Find Pennsylvania Scholarships | 2024 List

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Looking to pursue your educational dreams in Pennsylvania? The state offers a wealth of opportunities for students seeking financial aid to support their college journey. From bustling cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to the tranquil landscapes of the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania is home to many colleges and universities. In this guide, we'll explore the various scholarship opportunities available to you in Pennsylvania, so you can reach your academic goals!

List of Pennsylvania Scholarships for College

AH&LEF Annual Scholarship Grant Program

$6,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 15 Deadline

This scholarship program is open to U.S. undergraduate students who are enrolled full time in a hospitality management degree-granting program. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher (with the exception of the Conrad Hilton Fund, which accepts students with grade point averages of 2.0 or higher).

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SWE Judy Simmons Memorial Scholarship

$1,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 15 Deadline

This scholarship is open to female undergraduate and graduate students who are members of SWE and majoring in engineering or computer science. Students must attend a college/university with an active SWE chapter in the Region G area.

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Mary Jones Berry Scholarship

$1,250 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 15 Deadline

This scholarship is open to female graduate students who are majoring in aeronautical/aerospace engineering, manufacturing engineering, materials science & engineering, or mechanical engineering. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Preference is given to students attending VA Tech, Univ. of VA, Penn. State, GA Tech, and Purdue Univ.

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Steven G. King Play Environments Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is open to international and U.S. students who are in their final two years of undergraduate study or are in graduate programs at a LAAB-accredited institution. Students must be studying landscape architecture with a demonstrated interest and aptitude in the design of play environments.

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Landscape Forms Design for People Scholarship

$3,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is for international and U.S. students who are in their final year of full-time undergraduate study in landscape architecture at a LAAB-accredited institution. Applicants must show a proven contribution to the design of public spaces that integrates landscape design and the use of amenities to promote social interaction.

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ASLA Council of Fellows Scholarship

$20,000 Award Amount

4 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is open to U.S. students who are in their third, fourth, or fifth year of undergraduate study in landscape architecture at a LAAB-accredited institution. Students must be members of ASLA and demonstrate financial need.

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Chaffin Luhana Anti-Distracted Driving Scholarship

$2,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Jul 31 Deadline

The Chaffin Luhana Anti-Distracted Driving Scholarship is an essay contest open to currently enrolled U.S. students who are 25 years of age or younger. Applicants must submit an original essay offering a unique and practical perspectives on the dangers posed by distracted drivers.

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John Lepping Memorial Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

May 1 Deadline

The John Lepping Memorial Scholarship provides financial assistance to students residing in NY, N J or PA seeking to further their education and who have a physical or psychological disability.

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James W. Stoudt Memorial Law School Scholarship

$9,000 Award Amount

3 Awards

May 1 Deadline

The James W. Stoudt Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Pennsylvania Bar Foundation honors one of the Pennsylvania Bar’s steadfast supporters – the late James (“Jim”) W. Stoudt. 2 of 3 , $3,000 awards will support minority law students attending any one of the approved nine accredited law schools presently serving Pennsylvania.

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Craig D. Butler Scholarship

$2,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Apr 16 Deadline

This scholarship was established to honor the life of Craig D. Butler and to continue his legacy of integrity, generosity and service. Applicants must be of African-American descent, with a GPA of at east 3.0, pursuing higher education whether at a college, university or vocational-technical school.

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Northrop Grumman Foundation Scholarship for Sophomores & Juniors

$25,000 Award Amount

5 Awards

May 1 Deadline

This award is available for female U.S. college sophomores and juniors who major in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, software engineering, or systems engineering. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and attend select institutions as listed on the SWE website.

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Jim and Margie Fegley Orchestral String Scholarship Fund

$1,100 Award Amount

1 Award

Mar 15 Deadline

This scholarship is open to U.S. high school seniors and undergraduate students who are pursuing a Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Music Education, Bachelor of Arts in Music, Bachelor of Science in Music degree, or a music certificate (specifically in orchestral strings). Students must have been actively involved in his/her high school or college music program or a program outside of school, and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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Iris M. Balthaser Adam Scholarship Fund

$1,100 Award Amount

6 Awards

Mar 15 Deadline

This scholarship is for U.S. high school seniors who attend a high school in Berks County, Pennsylvania, and plan to attend Kutztown University to major in elementary education. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher (or 86 percent or higher) and financial need.

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LITA/LSSI Minority Scholarship in Library and Information Technology

$2,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Mar 1 Deadline

U.S. and Canadian citizens who will have earned no more than 12 hours towards a Master of Library Science degree by June of the award year are eligible for this award. Students must be members of a principal minority group; attend an ALA-accredited school; and plan to enter the library automation field.

