Scholarships For LGBT Students

Last Updated on May 22, 2024 by Kathy

Are you an LGBTQ+ student struggling to finance your college education? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many LGBTQ+ students face limited financial aid options due to disclosing their sex assigned at birth. However, numerous scholarships are available to help you mitigate these financial concerns.

Public and private organizations, individual donors, and colleges and universities offer these scholarships. Some of the most popular scholarships include the Point Foundation Scholarships, Pride Foundation Scholarships, Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards, and Traub-Dicker Rainbow Scholarships.

In addition to these scholarships, there are also college resources available specifically for LGBTQ+ students, such as scholarship databases and inclusive college rankings, as well as published resources and guides written by leading experts in the field. With these resources, you can find the financial support you need to pursue your dreams and achieve your academic and career goals.

David Womack Memorial LGBT Scholarships

You can apply for the David Womack Memorial LGBT Scholarships, which provide academic and financial aid opportunities for LGBTQIA+ students in Alabama and West Virginia.

This scholarship program is open to undergraduate and graduate students dedicated to promoting equal rights for the queer community. In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship also offers leadership training and mentoring programs.

To apply, you must submit a scholarship application that includes an essay, letters of recommendation, and proof of academic acceptance. The scholarship opportunities are competitive, so make sure to highlight your community service and leadership experience in your application. 

Point Foundation Scholarships

If you’re an LGBTQ+ individual pursuing a full-time degree at a four-year accredited college or university in the United States, the Point Foundation offers scholarships to help you achieve your academic goals and make a positive impact on the community.

The Point Foundation Scholarships provide financial assistance and opportunities for leadership development to LGBTQ+ students who have demonstrated academic achievement and community service, as well as a commitment to advancing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.

eQuality Scholarships

The eQuality Scholarships provide valuable financial assistance and leadership training to LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies who are pursuing higher education. This scholarship program offers opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students in California. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their academic achievement, community service, and leadership potential.

To apply for eQuality Scholarships, applicants must submit letters of recommendation, personal essays, and other supporting documents that showcase their dedication to advancing LGBTQIA+ rights and promoting equal access to education. 

Markowski-Leach Scholarships

These scholarships aim to provide financial assistance and leadership development opportunities to LGBTQ+ students pursuing a degree or teaching credentials in the following universities and colleges: San Francisco State University, UC San Francisco, Stanford University, UC Berkeley,  or the University of California Hastings College of Law.

To apply, students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate academic achievement, and be involved in community service and advocacy organizations.

Pacific Gas & Electric Company PrideNetwork ERG Scholarship

The scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who identify as LGBTQ+ or as an ally and who reside in California. The program aims to promote equality and strengthen communication despite differences in age, gender, culture, and other circumstances.

To apply, you must submit an essay and proof of college attendance/acceptance. This scholarship is a great opportunity for LGBTQ+ students interested in pursuing a career in STEM programs. 

Perceptions of the Saginaw Valley Scholarship

Applying for the Perceptions of Saginaw Valley Scholarship could be the key to unlocking your dreams of higher education and making a positive impact on your community. As an LGBTQ+ student and resident in Michigan, this academic scholarship is specifically designed to help alleviate financial hardships and provide access to education.

The Perceptions of Saginaw Valley Scholarship is open to queer youth and transgender students pursuing vocational, undergraduate, or graduate programs. A minimum of 2.5 GPA is required to qualify. 

Colin Higgins Youth Courage Awards

Winning the Colin Higgins Youth Courage Award is a powerful recognition of the strength and resilience LGBTQ+ student filmmakers possess in overcoming adversity and discrimination to share their stories with the world.

The award is specifically designed to provide scholarship funding to students pursuing film or video degrees who are positive role models and have shown leadership roles within the LGBTQ+ community. This scholarship is a great opportunity for LGBTQ+ students to express their creativity, share their experiences, and receive recognition for their hard work.

Milton E. Ford LGBT Scholarships

The Milton E. Ford LGBT scholarship offers three types of scholarships at Grand Valley State University – GVSU Faculty-Staff LGBT Scholarship, West Shore AWARE Scholarship, and Hamlin Endowed Memorial Scholarship.

The goal of the program is to promote equality and inclusive environments for queer students, including transgender students, queer women, and other queer-identified individuals who are often underrepresented in mainstream scholarship programs.

CFPCA LGBT Endowed Scholarship

The CFPCA LGBT Endowed Scholarship provides financial assistance and recognition to deserving individuals who are passionate about promoting equality and inclusivity in the arts.

This annual scholarship is awarded to college students who are enrolled in the College of Fine, Performing, and Communication Arts at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

Acorn Equality Fund Scholarships

If you’re seeking financial assistance to pursue your post-secondary education, don’t forget to check out the Acorn Equality Fund Scholarships. These scholarships are available to LGBTQ+ students and allies residing in downstate Illinois.

As a gay, lesbian, or trans student, you may face financial obstacles when it comes to obtaining an education, but these scholarships can help mitigate those concerns. The Acorn Equality Fund Scholarships, along with other general LGBTQ+ scholarships available at the national and regional level, can provide the financial support you need to achieve your academic goals.

Pride Foundation Scholarships

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to apply for Pride Foundation scholarships, which are available to you if you’re an LGBTQ+ student or ally residing in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, or Washington.

The Pride Foundation offers awards and scholarships for high school students and undergraduate and graduate college students. The program also offers various online workshops open to all types of gender.

