Congratulations, high school seniors! You’re one step closer to achieving your dream of attending college.
But before you can start packing your bags, you must figure out how to pay for it. That’s where scholarships come in.
Thousands of scholarships are available to high school students, and many have deadlines approaching quickly.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 60 scholarships for high school seniors graduating in 2023.
Let’s get right into it!
Top 60 Scholarships for High School Students Graduating in 2023
Here are 60 of the top scholarships for high school students graduating in 2023:
1. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
This scholarship is awarded to 250 students nationwide who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
The scholarship is worth $20,000 per year for four years.
2. Gates Millennium Scholars
This scholarship is awarded to 3,000 students from low-income families who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
The scholarship is worth full tuition, room and board, and books for up to four years of undergraduate study.
3. National Merit Scholarship Corporation
This scholarship organization awards scholarships to high school students who score well on the PSAT/NMSQT exam. Scholarships range in value from $500 to $2,000.
4. U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
This program recognizes outstanding high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Each year, 160 students are named U.S. Presidential Scholars.
5. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation
This foundation awards scholarships to high school students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. Scholarships range in value from $25,000 to $40,000.
6. Horatio Alger Association
This organization awards scholarships to high school students who have overcome adversity and demonstrated academic excellence. Scholarships range in value from $10,000 to $52,000.
7. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation – Hispanic Initiative
This scholarship is awarded to 50 Hispanic students nationwide who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. The scholarship is worth $20,000 per year for four years.
8. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation – Young Scholars Program
This program awards scholarships to high school students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. Scholarships range in value from $10,000 to $50,000.
9. Dell Scholars
The Dell Scholars program is a college scholarship program that provides $25,000 per year for four years to high school students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need. The program is open to students from all backgrounds and academic interests.
10. The Posse Foundation
The Posse Foundation is a non-profit organization that identifies, recruits, and trains high-achieving students from under-resourced communities for college success.
Posse Scholars receive full tuition, room and board, and books for up to four years at one of Posse’s partner colleges and universities.
11. Morehead-Cain Scholarship
Morehead-Cain Scholarship is a full scholarship that provides tuition, room and board, books, and other expenses for up to four years to high school students accepted to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The scholarship is extremely competitive, with only about 200 students selected yearly from over 30,000 applicants.
12. QuestBridge National College Match
QuestBridge National College Match is a program that connects high-achieving, low-income students with full four-year scholarships to participating colleges.
The program is open to students graduating from high school in the United States with a family income below $65,000.
13. Truman Scholars
Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation is a federal scholarship program that provides up to $30,000 per year for up to four years of graduate or professional study to college students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
14. Boren Scholarship
The David L. Boren Scholarships and Fellowships are prestigious awards that provide up to $20,000 to $30,000 to U.S. undergraduate and graduate students who study abroad in areas of the world critical to U.S. interests and are underrepresented in study abroad.
15. Udall Scholarship
The Udall Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program in the United States that provides funding for undergraduate students who have demonstrated leadership, commitment to environmental or tribal public policy issues, and academic excellence.
The Udall Scholarship provides up to $7,000 in financial support for each recipient. However, the actual amount awarded may vary and is determined by tuition, fees, books, room and board costs, and the recipient’s financial need.
16. Marshall Scholarship
The Marshall Scholarship is a prestigious award that provides full funding for graduate study in the United Kingdom to outstanding American students.
The scholarship was created in 1953 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which ended World War II.
17. Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded international scholarship founded in 1902 by Cecil Rhodes, a British mining magnate, politician, and philanthropist.
The scholarship is awarded to outstanding students worldwide to study at the University of Oxford.
18. HCC & AMN Healthcare Scholarship Essay Contest
The HCC & AMN Healthcare Scholarship Essay Contest is a great opportunity for graduating high school students interested in pursuing a career in health care.
The scholarship provides $3,000 to one student who submits the best essay on “Why I Plan to Enter the Field of Health Care After College Graduation.
19. Trig-Star Scholarship
The Trig-Star Scholarship is a $5,000 scholarship awarded yearly to a graduating high school student who has demonstrated excellence in mathematics, particularly trigonometry.
