10 of the biggest scholarships you can apply for now

If you’ve been daydreaming about spending way less for your education, this is your wake-up call. Some of the biggest scholarships out there are open right now—talking full rides, life-changing stipends, and award packages big enough to make your future self do a happy dance.

The best part? These aren’t just for straight-A, perfect-score-on-the-SAT students (though, yes, some are highly competitive). Many of them focus on leadership, community involvement, or unique talents. So if you’ve got the drive, there’s a shot for you.

Here’s a list of high-dollar scholarships—some of the largest scholarships in the U.S.—with payouts that can cover tuition, housing, and even extra expenses. Apply to as many as you qualify for.

1. Eugene McDermott Scholars Program – $306,000

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This powerhouse program at the University of Texas at Dallas offers one of the top paying scholarships in the country—valued at over $300,000 across four years. Winners get full tuition, housing, a stipend, and even funding for travel and cultural enrichment experiences. Selection is based on academics, leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to making an impact.

2. The Hollingsworth Scholarship – $170,000

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Florida Southern College’s most prestigious award covers full tuition and fees for four years. Beyond the big money, recipients join a tight-knit cohort with exclusive networking opportunities, leadership programs, and special events.

3. Allegheny College Trustee Scholarship – $168,000

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With an annual value of $42,000, this big money scholarship from Allegheny College recognizes outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential. It’s renewable for all four years, giving you a total award package worth $168,000.

4. Carthage College Ruud Scholarships – $145,000

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Named in honor of Carthage leaders, these scholarships are full-tuition awards for exceptional students. With a total value of $145,000, recipients also get access to honors programs and mentorship opportunities.

5. Carthage College Lincoln Scholarships – $145,000

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Named in honor of Abraham Lincoln—an early trustee of Carthage College—this award covers full tuition, worth up to $145,000. It’s given to students who’ve shown outstanding academic performance and leadership potential, carrying forward the legacy of one of America’s most iconic leaders.

6. Carthage College Clausen Scholarships – $145,000

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Another high-value scholarship from Carthage College, the Clausen Scholarship rewards students who excel academically and actively contribute to their communities.

7. Carthage College Kenosha Scholarships – $145,000

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Designed for students from Kenosha or Racine counties, this award is also valued at $145,000 and covers full tuition at Carthage College.

8. LeTourneau University Heritage Scholarship – $125,000

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Awarded to students with exceptional academic records and leadership skills, this large scholarship at LeTourneau University provides $31,250 annually—totaling $125,000 over four years.

9. Society of Yeager Scholarships – $135,000

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Marshall University’s most prestigious award covers tuition, fees, housing, meal plans, study abroad, and even a laptop. Valued at $135,000, it’s a truly all-inclusive scholarship package for high-achieving students.

10. Southern Methodist University Provost Scholarship – $120,000

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With $30,000 per year for four years, this scholarship with one of the biggest payouts at SMU is given to students with strong academics, leadership, and extracurricular involvement.

Bonus opportunity: ScholarshipOwl No Essay Scholarship - $50,000

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Win big without writing a word. This scholarship offers up to $50,000 to one lucky winner, no essay required.

Keep hunting with Scholly Scholarships

The scholarships above are incredible, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Tools like Scholly Scholarships can match you with awards—big and small—that fit your background, interests, and goals. You can search using filters such as your year in school, major, award amount, state, or special requirements like no essays or no GPA minimums. Results can also be sorted by award amounts and deadlines, making it easier to prioritize opportunities. The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of stacking enough awards to help cover your college costs.

You can also use Scout College Search to find schools that offer generous merit-based aid. And don’t forget to check out Sallie’s scholarship resources for application tips and timelines.

The bottom line

When it comes to the biggest scholarships, it pays (literally) to dream big and apply broadly. Even if you think you’re a long shot, you might surprise yourself. Start early, track deadlines, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Your future—and your bank account—will thank you.