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HBCU Scholarships


graduation hat with degree on top of books

Most of us have big dreams of where we'll go to school, what we'll do with our degree, and how grand we will make our lives. For some though, a major roadblock to that first dream can be finances. College, unfortunately, isn't cheap, and not only comes with a lot of expected costs like tuition, room, and board, but also unexpected costs that just pop up. Luckily, there are many HBCU scholarships out there that can help you to make that dream a reality. There are billions of dollars available in scholarships, grants, and internships for those who want to attend college, it's just a matter of knowing where to start looking and what to apply for.

We've compiled a list of potential HBCU scholarships out there to help you have better access to all the potential financial support you can find.

Academic and Merit-Based HBCU Scholarships

TMCF/Lowe's GAP Scholarship

This is given through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, in partnership with Lowe's which provides need-based merit scholarships to graduating seniors. The amount may range from $310 to $500.

Apple HBCU Scholars Program

Not only does this offer funding of up to $25,000, but recipients also will have an Apple internship and professional development opportunities in Cupertino, California.

BSU Merit Scholarship

Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or hif her at the undergraduate level and 75 or higher at the graduate level.

Carolyn M. Harris HBCU Music Scholarship Application

This is a one-time award of $1,000 for HBCU students pursuing a degree in a music-related field. Applicants must be a member of a musical ensemble, write a 500-word minimum essay, as well as provide a letter of recommendation.

Development Fund for Black Students in Science and Technology

This award provides financial backing for African-American STEM majors attending an HBCU. Applicants are identified by faculty and staff members who see academic excellence.

Department of Defense Scholarship

The DoD Scholarship is for undergraduate students at HBCU's studying a STEM-related degree with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Delta Community Credit Union HBCU Scholarships

Specifically for residents of Georgia who are enrolled at an HBCU, students may receive $2500 for their essay submission. Essay selection criteria will review financial need, clarity of composition, and interest in continuing an academic career.

ETS Presidential Scholarship for HBCU Students

This provides one year of funding to students pursuing any degree. Applicants must be referred to this program by the president of the institution, and up to five students may be recommended per institution.

George Washington Carver Scholarship Fund

This is awarded to students enrolled at an HBCU who embody a sense of leadership and community service. Students will need to have completed a minimum of 40 hours of community service, as well as be pursuing a degree in one of the approved STEM or business-related fields.

 

Community Service Scholarships

Denny's - Tom Joyner Foundation Hungry for Education Scholarship

This is given to up to 12 deserving students from HBCU's who will receive a $2500 scholarship. In order to apply, students must submit an essay of 200 words or less on the topic, "Describe your most memorable community service or activity to combat hunger."

Lexus Verses and Flow HBCU Scholarship

This program will award students at HBCUs for academic excellence and community involvement.

 

Local Scholarships

For many students, the opportunity for HBCU scholarships is right in your own backyard. Look at local organizations and communities that may be offering scholarships for potential students. Rotary clubs often do one-time scholarships for graduating seniors that are awarded in a check to the students before graduation. Another good place to look is the HBCU you are hoping to attend. They often offer different scholarships specifically for the school, and there may be several that you qualify for. Finally, speak to your guidance counselor, see if there are any potential scholarships that you may have missed in your search. Perhaps you write short stories – look into if there are any short story submissions or scholarships that are out there. They don't have to be specifically for HBCUs – as long as you fit the requirements listed, they will likely award to many students.