Did you know that women represent approximately 60% of all college students? This statistic highlights that female students constitute the majority of the college population; however, many still face challenges in affording tuition. Research indicates that women tend to borrow around 10% more in student loans compared to their male counterparts. Given the persistent gender wage gap, it is increasingly crucial for women to reduce their student loan debt.
This is where scholarships play a vital role. They offer an excellent means to cover college-related expenses without the need for loans. However, the scholarship application process can be complex. Continue reading to discover more about scholarships available for women and how they can help you graduate from college without debt.
7 Scholarships For Women With Upcoming Deadlines
1. Dr. Omega Logan Silva Scholarship
The Dr. Omega Logan Silva Healthcare Legacy Scholarship is established to honor her dedication to aiding economically disadvantaged women who wish to pursue careers in the healthcare field. Eligibility criteria include being a graduating student from an accredited high school or an individual currently enrolled in higher education, vocational training, or graduate studies. Candidates must be from or attending a school within the designated area.
Amount ; $20,000
Deadline ; January 6, 2025
2. Amber Huber Memorial Scholarship
The scholarship funds at CFNIL were established by generous donors who understand the significance of supporting students in their pursuit of educational aspirations, both now and for future generations. The criteria for these funds were determined by the interests of the donors and the needs of the community. A number of CFNIL’s scholarships serve as memorials, honoring the lives and passions of remarkable individuals. Applications are evaluated and scored by dedicated committees.
Amount ; Varies
Deadline ; February 1, 2025
3. Nevada Women’s Fund Scholarships
Since its inception in 1983, the Nevada Women’s Fund has distributed $4.9 million in scholarships to women in northern Nevada. A significant number of our scholarship recipients are women re-entering the workforce and single mothers who have faced challenges in completing their education due to family responsibilities or financial limitations. Scholarships are granted directly to the recipients, and we are committed to ongoing scholarship allocations.
Amount ; $5,000
Deadline ; January 6, 2025
4. WTS-NH Undergraduate Scholarship
WTS is committed to fostering a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable transportation sector by promoting the advancement of women. The WTS-NH chapter aims to engage, develop, and support the future leaders of the transportation field in New Hampshire. One of the initiatives to achieve this goal is the WTS-NH Undergraduate Scholarship, which is awarded to current and former high school students from New Hampshire.
Amount ; $2,500
Deadline ; January 3, 2025
5. Carolyn Wones Scholarship
CFNIL’s scholarship funds were established by donors who appreciate the vital role of assisting students in achieving their educational objectives, both presently and in the future. The criteria for these funds were chosen based on the donors’ interests and the community’s requirements. Many scholarships offered by CFNIL are memorials that pay tribute to the lives and passions of significant individuals. Applications undergo review and scoring by specialized committees.
Amount ; Varies
Deadline ; February 1, 2025
6. Deborah Jean Rydberg Memorial Scholarship
The Deborah Jean Rydberg Memorial Scholarship aims to provide educational support for students at Guilford High School as they strive to fulfill their higher education ambitions. Deborah Jean Rydberg was a dedicated coach, friend, and mentor to the young women she guided in softball, basketball, and volleyball at Guilford High School. From a young age, Deb was determined to earn a teaching degree, fully aware of her passion for education.
Amount ; Varies
Deadline ; February 1, 2025
7. Distinguished Young Women Scholarships
To be eligible for any scholarships provided by Distinguished Young Women, participation in a local program is required. This may involve attending rehearsals and taking part in an on-stage performance. Scholarship Information This nationwide initiative is available in all 50 states and Washington, DC. High school juniors or seniors can apply, depending on the specific state requirements.
Amount ; Varies
Deadline ; January 4, 2025
What Are Scholarships For Women?
Scholarships designated for women are financial awards that are primarily granted to female students. However, certain scholarships, such as the Women at Microsoft Scholarship, may extend eligibility to individuals who identify as gender-fluid or non-binary, alongside additional criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for the Women at Microsoft Scholarship
- Applicants must be graduating high school seniors.
- Candidates should self-identify as a woman, non-binary, or gender-fluid.
- There should be an intention to pursue a career in STEAM fields or a demonstrated enthusiasm for technology.
- Applicants must plan to enroll in an accredited two- to four-year college or university in the United States or a U.S. affiliate program.
- A minimum high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent is required.
Numerous scholarships aimed at women are awarded to those pursuing specific majors or disciplines, particularly in areas that have been historically male-dominated. These scholarships aim to encourage female participation in these fields or to alleviate financial barriers, such as the W.I.S.E (Washington Women in STEM Excel) Scholarship, which offers $3,500 for educational expenses.
To qualify for the Washington Women in STEM Excel Scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria. Firstly, candidates must be residents of Washington State. Additionally, a strong interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) is essential.
While some scholarships for women are broadly applicable, others may specifically target individuals who are single mothers or those who have experienced abusive situations. It is important to note that many scholarships require applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Furthermore, a significant number of these scholarships are exclusively available to full-time students, although some may also accept applications from part-time students.
In terms of locating scholarships for women, educational institutions often serve as valuable resources. However, it is advisable to explore additional avenues. Creating an account on platforms such as Scholarships.com allows individuals to input their information and discover scholarships that align with their profiles. Moreover, it is beneficial not to restrict the search solely to women-specific scholarships. Numerous diversity-oriented scholarships may also be applicable, even if they are not exclusively designated for women. For instance, women who identify as part of the queer community may consider applying for the Point Foundation Flagship Scholarship, which offers the possibility of renewal for up to four years.