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Scholarships
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Scholarships
Graduate student scholarships: Find free money for grad school
Your guide to finding scholarships that make grad school affordable.
Graduate student scholarships
Featured
Apply now
Sallie $2,000 No Essay Scholarship
Due: 7/31/26
$2,000
Featured
Apply now
The Scholarships360 $10,000 "No Essay" Scholarship
Due: 7/31/26
|No essay
$10,000
7 days left!
Apply now
Pega Scholars Program
Due: 7/16/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$2,000
The Pega Scholars Program supports equal participation in tech by providing scholarships to future technologists around the globe. The program aims to improve the reach, accessibility, and availability of learning opportunities for all in the technology space. Applicants must be high school/secondary school seniors who graduated in 2025 or current college/university undergraduates, or CEGEP students. They must plan to enroll at an accredited two-, three- or four-year college or university, CE...
Helen Graeber Overstreet Scholarship
Due: 3/4/27
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$1,275
The Helen Graeber Overstreet Scholarship funding shall be awarded to a senior collegiate or alumna member of Kappa Alpha Theta who will pursue a graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. Should no applicants meet the first criteria, the scholarship funding shall be awarded to any collegiate or alumna member of Kappa Alpha Theta who will pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. Applicants must provide the contact information of their reference, who should be their current or former supervisor or mentor in an academic, community, professional, and/or Theta-related capacity. Ideally, the reference should be able to compellingly speak to the applicant's commitment to Kappa Alpha Theta's values; able to clearly articulate specific details about the applicant's accomplishments, goals, and character; and be more than just the applicant's social contact. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation for more information.
Marilyn Chesher Lynch Scholarship
Due: 3/4/27
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$2,925
The Marilyn Chesher Lynch Scholarship shall be awarded to an alumna member of the Fraternity with a permanent address in the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, or Texas and who will pursue a graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. The recipient must have a current affiliation with an alumnae chapter recorded in the Fraternity's records at the time recipients are selected. Should no applicants meet the first criteria, the scholarship shall be awarded to an alumna member of the Fraternity who will pursue a graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. Applicants must provide the contact information of their reference, who should be their current or former supervisor or mentor in an academic, community, professional, and/or Theta-related capacity. Ideally, the reference should be able to compellingly speak to the applicant's commitment to Kappa Alpha Theta's values; able to clearly articulate specific details about the applicant's accomplishments, goals, and character; and be more than just the applicant's social contact. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation for more information.
Joan Wagner Essex Scholarship
Due: 3/4/27
|No Transcripts Required
$1,400
The Joan Wagner Essex Scholarship shall be awarded to (1) a junior member of the Gamma Iota-University of Kentucky Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta with a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale who will pursue undergraduate study during the academic year for which the scholarship funding is awarded. (2) Should no applicants meet the first criteria, the scholarship shall be awarded to a freshman, sophomore, or senior collegian member of Gamma Iota-University of Kentucky with a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale who will pursue undergraduate study during the academic year for which the scholarship funding is awarded. (3) Should no applicants meet the first and second criteria, the scholarship shall be awarded to a senior collegiate member of Gamma Iota-University of Kentucky with a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale who will pursue graduate study during the academic year for which the scholarship funding is awarded. Applicants must provide the contact information of their reference, who should be their current or former supervisor or mentor in an academic, community, professional, and/or Theta-related capacity. Ideally, the reference should be able to compellingly speak to the applicant's commitment to Kappa Alpha Theta's values; able to clearly articulate specific details about the applicant's accomplishments, goals, and character; and be more than just the applicant's social contact. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation for more information.
Barbara Hackman Franklin Scholarship
Due: 3/4/27
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$2,950
The Barbara Hackman Franklin Scholarship shall be awarded to a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior collegian member of the Fraternity who will pursue an undergraduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. Should no applicants meet the first criteria, the scholarship shall be awarded to a senior collegian or alumna member of the Fraternity who will pursue a graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. Applicants must provide the contact information of their reference, who should be their current or former supervisor or mentor in an academic, community, professional, and/or Theta-related capacity. Ideally, the reference should be able to compellingly speak to the applicant's commitment to Kappa Alpha Theta's values; able to clearly articulate specific details about the applicant's accomplishments, goals, and character; and be more than just the applicant's social contact. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation for more information.
Margaret Killen Banta Graduate Scholarship
Due: 3/4/27
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$1,875
The Margaret Killen Banta Graduate Scholarship shall be awarded to a senior collegian member of Alpha Psi at Lawrence University who will pursue a graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. If no member from Alpha Psi applies, the scholarship shall be awarded to a senior collegian member of a chapter in District 1 who will pursue a graduate degree during the academic year for which the scholarship is awarded. Selection is based on the member's contribution to her chapter. Applicants must provide the contact information of their reference, who should be their current or former supervisor or mentor in an academic, community, professional, and/or Theta-related capacity. Ideally, the reference should be able to compellingly speak to the applicant's commitment to Kappa Alpha Theta's values; able to clearly articulate specific details about the applicant's accomplishments, goals, and character; and be more than just the applicant's social contact. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation for more information.
