Scholarships for Asian American students: Where to start and how to win

How to apply for scholarships

Step-by-step process

1. Make a list of scholarships you're eligible for.
2. Gather documents: transcripts, recommendation letters, resume.
3. Write a personal statement or essay.
4. Submit applications before deadlines.
5. Follow up if needed.

Essay and personal statement tips

• Be authentic and specific.
• Share your story - how your heritage shaped your goals.
• Highlight leadership, resilience, and community impact.
• Proofread and get feedback before submitting.

Extra resources for Asian American students

These organizations and tools offer more than just scholarships they’re here to support your entire college journey:

• APIASF / APIA Scholars - https://apiascholars.org

Provides scholarships, mentorship, and career development for Asian and Pacific Islander American students. Their programs focus on holistic student support and leadership growth.

• Apex for Youth - https://apexforyouth.org

Empowers low-income Asian American youth through mentorship, college access programs, and career readiness. Offers FAFSA guidance and financial aid resources.

• Asian Americans Advancing Justice AAJC - https://www.advancingjustice-aajc.org/education-advocacy

Advocates for educational equity, promotes Asian American history in schools, and supports students through policy change and curriculum development.

• Asian Pacific Fund - https://asianpacificfund.org/what-we-do/scholarships/

Coordinates multiple scholarships and supports students through community advocacy and donor partnerships.

• Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF) - https://www.cacf.org/leadership-development/asian-american-student-advocacy-project

Runs the Asian American Student Advocacy Project (ASAP), which trains youth to be leaders and advocates for equity in education.

• The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) - https://www.taaf.org/

Supports AAPI students through leadership programs like TALA, promotes belonging, and funds initiatives that advance prosperity and representation.

• South Asian Youth Action (SAYA) - https://www.saya.org/

Provides academic support, college access, leadership development, and wellness programs for South Asian and immigrant youth.

• Asian American LEAD (AALEAD) - https://asianresourcehub.org/resources/

Offers mentoring, identity development, and leadership opportunities for underserved Asian Pacific American youth.

Additional scholarships for Asian American students

You’ve got goals, and there are scholarships out there designed to help you reach them. Whether you're into tech, art, activism, or just figuring it out, these categories can help you find funding that fits your journey as an Asian American student:

• Scholarships by Major - Find scholarships tailored to your field of study—whether it's STEM, arts, business, or education—with opportunities that uplift Asian American voices and career paths.
• Scholarships for High School Seniors - Perfect for Asian American students starting their college journey. Many deadlines fall during senior year, so start early.
• Scholarships for College Students - Keep applying throughout college—new opportunities open up every year, especially for Asian American students involved in leadership or community work.
• Scholarships for First Generation Students - If you’re the first in your family to attend college, these scholarships are designed to support first-generation Asian American students.
• Scholarships for Adults - Returning to school? These scholarships help Asian American adult learners fund their education and career pivots.
• Scholarships for Women - Empowering scholarships for women, including awards specifically for Asian American women pursuing higher education and leadership.
• LGBTQ+ Scholarships - Scholarships that support Asian American students navigating both racial and LGBTQ+ identities.
• Scholarships by State - Local scholarships often have fewer applicants—boost your chances by applying close to home, especially through Asian American community organizations.

Final thoughts

Finding and applying for scholarships can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone—and you’ve got options. Whether you're just starting your college journey or returning to school later in life, there are scholarships out there designed to support Asian American students like you. Use the tools, tap into your community, and keep showing up for your goals. You’ve got this.