Are you in your junior year? Now is the perfect time to start thinking about your life beyond high school. College might seem like a distant dream, but it’s closer than you think! Embarking on the journey from high school to college is an exciting time filled with possibilities, and junior year is a good time to start planning the next chapter of your academic career. Amidst the whirlwind of SATs, extracurricular activities, and college visits, one essential aspect often overlooked is securing scholarships.
$2,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
The Katherine and Bill McGregor Scholarship is available for high school seniors in Archer and Wichita Counties in Texas who have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher and plans to attend Vernon College.
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$12,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
The McCoy Scholarship is avaialble for graduating high school seniors in Wichita County, Texas who have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher. Applicants must plan to attend a college or university in Texas.
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$2,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
The Odessa and Tom J. Miller Vocational Scholarship is available for graduating seniors in Electra, Texas. Applicants must be planning to attend a two-year college for nursing or another vocational program.
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$2,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
The Pat Ehlert Memorial Scholarship is available for graduating seniors in Iowa Park, Texas who have a grade point average of between 2.0 and 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
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$3,000
Award Amount
13
Awards
Mar 3
Deadline
ASHG supports National DNA Day through the Annual DNA Day Essay Contest which is open to students in grades 9-12 worldwide.
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$650
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 6
Deadline
The Equal Pay Day Chicago Student Journalism Contest is available for high school students in Chicago who submit an essay on the topic of equal pay and existing pay disparities in the United States. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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$8,165
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 24
Deadline
This scholarship is for high school juniors who have achieved excellent academic results and are from a low-income family.
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$500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 31
Deadline
This award is for U.S. and Canadian high school and college students who are between the ages of 16 and 25 as of the application deadline date. Students must have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 31
Deadline
This essay contest is open to U.S. and international students who are in first grade through graduate school. Contest winners may be asked to attend the awards banquet in California at their own cost to receive their prize.
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$3,000
Award Amount
6
Awards
Mar 31
Deadline
The Youth Forward Scholarship Program is provided annually for high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, and current college freshman who submit an essay on their volunteer and community service experiences. Click here to learn more and apply today!
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Apr 1
Deadline
This award is available to a migrant farmworker student who has a recent migration to Illinois. Applications are available by contacting the Geneseo Migrant Center.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Apr 1
Deadline
The 1,000 Dreams Scholarship Fund is available for high school women in the U.S. who wish to pursue additional lessons, activities, or projects beyond the normal scope of the class room.
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$2,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Apr 8
Deadline
The DISTCO Digital Storytelling Contest is available to U.S. and international students currently enrolled in high school and planning to attend North American College in Houston, TX.
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$10,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Apr 8
Deadline
The Lentin Scholarship Fund is available for Jewish high school juniors and seniors in the greater St. Louis area who have unmet financial need. Click here to learn more about how to apply today!
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$10,000
Award Amount
10
Awards
Apr 15
Deadline
This award is for young people aged 8-18 who have completed an extraordinary service project. Applicants should be between the ages of 8 and 18, and permanent residents of the United States or Canada. The Barron Prize does not discriminate against its applicants based on race, color, ethnicity, and etc.
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$20,000
Award Amount
16
Awards
Apr 15
Deadline
U.S. students aged 14 through 19 in grades 8 through 12 are eligible to enter this essay contest. Students must write an essay of no more than 800 words on the Bill of Rights.
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$5,000
Award Amount
10
Awards
Apr 15
Deadline
Becker College, Team Genji and Helix eSports have launched the nation’s first path-to-pro Apex Legends esports scholarship program. Top performing gamers who newly apply, and are admitted, to Becker College will then be eligible to receive a one-time $5,000 scholarship to the school.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Apr 15
Deadline
The goals of The Walt Disney Company UNCF Corporate Scholars Program are to help create a diverse pipeline of college educated professionals ready to assume fulfilling off-camera careers in entertainment and to help raise the number of underrepresented minorities employed in the entertainment industry.
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$100
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 1
Deadline
This cash award is available for students in grades 9-11 who are of Norwegian ancestry and reside in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Kendall, McHenry, or Will counties in Illinois. Students must write an essay on any topic regarding Norway.
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Aug 31
Deadline
The SmarterCollege Scholarship Sweepstakes is only open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, age 17 or older at the time of entry, and who meet one (1) of the five (5) following eligibility requirements at the time of entry:
a parent who currently has a child enrolled in an accredited college or university located within the United States;
a student who is currently enrolled in an accredited college or university located within the United States;
a parent who currently has a child enrolled as a high school senior located within the United States;
a student who is currently enrolled as a high school senior located with the United States;
a student or a parent whose child has graduated from an accredited undergraduate school (a “School) and who is currently paying back a student or parent loan for his/her/child’s educational expenses for such School (“Entrant”).
