25 Scholarships For Out-Of-State Students In 2024

Pursuing higher education outside your home state is an excellent opportunity to explore a new environment and broaden your networks. Still, venturing beyond your immediate area poses challenges, mainly the prospect of higher tuition fees for out-of-state students. Thankfully, scholarships help reduce the total cost and make studying in a different state easier. 

We’ve handpicked 25 scholarships for out-of-state students, including their deadlines, award amounts, and general application information. Regardless of your education level and field of study, we’re here to show you our favorites based on extensive research and insider expertise. We’ll also explain the different scholarship types and how you can maximize your chances of winning, ensuring you feel prepared for the new educational journey that lies ahead. 

The Top 25 Scholarships for Out-of-State Students

We’ve outlined the top 25 scholarships for out-of-state students below. You’ll also find links to each one’s application page.  

About Out-Of-State Student Scholarships

Every year, many students decide to attend college out-of-state, leading to new experiences and opportunities. These students are typically charged out-of-state tuition to cover housing and food costs, but scholarships help offset the difference. Whether your school offers scholarships or you look to private donors, plenty of opportunities are available. The same support applies to transfer students studying in a new state. 

What Are Out-of-State Student Scholarships?

Out-of-state student scholarships are for students who choose to attend college out of their home state. This can be difficult, especially when considering leaving behind friends and family. Still, the added stress of finances will not be on your shoulders with the help of financial aid and scholarships. In addition to researching scholarships, check out the Federal Student Aid program to fill out a free FAFSA application and see if you are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant.

What Qualifies Someone for an Out-of-State Scholarship?

Qualifying for an out-of-state scholarship, or non-resident scholarship, typically requires the applicant to have US residency but not in the state offering the scholarship. For instance, a Wisconsin resident could apply for an out-of-state scholarship in Michigan, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. Certain state universities and private colleges offer these scholarships to incoming domestic first-year students who are out-of-state residents. However, it’s important to note that maintaining out-of-state residency status is usually a requirement to continue funding in later semesters. 

Different Types of Out-of-State Scholarships

College students attending school in a new state can apply for several types of scholarships. We’ve broken down the most common kinds below. 

Merit-Based Scholarships

A merit-based scholarship awards out-of-state students who excel in a specific academic area, such as their grades, standardized test scores, or extracurricular involvement. Merit-based scholarships typically ask for proof of merit, such as a transcript that meets the program’s minimum GPA requirements. 

Need-Based Scholarships

These scholarships target students who demonstrate financial need and couldn’t otherwise pursue their educational goals without financial support. Students seeking need-based scholarships can apply for federal assistance or may qualify for other programs, including private-funded or through their school. 

Career or Major-Specific Scholarships

These scholarships are students at out-of-state colleges pursuing a specific major or career path. For example, students who want to become pilots can apply for aviation scholarships. Likewise, students can find scholarship programs for nursing, teaching, social work, and other career paths. 

Student-Specific Scholarships

Student-specific scholarships consider applicants based on factors like race, religion, gender, medical history, and similar criteria. These opportunities aim to increase inclusion and make education more accessible for certain students. 

International-Based Scholarships

International scholarships are for students without US residency who want to attend a domestic college or university. Some may only consider students from a specific country or encourage any international student to apply. 

College-Specific Scholarships

US colleges and universities often provide scholarships for incoming first-year college students who meet specific requirements. They may consider your previous academic work, test scores, or athletic accomplishments. Still, each school will vary, so it’s best to check with your financial aid department to learn about the available college scholarships. 

How to Find Out-of-State Scholarships

Most scholarship winners are outstanding students who are ambitious and awarded based on the quality of their applications. 

First, you’ll want to search for scholarships. If you are a high school senior or an undergraduate student, you want to look for scholarships that you are eligible for. Bold.org has a good range of scholarships for out-of-state students and other categories. 

If the opportunity is an essay, your answer must stand out from the others because this is how you can have more chances of winning scholarship opportunities. Ensure you include as many details as possible about why you want to further your education. 

Another thing to recognize when searching for scholarship opportunities is the academic achievement requirements, such as a minimum GPA. Or, they may require you to have done some extracurricular activities or community service.

How to Apply for Out-of-State Scholarships: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you’re ready to start applying for out-of-state scholarships, we recommend using Bold.org to streamline the process. Here’s how: 

Step 1: Visit Bold.org

Start your scholarship search on Bold.org, a scholarship platform with hundreds of opportunities, including for out-of-state students. But before you can apply, you will need to create a profile. 

