-
Colleges
-
Graduate School
- Graduate School
- Scout Grad School Search Find and compare grad schools based on your preferences, goals and academic interests.
- $5,000 Grad School No Essay Scholarship Enter to win our $5,000 no essay grad school scholarship in 2 min or less.
- Graduate Degrees Explore graduate degree options that fit your goals.
- Paying for Graduate School Understand costs and explore ways to pay for grad school.
-
Scholarships
- Scholarships
- $2,000 No Essay Scholarship Enter to win our no essay $2,000 college scholarship in 2 minutes or less.
- Scholly Scholarships Easily find and sort through thousands of college scholarships for free.
- Scholarships for High School Seniors Explore scholarships for high school seniors and get tips on how to apply.
- Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships Apply for up to $13,000 in scholarships each month with just one form.
- $5,000 Grad School No Essay Scholarship Enter to win our $5,000 no essay grad school scholarship in 2 min or less.
-
Financial aid
- Financial Aid Grants, work-study, and federal student loans can all be part of your financial aid package.
- FAFSA® Guide Learn how to answer the 2026-27 FAFSA® questions like a pro.
- Financial Aid Offers Compare financial aid offers to determine the most affordable schools for you and your family.
- College Grants Learn more about federal and state grants and how to apply.
- Federal Pell Grants Discover what a Pell Grant is, who is eligible, and how to apply.
- Financial Aid Resources Get expert guidance on maximizing your financial aid options to make education more affordable.
-
Pay for School
- Sallie Mae® Student Loans
- Private Student Loans Find a private student loan designed to fit your needs.
- Undergrad Student Loan For college students earning a bachelor's or associate's degree.
- Graduate Student Loans Choose the right loan for your graduate degree or post-graduate studies.
- Career Training Loan For students taking professional training or certificate courses.
- Student Loan Resources Everything you need to navigate student loans with confidence.
Scholarships
Rhode Island scholarships: Find free money for students
Here's a scholarship you can apply for in minutes.
Scholarships for Rhode Island
Featured
Apply now
Sallie $2,000 No Essay Scholarship
Due: 6/30/26
$2,000
Fox Pest Control Future Leaders Scholarship
Due: 10/31/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No Transcripts Required
$7,500
Fox Pest Control believes in investing in future leaders who are dedicated to making a difference in their communities. That's why they created the Fox Pest Control Future Leaders Scholarship to support students who demonstrate leadership, commitment to their communities, and a passion for growth. To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must be current college students currently enrolled in a four-year or two-year program, taking a minimum of twelve credit hours; or students have been accepted to a four-year or two-year program for the Spring 2026 semester. All students must submit a Spring 2026 class schedule upon request. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
New England FEMARA Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$2,000
The New England FEMARA Scholarship will be awarded to those with Technical Class License or higher. Applicants must be residents of New England states, pursuing any field of study in any institution. Academic merit, financial need and a demonstrated interest in community or school interests will be considered highly important in selecting a recipient. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
East Coast Amateur Radio Service (ECARS) Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$2,500
The East Coast Amateur Radio Service (ECARS) Scholarship will be awarded to those with active Technician Class or higher. Applicants must reside in the general coverage areas of ECARS including ARRL Atlantic, Great Lakes, Hudson, New England, and Roanoke Divisions. Applicants must be pursuing their studies at a two-year trade school or 4-year undergraduate institution. Applicants should generally be between the ages of 17 and 25 at the time of the award, but older applicants retraining in a changing job market will be considered. Applicants must submit transcripts which must cover the applicant's entire high school career to date and, if in college, must include all semesters for which grades have been awarded. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
CTRI/Chris Seeber, KA1GEU, Memorial Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$1,000
The CTRI/Chris Seeber, KA1GEU, Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to those with a General Class License or higher. Applicants must be residents of the ARRL New England Division. If no suitable applicant is identified, applicants from all regions will be considered. Applicants must be pursuing Science, Science Education, Math, Math Education, Engineering or Technology in any accredited 2- or 4-year college or university. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
Dr. James L. Lawson Memorial Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$1,000
The Dr. James L. Lawson Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to those with a General Class License or higher. Applicants must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree or higher in electronics, communications, or related fields. Applicants must submit transcripts which must cover the applicant's entire high school career to date and, if in college, must include all semesters for which grades have been awarded. For students applying for graduate school assistance, high school transcripts are not necessary. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
Byron Blanchard, N1EKV Memorial Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$500
The Byron Blanchard, N1EKV Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to those with any active Amateur Radio License Class. Applicants may be pursuing any field of study in any institution. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
Yankee Clipper Contest Club Youth Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$2,000
The Yankee Clipper Contest Club Youth Scholarship will be awarded to those with an active General Class License or higher. Applicants must have residence and college or university attendance within 175 miles of YCCC center which is in Erving, MA. MA, RI, CT and Long Island, NY, most of VT and NH, portions of ME, eastern NY and northeastern sections of PA and NJ. Applicants must be pursuing a 2-year or 4-year program at an accredited college or university. The recipient must be 22 years or younger as of June 1 of the year of the grant. Applicants must submit transcripts which must cover the applicant's entire high school career to date and, if in college, must include all semesters for which grades have been awarded. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