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Nov 20
Deadline
The program offers US$1,500 to each winners who would agree to provide a brief report 6 months after receiving the scholarship and a final report (2-3 sentence summary) that will published on this website. We prioritize to support the high school students and trainees in biomedicine with the following 5 characteristics:
- Dare to challenge status quo
- Devoted to public service
- Deliver outcomes
- Driven to excel
- Diverse background
The program is open to application in the fall of each year unless otherwise noted. Please visit the Apply page to submit your application before Nov. 20 of this year. The advisory committee would review and select winners and is composed of well-regarded scientists and professionals. All candidates would be de-identified during the review process for objective assessments.
The winners/5D scholars of 2021 were announced on Dec. 20, 2021 and include 3 scholars and 2 runners-up.
The program is not limited to seniors students, nor limited to the endorsed students. However, we will de-identify all candidates during review process. This pilot program is currently open to selected high schools so that we collect feedback and improve it.
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$1,500
Award Amount
3
Awards
Nov 30
Deadline
CareerVillage is a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is to democratize access to career and college advice for ALL youth. We do this through a Q + A platform where students can ask any question they have and professionals from all over the world will respond with advice. This is a completely free service for all of our users.
We understand that not every student has a mentor in their life and this is a way to bridge that gap.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Dec 31
Deadline
As an athlete and student, Alan Bowman is no stranger to the stressors and pressure that often come with navigating college and extracurricular responsibilities, and how all of these factors can have a negative impact on student mental health.
Mental health is a topic that seems to be overlooked by society today, especially for men and athletes. There's a stigma that all men must be strong and tough not only physically, but also emotionally; we're taught to bottle our emotions and not openly discuss problems that we're going through.
Like many other students, I have dealt with mental health issues throughout my college career, and I'm so grateful for the support from the amazing people in my corner. Because of that, I urge you not to walk alone on your journey. I'm here to help break this stigma and prove that sometimes it's okay to not be okay. The more we talk about what we're going through, the easier it becomes to recognize we need help and utilize resources to do just that.
I am super excited to be partnering with Access Scholarships to award a $1,000 scholarship to a student who recognizes the importance of speaking up about mental health, and is an advocate in their community for encouraging others to do the same. Together, we can Sack the Stigma!
Current high school, college and graduate students of all years are encouraged to apply below.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jan 1
Deadline
?”Welcome to Prep For Success! Kamil and I (Samantha) are entrepreneurs from New Jersey that have a passion for education. Thus, we created Prep For Success Tutor. For over ten years, Prep For Success has provided classes and one-on-one tutoring services in a wide array of subjects including standardized exams, college applications, general math, English, and more. Our impact has been continuously growing, and Prep For Success is proud to say that we have over one hundred 5 star reviews on thumbtack and google! One main feature that sets us apart from other tutoring companies is that Kamil and I (the founders of the company) are fully invested in the company and work as tutors as well. This allows us to not have a disconnected experience from what the students need and be fully invested in all the student’s successes. This also gives our company a small mom-and-pop feel! We welcome you to our company, and hope that you will join us in your education venture!”
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$3,500
Award Amount
3
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
The Species on the Edge 2.0 challenge invites high school students to work in teams on a video project with a chance to win a cash prize. Entry forms are due on March 1, 2024. Projects are due by April 5.
This challenge will help students learn how to protect and preserve rare and at-risk wildlife that live, breed, and migrate through New Jersey. You will be surprised to learn how many species are currently “on the edge” and endangered here in the nation’s most densely populated state. This fun and engaging project will allow you to collaborate with your peers as you journey together to create real-world solutions to keep wildlife safe. This year, students will work in teams and, when presented with several different scenarios, will select a role such as research scientist, citizen scientist, engineer, policy maker, investigative reporter, college professor, director of a non-profit organization, or environmental artist. Students will construct a video to bring awareness and educate the public about endangered species and their environments.
The contest also helps students develop skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM), environmental advocacy, design thinking, social and emotional learning, teamwork, critical thinking, and project management. Entry to the contest is free and offers students and facilitators the opportunity to win cash prizes!
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While you may think that many scholarships are geared toward seniors, there are numerous opportunities specifically tailored to high school juniors. These scholarships not only offer financial support but also recognize academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement. Scholarships aren’t just about money (though that’s a big part of it); they’re about taking control of your future and showing colleges what you’re made of.
By applying for scholarships now, you’re not only paving the way for your college education but also gaining valuable experience in the application process. So, let’s dive in together and explore the world of scholarships for high school juniors!
Can High School Juniors Apply for Scholarships?
