Attention high school seniors! Take a break from those college applications and listen up. We know you're swamped with deadlines and maintaining those top-notch grades. But if your dream is to earn that college degree without drowning in student debt, then it's time to prioritize applying for scholarships.
Ideally, it’s great to start applying for scholarships before your senior year in high school. But don’t lose heart, it’s not too late to begin building your scholarship chest. Colleges offer most scholarships, but you will want to look at outside scholarships too – those offered by organizations such as corporations, foundations, civic organizations.
Here are 5 of the best college scholarships for high school seniors:
1. The Coca Cola Scholars Foundation
The Coca Cola Scholars Foundation program is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors who plan to pursue a degree at an accredited US college or university. Each year, 150 students are selected to receive a $20,000 scholarship.
Amount: $20,000
Application deadline: October 31, 2019 (date could change for future years)
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2. Dell Scholars Program
The Dell Scholars Program is open to high school seniors who are "in the academic middle from low-income households who are often among the first in their families to attend college". To be eligible to apply to this scholars' program, graduating seniors must participate in an approved college readiness program (for e.g., AVID, Uplift Education and the ASPIRE Public Schools). Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.4 but, more importantly, demonstrate "grit, potential and ambition".
Amount: includes $20,000, a laptop, textbook credits and coaching
Application Deadline: December 1, 2019
3. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
This is one of the most generous private scholarships in the country and is open to high-achieving high school seniors. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and plan to attend one of the top four-year colleges or universities in the country. In addition, the scholarship program includes advising and graduate school funding.
Amount: Up to $40,00 per year; awards are renewable
Application deadline: November 13, 2019 (check deadline for subsequent years)
4. Foot Locker Scholar Athletes
The scholarship is open to outstanding athletes who are high school seniors. Students must demonstrate, among other things, strong moral character, leadership and academic excellence. Additionally, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 with plans to attend a 4-year college in the fall immediately following graduation. The program awards up to 20 scholarships each year.
Amount: $20,000
Application Deadline: January 2, 2020
5. Davidson Fellows Scholarship
The Davidson Fellows Scholarship awards various scholarship amounts to students who have completed exceptional projects considered as outstanding by experts in the field. Therefore, projects must be equivalent to the college graduate level; novices need not apply. The scholarships are open to US citizens and permanent residents 18 years old or younger.
Amount: $10,000, $25,000 or $50,000Application Deadline: February 2020 (check website for current information)
6. Horatio Alger Scholarship
The Horatio Alger Scholarship rewards students who have overcome adversity with financial assistance for college. It offers financial assistance for college, helping students pursue their dreams.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: October 25, 2023
7. Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes students for their academic excellence, leadership skills, and financial need. High school seniors can win up to $12,500 per year to support their college education.
Amount: Up to $12,500 per year
Deadline: November 15, 2023
8. Prudential Emerging Visionaries Awards
If you're between 14-18 years old with a vision for societal or financial change, this scholarship might be right for you. This scholarship was formerly known as Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: November 8, 2023
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9. Sallie Mae Scholarship
The Sallie Mae Scholarship Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and any US Territory. Applicants must be 17 years or older to apply.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Deadline: December 31, 2023
10. Burger King Scholars Program
If you're a fan of Burger King, you'll love this scholarship! It offers up to $50,000 to high school seniors who want to pursue higher education.
Amount: Up to $60,000
Deadline: December 31, 2023
11. Ron Brown Scholar Program
The Ron Brown Scholar Program supports African American students with exceptional leadership potential and facing financial challenges. With 45-50 four-year scholarships worth 40,000 total, it recognizes students who demonstrate a passion for public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship, and global citizenship.
Amount: $10,000 per year
Deadline: January 9, 2024
12. Hagan Scholarship Foundation
This scholarship is for high-achieving students in rural areas with significant financial need. The scholarship includes free study abroad and allows students to graduate debt-free.
Amount: Up to $48,000 over four years
Deadline: November 15, 2023
13. GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship celebrates students who show leadership, drive, and good citizenship. It is open to high school seniors studying at any high school in the United States, including U.S. territories and commonwealth
Amount: $10,000 renewable
Deadline: January 5, 2024
14. Hispanic Scholarship Fund
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) supports Hispanic students pursuing a college degree. Students receive wrap around services that include career services, mentorship, and leadership development.
Amount: $500 - $5,000
Deadline: February 15
15. Gates Scholarship
The Gates Scholarship is for very talented high school seniors who come from low-income families. It covers all the costs of college, so you don't have to worry about how to pay for it. It's a great opportunity for deserving students who have worked hard to achieve their goals
Amount: Full cost of attendance
Deadline: September 15
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16. Stuck at Prom Scholarship
Get creative and make your prom attire out of duct tape for a chance to win. The scholarship is awarded to winners and runners-up of the promwear competition. To enter, you must make and wear an outfit made out of Duck brand duct tape.
Amount: Up to $10,000
Deadline: June 10, 2024
17. Live Más Scholarship
This scholarship is offered by Taco Bell Foundation and awarded to students boldly chasing their dreams. Students must submit a video that answers several questions, including: What is your passion and how are you currently pursuing it?
Amount: Varies
Deadline: January
18. Discover Student Loans Scholarship
If you're a high school senior student who lives in the United States or its territories, and you're at least sixteen years old, you can apply for the Discover Student Loans Scholarship Award.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: January 31, 2024.
19. ESA Foundation Scholarship Program
Gamers, this one's for you! It's for students pursuing careers in computer and video game arts.
Amount: Up to $15,000
Deadline: Check website
20. Create-a-Greeting Card Scholarship
Design a creative greeting card, and you might win this scholarship.
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: March 15, 2024
21. No Sweat Scholarship
Applying for the Cirkled In No Sweat Scholarship is simple. All you need to do is create an account and share your unique story through your profile. There's no need to worry about your GPA or income level - this scholarship is all about showcasing your authentic self.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: December 31, 2023
22. OppU Achievers Scholarship
Since its establishment in 2016, this scholarship has been dedicated to supporting education costs by providing $2,500. With scholarship selection taking place four times a year, it celebrates individuals who not only seize opportunities for themselves but also pave the way for others to succeed.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: September 30, 2023
23. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
JRF Scholars receive up to $35,000 in college scholarships over four years, attend the prestigious "Mentoring and Leadership Conference," and enjoy a comprehensive four-year program including career guidance, job placement, travel opportunities, and leadership training.
Amount: $35,000 over 4 years
Deadline: January 10, 2024
24. Doodle for Google Scholarship
Show off your artistic skills and win this scholarship from Google. This competition is opened to students K-12. Design your very own Google Doodle for a chance to see it showcased on Google.com and win fantastic scholarships and tech packages for your school.
Amount: Winner receives $30,000 (plus $50,000 for your school); 5 finalists receive $5,000 scholarships
Deadline: TBA (usually in March)
25. Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program
If you're a student-athlete who excels not only in sports but also in academics and leadership, the Foot Locker Scholar Athletes program is designed to recognize your achievements. This program celebrates individuals who showcase outstanding abilities on and off the field or court, including strong leadership skills in their schools and communities.
Amount: Up to $20,000
Deadline: January (check website)
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these 25 scholarships for high school seniors offer incredible opportunities for a bright future. By providing financial support, some of these scholarships make it possible to attend college without worrying about money.
Additionally, many of these scholarships offer valuable resources and support beyond just financial assistance. From mentorship programs to internship opportunities, these scholarships help you develop important skills and connections for a successful career. Don't let financial constraints hold you back from pursuing your educational and professional goals. Take advantage of these scholarships and unlock the doors to a brighter future.