The scholarship is sponsored by the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) and is open to students who plan to pursue a degree in surveying and mapping.
20. Kelly O. Memorial Nursing Scholarship
The Kelly O. Memorial Nursing Scholarship is a $2,000 scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors planning to pursue a degree in nursing.
The scholarship is sponsored by the Kelly O. Memorial Foundation, established in memory of Kelly O., a beloved ICU nurse who passed away in 2022.
21. ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship
The ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship is a $20,000 scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors who plan to pursue a degree in engineering at a U.S. post-secondary institution.
The scholarship is sponsored by the ExxonMobil Foundation and is administered by the LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC).
22. Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship
The Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship is a $5,000 scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors committed to fighting HIV/AIDS and other social justice issues.
The National AIDS Memorial sponsors the scholarship and is open to students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
23. Maryland State Delegate Scholarship
The Maryland State Delegate Scholarship is a program the Maryland General Assembly offers. The scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors who are residents of Maryland and who plan to attend a Maryland college or university.
The amount of the Maryland State Delegate Scholarship varies depending on the student’s financial need and the availability of funds. The maximum award is $12,617.
24. Arnold M. Miller “Find-a-way” Cosmetology Student Scholarship
Beauty Changes Lives, a non-profit organization that supports cosmetology students, awards a $15,000 scholarship to one determined, aspiring cosmetology student who is at least 18 years old and is either an incoming or current cosmetology student. The scholarship is named in honor of Arnie.
25. Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a U.S. Department of State scholarship that provides up to $5,000 to undergraduate students receiving Federal Pell Grants to study or intern abroad.
The scholarship is designed to help students from underrepresented backgrounds gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s global economy.
26. European Wax Center’s Experts in Wax Scholarship for Cosmetology or Esthetics Students
The European Wax Center’s Experts in Wax Scholarship for Cosmetology or Esthetics Students is open to high school students graduating in 2023 who are planning to enroll in a cosmetology or esthetics program that leads to licensure in the U.S.
The scholarship will award four $3,000 scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence, a strong interest in cosmetology or esthetics, and a commitment to positively impacting the world.
27. Boren Summer Language and Area Studies Scholarship
The Boren Summer Language and Area Studies Scholarship is a competitive award that funds high school students to study a foreign language or area studies during the summer.
The scholarship is open to students planning to enroll in an undergraduate or graduate program at a U.S. college or university.
Awards are up to $12,000 and can be used to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, travel, and living expenses.
28. Ayn Rand Institute Novel Essay Contest (Atlas Shrugged)
The Ayn Rand Institute’s Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest is open to high school students graduating in 2023.
The contest is a great opportunity for students to learn more about Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand’s philosophy, and the importance of individual rights.
If you are a graduating high school student interested in writing and thinking critically, I encourage you to enter the contest.
To enter the contest, students must submit an essay of 800-1600 words that argues a thesis about Atlas Shrugged.
The American Scandinavian Foundation (ASF) offers a scholarship of $10,000 to high school students graduating in 2023 with a strong academic record and a demonstrated interest in Scandinavian culture.
The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study at an accredited college or university in the United States.
30. China-America Educational Foundation (CAEF)
The China-America Educational Foundation (CAEF) offers a scholarship of $20,000 to high school students graduating in 2023 who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated interest in Chinese culture.
The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study at an accredited college or university in the United States.
31. The German-American Partnership Program (GAPP)
The German-American Partnership Program (GAPP) is a bi-national exchange program that offers high school students from the United States and Germany the opportunity to live with a host family and attend school in another country for one year.
The U.S. Department of State and the German Foreign Office fund the program.
32. Japan Foundation
The Japan Foundation offers scholarships for high school students graduating in 2023. One such scholarship is the Japan Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship, which provides $5,000 to high school students planning to study in Japan at the undergraduate level.
33. Korean Studies Promotion Service (KOSS)
The Korean Studies Promotion Service offers a scholarship worth $5,000 to high school students graduating in 2023 who have demonstrated an interest in Korean culture and language and have been accepted to an accredited college or university in the United States.
