Embarking on the journey of graduate studies in 2024 is an exciting step toward academic and professional growth. But let's be real - finances can be a bit daunting. Don't worry, though! In this guide, we're here to unveil the top graduate student scholarships available in 2024, designed to make your education more achievable without breaking the bank. From scholarships tailored to specific fields to those celebrating your leadership and research skills, we've rounded up the best opportunities to support you on this incredible journey.
The Top Ten List Scholarship is open to US students who are 14 years of age and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2027) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This $10,000 Unigo Scholarship is open to any applicant who is 14 years of age or older and is a legal resident of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia. The applicant must register for a free online account with Unigo.com and submit a short response to this year's topic as posted on the website.
OFAC Law Group focuses its practice on representing individuals who need assistance with sanctions compliance, export controls, OFAC licensing, and anti-money laundering regulations. The role of an OFAC sanctions attorney is as complex as it is necessary. This is due to a constantly-changing list of rules and regulations as foreign policies are created or revised.
OFAC Law Group understands the importance of complying with the Office of Foreign Assets Control and the effectiveness of cooperation. We also recognize the value of students improving their environment through collaboration. Dedicating personal time to the betterment of others and improving the environment is a quality OFAC Law Group would like to reward by providing financial support and academic recognition.
Whether those good deeds are performed with an organization, local community club, or even just among friends, OFAC Law Group appreciates citizens’ hard work towards the environment. To assist these high-achieving students, OFAC Law Group is proud to announce the OFAC Law Group Eco-Friendly Scholarship. This scholarship will award $500 to a deserving student who has coherently shared ideas for how to best volunteer time to improve the environment or has already completed effective examples for others to follow.
The Free Career Fit Test™, along with the premium report and Bonus CFT Career Mastery Program, is your key to discovering your ideal career and life purpose. This comprehensive career test guides you to work you love – a true calling, not just a job.
Start with the free career test today to uncover your ideal career and purpose. The Career Fit Test™ features a career skills assessment, aptitude test, and personality quiz.
We are trusted by universities, career coaches and companies around the world, and have helped hundreds of students find direction in choosing a well-fitting career path.
We understand the overwhelming number of career opportunities available to students and how difficult this can be to navigate. CareerFitter has tailored its career assessment tool to examine multiple factors of the person to ensure a range of considerations is made to find an appropriate career.
For the 2025 award, we have doubled the value to $1000 to further our support of students and their education. Undergraduate and graduate students are welcome to apply. A specific major is not required for this award, but the applicant should have above a 2.4 Grade Point Average.
We look forward to your application!
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2027) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2027) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2026) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship.
This scholarship is open to any applicant who is 14 years of age or older and is a legal resident of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia. Applicants must submit creative, original responses to the scholarship question, using the online application form.
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2026) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2026) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2025) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
The Make Me Laugh Scholarship, offered by UNIGO, is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2025) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This award is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2027) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship.
This creative and fun scholarship program is open to all U.S. students who are 14 and older and who are currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2026) in an accredited postsecondary institution of higher education. One scholarship winner with an imaginative and well-written response to the scholarship question about the Zombie Apocalypse will receive a $2,000 scholarship.
EXPERT INSIGHT
When considering graduate school fellowships, it's essential to understand the distinction between internal and external sources. Internal fellowships, sponsored and awarded by the college or university, are less competitive, with a smaller pool of applicants applying to that specific school only. On the other hand, external fellowships, awarded by organizations outside the school, are more competitive, as applicants compete with people from other colleges and universities. External fellowship stipends often meet or exceed those issued by a university, and recipients generally have the flexibility to choose their school and programs of study, making them more appealing to many students.
-JP Novin (BA, MBA, EdD)
If you’re thinking about applying for graduate school in 2024, or you’ve just been accepted to a program, you’ve probably been thinking about financial aid. From funding for groundbreaking research projects to support for everyday expenses, graduate scholarships aren’t just about financial aid — they’re about empowering aspiring scholars to further their educational journeys.
