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Veterans have access to various scholarship and grant opportunities that can lessen the financial burden of pursuing ongoing education. These unique financial aid programs are sometimes also available to military families, which may include dependents or spouses of veterans.

If you’re a veteran who’s enrolling in college or have a dependent in your family who’s collegebound, we’ve created this guide to scholarships and grants for veterans to get you started.

Best Scholarships for Military Veterans

There are many scholarship programs available for military veterans and their dependents, all of which have different eligibility and application requirements. Below are just a handful of scholarships for veterans, or their dependents or spouses, that offer awards that are $2,000 or higher.

•   Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship: The Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program that’s available to active duty and veteran military service members, including their current or surviving spouses. The average recipient receives approximately $10,000 per academic year and awards are renewable as long as you maintain eligibility requirements.

•   Folds of Honor Scholarship: The Folds of Honor Scholarship is available to dependents and spouses of a qualifying service member. Dependents must be enrolled in an accredited institution, a certificate- or license-granting technical, or a trade school program. The scholarship offers $5,000 per academic year, which is disbursed in amounts up to $2,500 per term. Awards are renewable, but recipients must reapply for each academic year.

•   AMVETS Scholarships: AMVETS Scholarships are a need-based program that’s open to veterans, active duty, and National Guard and Reserve service members and their families. The maximum award is $12,000. Applicants must be studying toward an undergraduate degree and meet other eligibility requirements.

•   Military Order of the Purple Heart Scholarship: Recipients of a Purple Heart who are members of the organization and their families — including spouses, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren — can apply for this scholarship program. Scholarship amounts vary each year and are based on available funding.

Another scholarship option is SoFi’s scholarship sweepstakes. It offers one $2,500 scholarship award per month over a 12-month period. Entry is available to SoFi members who are at least 17 years old and enrolled in an accredited, nonprofit, Title IV four-year college or university in the U.S. You can enter once per monthly scholarship period. Awards are sent directly to the winner’s school and can be used toward your cost of attendance.

Grants for Veterans

Grants are another type of college financial aid which doesn’t need to be repaid. Some grants require applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria. If your military family fits the program’s application requirements, a grant award can help make college costs more accessible.

Below are two grants veterans or their family members may qualify for.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant is a federal grant that’s offered by the U.S. Department of Education. It’s uniquely available to students whose parent or guardian died in active duty while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, post-9/11. The available award is equal to the maximum Federal Pell Grant during the award year; in 2024-25 the amount is $7,395.

To qualify, veteran dependents must meet the Federal Pell Grant eligibility requirements but must not have received a Federal Pell Grant award in the same year. Additionally, recipients must have been under 24 years old or at least a part-time college student at the time of their parent or guardian death.

General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant

The General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant is provided by the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS). Children under 24 years old who are dependents of qualifying U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force members, as well as legally married spouses of Air Force or Space Force service members, can apply. Award amounts vary based on the recipient’s financial need.

Applicants must have graduated high school and be enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited school that participates in federal aid programs. You must maintain a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.0 and not be a graduate or professional student, veteran, or military branch member, including the National guard or Reserves.

Veterans Affairs Educational Benefits

Veterans have earned a slew of education benefits that can help them — and under some programs, their families — financially pursue higher education or career training. The list of programs you might have access to through Veterans Affairs (VA) include:

•   Montgomery GI Bill for Active Duty

•   Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserve

•   Post-9/11 GI Bill

•   Reserve Educational Assistance Program

•   Post-Vietnam era Education Assistance Program

•   National Call to Service

•   Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance

Depending on your service background, you might be eligible for multiple VA education benefit programs. Additionally, you can receive financial support to help pay for books and supplies, test fees for licenses or certifications, national exam fees, and more.

Recommended: What Are Student Loans for Military Dependents?

Grants for Active Duty Servicemembers

Financial aid grants aren’t just for veterans and their families. Service members can also apply for grant programs while in active duty.

One option to explore is the Federal Pell Grant, which is available to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are enrolled in a U.S. school. As a federal financial aid program, applying for a Pell Grant only takes submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you qualify, the maximum Pell Grant award for the 2024-25 academic year is $7,395, though this award might vary year over year.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step

Can I Get a Scholarship if My Grandfather Was in the Military?

GI Bill benefits are reserved for the service member’s education or that of their spouse or children. However, grandchildren of military service members also have access to some scholarships for veterans.

For example, the AMVETS Scholarship is also available to grandchildren of veterans and active duty U.S. military members. Grandchildren of active duty National Guard or Reserves members are also eligible.

