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Scholarships
Wisconsin scholarships: Free money for WI students
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Scholarships for Wisconsin
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Sallie $2,000 No Essay Scholarship
Due: 6/30/26
$2,000
Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium Undergraduate Research Scholarship
Due: 10/13/26
|No essay
$5,000
The Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium provides Undergraduate Research Scholarships to support qualified students in designing and conducting independent, student-led small research projects in STEM fields aligned with NASA Mission Directorates. Applicants must be enrolled in or admitted or applied to a WSGC member college or university. They must be enrolled in a STEM program of study with an interest in aerospace or NASA-related missions. Students from smaller colleges and universities are especially encouraged to apply. WSGC will facilitate mentoring arrangements if necessary. Applicants must submit a Research Proposal that includes the Introduction/Summary; Background; Proposed activities (objectives, methods, relevance to NASA Mission Directorates areas, expected results); Timeline, including oral/poster presentation at the WSGC Annual Conference in August. Incoming freshman applicants must submit their high school transcript. Applicants must also submit two recommendation letters. The Spring 2026 application opens on September 1, 2025 and closes on October 13, 2025. The Summer 2026 application opens on November 1, 2025 and closes on February 2, 2026. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium for more information.
Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium Undergraduate Scholarship Program
Due: 10/13/26
|No Recommendations Required
$3,000
The Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium awards scholarships to outstanding undergraduates pursuing STEM studies aligned with NASA Mission Directorates. A technical advisory panel selects award winners based on academic performance and the demonstrated interest in pursuing a STEM career. Applicants must be enrolled or admitted or applied to a WSGC member college or university. Incoming freshmen must submit their high school transcript. The Spring 2026 application opens on September 1, 2025 and closes on October 13, 2025. The Fall 2026 application opens on November 1, 2025 and closes on February 2, 2026. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium for more information.
NASA WSGC Aviation Scholarship
Due: 10/13/26
$3,000
The Women in Aviation Scholarship will award funds to support travel (transportation, lodging, meals, and registration for attendance) to the Women in Aviation International Conference in Orlando. Undergraduate students interested in aviation-related careers will be selected. Applicants must be admitted to, or applied to any undergraduate program at a WSGC college or university. Please see the complete list of eligible colleges and universities on the website. Award winners will be selected based on academic performance, STEM-related promise, and the demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in STEM or aviation. Two letters of recommendation are required, one from a faculty member who advises the applicant and one from an aviation mentor. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium for more information.
Civic Music Association of Milwaukee Young Artist Scholarship
Due: 12/15/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$1,500
The Civic Music Association of Milwaukee High School Competition is a well-regarded Milwaukee competition for accomplished high school age musicians. Musicians compete for the opportunity to perform on the Showcase Recital and to be one of four classical musicians to receive the Young Artist Scholarships. The competition is open to high school vocal and instrumental students in grades 10-12 who live in eligible counties performing at or above WSMA Class A. While your piece must be at this level, it need not be on their actual list. Those who have received a Young Artist Scholarship in two consecutive years will be ineligible for a third scholarship. They remain eligible to participate and perform on the Showcase Recital if selected. During the audition, four to six minutes of performance time is required. Any six-minute portion of a longer piece may be chosen by cutting long introductions or accompaniment interludes. The timer will stop the performer at six minutes without penalty. Memorization is optional. Please visit the award's website for more information.
Francis Walton Memorial Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$500
The Francis Walton Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to those with any active license class. Applicants must be residents of the ARRL Central Division, with preference given to applicants residing in Illinois. Applicants must be pursuing their studies in agriculture, electronics, history, broadcasting, communications or related fields in any institution. Preference is also given to applicants demonstrating knowledge of CW (code) and/or those demonstrating interest in promoting Amateur Radio Service. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
Ozaukee Radio Club, W9CQO, Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$2,000
The Ozaukee Radio Club, W9CQO, Scholarship will be awarded to those with any active Amateur Radio License Class. Applicants may be pursuing any field of study at any four-year undergraduate degree-granting institution. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the ARRL Foundation Inc. for more information.
Six Meter Club of Chicago Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$500
The Six Meter Club of Chicago Scholarship will be awarded to those with any active Amateur Radio license class. Applicants must be pursuing any field of study as a post-secondary student at a regionally accredited technical school, community college, college or university leading to an undergraduate degree. Preference will be given to applicants with GPA of 2.5 or better and in good academic standing. 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.