New England Amateur Radio Festival (NEAR-Fest) Memorial Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$2,500
The New England Amateur Radio Festival (NEAR-Fest) Memorial Scholarship will give first preference of awarding to those with Extra Class License, second preference to those with a General Class License, and third preference to those with a Technician Class License. Applicants must have held an amateur radio license for a minimum of one year prior to date of application. Applicants must be pursuing any undergraduate degree or a two-year technical degree in radio communications in an accredited post-secondary institution. Applicants must submit transcripts which must cover the applicant's entire high school career to date and, if in college, must include all semesters for which grades have been awarded. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
Michael P. Metcalf Memorial Fund and Christine T. Grinavic Adventurer's Fund
Due: 2/24/27
|No min. GPA Required
$5,000
The funds provide grants to college students to subsidize experiences intended to broaden their perspective and enhance personal growth. They may include travel in this country and abroad and a variety of internship and public service programs. The award does not reimburse students for unearned summer wages. This fellowship does not support standard study abroad programs or programs with an established academic curriculum. Those awarded must accept funding by and the enrichment experience itself must occur by December 31 of the year awarded. Plans must include a well-defined program and demonstrate clear purpose. Applicants must show financial need for support in completing the project. Those selected must submit a final project communicating the value of the experience in furthering their long-term goals. Criteria for evaluating applications include: clarity and thoughtfulness of application, creativity and motivation of proposed project, evidence of self-direction and initiative, and financial need. Two letters of recommendation from faculty, employers or other professional persons who understand why the proposed experience is appropriate for the applicant are required. Submitting supporting documentation concerning the proposed experience is optional. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Rhode Island Foundation for more information.
Key takeaways about Rhode Island scholarships
- Rhode Island scholarships are free money for school. They help Rhode Island students pay for tuition, books, and other school costs—and you don’t have to pay the money back.
- Scholarships aren’t just for freshmen. There are Rhode Island scholarships for current college students, transfer students, grad students, and adults returning to school.
- You can usually stack more than one scholarship. State programs, school scholarships, and private awards can often be combined to lower your total school costs.
- GPA isn’t everything. Many scholarships care about leadership, community involvement, work experience, creativity, or your future goals.
- Consistency goes a long way. Applying to a few scholarships each month can really add up and make a big dent in your college bills.
College can be expensive, so it's important to go after scholarships and grants—they're free money which you don't need to repay. If you live in Rhode Island, you can tap into scholarships created specifically to support students in your state.
That effort can truly pay off. In fact, Sallie Mae's How America Pays for College 2025 shows 75% of students who received a scholarship said it made college possible. Whether you’re a high school student planning ahead, a current college or graduate student trying to cut costs, or an adult returning to school, applying for Rhode Island scholarships can significantly reduce what you’ll need to borrow.
Enter to win a $2,000 scholarship
No essay | Apply in 2 minutes or less
What are Rhode Island scholarships?
Rhode Island scholarships are financial aid awards created to help students pay for college, grad school, or career training. These scholarships come from a mix of sources, including the state government, colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, employers, and local community groups.
Unlike loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid. Some are awarded based on academic performance, but many focus on who you are and what you’ve done, such as:
- Financial need
- Community service or leadership
- Field of study or career goals
- Rhode Island residency or town of residence
- Military service or family military connection
- Artistic, athletic, or technical skills
Because the criteria vary so widely, students with all kinds of backgrounds can find scholarships.
What scholarships are available for Rhode Island students?
Most students have the best results when they apply to several types of scholarships at the same time. Rhode Island scholarships generally fall into three main categories: state programs, local and community awards, and scholarships offered directly by colleges.
Use tools like Scholly Scholarships to find opportunities in Rhode Island and beyond that fit your background, interests, field of study, and more.
State and statewide scholarship programs
Rhode Island Promise (Community College of Rhode Island)
Rhode Island Promise is a tuition assistance program connected to the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI). It’s designed to help eligible students complete an associate degree by covering tuition costs for up to two academic years (fall and spring). Summer coverage may be available depending on funding and eligibility.
Rhode Island College Hope Scholarship
The Hope Scholarship at Rhode Island College (RIC) can cover tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Rhode Island residents during their junior and senior years. This program is often used by students transferring from CCRI to RIC, but eligibility requirements may vary.
Local and community scholarships in Rhode Island
Local scholarships are often overlooked, which means they can be less competitive. These awards are usually created to support students from specific Rhode Island communities.
Local scholarships may come from:
- Community foundations
- City or town organizations
- Cultural or heritage groups
- Labor unions and trade organizations
- Local businesses and employers
Rhode Island Foundation scholarships
The Rhode Island Foundation administers multiple scholarship funds for Rhode Island students. Many awards are tied to specific towns, academic majors, or personal backgrounds.
Institutional scholarships from Rhode Island colleges
Many colleges automatically consider students for scholarships when they apply for admission, while others require a separate application. These scholarships are often based on academic achievement, chosen major, or enrollment status.
