Colleges campuses across America are becoming more diverse every year. Underrepresented minority students are not only enrolling in college, but are making educational and professional impacts in all fields—from science to education to civil service—at an unstoppable rate.
College costs, however, are climbing. According to U.S. News & World Report, from 1995 to 2015, in-state tuition and fees at public universities rose a staggering 296 percent. Average costs continue to rise every year, well beyond the rate of inflation. With tuition bills and extra expenses like housing, meal plans, parking permits, books and fees, any financial assistance can make a sizeable difference.
To help offset college costs, you can obtain minority scholarships, grants and fellowships that are available to men and women of African American, Alaska Native, Asian American, Hispanic and Latino, Native American and Pacific Islander descent. Use this guide, including our interactive scholarship tool, to locate and apply for unique opportunities to help pay for college. After all, you can be the student who brings new ideas and perspectives to your own college campus.
Talented and diverse young leaders have further opportunity to make an impact through a college education and scholarship opportunities. The first U.S. Congressional woman of color and first Asian American woman elected to the House of Representatives expresses the power of making contributions as a minority:
“We have to build things that we want to see accomplished, in life and in our country, based on our own personal experiences...to make sure that others...do not have to suffer the same discrimination.” - Patsy Matsu Takemoto Mink
To start building your future, consider the many college scholarships available to minorities through corporations, charitable organizations, advocacy groups and professional associations.
How to Pay for College
1
Scholarships
There are hundreds of scholarships for minorities, 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.
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.
No matter your background, where you’re from or if your family members attended college, you can find ways to pay for college through scholarships and fellowships. Check out the scholarships below to see the opportunities available.
Scholarship Opportunities for Minorities
Instructions:Click through the dropdowns below to sort by your ethnicity, field of study and award amount. Click the box for a larger view.
Florida Minority Teacher Education Scholarship Program
Amount: $4,000
Deadline:
November 30, 2020
This award is available to Florida resident undergraduate students who are enrolled in a state-approved teacher education program at an eligible Florida institution, and plan to teach in a Florida public school upon graduation. Applicants must submit and essay to be considered.
CIRI Foundation Fellowships
Amount: $250
Deadline:
December 1, 2020
Qualified candidates are CIRI original enrollees or direct lineal descendants. Students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher with a desire to perform and transmit the literary, visual and performing arts of Alaska Natives.
CIRI Foundation General Scholarships
Amount: $5,000
Deadline:
December 1, 2020
To be eligible, candidates must be a CIRI original enrollee or direct lineal descendant. A high school diploma or GED is required with current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree program. Part-time and full-time students are eligible.
The Titan Web Agency Scholarship Program
Amount: $500
Deadline:
December 1, 2020
This scholarship is geared toward those looking to build a business who are in financial need. Minorities are encouraged to apply.
University of California Presidential Fellowship for UCLA Undocumented AB540 Graduate Students
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
December 15, 2020
Awards are available for UCLA graduate students with undocumented AB540 status.Proof of financial need via copy of DREAM Act Application (for California AB540 students).
Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Deadline:
December 31, 2020
Applicants must plan to pursue a career in state/provincial or local government finance, and have a letter of recommendation form someone who can speak to their commitment to the public sector.
Girls Who Illustrate Awesomeness Scholarship
Amount: $750
Deadline:
December 31, 2020
This is a scholarship opportunity for young women of color who wish to make the world a better place. Students must be enrolled in an accredited university and have a 3.0 GPA for consideration. 500-word essays and/or 5 minute video submissions will be selected for this award.
C. Richard and Audrey Barnes Nursing Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Applicant must be pursuing an undergraduate nursing degree and be a member of an underrepresented minority group.
Ceasar Chavez Latino Education Fund
Amount: $5,000
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Latino students in Arizona and California are qualified to apply. Scholarships are based solely on academic performance, leadership, extracurricular activities, commitment to volunteer service and financial need.
Hawai'i Community Foundation Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Hawaii Community Foundation is providing a wealth of financial support to qualified students throughout Hawaii. With over 250 scholarships, Hawaii students can surely find a scholarship that applies to them.
