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Scholarships
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Scholarships
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Graduate student scholarships: Find free money for grad school
Your guide to finding scholarships that make grad school affordable.
Graduate student scholarships
Ann Arnold Scholarship
Due: 4/17/26
|No min. GPA Required
$5,000
The Ann Arnold Scholarship will be awarded to students enrolled in fully-accredited programs that emphasize broadcast journalism. Applicants must submit either a certificate of enrollment or a letter from a department head that states that the applicant has a reasonable chance of successfully completing the course of instruction. They must also submit examples of their work, if applicable. Applicants must submit letters of recommendation, combined into one PDF document. A minimum of three letters of recommendation from college professors, broadcasters or other business people not related to the applicant is required. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Texas Association of Broadcasters for more information.
Robert & Catherine Lagorio Scholarship (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine)
Due: 4/17/26
|No Transcripts Required
$5,000
The Robert & Catherine Lagorio Scholarship was established to support students from San Joaquin County pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. The Robert & Catherine Lagorio Scholarship (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) is available to students who have been accepted into or are currently attending a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree program. Applicants must be an alum of a high school in San Joaquin County, California. They must be accepted into or currently attending a postsecondar...
Robert & Catherine Lagorio Scholarship (Vet Tech or Vet Assistant)
Due: 4/17/26
|No Transcripts Required
$2,500
The Robert & Catherine Lagorio Scholarship was established to support students from San Joaquin County pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. Applicants must be a high school senior or alum at a high school in San Joaquin County, enrolling in or currently attending a postsecondary school or veterinary certificate program. They must pursue a career path of becoming a Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Assistant, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, or other related Veterinary professional. Applica...
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ENA Foundation Pamela Stinson Kidd Doctoral Scholarship
Due: 4/18/26
Varies
The ENA Foundation Pamela Stinson Kidd Doctoral Scholarship will be awarded to eligible applicants, including emergency nurses pursuing a doctoral degree (PhD or DNP). Applicants must be a current member of ENA in good standing. Applicants must be attending an ACEN or CCNE accredited institution and must provide verification of the institution's current accreditation. Applicants who are more than six months beyond the completion of all formal coursework and comprehensive examinations are ineligible to apply for this scholarship. Applicants who have received ENA Foundation scholarship support for other educational levels in the past are eligible to apply again at the doctoral level. Previous doctoral scholarship recipients are also eligible to reapply in the doctoral category. Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from a current ENA member in good standing. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
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CDM Smith Soar Scholarship
Due: 4/18/26
|No Recommendations Required
$7,500
CDM Smith has established a scholarship program to assist students pursuing an eligible STEM undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on engineering at an accredited four-year college or university. The CDM Smith Soar Scholarship will award two scholarships, financial need will not be considered. Applicants must be a high school senior or high school graduate who is enrolled to start or a currently enrolled student in an eligible STEM undergraduate or graduate program in eligible majors. Awards are not renewable, but students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements. Scholarship finalists are selected on the basis of academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience, and an essay. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
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Han C. Choi Scholarship
Due: 4/18/26
|No min. GPA Required
$5,000
The Han C. Choi Scholarship will benefit a first year or second year law student who exhibits academic excellence, leadership, volunteerism, mentorship experience, and demonstrates an interest in AAPI civic issues. Special consideration will also be given to applicants who have been adversely affected by cancer (as a survivor, or family member of a victim or survivor). At least one letter of recommendation written within the past year and a copy of your most recent law school transcript (unofficial or official) from an AALS-accredited law school are required. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
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CDM Smith Merit Scholarship
Due: 4/18/26
|No Recommendations Required
$7,500
CDM Smith has established a scholarship program to assist students pursuing an eligible STEM undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on engineering at an accredited four-year college or university. The CDM Smith Merit Scholarship will award scholarships, financial need will not be considered. Applicants must be a high school senior or high school graduate who is enrolled to start or a currently enrolled student in an eligible STEM undergraduate or graduate program in eligible majors. Awards are not renewable, but students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements. Scholarship finalists are selected on the basis of academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience, and an essay. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
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CDM Smith Arise Scholarship
Due: 4/18/26
|No Recommendations Required
$7,500
CDM Smith has established a scholarship program to assist students pursuing an eligible STEM undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on engineering at an accredited four-year college or university. The CDM Smith Arise Scholarship will award two scholarships, financial need will be considered. Applicants must be a high school senior or high school graduate who is enrolled to start or a currently enrolled student in an eligible STEM undergraduate or graduate program in eligible majors. Awards are not renewable, but students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements. Scholarship finalists are selected on the basis of academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience, and an essay. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
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The Ripple Scholarship
Due: 4/18/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$500
The Ripple Scholarship is an emergency fund to provide College of Nursing students with financial assistance to minimize unforeseen financial barriers that arise in emergency situations. Funding is limited and amounts may vary depending on students' individual financial needs and cost of attendance. Please visit the scholarship's website for the supplemental questions.
