Scholarship Opportunities for Women

Last updated: November 06, 2019

In 1960, women made up almost 38 percent of the college enrollment. Today, female students outnumber their male counterparts (at 56 percent), and are projected to outpace male enrollment growth into 2026, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. 

Since women represent over half of enrollment and the cost of higher education is at an all time high, the need for financial assistance is a familiar concept for millions. Fortunately there are thousands of scholarships and fellowships catered to women, so the cost of college shouldn’t deter anyone from earning an undergraduate or graduate degree.

To learn more about how you can pay for college, follow this guide and use our interactive tool to sort through the scholarship opportunities for women that you qualify for. But first, let’s not forget how far women have come since the 19th century beginning with the first coeducational college in the U.S., Oberlin College.

How to Pay | Application Preparation | Scholarships for Women | All Scholarships

Evolution of Women & Education

Scholarships and student loans impact the success of American female leaders who have contributed to technological and medical advances, economic progress, the prosperity of our country and more. The former First Lady, Michelle Obama, partly attributes her success to the help of scholarships and financial aid, based on a speech given by former President Barack Obama:

“Michelle and I, we're only where we are today because scholarships and student loans gave us a shot at a great education. 
— Barack Obama, 44th U.S. President

It doesn’t matter who you are or where you came from, there are many opportunities available to help you pay for college—find the combination that works best for you.
 

How to Pay for College

1

Scholarships

There are hundreds of scholarships for women, which are awarded by local organizations, private companies, societies and more.

 
2

Grants

Grants don’t need to be paid back and are based on your financial circumstances. They are usually funded by the federal government, your state or college.

 
3

Fellowships

While scholarships usually fund tuition, fellowships typically cover graduate study, research projects and abroad experiences without needing to be paid back.

 
4

Student Loans

You can borrow money from the government or a bank, but it needs to be paid back with interest. The federal government offers many loan options—fill out the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for financial aid. If you need help, use our interactive guide to learn how to answer every question.

 
5

Federal Work-Study Program

Provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to pay education expenses.

 
 

If you’re just beginning the process of finding suitable scholarships, make sure you’re prepared for the application process by starting a folder with the assets below.

Scholarship Application Preparation

Not all scholarships are based off of your GPA, but most need to verify your high school education to qualify. Try to get certified copies of your transcript early, so you have plenty of time to meet the deadline.
Although there are scholarship opportunities that aren’t merit-based, it’s valuable to take the SAT or ACT standardized tests in case it’s a scholarship qualification.
Your scholarship essay is what will bring attention to your application out of the pool of applicants. That’s why it’s important to craft a stand out piece that attests to your experience, adheres to the scholarship guidelines and most importantly, highlights your true personality.
Letters of recommendation are a true judgement of your character—something that can’t be revealed through your test scores or transcript. Reach out to former teachers, counselors or bosses, so that they can speak to your qualifications. You may also want to provide them with a resume that outlines your achievements and goals as well.
 
Whether you’re the valedictorian or have earned average grades, there are hundreds of scholarships to choose from. Below are a few types of scholarships you can look for.

Scholarships for Women

Instructions: Click through the dropdowns below to sort by your intended major, award amount or if you’re looking for need-based aid. Click the box for a larger view.

Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards

Amount: Varies

Deadline: November 15, 2021

This scholarship is for women who are the primary financial support for themselves and their dependents (see scholarship website for dependent qualifications). Applicants must be accepted to or currently enrolled in a skills training, vocational training or undergraduate degree program.

NSCA Women's Scholarship

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: October 15, 2021

This scholarship is designed to support women, ages 17 and older, to enter into the field of strength and conditioning. Applicants must be members of the NSCA and demonstrate they have been accepted into an accredited institution, working toward an undergraduate or graduate degree in the strength and conditioning field.

NLF Asian Pacific American Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Deadline: September 7, 2021

The Foundation awards scholarships on a nationwide basis to law students who demonstrate a commitment to serve or contribute to the Asian Pacific American community as future leaders.

Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Support Awards

Amount: $5,000

Deadline: August 1, 2021

This foundation offers education support awards of up to $5,000 each to assist low-income women with children pursuing education or training. Applicants will be selected based on financial aid, personal circumstances, educational goals and community service.

Worthy Women's Professional Studies Scholarship

Amount: Varies

Deadline: December 6, 2021

This scholarship is for women, 30 and above, who have decided to enroll in school to pursue their passions and open up more doors for themselves and others. An essay submission is required to apply.

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC Annual Single Mother Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: December 5, 2021

To apply, submit a 500+ word essay on the advantages of going back to school while caring for your children as a mother.

Helping Hands Scholarship for Single Moms

Amount: Varies

Deadline: December 31, 2021

This scholarship is available for low-income single moms in college, who live in Phoenix and the surrounding cities of the Phoenix Metro Valley, or Maricopa County, AZ.

National Association of Women in Construction

Amount: Varies

Deadline: August 1, 2021

This scholarship is available to students enrolled in a construction related program at as US university, and preference is given to women.

New Jersey Governer's Industry Vocations Scholarship

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: December 1, 2021

Applicants must identify as a woman or a minority to be eligible for this scholarship, and they must attend one of the eligible institutions in New Jersey.

 

Sources

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