Examples include:
- University of Rhode Island (URI): Merit and departmental scholarships
- Rhode Island College (RIC): Institutional awards in addition to the Hope Scholarship
- Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI): Scholarships that can supplement Rhode Island Promise
- Private colleges: Merit scholarships that may significantly reduce tuition
Still looking at schools? Compare programs, costs, average aid awards, and more with Scout College Search.
Additional financial aid resources in Rhode Island
The Rhode Island State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP) provides a tuition waiver for eligible Rhode Island National Guard members attending Rhode Island public colleges and universities. The program does not cover additional costs like books and fees.
Scholly Scholarships
Find scholarships now
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.
How to apply for Rhode Island scholarships
Applying for scholarships is easier when you break it into steps and stay organized.
- Gather your transcript, resume, activity list, and personal statement early.
- Use Rhode Island–specific search terms, including your town or school.
- Apply to a few scholarships at a time to avoid burnout.
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to qualify for need-based scholarships.
- Track deadlines using a calendar or spreadsheet
- Follow all instructions carefully before submitting
Want to save time applying for scholarships? With Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, you can apply to several scholarships at once, with one quick application.
Eligibility requirements for Rhode Island scholarships
Each scholarship is different, but common requirements include:
- Proof of Rhode Island residency
- Enrollment at a Rhode Island college or university
- Minimum GPA or academic progress standards
- Declared major or career pathway
- Demonstrated financial need
- Community service or leadership experience
- Military or National Guard affiliation
Tips to improve your chances of winning scholarships
- Apply to both large and small scholarships.
Smaller awards often have fewer applicants, and multiple wins can add up fast. - Customize essays to match each scholarship’s focus.
A few targeted edits can make your application feel more relevant and personal. - Ask for recommendations early.
Giving recommenders time helps them write stronger, more thoughtful letters. - Highlight local involvement and community impact.
Rhode Island scholarships often favor students who are active in their communities. - File the FAFSA® as early as possible.
Some state and school-based financial aid may be awarded first come, first served. If you need filing help, follow our step-by-step FAFSA® guide.
Additional scholarship resources
Rhode Island students can use the resources below to find scholarships that match their major, skills, background, and goals.
- Scholarships by major
Browse scholarships tailored to your specific field of study. - Scholarships for high school seniors
Perfect if you’re starting your higher ed journey. Start looking the summer before your senior year to maximize opportunities. - Scholarships for college students
Scholarships don’t stop after high school. Apply for opportunities for currently enrolled college students. - Scholarships for first-generation students
First in your family to attend college? These scholarships are designed to support you. - Scholarships for adults and returning learners
Find opportunities that help adult and nontraditional students continue their education. - Scholarships for women
Scholarships supporting women across majors, education levels, and career paths. - LGBTQ+ scholarships
Check out scholarships that support students navigating LGBTQ+ identities. - STEM scholarships
These help students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or math pay for school. - Scholarships for graduate students
Learn about scholarships that can help lower the cost of your master’s, PhD, or professional degree program. - Scholarships for minority students
Discover scholarships for students from underrepresented backgrounds, including racial and ethnic minorities. - Scholarships for Native American students
Opportunities for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students.
Your next steps
Rhode Island scholarships can make college much more affordable when used strategically. By applying to a mix of state programs, local awards, and institutional scholarships—and applying consistently—you can reduce your reliance on student loans and focus more on your education.
Check out monthly opportunities like Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, our $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, and $5,000 No Essay Grad School Scholarship These low-effort scholarships make it easy to get started—no long applications required.
And to discover scholarships based on your state, background and interests, search with Scholly Scholarships.
FAQs about Rhode Island scholarships
What scholarships are available for Rhode Island students?
Rhode Island students can find scholarships through state programs, colleges, local foundations, employers, and community organizations.
What is the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship?
Rhode Island Promise is a CCRI program that can help cover tuition for eligible students for up to two academic years, typically fall and spring.
What is the Rhode Island College Hope Scholarship?
The Hope Scholarship at Rhode Island College can cover tuition and mandatory fees for eligible Rhode Island residents during their junior and senior years.
What is the STAP Tuition Waiver?
STAP is a tuition waiver for eligible Rhode Island National Guard members attending Rhode Island public colleges and universities.
Are there scholarships for students studying performing arts?
Yes. Performing arts students can find scholarships through local arts organizations, community foundations, and college departments.
What deadlines do most Rhode Island scholarships follow?
Many deadlines fall between late winter and early spring, but scholarships are available year-round.
Are there STEM scholarships for Rhode Island students?
Yes. STEM scholarships support students studying science, technology, engineering, math, healthcare, and skilled trades.
Do Rhode Island universities offer their own scholarships?
Yes. Many colleges offer merit-based, need-based, and departmental scholarships, some awarded automatically.
Are there easy scholarships Rhode Island students can apply for?
Yes. Some scholarships have simple applications and may not require essays, making them easy to apply for.
Need more money for college?
Private student loans can help you cover additional costs for school.
No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. See Official Rules and Entry Periods on each scholarship page.
FAFSA® is a registered service mark of U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid.