Top 7 Scholarships and Grants for College Students

Discover the top 7 scholarships and grants available for college students, offering financial aid with minimal application hurdles. From merit-based awards to support for minority students, this guide highlights key opportunities to fund your higher education efficiently. Explore eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and how to apply for these reputable scholarships to ease your college expenses and achieve your academic goals.

Top 7 Scholarships and Grants for College Students

Securing funding for college can be easier with the right scholarships. While some require lengthy essays, others are straightforward with minimal requirements. It’s important to consider factors beyond application ease, such as eligibility criteria and application frequency. These accessible scholarships reopen monthly, offering students multiple chances to apply. This article highlights some of the most reputable college scholarships and grants to help you find financial support for your higher education journey.

American Association of University Women (AAUW) Career Development Grant
AAUW provides women with bachelor's degrees pursuing advanced professional or academic credentials, awarding grants from $2,000 to $12,000. Preference is given to women in non-traditional fields who are U.S. citizens enrolled at accredited four-year institutions, suitable for online or on-campus programs. A small $35 application fee via PayPal applies. Check their website for detailed eligibility info.

Coca-Cola Scholars Program
Looking for an online application? The 2023 Coca-Cola Scholars Program offers a merit-based scholarship for high school seniors graduating in 2022-2023. With awards up to $20,000, it recognizes leadership, community service, and academic achievement. Applicants must be seniors planning to attend an accredited U.S. college, including home-schooled students. Applications open in August 2022 via their official website.

Because College Is Costly Scholarship
Are you a high school senior, junior, or college student seeking financial aid? If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to start college soon, you can enter to win a $500 scholarship. No eligibility hurdles or extensive forms—just be eligible and submit one entry. Winners are chosen randomly each month and announced publicly; only one entry per person is allowed.

United Negro College Fund (UNCF)
UNCF provides vital scholarships for underrepresented students, supporting over 10,000 college-bound individuals annually. They offer various fellowships, internships, and scholarships, including the prestigious Merck Undergraduate Science Research Scholarship, which ranges from $35,000 to $85,000 for biotech and bioscience students. The organization aims to empower minority students with limited financial resources to pursue higher education.

Alexia Foundation Student Grant
This renowned grant awards $1,500 to full-time students studying photography or related fields at accredited colleges abroad or in the U.S. Founded in memory of a Syracuse University student killed in 1988, the grant supports young artists dedicated to promoting peace through their work. Applicants must demonstrate artistic talent, present a compelling portfolio, and have less than a year of professional experience.

Dell Scholars Program
The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation supports students from low- or middle-income families, often first-generation college-goers. The program offers scholarships of $20,000 or more, with application reopenings typically in October. Since inception, over 4,800 students have benefited, with many overcoming significant challenges. The program emphasizes not just funding but also comprehensive support to help students complete their degrees.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Approximately 1,000 students annually receive assistance through this program, which provided an average of $13,000 per recipient from 2000-2014. Sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this $1.6 million initiative focuses on supporting minority students committed to obtaining college degrees, helping remove financial barriers to higher education.

These are some of the top scholarships and grants available for students facing financial difficulties. Keep in mind, this isn’t an exhaustive list—many other options exist. Explore official websites to find programs best suited to your needs.