National Medical Fellowships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
The National Medical Fellowships awards financial support to underrepresented minority students demonstrating leadership and currently enrolled in a graduate level healthcare program in the US. Must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Community service will also be considered in application process.
TELACU College Success Program Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Applicants for the TELACU College Success Program must be first-generation college students from a low to moderate household income. A GPA of 2.5 or higher is required.
Native American Seminary
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Native American students seeking a degree at a University Senate approved seminary are eligible to apply. Candidates must have a minimum of a 3 year membership in the UMC (United Methodist Church).
Seeds of Fortune Inc. Scholarship
Amount: $500
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
All female NYC high school sophomores or juniors have the opportunity to receive a 6 year high school to college program, and join a network of young women mentors and college coaches. Each participant is awarded a free laptop, tours to colleges and universities, and mentor/coaching opportunities.
BRAG Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Students must be enrolled full-time as an undergraduate student. Leadership, scholastic achievement, and community engagement will be considered for this award.
Generation Google
Amount: $10,000
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
The scholarship is open to qualified students enrolled at a U.S. or Canadian university in a bachelors, masters, or PhD program. The program encourages people who identify as part of historically underrepresented groups, including African American, Latinx, American Indian, or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander to apply.
The CAPAL-MAASU Public Service Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
This scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student enrolled at a school that belongs to the Midwest Asian American Students Union (MAASU) or a school located in a midwestern state
Hawai'i Community Foundation Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 1, 2021
Students of Hawaiian descent and residents of the state of Hawaii are eligible to apply for scholarships. A range of scholarship opportunities are available each year. Current listings and eligibility are listed on the website.
Ron Brown Scholars Program
Amount: $40,000
Deadline:
January 9, 2021
African American students in their senior year of high school are eligible for this scholarship program. This scholarship will be awarded to students who demonstrate an interest in public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship, and global citizenship
APIASF General Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 10, 2021
Candidates must graduating high school students of Asian and/or Pacific Islander descent. Eligibility includes U.S. citizens, national or legal permanent residents, along with citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Federated States of Micronesia, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau.
Walton-UNCF K-12 Education Fellowship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 13, 2021
The fellowship Program is a talent development initiative aimed for high-achieving African Americans engaged in education reform in America . Applicant must be an African American who is a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident and enrolled at an HBCU.
United South & Eastern Tribes
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 15, 2021
Students of the 26 member tribes of the United South and Eastern Tribes are eligible for undergraduate scholarships.
AIA/Architects Foundation Diversity Advancement Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 15, 2021
The scholarship aims to support students from a minority race or ethnicity who intend to become architects. US residents who are entering, attending or transferring to a professional program in architecture that is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
Diversity Advancement Scholarship
Amount: $20,000
Deadline:
January 17, 2021
This scholarship is available to minority students who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and are enrolled in or plan to enroll in a NAAB-accredited architecture program.
Alaska Chinese Association Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 17, 2021
The Alaska Chinese Association awards scholarships each year to students who demonstrate community and cultural involvement. Students who demonstrate academic excellence will be strongly considered.
Minorities In Government Finance Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Deadline:
January 18, 2021
The scholarship aims to recognize and encourage outstanding graduate or upper level undergraduate minority students enrolled in a course of study preparing for a career in state or local government finance. The applicant must be willing to pursue fields with a specific focus on government or nonprofit management.
APIASF General Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 22, 2021
Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or more, be of asian or Island Pacific Islander ethnicity, and must fill out a FAFSA to apply. See website for further details.
RMHC/HACER National Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
January 27, 2021
Applicants must be continuing undergraduate students at UCSD who are actively involved in the lesbian and gay community. Applicants must be openly LGBTQ.
American Sociological Association Minority Fellowship Program
Amount: $18,000
Deadline:
January 31, 2021
This scholarship awards graduate students pursuing a degree in sociology demonstrating strong mental health research and/or interest. Students will be selected based on intent on research and development in mental health, academic achievement and financial need.
Esperanza Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
January 31, 2021
This scholarship is awarded to a student of Hispanic heritage pursuing the dream of a career in communications.