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ASHRAE J. Richard Mehalick Scholarship

$3,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. undergraduate students who are majoring in mechanical engineering and attending the University of Pittsburgh. The student must plan to pursue a career in an heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R)-related field, and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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David C. J. Peters Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 1 Deadline

This award is for an international or U.S. student who is majoring in engineering and plans to work in the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) profession. The applicant must attend one of the eligible institutions and be in the third year of a four year program, or the fourth year of a five-year program.

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Roothbert Fund Scholarship

$3,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. and international undergraduate or graduate students who have a current or permanent address that is located in one of the following states or plan to move to one of these states prior to March 1 of the year in which the application is made: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, or North Carolina.

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University of Pennsylvania Thouron Award

$31,500 Award Amount

8 Awards

Oct 15 Deadline

This award is available for students from the U.K. who are planning to study in a graduate program at the University of Pennsylvania.

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Katharine M. Grosscup Scholarship

$31,500 Award Amount

9 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

Applicants must be sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate students majoring in horticulture or a related field with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. Students must reside in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or West Virginia.

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Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarship Program

$10,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 17 Deadline

This scholarship is available for U.S. high school seniors who reside within 50 miles of a Simon® property. Students must plan to enroll full time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school in the upcoming fall semester, and must demonstrate academic promise and financial need.

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LTU Bulldog Out-of-State Fee Waiver for Incoming Transfer Students

$2,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is for U.S. and International students who are planning to attend Louisiana Tech University as an out-of-state transfer student. Students must have complete at least 12 semester hours of college credit and have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher.

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Bellarmine University Out-of-State Grant

$6,000 Award Amount

3 Awards

Feb 1 Deadline

U.S. incoming freshmen who are not residents of Kentucky and demonstrate financial need are eligible for this award. Students must attend Bellarmine University in Kentucky.

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Becca's Closet Spirit of Generosity Scholarship

$2,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Mar 29 Deadline

Rebecca was a passionate, bright, fun-loving young woman who loved being with her friends and felt that no one should miss a high school event because they couldn’t afford to be there. She saw the inequity in the situation and sought to change things. During the Spring of her sophomore year, Becca singlehandedly collected and donated over 250 formal dresses and helped hundreds of girls across South Florida attend their High School proms in style. To keep Becca's dream alive, countless dedicated people throughout the United States have joined forces to provide opportunities for those who seek them. Although the core mission of Becca's Closet, located in the Festival Marketplace in Pompano Beach, FL, was to collect and distribute dresses to high school girls with financial need, our goals have expanded to offer additional opportunities for deserving young people. In the spirit of Rebecca's visions and aspirations, our foundation raises funds to award post-secondary educational scholarships recognizing the exemplary efforts of young men and women nationwide who demonstrate Becca's spirit of generosity in their own communities.

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Pennsylvania Society of Public Accountants Scholarships

$9,000 Award Amount

3 Awards

Oct 31 Deadline

The object of this Society is to elevate and maintain among its members a high standard of proficiency and integrity; to promote and protect the interests of public accountants within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; to cultivate a spirit of professional cooperation among its members; to promote local associations of public accountants and establish goodwill and understanding between the general public and the public accounting profession throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

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Done With Distracted Driving Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

May 31 Deadline

An overwhelming number of serious and fatal vehicular accidents are caused by distracted driving. Despite knowing better, drivers continue to reach for their phones while driving. Today, there are applications on our phones that can detect this and warn drivers that using the app while driving is dangerous. There are even some apps that will not allow cell phones to operate until the vehicle has come to a stop. Why is it that people feel an obligation to respond to notifications, text messages or phone calls while driving, even after knowing the risks? As personal injury lawyers, Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers is passionate about decreasing the number of distracted driving accidents. We see firsthand the effects that these accidents have on individuals and oftentimes how life-changing injuries sustained can be. In addition to working with those who have been in car accidents, this cause for awareness is very near and dear to our hearts as well. The firm’s founder, Jon Ostroff, is acquainted with the founder of End Distracted Driving, an organization whose mission is to save lives from distracted driving through advocacy, education, and action. It is our hope that we can all work together to make a significant impact on this generation’s outlook on distracted driving. This is why Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers created the Done with Distracted Driving Scholarship. We wanted to hear from students about realistic ways we can work to put a stop to this dangerous behavior and habit.

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EXPERT INSIGHT Pennsylvania is known for its rich educational heritage that dates back well prior to America’s founding! With top-notch institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, and Penn State University, there are many exceptional choices available to college-bound students. The PA State Grant Program provide substantial support to in-state students, making college more affordable. Paying for college can still be a challenge for many families. A lot of students and families take out student loans, which is often unavoidable. There is another potential way for Pennsylvania students and families – applying for private scholarships. Scholarships can be competitive, but I always remind students and families I work with, that there is no downside to doing so.