Let’s explore the top graduate student scholarships of 2024, uncovering the diverse range of opportunities available to you and the impact they can have on shaping the future of your education. Whether you’re a passionate researcher, an aspiring leader, or a professional looking to develop skills, these scholarships provide the stepping stones you need to turn your academic aspirations into reality.
So, let’s dive in and discover how these scholarships can help you!
How to Find Graduate School Scholarships
According to 2024 data from the Education Data Initiative, “The cost of a Master’s degree typically ranges between $56,000 and $75,000 depending on the school, the major, and the length of the program… [and] the average cost of a Master’s degree is $59,684.”
To find graduate school scholarships or other aid opportunities, start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Then visit the financial aid office at your college or university. Many graduate fellowship programs for grad students may come from colleges and universities. Fellowships support research in a certain field. Along with covering tuition, many also provide a stipend – a monthly sum for living expenses.
A graduate assistant-ship works in a support role at a college/university. You may work under the supervision of a faculty member and your duties may include research, clerical tasks, and grading. Instead of a salary, some graduate assistant-ships receive a stipend or a discounted rate on tuition.
Next, check out professional organizations you may belong to, or that are popular in the industry you work in. Your current employer may even offer tuition reimbursement or an employee scholarship program. For example, if you have an entry-level job at a law firm and want to become a lawyer, your employer may help pay for law school. Lastly, look at websites like Unigo that gather all the information in one place for you!
Types of Graduate Degree Scholarships
To earn a full ride to graduate school, your academic performance is important. You may need to maintain a specific GPA and grades for every course. You must be a full-time grad student for every academic year until you complete your graduate program. Additionally, you could receive a full-ride scholarship to graduate school depending on your program of study.
A full-ride scholarship for grad school usually pays tuition, mandatory fees, and a monthly stipend. However, they are usually highly competitive and difficult to earn. Keeping that in mind, you should still apply for full-ride scholarships but also search for other types of financial aid. Some options range from merit-based awards to specific scholarships for your academic major occupation, or interests.
For example, a nonprofit called the Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund supports graduate students working for social change and provides up to $10,000. Another scholarship program open to master’s students is from the American Library Association and is for eligible MLS/MLIS degree students. The ALSC Frederic G. Melcher Scholarship awards two students with $7,500 each.
If you’re a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree, securing financial assistance can be a game-changer in your academic journey. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships specifically tailored to support Master’s degree candidates.
These scholarships cover a wide range of disciplines and fields of study, offering funding for tuition, research projects, living expenses, and more. Whatever field you’re in, there are scholarships available to help alleviate the financial burden of graduate school.
Here are a few types of Master’s degree scholarships:
Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements, such as high GPA, impressive test scores, or significant research contributions.
Need-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need – typically determined by factors such as family income, assets, and household size.
Field-Specific Scholarships: These scholarships are tailored to students pursuing Master’s degrees in specific fields or disciplines, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), humanities, business, or social sciences.
Diversity Scholarships: These scholarships aim to promote diversity and inclusion by providing financial support to students from underrepresented or marginalized groups – including racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ students, and students with disabilities.
International Scholarships: These scholarships are available to international students pursuing Master’s degrees abroad, offering financial assistance to help cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in a foreign country.
Research Scholarships: These scholarships support students conducting research as part of their Master’s degree program, providing funding for research expenses, equipment, travel to conferences, and other related costs.
Professional Development Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to support students pursuing Master’s degrees that enhance their professional skills and qualifications.
Each scholarship may have specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and benefits, so it’s essential to research and explore all available options to find the best fit for your academic and financial needs.
MBA Scholarships
If you’re pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, scholarships can be instrumental in offsetting the costs of your education. MBA scholarships come in various forms and many MBA programs offer scholarships based on diversity, leadership potential, and professional experience. Here are some of the top MBA scholarships available:
Forté MBA Fellowships: These scholarships are awarded to outstanding women pursuing MBA degrees at participating business schools.
Consortium for Graduate Study in Management Fellowship: This fellowship program supports underrepresented minorities, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans. Recipients receive full tuition scholarships and access to a network of top business schools and corporate partners.
Prodigy Finance Global MBA Scholarship: Prodigy Finance offers scholarships to international students pursuing MBA degrees at leading business schools. Recipients receive partial tuition scholarships based on academic merit, leadership potential, and financial need.
Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) Fellowship: This fellowship program supports LGBTQ+ students pursuing MBA degrees by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Medical Scholarships
Medical school is an intensive educational journey that prepares individuals for careers as physicians. In the U.S., medical school typically spans four years. During this time, you’ll undergo rigorous training in medical science, clinical skills, and patient care. The curriculum includes classroom lectures, laboratory work, and clinical rotations in various specialties – such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology.
In addition to the academic demands, medical school can also be financially burdensome. The cost of attending medical school varies widely depending on factors such as the institution’s location, reputation, and whether it’s a public or private school. According to 2024 information from the Education Data Initiative, “The average cost of a medical school degree is $218,792.”
Medical scholarships offer financial assistance to students pursuing careers in medicine and related healthcare fields. These scholarships help alleviate the financial burden of medical education and support students throughout their academic journey.
National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program: This program provides full tuition, fees, and a living stipend to medical students committed to serving in underserved communities upon graduation.
Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: This program awards scholarships to students pursuing healthcare-related degrees, including medicine, pharmacy, and public health.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship supports outstanding graduate students from around the world, including those pursuing degrees in medical research and healthcare.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Undergraduate Scholarship Program: This program supports disadvantaged students pursuing degrees in biomedical and behavioral science fields.
Dental Scholarships
Dental scholarships provide financial assistance to students pursuing careers in dentistry and related fields. These scholarships support students throughout their educational journey, helping to offset the costs of dental school tuition, fees, and other expenses. Additionally, dental scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to community service in the field of dentistry.
ADEA/Crest Oral-B Scholarship for Dental Hygiene Students: This scholarship, offered by the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) and Crest Oral-B, supports dental hygiene students who demonstrate academic excellence.
ADA Foundation Dental Student Scholarships: The American Dental Association (ADA) Foundation offers scholarships to dental students based on academic achievement, financial need, and leadership potential. These scholarships aim to support the next generation of dentists.
National Dental Association Foundation Scholarships: The National Dental Association (NDA) Foundation offers scholarships to dental students of African American descent who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to serving underserved communities.
Hispanic Dental Association (HDA) Scholarships: The HDA offers scholarships to dental students of Hispanic descent who exhibit academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a dedication to improving oral health in Hispanic communities.
PhD Scholarships
PhD programs typically vary in length depending on the field of study, research requirements, and individual progress. However, on average, PhD programs in the U.S. typically take between five to seven years to complete. During this time, students engage in advanced coursework, conduct research, and write a dissertation or thesis based on their findings.
Prospective PhD students need to consider the duration of their program when exploring scholarship opportunities and planning their academic and financial future. PhD scholarships provide financial support to students pursuing doctoral degrees in various fields of study. These scholarships help offset the costs associated with pursuing a PhD, including tuition, fees, research expenses, and living expenses.
Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship: This program supports doctoral students from underrepresented backgrounds as they pursue PhD degrees. Recipients receive financial support for three years of study, including a stipend and institutional support for tuition and fees.
Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship: This fellowship provides financial assistance to exceptional graduate students pursuing PhD degrees in applied physical, biological, and engineering sciences. Recipients receive a stipend, tuition support, and mentorship opportunities for up to five years of study.
Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad (DDRA) Fellowship: This program supports doctoral students conducting research abroad in modern foreign languages and area studies. Recipients receive funding for travel, living expenses, and research-related costs for up to 12 months of study abroad.
American Association of University Women (AAUW) Dissertation Fellowship: This fellowship supports women doctoral candidates completing dissertations in any field. Recipients receive financial assistance to support their final year of writing dissertations and conducting research.