ASA Minority Fellowship Program
Amount: $18,000
Deadline:
January 31, 2021
Applicants can be new or continuing graduate students, but preference will be given to students entering doctoral programs or students enrolled in strong mental health programs. Fellows will be selected on their commitment to research in mental health.
Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program
Amount: $42,000
Deadline:
January 31, 2021
Candidates must be U.S. citizens accepted to or enrolled in an undergraduate program related to NOAA mission-related sciences of oceanography, marine biology and maritime archaeology, including all science, engineering and resource management of ocean and coastal areas.. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply.
Edward S. Roth Manufacturing Engineering Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
February 1, 2021
Minorities of any group are eligible to apply for this award. Candidates are high school seniors and undergraduate or graduate students. Students must be pursuing a degree in manufacturing engineering at an ABET accredited school.
Vincint and Catherine Sansalone Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
February 1, 2021
Students must be enrolled in a math or science program at an accredited U.S. university. Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher for consideration. Preference for students of Italian descent.
RMHC/HACER National Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
February 5, 2021
Applicants must be continuing undergraduate students at UCSD who are actively involved in the lesbian and gay community. Applicants must be openly LGBTQ.
Pauahi Foundation Public Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
February 7, 2021
Candidates must be attending a trade, vocational or undergraduate institution. Preference is given to students of Hawaiian ancestry.
Ascend Educational Fund
Amount: up to $20,000
Deadline:
February 7, 2021
Scholarships are awarded to children of immigrants or immigrant students who are graduating from an NYC high school. Eligible candidates are those who plan to attend a two or four year college institution.
John & Ruth Childe Scholarship
Amount: $1,900
Deadline:
February 10, 2021
The scholarship awards students from Lee County in Florida with a physical disability to pursue higher education in a college, university or technical school. Applicant must be able to describe give proof of disability.
The Hyatt Hotels Fund for Minority Lodging Management Students
Amount: Up to $3000
Deadline:
February 15, 2021
Students will be considered for this award based on their commitment to a career in the hospitality industry. Must be a U.S. citizen enrolled as a full-time student to apply.
Hyatt Hotels Fund for Minority Lodging Management Students
Amount: $500 - $7500
Deadline:
February 28, 2021
The scholarship is open to minority students who are attending an undergraduate institution in the next academic year. Students must be majoring in hospitality management.
Phyllis G. Meekins Scholarship
Amount: $1,250
Deadline:
February 28, 2021
This award will recognize one African American female that's pursuing a full time bachelor's degree and participating in golf at an accredited university. Students must demonstrate academic achievement and community service for consideration
The Lagrant Foundation Graduate Scholarships
Amount: $3,750
Deadline:
February 28, 2021
The Lagrant Foundation scholarships aim to increase the number of minorities working in the fields of advertising, marketing, and public relations. Applicants must be a minority student pursuing a masters degree in one of those subjects.
Truman D. Picard Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
March 1, 2021
Scholarships are awarded to Native Americans of a federally recognized tribe or of the Alaska Native Corporation. Students must be pursuing a career path in natural resources.
ESA Foundation Scholarship Program: esports Scholarship
Amount: $3,000
Deadline:
March 2, 2021
This year, as part of its 2020-21 scholarship program, the ESA Foundation introduced its first-ever esports scholarship, offering academic support for women and minorities competitively gaming through their U.S. colleges and universities.Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
NSHSS Foundation
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
March 15, 2021
These scholarships are targeted toward high school seniors or rising college freshmen who belong to groups generaly under-represented in STEM careers.
Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
March 15, 2021
The scholarship awards first-generation high school seniors who are underrepresented, need financial assistance and are passionate about furthering their education as a means to help out their family, community and themselves. The candidate must be graduating a high school, who will pursue a full-time undergraduate degree in the United States at any 4-year university by fall semester and plan to study in listed concentrations such as Transportation Management, STEM, Psychology, Spanish, Architecture Language/Literature, Environmental Design, Pre-Med.
The Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
March 15, 2021
Applicants must be of Native Hawaiian ancestry who are pursuing a degree in the health or medical field. A service obligation post-degree is required.
Goldman Sachs MBA Fellowship
Amount: $25,000
Deadline:
March 29, 2021
The MBA Fellowship is designed to increase interest in financial services among black, hispanic and native american business school students.
