Scholarships for African American Students

Introduction to Scholarships for Minority Students

Paying for college can be a challenge for many students. While financial aid can alleviate some of the burden, many students may need some extra support. (For more advice on how to navigate the financial aid process, check out FAFSA, CSS Profile, IDOC, Oh My: A Guide to Financial Aid.)

Scholarships can help you out. These monetary awards assist students with paying for postsecondary education. Some are need-based, meaning students must demonstrate that they have a financial need for help paying for college. Others are merit-based, meaning they are given based on students’ achievements. To learn more about the different types of scholarships available, read What You Need to Know for a Successful Scholarship Season.

While there are many scholarships available to which nearly anyone can apply if they are planning on attending an institution of higher education, some are geared towards students with particular interests or certain minority populations. In this post, we will look at scholarships for African American students.

Scholarships for African American Students

The below scholarships are specifically targeted to African American students. Some of them have a financial need component, but most are merit-based. Click on the links provided to learn more about particular scholarships, including deadlines and other application details, and keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive.

• The Amos & Edith Wallace Scholarship recognizes African American students who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to service and education. The award is $500.

• The Better Brothers LA Book Scholarship is awarded to black LGBTQ youth who have been admitted to or are attending an accredited degree, licensing, or vocational program The scholarship of $500-1,500 assists students with purchasing textbooks and other study materials.

• Two Blacks at Microsoft Scholarships awarded to high-school seniors who are interested in pursuing careers in technology. Applicants should be planing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, computer information systems, or select business programs. Recipients must require financial assistance to attend college. The scholarships amount to $5,000 each and are renewable.

• The Hello, My Name Is King scholarship provides support to young black men who are planning on attending a college or university. The scholarship is $500.

• Based on academic excellence and financial need, the Mae & Mary Scholarship Fund awards scholarships of varying amounts to African American graduating seniors planning on attending a two- or four-year university or technical school.

• The Mamie Earl Sells Scholarship Fund awards one $1,000 scholarship annually to an African-American female high school senior who is evaluated on academic achievement, personal challenges, extracurricular activities and community service

• Ronald McDonald House offers numerous scholarships of varying amounts, including the African-American Future Achievers scholarship. RMH’s scholarships are designed for students from communities who face limited access to educational and career opportunities.

• The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship Program awards $28,000 grants over four years to around 60 high school graduates planning to attend four-year colleges or universities. Winners will also receive mentoring and support services from the foundation.

• The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation awards scholarships for several different areas of interest, including visual arts, performing arts, and education. The scholarship sizes vary, but most are $3,000.

• The Ron Brown Scholar Program awards scholarships to Black/African American high school seniors who excel academically and exhibit exceptional leadership potential. The awards are $40,000 for 4 years ($10,000 per year).

Other Sources of Scholarships for African American Students

Some individual colleges offer scholarships for students of specific minorities who attend their schools. Be sure to investigate whether they are available at the colleges on your lists and how to apply for them.

Some African American fraternities and sororities may offer scholarships for members of their organizations. Talk to your group and leaders to find out more.

If you are in a club or organization for African American students, speak the organization’s leader or adviser for advice on applying for scholarships. He or she may have ideas or know of organizations that provide awards to specific minorities. Be sure to also check out the website of the organizations in which you’re involved for scholarship opportunities.

Finally, speak to a teacher or guidance counselor. He or she may have ideas of other resources for finding scholarships.

For more information

To learn about how to apply for scholarships and resources to help in your scholarship search, read some of CollegeVine’s posts below:

Helpful Scholarship Resources and Tips

U.S. Scholarships for International Students

What You Need to Know for a Successful Scholarship Season

A Guide to STEM Scholarships

10 Weird Scholarships You Should Consider

Five Resources To Simplify Your College Planning Process

Guide to the Samsung American Legion Scholarship: A Chance to win $20,000

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