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Key takeaways about graduate student scholarships
- Scholarships for graduate students can significantly reduce the cost of grad school.
- There are many types of scholarships: merit-based, need-based, program-specific, and more.
- You don’t need perfect grades to qualify—there are options for diverse backgrounds and interests.
- Start your search early and stay organized with deadlines and requirements.
- Use trusted tools like Scholly Scholarships and Scout College Search to find your best matches.
Why scholarships matter for graduate school
Grad school isn’t cheap. Between tuition, books, and living expenses, the costs can add up fast. Scholarships help you cut down on debt and focus more on your studies—and your future. Whether you're pursuing a master’s, PhD, or professional degree, scholarships can be a game-changer.
Types of scholarships for graduate students
Let's break down the main types of scholarships you'll come across:
Merit-based scholarships
Awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or special talents. These often require a strong GPA or portfolio.
Need-based scholarships
Designed for students with financial need. You’ll usually need to submit financial documents or FAFSA info.
Program-specific scholarships
Offered by universities or departments for students in certain fields—like STEM, education, or public health.
No essay scholarships
Quick and easy to apply for—like Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship. Perfect if you're short on time.
How to find and apply for scholarships
Start with trusted sources like Scholly Scholarships and your school’s financial aid office. Use filters to narrow by degree type, major, and eligibility. Keep a spreadsheet of deadlines and requirements.
For more scholarship information, check out:
Scholly Scholarships
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Find scholarships that are right for you
Easily search through thousands of college scholarships based on your background, major, state you live in, and more.
Hot tip! Smaller scholarships may have less competition, increasing your odds of winning.
Eligibility requirements for graduate scholarships
Requirements vary, but here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance to a grad program
- GPA or academic transcripts
- Personal statement or essay (unless it’s a no-essay scholarship)
- Letters of recommendation
- Financial documents (for need-based awards)
Deadlines and application timelines
Most scholarships have deadlines between January and May, but some are open year-round. Set calendar reminders and apply early—some awards are first-come, first-served.
Tips for winning graduate school scholarships
- Tailor your application: Customize essays and materials for each scholarship.
- Highlight your story: Share your goals, challenges, and what makes you unique.
- Proofread everything: Typos can cost you.
- Ask for feedback: Have someone review your application before submitting.
Additional resources for graduate students
Finding scholarships is just one part of the grad school journey. These resources can help you explore majors, discover more funding opportunities, and connect with support tailored to your background and goals.
- Scout College Search Use Scout College Search to explore grad programs that match your interests, career goals, and budget. It’s like a dating app—but for your future.
- Scholarships by Major Not all scholarships are general. Some are designed for specific fields like engineering, education, or public health. Check out scholarships by major to find awards that align with your academic path.
- Scholarships for College Students If you're transitioning straight from undergrad, scholarships for college students can help bridge the gap and support your next academic step.
- Scholarships for Adults Going back to school after some time in the workforce? Scholarships for adults are designed for learners who bring real-world experience to the classroom.
- Scholarships for Women Women pursuing graduate degrees in male-dominated fields—or any field—can find support through scholarships for women. These awards aim to close gaps and open doors.
- LGBTQ Scholarships LGBTQ scholarships support inclusivity and help students thrive in grad school environments that celebrate identity and diversity.
- Scholarships by State Some scholarships are location-based. Use scholarships by state to find opportunities tied to where you live or plan to study.
Ready to take the next step?
Grad school is a big move—and scholarships can make it way more doable. Whether you're diving into a master’s program, switching careers, or leveling up your expertise, there’s funding out there with your name on it. Start early, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to apply for more than one. You’ve got this—and Sallie’s here to help every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions
These tips can help as you get ready to apply for graduate student scholarships.
When are scholarship application deadlines?
There’s no standard deadline for scholarship applications. Each scholarship has its own deadline, so be sure to keep track of dates and make sure you don’t miss any deadlines of scholarships that you want to apply to.
Do you need to know which college you’re attending?
You don’t need to know which college you’re going to attend before applying for most scholarships. However, once you’re awarded scholarships, some of them may ask for eligibility verification—which can include proof of college enrollment.
Is there a limit on how many scholarships you can apply for?
Absolutely not, so apply for as many as you can to increase your chances of winning free money. Want to find more types of scholarships? There are so many, check them out!
Pro tip: Apply for scholarships each year you’re in college.
Does every scholarship application require an essay?
Not every scholarship will ask you to submit an essay—different scholarships have different requirements. If you’re applying for a scholarship with an essay and need help writing yours, get tips for writing scholarship essays.
Need more money for college?
Private student loans can help you cover additional costs for school.
More resources to explore
Tips for writing scholarship essays
Get tips for writing scholarship essays. Learn what makes a good scholarship essay.
Find scholarship resources
Explore our scholarship resources, articles, and guide to get all the tips and tricks to help pay for college.
Fill out the FAFSA®
Learn when and how to apply for the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to maximize your chances of getting federal student financial aid. Get tips now.
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