What Qualifies You as a Veteran for FAFSA?

Unlike the criteria for veteran status under the VA, the FAFSA defines veterans as a service member who served in active duty for a minimum of one day and was released.

The condition for release must not be dishonorable discharge. Time spent by service members in basic training — except those in the National Guard and Reservists — also qualifies as active duty under the FAFSA.

The Takeaway

Utilizing your VA education benefits, including all eligible GI Bill benefits, is the first step you can take to help pay for college costs. Applying for scholarships for veterans, or for dependents or spouses of veterans, can make higher education or career training accessible for you and your family.

In addition to military scholarships, you can apply for traditional scholarships and grants to help pay for college. You can also apply for federal student loans and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Does the VA offer college scholarships?

Yes, the VA offers college scholarships through programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA). These scholarships help cover tuition and education costs for veterans, active duty service members, and their dependents, providing financial support for higher education and career advancement opportunities.

Can veterans apply for FAFSA?

Yes, veterans can apply for the FAFSA. In fact, some grants and scholarships for veterans require a submitted FAFSA for the award year as part of their application requirements.

What is it called when the VA pays for college?

The VA benefit that pays for service members’ college and training expenses is called the GI Bill. The Department of Veteran Affairs website offers a helpful GI Bill Comparison Tool that lets you see and compare GI Benefits across approved institutions.

Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOISL-Q324-094

Top 15 First-Generation Scholarships for Students

Being the first one in your family to go to college is a big deal and an accomplishment to be celebrated. But navigating the process of applying for college, and figuring out how to pay for it, can be more challenging for a student whose parents didn’t attend college. First-generation students are often more likely to qualify as low-income and face financial obstacles when it comes to affording college.

Scholarships, which are financial awards that don’t have to be paid back, are a great way for students to cover the various costs of their education. When you’re a first-generation college student, you have access to a multitude of scholarships created especially for you.

Read on to learn about 15 of the top scholarships for first-generation college students and tips on finding even more of these financial awards.

Are You the First in Your Family to Attend College?

When it comes to explaining what a first-generation college student is, there’s no clear cut definition. However, according to The Higher Education Act of 1965, a first-generation student refers to a student whose parents, or in the case of a single-parent household, one parent, who didn’t earn a bachelor’s degree.

While this is a widespread guideline, colleges or universities can set their own criteria. For example, sometimes a first-generation student is considered someone who is the first to attend school in the U.S., meaning their parents could have earned their degrees in another country.

The Ultimate List of First-Generation College Student Scholarships

Scholarships help students better afford school, and in some cases even do away with the need to take out a federal or private student loan. At the very least, it can limit the amount of money you have to borrow.

These 15 scholarships are specifically set up for students who are the first in their family to go to college. Some are merit-based, some are need-based, and some are a combination of both. There are also first-generation scholarships geared towards minority students and underrepresented segments of the population.

Read on for first-generation scholarships to consider and, where applicable, the prize amount, number of awardees, and deadline date.

1. Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship

The Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship, funded by the Coca-Cola Foundation , allocates funds in the form of grants to a number of colleges each year. There’s no direct application process through the Coca-Cola Foundation because schools distribute these prizes directly through their financial aid offices.

To find out if a college is a recipient of this money, the Coca-Cola Foundation advises students to contact the college’s financial aid department.

2. Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program

The Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program is for first-generation high school seniors who are underrepresented, are in financial need, and are passionate about furthering their education as a way to help themselves, their family, and their community. This scholarship of up to $5,000 is awarded to one winner, and the deadline is March 14, 2025.

To qualify, applicants need to pursue a full-time undergrad degree at any four-year accredited college or university in the U.S. Applicants of this scholarship must plan to study in one of the following areas: transportation management, math, science, engineering, architecture, environmental design, pre-med, psychology, or Spanish language/literature.

3. First Generation Civil Rights Fellowship Program (FirstGEN)

FirstGEN , or the First Generation Civil Rights Fellowship Program, is a program for first-generation undergraduate students who intend to pursue a career in the field of social justice. This paid summer program lasts from June to August, and recipients of the fellowship will serve as a summer intern with one of FirstGEN Fellowship’s partners: Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), or the National Immigration Law Center (NILC).

Over the course of their summer internship, FirstGEN fellows gain experience advocating for civil rights, participating in training and professional development seminars, and becoming part of a group of emerging leaders in the FirstGEN Alumni Network.

Fellows receive a $1,500 stipend, and the estimated deadline is January 20, 2025.

4. Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA) First-Generation College Student Scholarship

This scholarship offers a financial award for first-generation college students who want to study abroad. The IFSA First-Generation College Student Scholarship awards up to $2,500 to help offset upfront costs of studying abroad including airfare, visa/passport, and housing.
Application deadlines for summer, fall, or year terms are March 1, and October 1 for January and spring terms.

5. Boyd J. Cameron Memorial Scholarship

First-generation college students can apply for the Boyd J. Cameron Memorial Scholarship . The $1,000 prize is specifically for those students who are pursuing a degree in business. Application deadline is February 1, 2025.

6. OCA-UPS Gold Mountain Scholarship for Rising College Seniors

Applicants for OCA-UPS Gold Mountain Scholarship must be first-generation high school seniors who identify as either Asian-American or Pacific Islander, and who will be attending college right after high school graduation.

To be eligible, students don’t have to be a U.S. citizen, and the scholarship is open to DACA and undocumented students, as long as they can provide a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Awards are $2,000 each.

Recommended: Can DACA Recipients Apply for Student Loans?

7. The Kim and Harold Louie Foundation Scholarship

Students who are the first in their family to attend college are eligible to apply for The Kim and Harold Louie Foundation Scholarship . Award amounts vary, but the organization anticipates giving out approximately $100,000 in annual scholarships.

The scholarship is specifically for those who will be enrolling as a freshman in a college or university in the U.S., but it’s not just limited to high school seniors. Students who decided to take a gap year or adults returning to school are also allowed to apply. Scholarship recipients should have displayed academic merit, outstanding personal achievement, leadership qualities, and/or participation in community service.

Deadline for this scholarship is March 15, 2025.

8. Sharon and Mila Kohute Scholarship

Female first-generation high school seniors or college undergraduates who live in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Virginia are eligible to apply for the Sharon and Mila Kohute Scholarship .

The aim of this need-based award is to help give women, who may be part of a cycle of generational poverty, the opportunity to attend college. This scholarship is awarded annually to two winners, each of whom receive $1,000 to use toward their education.

9. Editor World First-Generation Scholarship

If you’re a first-generation student about to enroll, or are currently enrolled, at a trade school, college, or university in the U.S., you’re eligible to apply for the Editor World First-Generation Scholarship . The $500 scholarship is awarded to one undergraduate first-generation student who could use some assistance with educational costs.

10. National Society of Collegiate Scholars First in the Family Scholarship

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) has partnered with GEICO to offer many scholarships, including the First in the Family Scholarship . This particular scholarship is created for those first-generation students who are honor society members at one of more than 300 colleges and universities in the U.S., including Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico.

Eight students will be chosen for a $2,500 NSCS scholarship. To be eligible to apply for one of the NSCS First in the Family scholarships, students must be a member of NSCS and show proof of a 3.0 GPA. Deadlines for this scholarship vary.

11. José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund

Students who are Mexican or Mexican-American and either are, or will be, a first-generation undergraduate college student are eligible to apply for the José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship .

The $1,000 scholarship will go to two individuals, and applicants will be asked to submit a short essay about why they’re passionate about being a first-generation, Mexican-American college graduate. The application deadline is December 2, 2024.

12. Kadzai Law Group First-Generation College Student Scholarship

First-generation U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are attending an accredited college or institution in the U.S. can apply for the Kadzai Law Group First-Generation College Student Scholarship . The scholarship awards one student with $2,500, and is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.

Applicants will have to submit a three- to five-minute video discussing challenges facing a first-generation student and how the experience either will provide benefits for you (if you’re a first-time freshman) or has provided benefits for you. The deadline for applying for this award is April 2, 2025.

13. EducationDynamics Minority $10,000 First-Generation Scholarship

EducationDynamics Minority $10,000 First-Generation Scholarship awards one $10,000 scholarship to a minority student who is the first in their family to attend college. Those applying need to be at least 17 years old and pursuing an associate degree, a bachelor’s at any accredited post-secondary institution of higher learning, or a certificate program. This year’s deadline was August 30, with winners being notified on or about November 15, 2024.

14. RSM US Foundation First-Generation Scholarship

The management and financial consulting company RSM US Foundation offers a First- Generation Scholarship to five students, with up to $30,000 each in scholarships, paid $10,000 annually over three consecutive academic years.

Applicants for the RSM US Foundation First- Generation Scholarship must be an undergraduate student who doesn’t have an immediate family member that received a bachelor’s degree. It’s important to note that with this scholarship, students are still eligible even if their immediate siblings have, or are currently pursuing, a bachelor’s degree.