California Health Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
April 1, 2021
Scholarships are awarded to underrepresented students pursuing a health-related profession in the state of California.
TMCF Wells Fargo Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
April 1, 2021
Applicant must be attending one of the 47 public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) within the TMCF member-school network and have at least a 3.0 GPA. Must be an upperclassmen pursuing majors in business, finance, mathematics, accounting, statistics, and other relevant fields.
CBC Spouses Heineken USA Performing Arts Scholarship
Amount: $3,000
Deadline:
April 3, 2021
Candidates are African-American students planning to enroll or already enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student and study the performing arts including drama, music dance, oepra, marching bands, and other musical ensembles.
Soule Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
April 8, 2021
The Soule Foundation offers scholarships to LGBTQ youth of color from the tri-state area of New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. Applicants will be selected based on the demonstration of past leadership, community service involvement, and academic credentials.
Worldstudio AIGA Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
April 15, 2021
Students must paln to attend college in Fall 2020/Spring 2021, and plan to major in graphic design, illustration, or photography
JASC-Nielsen STEM Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
April 30, 2021
Eligible applicants include high school seniors, high school graduates planning or already enrolled in a college or university program within the next, or current college or university students. High school applicants' families must be current JASC members. Preference given to applicants who show participation in JASC or other Japanese American community events, programs and projects.
A.W. Bodine-Sunkist Memorial Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
April 30, 2021
This scholarship was established in memory of distinguished director of Sunkist Growers and agricultural leader, to provide funds for undergraduate students from Arizona or California agricultural backgrounds who are in need of financial assistance. GPA and extracurriculars must demonstrate potential for success.
CBC Spouses Education Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
April 30, 2021
Candidates must African American or black students and constituents of a CBC member's district who are enrolled or plan to enroll in the upcoming academic year as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student. A GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required.
George and Naouma (Gioule) Gioles Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
May 1, 2021
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is offering this scholarship to undergraduate students who need financial aid to futher their education. At least one award is reserved for a candidate who has chosen to study journalism.The applicant must be able to produce a copy or transcript of your Baptismal or Chrismation Certificate along with other requirements.
A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
May 15, 2021
Candidates for this award are full-time undergraduate or graduate students who are pursuing a degree in medicine, engineering, physical science, natural resources, math or science.
TMCF Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
May 27, 2021
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) offers financial assistance to outstanding students attending one of TMCF’s 47 publicly-supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or a Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs).
Guam Society of America Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
May 30, 2021
The Guam Society of America, Inc.’s Scholarship Program provides annual scholarship opportunities to its member students as an integral part of supporting and sponsoring educational, Chamorro cultural and social programs for those who are motivated to improve society by enhancing their future through a college education. The scholarships are for students pursuing their Undergraduate degrees only.
Minority Fellowship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
May 30, 2021
To apply for the Minority Fellowship Program, you must be an American citizen that identifies as an underrepresented minority, enrolled full-time. Must have a Masters degree or have taken 9 credits involving mental health and/or substance abuse.
Denny's Hungry for Education Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
August 18, 2021
All applicants must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution (K-12, high school and college) in the United States or Puerto Rico
EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program
Amount: $45,000
Deadline:
September 1, 2021
Applicants must be studying a discipline related to NOAA's programs and mission at an accredited minority serving institution within the United States, and maintain a GPA of at least 3.2.
Chickasaw Nation Scholarship Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
September 15, 2021
Chickasaw citizens who are pursuing higher education are eligible for numerous awards. Details for current scholarships and eligibility are listed on the website.
Catching The Dream Program
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
September 15, 2021
The scholarship assists Native American high school students with their college academic pursuits. All tribes and regions are welcome to apply. Preference is given to those who plan to study engineering, math, science, business, computers and education.
Golden Door Scholars
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
September 16, 2021
Applicants from states where DACA or TPS should have strong academic performance. Students attending community college or public universities paying out-of-state-tuition are perfered.
Golden Door Scholars
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
September 30, 2021
Applicants from states where DACA or TPS should have strong academic performance. Students attending community college or public universities paying out-of-state-tuition are perfered.
