideas
Before diving into writing, take the time to brainstorm ideas. Reflect on your personal experiences, achievements, challenges, and goals that are relevant to the essay prompt. Think about moments in your life that showcase your strengths, resilience, or leadership abilities. Don’t worry about structure at this point—just let your thoughts flow freely.
Once you have a collection of ideas, start organizing them into a coherent structure. Outlining helps to ensure your essay has a clear beginning, middle, and end. A typical essay structure includes:
- Introduction: Capture the reader’s attention with a compelling hook. This could be an interesting anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question. Your introduction should also briefly introduce the main points you’ll cover in the essay.
- Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single idea or example. For scholarship essays, it’s often effective to use personal experiences to illustrate broader themes. Use descriptive language and specific details to make your experiences come alive. Make sure every example ties back to the essay prompt and highlights why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship.
- Conclusion: Summarize the key points you’ve made, restating how they demonstrate your qualifications for the scholarship. End with a strong closing statement that reinforces your passion, dedication, or long-term goals.
4. Be Authentic and Personal
Scholarship committees want to know who you are, not just what you’ve done. At its core, a scholarship essay is a brief look into your experiences, personality, and passions. Authenticity is key when writing your essay.
Instead of trying to fit into a mold or write what you think the scholarship provider wants to hear, be honest about your experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Personal stories resonate more than generic responses. If the essay prompt asks for a significant challenge you’ve overcome, for example, share a genuine experience that had a profound impact on your life.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to get personal and lean into your emotional response to the prompt.
Essays can always be supported by a stellar transcript. Boost your grades with these top tutoring programs!

5. Edit and Proofread
Once you’ve written your essay, the next step is revising and editing. Scholarship essays should be clear, concise, and free from errors. After writing the first draft, take a break before revising. This will allow you to come back to the essay with fresh eyes and catch mistakes or areas that need improvement.
During the editing process, ask yourself the following questions:
- Does the essay clearly address the prompt?
- Are the ideas well-organized and easy to follow?
- Are there any unnecessary words or redundant sentences?
- Have you used specific details to illustrate your points?
After revising, proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Even a well-written essay can be undermined by simple mistakes. Consider asking a teacher, mentor, or trusted friend to read over your essay and provide feedback.
Pro Tip: All writing is re-writing. Don’t be afraid to start from scratch. Parts of previous drafts might be holding you back from seeing a better way of tackling the prompt.
6. Follow Instructions
One of the easiest ways to disqualify yourself from a scholarship is by failing to follow the submission guidelines. Pay close attention to the instructions regarding formatting, word count, and submission deadlines. If the scholarship application asks for a 500-word essay, don’t submit 700 words. Scholarship committees often use these guidelines as a way to filter applicants who cannot follow directions.
Make sure to format your essay according to the requirements. This might include using a specific font, spacing, or file format. Submit your essay well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues. Procrastination is tantalizing, but not so much when you’re scrambling in the final minutes before the deadline to change your essay’s formatting.
High school juniors, it’s not too early to start thinking about scholarships. Check out these scholarships specific to your grade level!

Frequently Asked Questions About Essay Scholarships
1. Who Is Eligible for Essay Scholarships?
It depends. Eligibility requirements often include factors like academic achievement, community involvement, financial need, or specific demographic criteria (e.g., gender, ethnicity, or field of study). Always review the specific requirements of each scholarship before applying.
Pro Tip: Scholarships with more eligibility requirements will be less competitive. For example, Indigenous students will find the most success in applying for scholarships specific to Indigenous students.
2. How Much Money Do Essay Scholarships Usually Give?
Essay scholarship awards can range from as little as $500 to more than $5,000 or even full-ride scholarships covering tuition and other expenses. The amount typically depends on the sponsor and the level of competition for the scholarship. If you’re attending college or university, any scholarship, no matter the amount, will make a difference, so apply to as many as possible!
3. How Long Does Writing an Essay for a Scholarship Take?
The time it takes to write a scholarship essay depends on the complexity of the prompt and your writing process. It can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, including time for brainstorming, drafting, revising, and proofreading. Most essays will take at least a few hours, so make sure you’re budgeting enough time for writing.
Lingering questions? Scholarship Institute’s blog might have the answer!

Lucy Maddox
Lucy’s international upbringing in Hong Kong and love for literature have shaped her multifaceted background. She attended university in Middlebury, Vermont, before settling in Arlington, Virginia. In her free time, Lucy enjoys True Crime podcasts, thrillers, literary fiction, running, hiking, exploring Washington, D.C.'s newest restaurants, and blogging about her latest travels.