David Knaus Memorial Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$3,000
The David Knaus Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to those with an active Amateur Radio license. Applicants must have residence in Wisconsin. If none is identified, applicants who have residence in the ARRL Central Division will be given preference. Applicants must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree or a 2-year Associate's degree. 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.
Edmond A. Metzger Scholarship
Due: 12/30/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
$500
The Edmond A. Metzger Scholarship will be awarded to those with any active Amateur Radio License Class. Applicants must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering. 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.
Key things to know about Wisconsin scholarships
- Wisconsin scholarships can lower how much you pay for school. They can help cover tuition, fees, books, and other education costs, and you usually don’t have to pay that money back.
- Wisconsin students at all different stages can qualify for scholarships. You’ll find options for high school seniors, current college students, grad students, adult learners, and students in career training.
- Not every award is based only on grades. Some scholarships look at academics, but others focus on financial need, career goals, leadership, service, identity, or major.
- State aid and school-based aid can work together. Combine Wisconsin scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
- Starting early gives you more options. Many scholarships have limited funds or early deadlines, so applying on a regular schedule can boost your chances of winning.
Paying for college can feel like a lot, especially when you’re trying to balance tuition, housing, books, and everyday expenses. That’s why Wisconsin scholarships and other free money options should be part of your plan from the start. If you’re wondering what scholarships are available for Wisconsin students, you'll find state programs, college-based awards, and local opportunities.
The time you spend applying can pay off in a big way. Sallie Mae’s How America Pays for College 2025 found that 75% of students who received a scholarship said it made college possible. Whether you’re heading to a four-year university, a community college, or another eligible program, scholarships for Wisconsin students can make school more affordable.
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What are Wisconsin scholarships?
Wisconsin scholarships are financial awards that help students pay for college, career training, or other eligible postsecondary education costs. They can come from the state, colleges and universities, local organizations, foundations, employers, and community groups.
Unlike student loans, scholarship funds don’t need to be repaid. Some awards are merit-based, while others focus on financial need or student background. Wisconsin scholarships may consider things like:
- Academic performance or class rank
- Financial need
- Residency in Wisconsin
- Your intended major or career path
- Community service, leadership, or extracurriculars
- Tribal affiliation or cultural background
- Enrollment at an eligible Wisconsin school
What scholarships are available for Wisconsin students?
If you’re looking for top Wisconsin scholarships, it helps to search across a few categories at once. Some programs come from the state, some come from colleges, and others are offered by community foundations or private organizations.
Using Scholly Scholarships can help you find both Wisconsin scholarships and national awards that match your background, goals, and interests.
Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship
The Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based state scholarship for top students graduating from Wisconsin high schools. It’s commonly awarded to students with very strong academic records who attend an eligible college or university in the state. If you’re a top student at your school, this is one program to watch closely.
Wisconsin Indian Student Assistance Grant
The Wisconsin Indian Student Assistance Grant supports eligible Native American students who meet the program’s Tribal affiliation and residency rules. It’s meant to help with undergraduate or graduate educational costs at eligible institutions. This can be an important option for students looking for state-based support tied to Tribal eligibility.
Health Services Scholarship Program
The Health Services Scholarship Program is aimed at students preparing for healthcare careers in fields that may serve workforce needs in Wisconsin. Programs like this can be a strong fit for students planning to work in high-need health settings after graduation. If you’re studying nursing, medicine, or another health-related field, this is one of the top
Institutional scholarships in Wisconsin
Many Wisconsin colleges offer their own scholarships, and these can be some of the most important awards on your list. Schools like the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and Marquette University all offer institutional aid that may be based on academics, financial need, leadership, or program of study.
Some colleges automatically consider you when you apply for admission, while others ask for a separate scholarship application. That’s why it’s smart to check both the admissions page and the financial aid page for each school you’re considering.
Are there local and community scholarships available for Wisconsin students?
Local scholarships can be a great option because the applicant pool is often smaller than it is for big national awards. In Wisconsin, these awards may come from community foundations, local employers, service organizations, credit unions, and regional nonprofits. Search for local scholarships through:
- Community foundations
- High school counseling offices
- Local businesses and employers
- Civic and service groups
- Regional nonprofit organizations
Additional financial aid resources
Wisconsin Talent Incentive Program Grant
The Wisconsin Talent Incentive Program Grant is a grant program, not a traditional scholarship. It’s designed for students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are nominated by counselors or financial aid administrators and who meet program requirements.
Wisconsin Grant Program
The Wisconsin Grant Program is another major state aid resource for eligible students attending certain Wisconsin colleges and universities. It’s generally based on financial need and can apply across different sectors of higher education depending on the specific grant category.
