February is such a polarizing month; you either love it or you hate it. I fall on the ‘love’ side of the fence. As a young girl, I enjoyed getting valentines in elementary school. In high school, I waited patiently to see if Cupid (usually some hot senior) would deliver roses to my homeroom class. College, of course, was a whole, new level of crazy; ambitious young men would go above and beyond to impress us girls. Off-key serenades in the dormitory courtyard, giant banners hanging from buildings, or a 10-pound bar of chocolate were not unheard of on campus during the flirty month of February. Thinking back, I would have much rather received something a bit more tangible…like a college scholarship. Wrap a $5,000 check with a bow and I would have been yours for life – or at least until the end of the semester. If you prefer green over gold, or cash over carnations, check out this lovely list of February scholarships just waiting for their prefect match.
1. Y.E.S. Program
The National Rifle Association Foundation provides several scholarships each year to current high school sophomores and juniors. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher to compete for their share of the $30,000 in scholarships available. Deadline: February 1.
2. American Atheists Student Activist Scholarship
High school seniors and current undergraduate students, who are atheists and actively promote free thinking, may compete for one of three scholarships offered through this program. Awards range in value from $1,000 to $2,000 each. Deadline: February 1.
3. Jack Kent Cooke Dissertation Fellowship Award
Students who are pursuing an advanced doctoral degree, and have successfully defended their dissertation proposal, may be eligible for this $25,000 fellowship through the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. A total of six awards are available. Deadline: February 4.
4. MathMovesU Scholarship
The Raytheon Company offers up to 150 scholarships, valued at $1,000 each, to students in the sixth, seventh or eighth grade. Students must submit a PowerPoint that illustrates the importance of math in the mission to Mars. Deadline: February 7.
5. National Peace Essay Contest
This essay contest is open to all current high school students. One winner from each state will receive a $1,000 scholarship and compete for the national awards that range in value from $2,500 to $10,000 each. Deadline: February 10.
6. Courageous Persuaders Video Contest
There are two separate competitions: one for all U.S. high school students and one for Michigan students. The national contest consists of two scholarships valued at $2,000 and one at $1,000. Michigan students will compete for several awards ranging in value from $250 to $3,000 each. All students must submit 30-second videos that highlight the dangers of underage drinking. Deadline: February 12.
7. Mary Elizabeth Lockwood Beneventi MBA Scholarship
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution sponsors this scholarship program for current graduate students who are seeking a degree in business administration. One award valued at $2,000 is available. Deadline: February 15.
8. Jackie Robinson Scholarship
Minority high school seniors, who have an SAT score of 1000 or higher, or an ACT score or 22 or higher, may be eligible for this renewable scholarship. Between 50 and 75 scholarships, valued at up to $6,000 per year, are available. Students must show a commitment to community service. Deadline: February 15.
9. GreenPal Scholarship
Current high school seniors, as well as undergraduate students, may apply for this $2,000 scholarship. Students must major in business and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Deadline: February 28.
10. Sweet & Simple Scholarship
This short essay contest is open to U.S. students who are 13 years of age or older. Students must describe a favorite gift they received and why it was so special. One winner will receive a $1,500 scholarship. Deadline: February 28.
If you’re still trying to think of the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day, why not give the gift of college scholarships? It will only take a few minutes to create an account and best of all, it’s free! Start looking for your perfect match today at Unigo.