-John Hall (BA, MBA, EdD) Expert Quote from John Hall

Pennsylvania boasts a variety of amazing higher education options for students pursuing careers in virtually all fields. If you’re interested in getting a degree in this history-filled and culturally significant American state, chances are you’ve wondered how to begin the scholarship and financial aid process.

Scholarships in Pennsylvania function much like those you can find in other states across the country. From sweepstake scholarships to minority scholarships, there’s no shortage of amazing financial aid you may be able to take advantage of as a higher education student in Pennsylvania. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Scholarships In Pennsylvania

Downtown Philly skyline at sunset with reflections in the calm river.

Scholarships in Pennsylvania come in various forms, including merit-based, need-based, and specialized scholarships tailored to specific fields of study or demographics. Merit-based scholarships are often awarded to students based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.

Need-based scholarships, on the other hand, prioritize students with demonstrated financial need. Additionally, Pennsylvania offers scholarships targeting specific groups, such as minority students, veterans, and individuals pursuing careers in certain industries.

To navigate the diverse array of scholarships in Pennsylvania, you should first assess your eligibility criteria and determine which scholarships align with your academic goals and personal circumstances. Researching available scholarships through online databases, university financial aid offices, and community organizations can provide valuable insights into potential opportunities.

It’s essential to pay close attention to application deadlines and requirements, ensuring that you submit the necessary documents and materials accurately and on time. By understanding the nuances of scholarships in Pennsylvania and proactively seeking out relevant opportunities, you can unlock the vital financial support you need.

How Do You Find Pennsylvania Scholarships

As a current or prospective college student in Pennsylvania, you may find the idea of finding scholarships a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, the process isn’t actually nearly as daunting as it may seem at first glance.

To increase your chances of finding the perfect scholarships for your unique situation and standing as a student, it can help to take some key approaches to the task. Some great strategies for finding scholarships in Pennsylvania include:

Getting a head start: The earlier you start applying, the greater your chances of securing some serious financial aid. In fact, you have the opportunity to start sending out those applications as early as your freshman year of high school.
Consult professionals: If you’re a current university student or know which institution you’ll be attending, it’s imperative to visit your school’s financial aid office. The professionals working there have an in-depth understanding of the financial aid application process as well as a great understanding of Pennsylvania-specific scholarships that can save you a great deal of money.
Take advantage of search engines: Though it might not be the first place you think to look, scholarship search engines like Unigo can significantly simplify and streamline the process of finding Pennsylvania scholarships. If you’re looking to make the most of your time spent searching, take advantage of Unigo’s match tool to be paired with scores of unique scholarships that are perfect for you.

How Do I Apply For Scholarships In Pennsylvania?

Golden hour view of a cityscape featuring a prominent green-domed capitol.

Make sure to begin by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) so you can maximize your financial aid options. When it comes to applying for scholarships in Pennsylvania, it’s important to give each specific scholarship the attention it deserves. While many scholarships may have similar application processes, these can sometimes differ in key ways.

No matter which scholarship you’re applying for, it’s crucial to take time to understand what the requirements are and what types of information and materials you must provide. By taking this key step, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a range of meaningful scholarships.

Merit-Based Scholarships In Pennsylvania

If you excelled in your educational career, whether that’s through your grades, athletic abilities, or other impressive accomplishments, chances are you’re eligible for some amazing scholarships.

Some merit-based scholarships in Pennsylvania you should have on your radar include PHEAA’s Ready to Succeed Scholarship Program, Penn State’s Provost Award, and the CORE Philly Scholarship.

While some of these scholarships are geared toward students who attended and graduated from Pennsylvania high schools, others are available to any student attending college or university in the state.

Scholarships For High School Students In Pennsylvania

Scenic city skyline with rivers, bridges, and a historic cable car in the foreground.

If you’re a Pennsylvania high school student readying yourself for higher education — you’re in luck! Not only is it never too early to start the scholarship application process, but there are many scholarships tailored specifically to Pennsylvania high school students.

Some great scholarships of this type that you should know about as a high school student in Pennsylvania include the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Scholarship, the NAAAP Philadelphia Future Leaders Scholarship, and the Craig D. Butler Scholarship.

Scholarships For High School Seniors In Pennsylvania

If you’re a high school senior in Pennsylvania, you have many scholarship opportunities to take advantage of. A significant amount of Pennsylvania-specific scholarships allow both current college students and high school seniors to apply. Specific scholarships for high school seniors in Pennsylvania include the Pennsylvania Society Scholarship Program, the Pennsylvania American Legion Scholarships, and the Pennsylvania Governor’s School Scholarship.

Scholarships For College Students In Pennsylvania

By seeking out the right scholarships in Pennsylvania and putting effort into applying for them, you can make the process of obtaining a degree more feasible and less financially burdensome. Some scholarships you should consider applying for are The Pennsylvania Society Scholarship and The Pennsylvania Tuition Account Program (TAP). We’ll also give you an in-depth list of 10 amazing scholarships at the bottom of this guide.