Chatham University Presidential Scholarship for First-Year Students
Due: 7/31/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
|No Transcripts Required
Varies
The Chatham University Presidential Scholarship for First-Year Students is awarded to those with a 3.8 cumulative GPA who attended Scholarship Interview Day. Presidential Scholarship Application required before attendance at Scholarship Interview Day. All undergraduate scholarships require full-time enrollment, are renewable for up to four years (or 120 credits) of study at Chatham University, and have a minimum GPA requirement that must be met each year. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
Steve Graham Scholarship
Due: 7/31/26
|No essay
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
Varies
The Steve Graham Scholarship is open to students who are accounting majors. Recipients are selected by the Business Division. The application process for admission to VU contains the information needed to determine if the student meets the criteria for VU Foundation scholarships. Be sure to apply to VU before January 15 for priority consideration for Foundation scholarships. If you apply after January 15, you may still be considered for scholarship awards. Students may visit the scholarship's website or contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.
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Key takeaways about graduate student scholarships
- Scholarships for graduate students can significantly reduce the cost of grad school.
- There are many types of scholarships: merit-based, need-based, program-specific, and more.
- You don’t need perfect grades to qualify—there are options for diverse backgrounds and interests.
- Start your search early and stay organized with deadlines and requirements.
- Use trusted tools like Scholly Scholarships and Scout College Search to find your best matches.
Why scholarships matter for graduate school
Grad school isn’t cheap. Between tuition, books, and living expenses, the costs can add up fast. Scholarships help you cut down on debt and focus more on your studies—and your future. Whether you're pursuing a master’s, PhD, or professional degree, scholarships can be a game-changer.
Types of scholarships for graduate students
Let's break down the main types of scholarships you'll come across:
Merit-based scholarships
Awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or special talents. These often require a strong GPA or portfolio.
Need-based scholarships
Designed for students with financial need. You’ll usually need to submit financial documents or FAFSA® info.
Program-specific scholarships
Offered by universities or departments for students in certain fields—like STEM, education, or public health.
No essay scholarships
Quick and easy to apply for—like Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship. Perfect if you're short on time.
How to find and apply for scholarships
Start with trusted sources like Scholly Scholarships and your school’s financial aid office. Use filters to narrow by degree type, major, and eligibility. Keep a spreadsheet of deadlines and requirements.
For more scholarship information, check out:
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.
Eligibility requirements for graduate scholarships
Requirements vary, but here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance to a grad program
- GPA or academic transcripts
- Personal statement or essay (unless it’s a no-essay scholarship)
- Letters of recommendation
- Financial documents (for need-based awards)
Deadlines and application timelines
Most scholarships have deadlines between January and May, but some are open year-round. Set calendar reminders and apply early—some awards are first-come, first-served.
Tips for winning graduate school scholarships
- Tailor your application: Customize essays and materials for each scholarship.
- Highlight your story: Share your goals, challenges, and what makes you unique.
- Proofread everything: Typos can cost you.
- Ask for feedback: Have someone review your application before submitting.
Additional resources for graduate students
Finding scholarships is just one part of the grad school journey. These resources can help you explore majors, discover more funding opportunities, and connect with support tailored to your background and goals.
- Scout College Search Use Scout College Search to explore grad programs that match your interests, career goals, and budget. It’s like a dating app—but for your future.
- Scholarships by Major Not all scholarships are general. Some are designed for specific fields like engineering, education, or public health. Check out scholarships by major to find awards that align with your academic path.
- Scholarships for College Students If you're transitioning straight from undergrad, scholarships for college students can help bridge the gap and support your next academic step.
- Scholarships for Adults Going back to school after some time in the workforce? Scholarships for adults are designed for learners who bring real-world experience to the classroom.
- Scholarships for Women Women pursuing graduate degrees in male-dominated fields—or any field—can find support through scholarships for women. These awards aim to close gaps and open doors.
- LGBTQ Scholarships LGBTQ scholarships support inclusivity and help students thrive in grad school environments that celebrate identity and diversity.
- Scholarships by State Some scholarships are location-based. Use scholarships by state to find opportunities tied to where you live or plan to study.
Ready to take the next step?
Grad school is a big move—and scholarships can make it way more doable. Whether you're diving into a master’s program, switching careers, or leveling up your expertise, there’s funding out there with your name on it. Start early, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to apply for more than one. You’ve got this—and Sallie’s here to help every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions
These tips can help as you get ready to apply for graduate student scholarships.
When are scholarship application deadlines?
There’s no standard deadline for scholarship applications. Each scholarship has its own deadline, so be sure to keep track of dates and make sure you don’t miss any deadlines of scholarships that you want to apply to.
Do you need to know which college you’re attending?
You don’t need to know which college you’re going to attend before applying for most scholarships. However, once you’re awarded scholarships, some of them may ask for eligibility verification—which can include proof of college enrollment.
Is there a limit on how many scholarships you can apply for?
Absolutely not, so apply for as many as you can to increase your chances of winning free money. Want to find more types of scholarships? There are so many, check them out!
Pro tip: Apply for scholarships each year you’re in college.
Does every scholarship application require an essay?
Not every scholarship will ask you to submit an essay—different scholarships have different requirements. If you’re applying for a scholarship with an essay and need help writing yours, get tips for writing scholarship essays.
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