Top Scholarships for Teachers to Apply For

Earning an education degree, whether in elementary education or secondary school teaching, can be a financial challenge. ​If you’re a high school senior planning to pursue a degree in education, an undergraduate student specializing in a specific teaching field, or a current teacher looking to enhance your qualifications, there are financial resources available to help.

There are several types of scholarships tailored to aspiring and current educators. Federal programs like the Federal TEACH Grant are available for those committed to teaching in high-need areas. Many undergraduate scholarships are available to those working toward their first degree in education, while graduate scholarships are available to help with the cost of advanced degrees such as a master’s or Ph.D.

To help you find scholarships for teachers, we’ve put together a list of the opportunities available from Bold.org. After extensive research, we’ve identified their scholarship opportunities as the most exclusive and reputable for aspiring teachers. We’ve also included tips for applying, types of scholarships to look for, and a couple of state-specific programs to help you get started. Continue reading to learn more.

Take a look at the scholarships we’ve researched and identified. These opportunities go beyond teacher-specific options, offering a broader range of funding possibilities to support your educational journey.

What’s The Best Way to Apply for Scholarships for Teachers?

Applying for scholarships has become much simpler in recent years. In the past, students often had to complete lengthy paper applications and submit them through their school or by mail, which could be a time-consuming process. Today, the process is far more convenient. With just a few clicks, you can search online for scholarships that match your goals and easily apply for the ones that interest you.

Finding scholarships is now more accessible than ever, and there are even options that require minimal qualifications. To make the process more effective, follow these tips:

Start Early: Begin your search well in advance to ensure you meet deadlines and have time to prepare any required materials.

Use Trusted Resources: Look for scholarships on reliable websites, such as educational organizations, professional associations for teachers, or dedicated scholarship platforms.

Tailor Your Application: Highlight your teaching goals and how the scholarship aligns with your aspirations. Be sure to include any relevant achievements or experiences.

Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and provide all requested documents, such as essays, recommendation letters, or transcripts.

Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances by applying to several scholarships, including those with broader eligibility criteria or less competition.

Types of Scholarships Available for Teachers

There are various scholarships available for teachers to support their professional development.

Federal Scholarships

One prominent federal opportunity is the TEACH Grant program. This grant is specifically tailored for aspiring educators who are committed to teaching in high-need fields and underserved schools.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Must be enrolled in a TEACH Grant-eligible program.
2. Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25.
3. Sign an agreement to serve as a full-time teacher in a high-need field for at least four academic years within eight years of completing your course of study.
4. Complete counseling sessions explaining the terms and conditions of the grant.

Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is crucial for accessing not only the TEACH Grant but also other federal funding opportunities.

Private Scholarships

Organizations and companies offer a variety of private scholarships tailored to educators. 

To find these private scholarships, leveraging platforms such as Bold.org can be incredibly beneficial.  Here’s how you can make the most of these opportunities:

• Research: Use platforms like Scholarships360 and Sallie Mae to explore available scholarships.
• Application Strategy: Tailor your applications to highlight your strengths and experiences in teaching.
• Utilize Resources: Niche and similar platforms provide tools to filter through scholarships based on criteria such as subject area, location, and level of education.

State-Specific Programs

Exploring state-specific scholarship opportunities can be a game-changer for teachers eager to further their education.

Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program

The Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program is designed to encourage Virginia residents to pursue teaching careers in critical shortage areas, such as special education or STEM subjects. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in an approved teacher preparation program and demonstrate academic merit.

Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program

This scholarship supports minority students pursuing teaching degrees at Illinois colleges. To qualify, applicants must be of a minority background, maintain a certain GPA, and agree to teach in Illinois schools upon graduation. Completing the FAFSA is essential for eligibility, as it helps determine financial need.

Leveraging such opportunities ensures that teachers can continue their professional development without bearing the burden of substantial student debt.

Tips for Applying to Teacher Scholarships

Finding the right scholarship can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but several scholarship websites simplify this task by compiling teacher-specific opportunities.

To navigate these resources effectively:

1. Set up alerts for new scholarships that match your teaching focus or demographic.
2. Tailor your applications to align with the specific requirements of each scholarship.
3. Leverage search filters to narrow down opportunities that fit your qualifications. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships for Teachers

1. Are Scholarships for Teachers Taxable Income?

Technically, your scholarship may or may not be taxable. Usually, a scholarship or fellowship is tax-free if you are a degree candidate, and the award you receive pays for tuition and other required fees. These fees could include school books, supplies, and equipment. However, some scholarships are not exempt from taxes. Using your scholarship to pay for room and board or a stipend for living expenses is taxable.

Many restrictions ensure you don’t overuse your benefits and take advantage of Education Tax Benefits. IRS 970 discusses scholarships and deducting work-related educational expenses. This tax benefit is called the American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Tax Credit. For more detailed information, please visit the IRS website.

2. Are There Scholarships Specifically for Elementary Education Majors?

Yes, many scholarships are designed for students pursuing degrees in elementary education. These awards often focus on supporting students who aim to become elementary school teachers. For example, the Future Teacher Scholarship provides funding specifically for aspiring teachers pursuing teaching careers.

3. Can High School Seniors Apply for Scholarships for Teachers?

Absolutely! Programs like the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Future Teacher Scholarship are open to high school seniors who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education.

4. Are There Scholarships for Graduate Students in Education?

Yes, graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in teaching or education can access specialized scholarships like the James Madison Graduate Fellowship. This fellowship supports those committed to teaching American history, government, or civics at the K-12 level, providing substantial financial support for higher education.

5. What Is the Hispanic Scholarship Fund?

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) is a prestigious organization that provides financial aid to Hispanic students pursuing higher education. So, if you’re Hispanic and want to become an elementary school teacher, this scholarship is a great opportunity for you.

Explore our blog to learn more about scholarships, student financing, and essential tips to support your educational goals.