Scholarships For Graduate Students In Pennsylvania

Already finished your undergraduate education? Here are some options for you:

Pennsylvania Chafee Education and Training Grant: This is designed to assist former foster youth in Pennsylvania who are pursuing post-secondary education, including graduate studies. It provides financial aid to eligible students to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses.
Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees (PASR) Scholarship Program: The PASR Scholarship Program offers financial assistance to graduate students in Pennsylvania who are pursuing careers in education. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and commitment to the field of education.

Grants For Students In Pennsylvania

Historic college building with a central tower, framed by bare trees and blue sky.

Amidst the many scholarship and loan options, grants are a vital resource for students seeking assistance in funding their academic endeavors. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an attractive option for students in need of financial support. Here are two you should consider:

Pennsylvania State Grant Program: This program provides need-based financial aid to eligible Pennsylvania residents who demonstrate financial need and are pursuing postsecondary education at approved colleges, universities, and vocational schools in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) State Grant: The PHEAA State Grant provides financial assistance to Pennsylvania residents with financial need who are enrolled in approved postsecondary institutions in Pennsylvania. Eligibility is based on various factors, including family income, enrollment status, and cost of attendance.

Pennsylvania Scholarships For Out-of-State Students

In Pennsylvania, opportunities for financial aid extend beyond state residents to out-of-state students seeking to pursue higher education within the Keystone State’s borders. While many scholarships are tailored to Pennsylvania residents, several institutions and organizations offer scholarships specifically designed to attract and support out-of-state students. These scholarships aim to diversify student populations, foster academic excellence, and provide financial assistance to deserving students from across the country.

What Pennsylvania Colleges Provide Full-Ride Scholarships?

Considering the significant financial investment that pursuing higher education entails, many students seek opportunities for full-ride scholarships to alleviate the burden of tuition costs.

In Pennsylvania, several colleges and universities offer full-ride scholarships to attract and support talented students. These scholarships often cover tuition, fees, room, board, and sometimes additional expenses, providing students with a comprehensive financial package.

Here are some of the Pennsylvania colleges that provide such coveted full-ride scholarships:

University of Pennsylvania
Swarthmore College
Carnegie Mellon University
Bucknell University
Lafayette College
Villanova University
Haverford College
Lehigh University
Dickinson College
Franklin & Marshall College

10 Scholarships In Pennsylvania You Should Apply For

Now that we’ve covered the different types of scholarships available to you, here are 10 unique scholarships in Pennsylvania that you should consider applying for:

Pennsylvania Society Scholarships: The Pennsylvania Society offers scholarships to Pennsylvania residents who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to serving their communities.
Pittsburgh Promise Scholarship: The Pittsburgh Promise Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible students who graduate from Pittsburgh Public Schools. It covers tuition and mandatory fees for up to four years of undergraduate study at eligible colleges and universities in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE) Scholarships: PSPE offers scholarships to Pennsylvania residents pursuing degrees in engineering at accredited colleges and universities in the state. The scholarships aim to support students with outstanding academic achievements and a passion for engineering.
Pennsylvania Broadcasters Association Scholarship: This scholarship is available to Pennsylvania residents pursuing a career in broadcasting or related fields such as journalism, communications, or media production. Recipients are selected based on academic merit, extracurricular activities, and career goals.
Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA) Scholarship: PRLA offers scholarships to Pennsylvania residents pursuing degrees in hospitality management, culinary arts, or related fields. The scholarships aim to support students interested in careers in the restaurant and lodging industry.
Pennsylvania Automotive Association (PAA) Scholarship: PAA provides scholarships to Pennsylvania residents pursuing degrees in automotive technology or related fields. The scholarships support students interested in careers in the automotive industry, including automotive repair, service, and maintenance.
Pennsylvania Society of Professional Journalists (PSPJ) Scholarships: PSPJ offers scholarships to Pennsylvania residents studying journalism or related fields such as communications, media studies, or digital media. The scholarships aim to support students with a passion for journalism and a commitment to upholding ethical standards in the profession.
Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association (PPA) Student Scholarships: PPA provides scholarships to Pennsylvania residents enrolled in accredited pharmacy programs in the state. The scholarships support students pursuing careers in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences.
Pennsylvania Association of Realtors (PAR) Scholarship: PAR offers scholarships to Pennsylvania residents pursuing degrees in real estate, business, finance, or related fields. The scholarships aim to support students interested in careers in real estate brokerage, property management, or real estate development.
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) Scholarships: PFB offers scholarships to Pennsylvania residents pursuing degrees in agriculture, agribusiness, or related fields. The scholarships support students interested in careers in farming, ranching, agricultural education, or agricultural advocacy.