Step 2: Create a Free Profile

While creating your account, you’ll get the opportunity to develop your Bold.org profile. Your profile showcases your background, experience, personality, and skills to scholarship organizers. Try to make it stand out and appeal to the scholarship panels. 

Step 3: Explore Scholarship Programs

Bold.org features several kinds of scholarships based on students’ backgrounds, states, career fields, and accomplishments. Take some time to explore all the available options and find the ones that suit your needs and qualifications. 

Step 4: Apply for Scholarships

Once you’ve found interesting scholarships you’re eligible to apply for, start crafting your applications and note the requirements. Compile any required documents or records, and spend time writing compelling essays (if required). When you’re ready to submit your applications, ensure you proofread and verify you meet all the requirements. 

Step 5: Monitor Your Applications

You can keep track of your applications through your Bold.org dashboard. Here, you can view the statuses of your scholarships and get updates as they become available. 

Step 6: Receive Your Scholarships

If you successfully win a scholarship, Bold.org will automatically apply the funding to your tuition and work directly with your school’s financial aid department, eliminating hassle and paperwork. 

Tips for Winning an Out-of-State Scholarship

If you want to increase your chances of winning an out-of-state scholarship, follow these top tips during the application process. 

Tip 1: Start Your Scholarship Search Early

Perhaps the most overlooked part of the scholarship application process is the advantage of applying early. By giving yourself more time, you can find additional scholarship programs and give yourself more room to create the best possible applications. 

Tip 2: Apply for Several Scholarships

You can apply for as many scholarships as you want. In fact, the more you apply for, the better your chances of securing one. Take advantage of all the available opportunities and submit applications for as many as possible. 

Tip 3: Maintain Your Academic Performance

Whether you’re nearing the end of high school or in the middle of college, maintaining your academic performance demonstrates your commitment to success. Do your best to maintain a high GPA and attendance record, ensuring you show the panels you will continue your commitment.

Tip 4: Tailor Your Applications

Every scholarship has a different application and requirements, so you want to give each one the attention it deserves. Follow the instructions and go above and beyond, tailoring each one to the criteria and showing why you deserve to win. 

Tip 5: Optimize Your Bold.org Profile

Several easy scholarships on Bold.org only consider students’ profiles when determining the winners. Ensure your profile stands out and highlights your unique experience as an out-of-state student, including your achievements, experience, and future goals. 

Tip 6: Write a Powerful Essay

If you apply for a scholarship that requires an essay or personal statement, use it as an opportunity to speak directly with the scholarship panel. Review the prompt and writing guidelines while using your personal voice to demonstrate why you deserve to win. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Out-of-State Scholarships

Still have questions about out-of-state student scholarships? We’ve got answers below. 

Can I get scholarships for out-of-state college?

Yes, you can get scholarships if you plan on attending an out-of-state college. Your future school may offer these scholarships to qualified incoming students, or you can find scholarship programs through platforms like Bold.org. To learn more, sign up for a free account on Bold.org. 

Can international students apply for these scholarships?

International students may qualify for out-of-state student scholarships if the program does not require applicants to have US citizenship. However, some opportunities require US students to study in a different state. Be sure to check the application requirements or contact the scholarship organizer if needed. 

How can I find scholarships for out-of-state students?

You can find scholarships for out-of-state students by speaking with your school’s financial aid department, researching online, or contacting local businesses or organizations. However, Bold.org is the easiest and best way to find opportunities for out-of-state students. Sign up for a free account and find hundreds of scholarships. 

Are scholarships taxable income?

Technically, no. Scholarship award funds are meant for academic purposes, including school books, supplies, and equipment. However, using the scholarship to pay for room, board, or a stipend for living expenses can be considered income and subject to tax. For more information, consult IRS Topic No. 421. 

How many scholarships can you get?

There is no limit to how many scholarships you can get. Some scholarships will be for specific majors, such as business or nursing, but you can get as many scholarships as needed to cover your tuition and room and board.

How can I improve my chances of winning out-of-state scholarships?

Students who have strong applications and academic backgrounds have a better chance of winning, so apply early and maintain your academic performance. It also helps to review the scholarship requirements and tailor your applications to exceed them. 

Are out-of-state scholarships legit?

Out-of-state scholarships are just as real as any other scholarship! Just make sure you read the qualifications carefully and research the organization providing the scholarship. Bold.org is one example of a reputable scholarship platform that connects students with legit donors.