Top Resources For Finding Graduate School Scholarships

Pursuing a graduate degree can be a significant financial commitment, but scholarships can help alleviate the cost burden. Identifying and applying for scholarships requires time and effort, but the rewards can be substantial. Here are some top resources to help you find graduate school scholarships.

 1. University Financial Aid Offices

 1.1. Institutional Scholarships

Many universities offer their own scholarships for graduate students. These can be merit-based, need-based, or specific to certain fields of study.

– Contact Your University: Reach out to the financial aid office at your university to inquire about available scholarships.

– Departmental Scholarships: Check with your specific department or program for additional funding opportunities.

 1.2. Assistantships

Graduate assistantships often provide a stipend and tuition remission in exchange for teaching or research duties.

– Teaching Assistantships (TAs): Available in many departments, especially in larger universities.

– Research Assistantships (RAs): Common in research-focused programs and universities.

 2. Scholarship Databases

 2.1. Online Search Engines

Several websites offer comprehensive databases of scholarships tailored to various criteria such as field of study, nationality, and level of study.

– Fastweb: A widely-used scholarship search engine that matches students with potential scholarships based on their profiles.

– Scholarships.com: Offers a robust search tool for finding scholarships by various categories and interests.

– Peterson’s: Provides a scholarship search feature alongside resources for graduate school applications.

 2.2. International Databases

For students seeking opportunities abroad, these databases can be particularly useful.

– DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): Lists scholarships for studying in Germany and other international opportunities.

– British Council Scholarships: Provides information on scholarships for studying in the UK, including the prestigious Chevening Scholarships.

3. Professional Associations and Organizations

3.1. Field-Specific Scholarships

Professional organizations often offer scholarships to support students pursuing degrees in their field.

– American Psychological Association (APA): Offers various scholarships and grants for psychology students.

– National Science Foundation (NSF): Provides funding opportunities for graduate students in STEM fields.

– American Bar Association (ABA): Lists scholarships for law students.

 3.2. General Scholarships

Some organizations offer scholarships across multiple fields and disciplines.

– Fulbright Program: Provides scholarships for international educational exchange for students, scholars, and professionals.

– Rotary Foundation: Offers scholarships for graduate study abroad through its Rotary Global Grant Scholarships.

4. Government and Public Sector Resources

 4.1. Federal and State Governments

Government agencies often provide scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs to support graduate students.

 Federal Scholarships and Grants

– Federal Pell Grant: Although typically for undergraduate students, some post-baccalaureate teacher certification programs may qualify for this grant.

– TEACH Grant: Provides grants for students who agree to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school for a certain period after graduation.

– Fulbright Program: Sponsored by the U.S. government, this program provides funding for students to study, research, or teach English abroad.

– National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grants: Offers funding for graduate students in biomedical, behavioral, and social sciences.

 State Scholarships and Grants

– State Education Agencies: Many states offer their own scholarships and grants. These can be based on merit, need, or specific fields of study.

  – Cal Grants (California): For residents of California pursuing education in-state.

  – TAP (Tuition Assistance Program) in New York: Provides financial assistance to New York residents.

– Professional Licensure Programs: Some states offer scholarships and loan repayment programs for students pursuing degrees in high-need fields like nursing, teaching, and social work.

 4.2. International Government Programs

Several countries offer scholarships to attract international students, promoting educational exchange and fostering global collaboration.

– Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK government, these scholarships support one-year master’s degrees for international students.

– Australia Awards: Sponsored by the Australian government, these scholarships are for students from developing countries to study at Australian universities.

– Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs): Funded by the European Union, these scholarships allow students to study in at least two different European countries, fostering a multicultural learning experience.

– Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP): Offers scholarships for highly-qualified international students to pursue master’s degrees in Sweden.

  5. Private Foundations and Nonprofits 

 5.2. Smaller Foundations and Nonprofits (Continued)

Many smaller organizations also provide funding for graduate studies.

– The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation: Offers scholarships and grants to high-achieving students with financial need, including those pursuing graduate education.

– The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans: Provides funding for immigrants and children of immigrants in the U.S. to pursue graduate studies.

6. Corporations and Industry Groups

 6.1. Corporate Scholarships

Many large companies offer scholarships to support the education of future professionals in their industry.

– Google Scholarships: Includes scholarships such as the Google Lime Scholarship for students with disabilities pursuing degrees in computer science.

– Microsoft Scholarships: Offers various scholarships for students in technology fields, including the Women at Microsoft Scholarship.

 6.2. Industry-Specific Funding

Industry groups often provide scholarships to encourage education and research in their fields.

– Society of Women Engineers (SWE): Offers scholarships to support women pursuing engineering degrees.

– National Association of Black Accountants (NABA): Provides scholarships for students pursuing careers in accounting and finance.

7. Alumni Associations

 7.1. University Alumni Scholarships

Many universities have alumni associations that offer scholarships to current and prospective students.

– Contact Alumni Associations: Reach out to your university’s alumni office to inquire about available scholarships.

7.2. Professional Alumni Networks

Professional alumni networks can also be a source of funding.

– Networking Opportunities: Engage with alumni networks in your field for potential scholarship opportunities and career advice.

 8. Libraries and Community Resources

 8.1. Public Libraries

Local libraries often have resources and staff to help you find scholarship opportunities.

– Reference Sections: Many libraries have books and guides on finding scholarships.

– Workshops and Seminars: Libraries may host events on how to search for and apply to scholarships.

 8.2. Community Organizations

Community-based organizations and local clubs often offer scholarships to residents or members.

– Local Rotary Clubs: Many local Rotary clubs provide scholarships for graduate students.

– Community Foundations: These organizations often manage scholarship funds for local residents.

Tips for Success

 1. Start Early

Begin your scholarship search well in advance of your planned enrollment date. Many scholarships have deadlines several months before the start of the academic year.

2. Stay Organized

Keep track of application deadlines, requirements, and submission dates using a spreadsheet or calendar. Organization is key to ensuring you don’t miss any opportunities.

3. Tailor Your Applications

Customize your application materials for each scholarship. Highlight how your background, achievements, and goals align with the specific criteria of each award.

 4. Seek Feedback

Have your application materials reviewed by mentors, advisors, or peers to ensure they are polished and compelling.

5. Apply Widely

Apply to as many scholarships as you are eligible for to maximize your chances of receiving funding.

Finding and securing graduate school scholarships requires diligent research and preparation, but the effort can significantly reduce your financial burden and open doors to prestigious academic opportunities. By utilizing a variety of resources—such as university financial aid offices, online databases, professional organizations, government programs, private foundations, corporate scholarships, alumni associations, and community resources—you can find the support you need to achieve your educational goals. Start early, stay organized, and apply widely to make the most of these opportunities.