PFund Scholarship

You should definitely consider applying for the PFund Scholarship if you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community from Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, or South Dakota and in need of financial assistance for your education. The scholarship awards scholarships to LGBTQ+ students who are from or currently enrolled in school in these states.

The PFund Scholarship particularly supports trans students, lesbian students, students of color, and those attending community colleges or less traditional education institutions. The scholarship is administered by PFund Foundation, a community foundation that supports LGBTQ+ communities in the upper Midwest.

LEAGUE Foundation Scholarships

The LEAGUE Foundation Scholarships provide self-identified members of LGBTQ+ communities with financial support to pursue higher education and recognize their community service contributions.

This individual scholarship is designed for LGBTQ+ students who are about to graduate from high school within the year. A requirement of a GPA above 3.0 and pursuing studies in an accredited college, university, or vocational institution in the U.S. or Canada. 

Audria M. Edwards Scholarship Fund

The Audria M. Edwards Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to LGBTQ+ individuals residing in Oregon or certain counties in southwest Washington who are pursuing postsecondary or undergraduate education.

This scholarship is available to full-time students at any level, including graduate school, and can be used for any field of study. Scholarship candidates must identify as LGBTQ+ or have an LGBTQ+ parent and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to students who are single parents, pursuing a degree in public health, or have utilized mental health services.

Out To Innovate Scholarships for LGBTQ+STEM Students

This program awards scholarships to high school seniors, undergraduate students, and graduate students who are committed to advancing the LGBTQ+ community in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.

The scholarship aid can be used for various degree programs, including associate degrees, nursing degrees, public health degrees, and STEM degrees. Recipients of these scholarships will also be able to attend the annual Out to Innovate Career Summit, which provides networking opportunities and professional development workshops. 

49 Legacy Scholarships

Deserving LGBTQ+ students in Central Florida can benefit from the 49 Legacy Scholarships. These scholarships provide financial assistance and support for their educational pursuits. They are available for students pursuing a postsecondary education, vocational schools, or a graduate program.

OnePulse Foundation offers the scholarship. It was founded in 2016 after the unfortunate Orlando nightclub shooting incident. 

Can you get a scholarship for being LGBT?

If you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community, numerous scholarships are available to help alleviate financial burdens and support your academic pursuits. Awards scholarships are available for varying levels of education, from high school diplomas to undergraduate education and beyond.

Whether you’re pursuing a career in journalism, public health, nursing degrees, family therapy, or even law enforcement, there’s a scholarship out there for you. Some of the biggest scholarship providers include the Point Foundation, Pride Foundation, and the League Foundation, which offer tuition assistance and other support to LGBTQIA+ students and allies.

So don’t let financial obstacles hold you back from achieving your academic and career goals – explore the many scholarship opportunities available to you. 

How to apply for LGBT Scholarships?

Firstly, it’s important to research funding opportunities and see which scholarships align with your interests, such as STEM-related fields, public health, or nursing degrees.

Then, list the awards scholarships you want to apply for and check their requirements, such as essays or proof of college attendance/acceptance.

Some scholarships are available for college freshmen, while others are only for graduate students or associate degree holders.

Additionally, don’t forget to consider scholarships from individual donors or organizations like the Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists for a career in journalism.

By taking the time to research and apply for these scholarships, you can set yourself up for a successful life and financial stability.

Do LGBT Scholarships Require FAFSA?

YES, as many scholarship providers require it as part of the application process. This is because some scholarships consider financial need, and the FAFSA helps determine a student’s eligibility for the Pell Grant and other federal funding opportunities.

It is important to note that not all LGBTQ+ scholarships require the FAFSA, so be sure to check the specific requirements for each scholarship.

Additionally, some scholarships may require other documentation, such as proof of enrollment in a nursing program or an associate degree program, while others may be specific to a STEM-related field or be geared towards lesbian women or those pursuing a career in journalism.

Whatever your goals or daily life may look like, there is likely an academic scholarship or other funding opportunity out there designed to help you achieve your dreams. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international LGBT students apply for these scholarships?

Yes, many scholarships for LGBT students are open to international applicants. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship and reach out to the scholarship provider if you have any questions or concerns. Good luck!

How much money can I expect to receive from an LGBT scholarship?

You can expect varying amounts from LGBT scholarships, depending on the specific scholarship and your qualifications. Researching and applying multiple options is important to increase your chances of receiving financial support for your education.

Can I apply for multiple LGBT scholarships at once?

Yes, you can apply for multiple LGBT scholarships simultaneously. Just make sure to read the eligibility requirements carefully and submit all necessary materials. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the scholarship providers for assistance.

Do I need to disclose my sexual orientation or gender identity in my scholarship application?

You don’t necessarily need to disclose your sexual orientation or gender identity in your scholarship application. However, if the scholarship is specifically for LGBTQ+ students, it may be beneficial to share your identity to strengthen your application. 

Conclusion

As you’ve learned, numerous organizations and colleges offer financial assistance to LGBTQ+ students and allies. By applying for these scholarships, you can mitigate the financial burden of obtaining a college education and focus on achieving your academic and personal goals.

Remember, these scholarship opportunities aren’t limited to just one year of college, as many of them offer renewable funding for multiple years. Applying for these scholarships may seem daunting initially, but you can increase your chances of success with the right resources and guidance.

Be sure to research the requirements and deadlines for each scholarship, and don’t hesitate to contact the organizations offering them additional support.