High school juniors can definitely apply for scholarships, and it’s never too early to start exploring opportunities available to you! While scholarships for high school juniors may not be as widely advertised as those for seniors, there are still plenty of options out there.
Many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for juniors, aiming to attract top talent early on in the college application process. These scholarships often have varying criteria, including academic achievement, leadership qualities, extracurricular involvement, and community service. By starting your scholarship search early, you give yourself a competitive edge and increase your chances of securing financial aid for college.
Additionally, there are external scholarship programs and organizations that welcome applications from high school juniors. These programs may focus on specific areas of interest, such as STEM fields, the arts, or community engagement. By exploring these opportunities, you can not only potentially fund your college education but also gain valuable experience in the scholarship application process – setting yourself up for success in your senior year and beyond.
What Scholarships Are Available for Juniors?
Exploring scholarship opportunities as a junior can be a strategic step toward securing funding for your future college education. Despite not accessing the funds immediately, many organizations offer scholarships specifically for juniors, providing financial support for their upcoming college years. These scholarships can originate from various sources, including your school, local community organizations, professional associations, and even major corporations aligned with your chosen field of study.
With such diverse avenues available, high school juniors have the opportunity to identify and apply for multiple scholarships that align with their academic and personal achievements, helping to alleviate the financial burden of college tuition.
10 Scholarship Opportunities For High School Juniors 2024
Here are ten scholarship opportunities specifically tailored for high school juniors in 2024. Keep in mind that eligibility for these scholarships typically hinges on whether you successfully enroll in a college program:
- The Flavor of the Month Scholarship offers a one-time award of $1,500 and is available to high school students 14 and older.
- For those interested in gaming, the $2,000 Minecraft Scholarship requires applicants to submit a 500-word essay on how Minecraft can contribute to education and career development.
- Another option is the Niche No Essay Monthly Scholarship, which awards $2,000 to 12 recipients every month and is open to high school, college students, or adult learners.
- The Nitro College Student Scholarship provides $2,000 to legal US resident high school students and college freshmen who are at least 17 years old.
- The Cappex Big Money Scholarship offers $3,000 to four high school students annually, as long as they are US citizens attending US schools.
- For those interested in budgeting, the Coupon Chief Scholarship Program awards $1,000 to high school and college students who create a video on saving funds and spending less.
- ExpressVPN’s Future of Privacy Scholarship presents a one-time award of $5,000 and is open to high school or college students, including international applicants.
- The Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship offers $1,000 to high school, college, or grad school students for submitting a short response on texting and driving.
- The Voice of Democracy Scholarship stands out with a $30,000 award for a high school student in 9th to 12th grade, requiring applicants to complete an essay and entry form.
- The Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship provides a one-time award of $2,000 to students 14 and older, requiring them to submit an essay on a question related to a zombie apocalypse.
Essay Scholarships for Juniors
Essay scholarships are opportunities for students to showcase their writing skills while competing for financial aid. These scholarships typically require applicants to submit a well-written essay on a specific topic or prompt. Writing an essay allows you to express your thoughts, creativity, and unique perspectives – making it a popular format for scholarship competitions.
As a high school junior looking for essay scholarships, you have several options available to showcase your writing abilities and potentially earn financial assistance for college. One example is the Fountainhead Essay Contest, which invites students to explore Ayn Rand’s novel The Fountainhead and respond to prompts related to its themes.
Another option is the Profile in Courage Essay Contest, which challenges students to research and write about political courage as demonstrated by a US elected official. Additionally, the Optimist International Essay Contest offers juniors the opportunity to reflect on a designated topic and share their views on the importance of optimism in today’s world.
How Do You Find Scholarships?
As a high school junior gearing up for senior year and college, searching for scholarships can be fun! Scholarships not only help pave the way for your educational pursuits but can also recognize your hard work and dedication from what you’ve accomplished so far in high school as a freshman and sophomore. Here are some tips for finding high school junior scholarships:
- Check with Guidance Counselors: Meet with your school’s guidance counselor or college advisor for assistance in finding scholarships. They often have valuable resources, information on local scholarships, and guidance on the application process.
- Research Local Organizations: Investigate scholarship opportunities offered by local businesses, community organizations, religious institutions, and civic groups in your area. These scholarships may have less competition and may be tailored to students from specific schools or communities.
- Attend College Fairs and Events: Attend college fairs, financial aid workshops, and scholarship seminars to learn about available opportunities and connect with representatives from colleges and scholarship organizations. These events can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
- Tailor Your Search: Focus your scholarship search on opportunities that align with your interests, achievements, and background. Look for scholarships related to your academic strengths, extracurricular activities, community service involvement, and career goals to increase your chances of success.