34. Mexico-United States Foundation (MUSF)
The Mexico-United States Foundation (MUSF) offers a scholarship of $25,000 to high school students graduating in 2023 with a strong academic record and a demonstrated interest in Mexican-American relations.
The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study at an accredited college or university in the United States.
35. DoD SMART Scholarship
The DoD SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program (SMART) is a program that provides full tuition, stipend, and relocation expenses to high school students who are accepted into a STEM degree program at an accredited college or university.
In exchange, SMART Scholars agree to serve as commissioned officers in the Department of Defense (DoD) for some time after graduation.
36. Acorn Equality Fund Scholarships
The Acorn Equality Fund offers scholarships to high school students graduating in 2023 who are LGBTQ+, allies, or the children of LGBTQ+ parents. The scholarships range from $1,000 to $4,000.
The Acorn Equality Fund scholarships are a great opportunity for high school students interested in pursuing higher education and wanting to make a difference in the world.
37. National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) scholarships
The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) offers a variety of scholarships to high school students graduating in 2023. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $5,000.
The NSBE scholarships are a great opportunity for high school students pursuing engineering or computer science careers.
38. Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) scholarships
Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) offers a variety of scholarships to high school students graduating in 2023. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $5,000.
The RMHC scholarships are a great opportunity for high school students facing financial challenges and planning to attend college.
39. Account SPARK STEM Scholarship Fund
The Account SPARK STEM Scholarship Fund is available to high school students graduating in 2023.
The scholarship is open to first- or second-generation Arab American students who have been accepted into an undergraduate Data Science or Data Analytics program at an accredited university in the United States.
The scholarship is worth $2,500 to $10,000 and may be renewable for students’ satisfactory academic performance.
40. United Negro College Fund (UNCF) scholarships
United Negro College Fund (UNCF) offers a variety of scholarships to high school students graduating in 2023. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $50,000.
The UNCF scholarships are a great opportunity for high school students facing financial challenges and planning to attend college.
41. Woodhull Foundation scholarships
Woodhull Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to high school students graduating in 2023. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $5,000.
You must be a graduating high school senior to be qualified for the scholarship.
42. Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) scholarships
Several Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) scholarships are available to high school students graduating in 2023. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $5,000.
The deadline to apply for a WISE scholarship varies, so check the WISE website for more information.
43. A Better Chance
A Better Chance (ABC) is a scholarship program that provides full tuition, room and board, and books for up to four years to high school first-generation college students from low-income families. ABC also provides academic support and mentorship to its scholars.
44. American Legion Auxiliary Girls State
American Legion Auxiliary Girls State offers a $1,000 scholarship to high school students graduating in 2023.
The scholarship is open to female students who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to their community.
You must be a female high school student to qualify for this scholarship.
45. Congressional App Challenge
The Congressional App Challenge (CAC) is a nationwide competition that challenges high school students to create an app that solves a problem or enhances an existing process.
The U.S. House of Representatives sponsors the CAC, and is open to all high school students in the United States.
Students who win the CAC can receive up to $25,000 in prize money and have their app featured on the House of Representatives website.
46. Doodle for Google
Doodle for Google is a contest open to high school students in the United States and territories. Students are invited to create a Google Doodle that reflects their school or community.
The winning Doodle will be displayed on the Google homepage for a day, and the student will receive a $30,000 college scholarship, a trip to Google headquarters, and a Chromebook.
47. Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship
The Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship is awarded to graduating high school seniors who are women and demonstrate a passion for computer science.
The scholarship is named after Anita Borg, a computer scientist who was a pioneer in the field of women in computing.
You must be a female high school student to qualify for this scholarship.
48. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Exchange
Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Exchange (AFCE) is a program that provides funding for cultural exchange programs between the United States and other countries.
The AFCE offers a variety of programs for high school students. The amount of funding that is available for each program varies.
49. Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) scholarships
The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) offers a variety of scholarships to high school students interested in pursuing a career in STEM fields.
The scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to service.
50. Benjamin Banneker Scholarship
The Benjamin Banneker Scholarship is a $2,000 scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors who are African American or African American/Native American students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
The scholarship is named after Benjamin Banneker, an African American mathematician, astronomer, and surveyor who was instrumental in the survey of the District of Columbia.
51. Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) scholarships
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) offers a variety of scholarships to high school students interested in pursuing a college education.
The scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.
52. DoD STEM Scholarship
DoD STEM Scholarship Program offers full tuition, stipend, and relocation expenses for high school students who are accepted into the program and agree to work for the Department of Defense (DoD) after graduation.
Students accepted into the DoD STEM Scholarship Program will receive full tuition, an annual stipend of $25,000 – $38,000, depending on degree level, summer internships at DoD facilities, book and health allowance, experienced mentor, and guaranteed employment with the DoD upon completion.
53. Visionary Scholarship
Visionary Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.
The scholarship is sponsored by the Visionary Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports the education and development of young people.
54. Hagan Scholarship
The Hagan Scholarship awards $6,000 to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and community commitment.
The Hagan Scholarship Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports the education and development of young people from rural areas, sponsors the scholarship.
55. U.S. Bank Student Scholarship
U.S. Bank offers a $20,000 scholarship to high school students graduating in 2023. Students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to financial literacy are awarded the scholarship.
56. Ron Brown Scholarship
The Ron Brown Scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service. The Ron Brown Scholar Program sponsors the scholarship.
This non-profit organization was established in 1996 by the U.S. Department of Commerce in honor of the late Secretary of Commerce, Ronald H. Brown.
57. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation – Undergraduate Scholars Program – Disability
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Scholars Program Disability program provides up to $50,000 per year for four years to high school students with disabilities who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
58. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation – Veterans Initiative
Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Veterans Initiative is a scholarship program that provides $20,000 per year for four years to high school veterans or children of veterans.
59. Dell Scholars Program
The Dell Scholars Program is a scholarship program that provides $20,000 to high school students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, a private foundation that empowers children and youth to achieve their potential, sponsors the scholarship.
60. “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
Bold.org offers a $25,000 No-Essay Scholarship for high school students graduating in 2023. The scholarship is open to all students, regardless of their academic background, extracurricular activities, or financial need.
General Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships for High School Students Graduating in 2023
Here are some general eligibility requirements needed for scholarships for high school students graduating in 2023:
Academic excellence
Most scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Leadership potential
Scholarships often look for students who have demonstrated leadership skills in their school or community.
Community service
Scholarships often value students who commit to giving back to their community.
Financial need
Some scholarships award students who demonstrate financial need, as they are need-based.
Ethnicity or gender
Some scholarships are specifically for students of a certain ethnicity or gender.
Special skills or talents
Some scholarships are for students with special skills or talents, such as musical ability, athletic ability, or academic achievement in a specific subject area.
Tips for Graduating High School Students Applying for Scholarships
Here are some tips for graduating high school students applying for scholarships:
Start early
The sooner you start applying for scholarships, the more likely you will win one. Scholarship deadlines can be as early as the fall of your junior year, so it’s important to start researching and applying early.
Do your research
Thousands of scholarships are available, so it’s important to research and find scholarships that you are eligible for and interested in.
Be organized
The scholarship application process can overwhelm individuals, so staying organized is important. Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and contact information.
Write strong essays. Many scholarships require essays as part of the application process.
These essays are your chance to showcase your personality, achievements, and why you deserve the scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular scholarships for high school seniors?
Coca-Cola Scholars Program
National Merit Scholarship Corporation
U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
Gates Millennium Scholarship
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship
How do I find scholarships for high school seniors?
Search online
Ask your school counselor
Contact local businesses and organizations
What are the requirements for applying for scholarships for high school seniors?
Academic excellence
Leadership
Community service
Financial need
What are the deadlines for applying for scholarships for high school seniors?
Deadlines vary, so it’s important to do your research for any scholarship you wish to apply for.
What are some tips for writing a winning scholarship essay?
Start early
Be specific
Be personal
Proofread carefully
Conclusion
Many scholarships are available for high school students graduating in 2023. These scholarships can help students pay for college and pursue their dreams.
The scholarship application process can be competitive, but it is important to remember that every application is an opportunity to showcase your talents and achievements.