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How to apply for Wisconsin scholarships
- Pull together key documents early, such as your transcript, activity list, resume, and a basic personal statement.
- Make a list of scholarships that fit your background, major, and goals, focusing on both statewide and local programs.
- Work through a few applications at a time so the process stays consistent but not overwhelming.
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) so you can be considered for need-based scholarships, grants, and other aid.
- Use a calendar, spreadsheet, or checklist to keep track of application requirements and deadlines.
- Read instructions carefully and double-check your application before you hit submit.
If you want a faster way to get started, Scholly® Easy Apply Scholarships can help you apply to several scholarships with one simplified application.
What are the eligibility requirements for WI students?
Each program has its own rules, but many Wisconsin scholarships share common eligibility requirements such as:
- Wisconsin residency
- Enrollment or planned enrollment at an eligible college or program
- Minimum GPA or academic achievement for merit awards
- Demonstrated financial need for need-based aid
- A specific major, career interest, or training path
- Leadership, service, or extracurricular involvement
- Meeting school or state application deadlines
How can I improve my chances of winning a scholarship?
- Apply to a mix of scholarships.
Big-name awards get lots of attention, but smaller state and local scholarships can be easier to win and still make a real difference. - Tailor each essay to the award.
You don’t need to start from scratch every time, but your application should clearly connect your story to the scholarship’s purpose. - Keep FAFSA® on your to-do list.
Some Wisconsin aid programs are need-based, so filing early can help you qualify for more support. - Look beyond one school.
Even if you have a favorite college, compare scholarship opportunities at several Wisconsin schools before you decide. - Stay consistent.
Applying for a few scholarships every month usually works better than trying to do everything at once.
Your next steps
Wisconsin scholarships can come from a lot of places, including the state, your college, and your local community. When you combine scholarships with grants and other aid, you may be able to cut down how much you need to borrow.
Keep your search active, file the FAFSA® as early as possible, and don’t overlook smaller awards. To keep things moving, you can also check Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, and Scholly Scholarships for more opportunities.
FAQs about Wisconsin scholarships
What scholarships are available for Wisconsin students?
Wisconsin students may find state scholarships, institutional scholarships from Wisconsin colleges, local community awards, and private scholarships. Some of the best-known options include the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship, school-based aid, and targeted programs for specific student groups.
What is the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship?
It’s a merit-based state scholarship awarded to top Wisconsin high school graduates who attend an eligible in-state institution. It’s one of the better-known scholarships for Wisconsin students with strong academic records.
Are there scholarships for Wisconsin high school seniors?
Yes. Many scholarships are open to Wisconsin high school seniors, including state merit awards, local community scholarships, and institutional awards from colleges you apply to during senior year.
Can Wisconsin students get scholarships for trade schools?
Some Wisconsin students in career-focused or technical programs may qualify for scholarships or grants, depending on the school and program. It’s also worth checking technical college financial aid offices for institution-specific awards.
Do Wisconsin scholarships require FAFSA®?
Some do, and some don’t. Merit-based scholarships may not require FAFSA®, but need-based aid programs and grants often do, so filing it is a smart move.
Do Wisconsin colleges offer their own scholarships?
Yes. Many Wisconsin colleges offer institutional scholarships based on academics, need, leadership, talent, or major. Always check each school’s admissions and financial aid pages.
When should Wisconsin students start applying for scholarships?
You should start as early as possible, ideally in junior year or early senior year of high school. Current college students should also keep applying because many scholarships aren’t limited to first-year applicants.
Are there easy or no-essay scholarships for Wisconsin students?
Yes, some scholarships have shorter applications or fewer requirements. You can also look at no-essay scholarships and Scholly Easy Apply opportunities to save time.
What scholarships are available for Wisconsin students with financial need?
Students with financial need may qualify for the Wisconsin Grant Program, institutional need-based aid, and local community scholarships. Filing the FAFSA should be your first step if you want to be considered.
Are there scholarships for Wisconsin students attending UW schools?
Yes. University of Wisconsin campuses may offer their own scholarships for incoming and continuing students. The exact awards vary by campus, so check the school you plan to attend.
Can Wisconsin community college students get scholarships?
Yes. Students at two-year and technical colleges may qualify for foundation scholarships, local awards, and some state aid programs depending on eligibility.
What are the top Wisconsin scholarships to look at first?
A strong starting point includes the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship, institutional scholarships at your college, local community scholarships, and any state aid programs tied to your background or major.
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.
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