- Explore Specialty Scholarships: Investigate scholarships specifically designed for students with unique talents, interests, or backgrounds. These could include scholarships for athletes, artists, musicians, STEM enthusiasts, LGBTQ+ students, first-generation college students, and more. Don’t overlook niche scholarships that may cater to your individual strengths and experiences!
- Network and Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to teachers, mentors, family members, and friends for recommendations on scholarship opportunities. They may be aware of scholarships not widely advertised or have connections with organizations offering financial aid. Networking can help uncover hidden gems and increase your chances of finding suitable scholarships.
Other Ways Juniors Can Find Scholarships
On top of what we listed above, you may be able to find scholarships for 11th graders through professional organizations, hobby organizations, clubs you belong to, and colleges and universities. Begin by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The FAFSA is an online form available at no cost, designed for students and their families to apply for federal student aid before each academic year. By gathering information about a family’s income, assets, and other relevant factors, the FAFSA assesses their financial need. Colleges use this data to determine the amount and types of financial aid you are eligible to receive. This aid encompasses federal grants, work-study opportunities, and loans.
Also make sure to explore scholarship databases, websites, and search engines dedicated to connecting students with financial aid opportunities. Websites like Unigo can help you discover scholarships tailored to your interests and qualifications. You just input the specific information you are looking for and can see a list of available scholarships that meet your specific needs. There is no limit to the number of scholarships you can apply for!
Tips for Applying to Scholarships in 11th Grade
As you embark on your journey through junior year, now’s the perfect time to start exploring scholarship opportunities to ease the financial burden of higher education. Here are some invaluable tips to help you navigate the scholarship application process and maximize your chances of success:
Tip #1: Start Early
Begin researching scholarships early in your junior year to identify opportunities that align with your interests, achievements, and future goals. This will give you ample time to gather required documents, complete applications, and meet deadlines without feeling rushed.
Tip #2: Create a Scholarship Calendar
Keep track of application deadlines and requirements using a dedicated scholarship calendar or spreadsheet. Organizing this information will help you stay on top of submissions and ensure you don’t miss out on valuable opportunities.
Tip #3: Tailor Your Applications
Customize your scholarship applications to highlight your unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Tailoring your essays and personal statements to each scholarship’s specific requirements demonstrates your genuine interest and increases your chances of standing out to selection committees.
Tip #4: Secure Strong Recommendations
Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, employers, or mentors who can speak to your academic achievements, character, and potential. Choose individuals who know you well and can provide insightful and compelling endorsements to support your application.
Tip #5: Proofread and Revise:
Take the time to carefully proofread and revise your scholarship applications before submitting them. Ensure that your essays are well-written, free of errors, and effectively communicate your message. Consider seeking feedback from trusted advisors to refine your application materials and make them as strong as possible.
What to Expect as a High School Senior
As you transition into your senior year of high school, you’re embarking on a significant phase of your academic journey. This year is marked by crucial decisions, including finalizing college applications, exploring financial aid options, and preparing for the transition to higher education. It’s essential to approach your senior year with a sense of purpose and determination, recognizing the opportunities it presents for personal and academic growth.
One of the primary focuses of your senior year will be completing and submitting college applications. Take the time to research potential colleges and universities, considering factors such as academic programs, campus culture, and location. As you compile your list of schools, be mindful of application deadlines and requirements, aiming to submit your applications well in advance to alleviate any last-minute stress.
In addition to college applications, senior year also involves navigating the financial aspects of higher education. Explore financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, and complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial assistance. Keep track of scholarship deadlines and requirements, actively seeking out opportunities that align with your achievements and aspirations.
Senior year comes with its own set of responsibilities and commitments, including maintaining academic excellence and participating in extracurricular activities. Balancing your academic workload with extracurricular pursuits demonstrates your dedication to personal and academic growth and enhances your college applications. Embrace this time of self-discovery and growth, leaning on your support network of family, friends, teachers, and counselors for guidance and encouragement!
While your senior year may bring its share of challenges and uncertainties, it’s also a time to celebrate your accomplishments and cherish the moments leading up to graduation. Make the most of your final year of high school by creating lasting memories, participating in meaningful experiences, and embracing the journey ahead. Remember that the transition to college is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for success!
Our Scholarships
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$1,500 – I Have a Dream
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$10,000 – Unigo $10K Award
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$1,500 – Sweet and Simple
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$2,500 – Superpower
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$3,000 – All About Education
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$1,500 – Fifth Month Scholarship
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$1,500 – Do-Over
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$1,500 – Flavor of the Month
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$1,500 – Make Me Laugh
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$1,500 – Shout It Out
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$2,000 – Zombie Apocalypse
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$5,000 – Education Matters
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$1,500 – Top Ten List
Written by McKenna Deen
✔️
Edited by Dave Moniz