10 Scholarships for Graduate School You Should Apply for in 2024
As you search for scholarships to fund your graduate studies, you can use our scholarship engine to find financial aid options like these. Make sure to check eligibility requirements and submit your graduate school scholarship application before the deadline.
Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program: Provides financial support to graduate students pursuing studies in oceanography, marine biology, maritime archaeology, and other related fields, with a focus on fostering the next generation of leaders in marine science and conservation.
The Bank of America Merrill Lynch MBA Diversity Fellowship Program: Offers financial assistance and professional development opportunities to underrepresented minority students pursuing MBA degrees, aiming to promote diversity and inclusion in the business world.
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP): Supports outstanding graduate students in STEM fields by providing financial assistance for three years of research-focused graduate study. Recipients receive a stipend, tuition support, and access to professional development opportunities.
QS Leadership Scholarship for MBA and Postgraduate Studies: Offers scholarships to students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. Recipients receive partial tuition scholarships to pursue their MBA studies at selected business schools worldwide.
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program – English Teaching Assistantship: Provides opportunities for recent graduates to teach English abroad and promote cross-cultural exchange.
Boren Fellowship Awards for International Study: Supports graduate students interested in studying less commonly taught languages in regions critical to U.S. interests.
The Graduate Nursing Faculty Scholarship: Assists graduate students pursuing advanced nursing degrees who aspire to become nursing faculty members.
The Goldman Sachs MBA Fellowship: Offers financial support and professional development opportunities to MBA students from diverse backgrounds.
The 1 Hotels Fellowship: Provides financial assistance and mentorship to graduate students committed to sustainability and environmental conservation.
The March of Dimes Graduate Nursing Scholarship: Supports graduate nursing students who demonstrate a commitment to maternal and child health.
Can You Find Grants for Grad School?
There are a variety of grants available for grad school. Just like a scholarship, you can find grants for a Master’s degree, professional degree programs like law school, medicine, dentistry, or a PhD. When you’re applying for a grant, you may need to fill out the FAFSA, but you’ll already be doing that for scholarships. Keep in mind that some providers also assess your GPA as part of their application process.
Tips to Earning Grad School Scholarships
It’s essential to put your best foot forward when filling out a scholarship application. Make sure to first read through what each application process involves and follow these quick tips:
Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. This can improve your chances of receiving an award.
Submit early before the application deadline. Some scholarship opportunities have limited funds. The earlier you apply, the better chance you have of receiving one to help pay for your advanced degree.
Make sure you have your transcripts and test scores. Not all graduate school scholarship programs look at your GPA. But many do ask for transcripts from high school and your undergraduate degree. Gather copies or reach out to schools ahead of time if you misplaced originals. You may need to provide GRE, LSAT, MCAT, or GMAT scores.
Ask for recommendations. The more helpful letters come from people who know you and what you are capable of. For instance, ask a teacher, research mentor, counselor, or employer.
Write a strong personal statement or essay. This is a chance to speak honestly about your goals and what drives you. You may have to answer prompted questions and stick to a word count. So, make sure to spell check and follow the guidelines.
List of Top Graduate Student Scholarships in 2024
Check out our list of 32,500 Top Graduate Student Scholarships in 2024 worth $179M.
Scholarships are available for students pursuing Master's Degrees in all of the subjects and academic specializations you can imagine. We've collected a few of those awards in our directory to help you find the ones you're eligible for. Click here to browse our collection and find out how to apply today!
If you’re thinking about getting an MBA, but wondering how to pay for business school, scholarships may be the answer! Universities, organizations, and professional groups offer money to help grad students obtain their MBA degrees. Check out the awards available to you with this list of MBA scholarships.
Already have your master’s degree? Working towards your PhD? Your dedication to school is impressive, but don’t think that your scholarship search is over! There are plenty of scholarships for PhD students to help pay for graduate school. Browse our list of awards and apply online today!
Written by McKenna Deen
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Edited by Dave Moniz