Other requisites include being a legal resident of any of the 50 states and Washington D.C., and being at least 18 years old. They must also be a full-time student in their first, second, or third year at an accredited college or university, have a 3.0 or above GPA, and be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a business or technology program.

The application period is from December 1, 2024 to February 28, 2025. Selections are made annually in April.

15. Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program

The goal of the McNair Scholars Program is to prepare undergrads who have demonstrated strong academic potential for doctoral studies via involvement in research and other scholarly activities.

Participants in the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, part of the Federal TRIO Programs, include first-generation college students with financial need along with members of a group traditionally underrepresented in graduate education. The McNair Scholars Program exists to increase graduate degree awards for underrepresented students in society.

Other Ways First-Gen Students Can Find Scholarships

There are many options when it comes to searching for first-generation student scholarships. A Google search can get you started, but it can be overwhelming. To help make it easier, you can find many by using SoFi’s scholarship search tool, along with other sites such as Bold.org, Scholarships360.org, ScholarshipOwl.com, College Greenlight, and Sallie Mae’s scholarship search scholarship search.

Many states also have their own first-generation scholarship opportunities for students. You can find out about these opportunities through your state’s education agency, the college’s financial aid office, your academic advisor, or if you’re a high school student, through your guidance counselor.

Recommended: States That Offer Free College Tuition Programs

General First-Generation Scholarship Opportunities

First-generation students may be able to get a scholarship through the federal government’s Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO). TRIO are outreach and student services programs created to identify and provide services for people from disadvantaged backgrounds. These programs are there to serve and help first-generation college students, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities to move forward through the academic pipeline from middle school to doctorate programs.

TRIO programs help with giving students academic support and the tools to enroll and succeed in college. The previously mentioned Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program is one of the eight standing TRIO projects, along with some of the others including Upward Bound and Talent Search.

Recommended: Types of Federal Student Loans

Do You Get Money for Being a First-Generation College Student?

Yes, you definitely can. With an understanding of many of the challenges first-generation students face when it comes to affording and applying to college, the federal government, along with many states, educational institutions, foundations, and organizations, offer specific scholarships for these students.

Can You Get a Scholarship for Being a First-Generation American?

First-generation American students are definitely eligible to apply for first-generation college scholarships. While many scholarships require the student to be a U.S. citizen, the parents may not have to be.

What Benefits Do First-Generation College Graduates Get?

As indicated above, there are a slew of scholarships only for those who are the first in their family to attend college, which means more opportunities to secure free money.

Some colleges and universities are more financially friendly for first-generation students, offering free application fee waivers and cost-free books and computers. Schools may also have specific support and social groups to help new first-generation students adjust to college life.

On a more individual level, first-generation college students can be inspiring for others in their family to follow in their footsteps, exhibit a stronger work ethic and determination to succeed because of the effort it took to get there, bring a unique perspective to other students and instructors, and be a catalyst for social change by championing educational equity.

The Takeaway

First-generation college students face certain hurdles compared to students who aren’t the first in their family to go to college. These obstacles include the difficulty in affording higher education and not having a parent to help navigate the application process and the transition to college life.

Fortunately, there are many scholarships created for first-generation students and other possibilities to get assistance for college, graduate school, and even doctoral programs. In addition to scholarships, first-generation college students can apply for grants, federal student loans, and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Can being a first-generation college student be an advantage during the admissions process?

While being a first-generation college student doesn’t guarantee you’ll be admitted to your school of choice, your particular background and circumstances can help you to stand out. Many scholarships ask you to submit an essay or personal statement, and here is where you can delve into why going to college is so important to you and the particular struggles a first-generation college student may face.

Why do colleges care about admitting first-generation students?

First-generation college students can be an asset to any university because they add diversity and promote inclusiveness. Colleges have become increasingly more aware of the issues of inequity when it comes to the student body, and are interested in trying to do their part to give certain students a leg up and an opportunity for economic and career advancement.

How can colleges verify if I’m a first-generation student?

One of the initial questions on a college application is about the educational history of the applicant’s parents. Information can also be obtained through background checks. It’s best to be truthful about being a first-generation student to insure your admission won’t be rescinded.

Photo credit: iStock/David Schaffer

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOISL-Q324-092

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and it’s a popular area of study for its higher-paying occupations and expected job growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in STEM earn more than double the national average and are expected to grow more than 10% by 2033.

There are numerous scholarships exclusively available to students pursuing a degree in a STEM field. Below, we’ve outlined a list of STEM scholarships, plus common eligibility requirements and tips for applying.

STEM Scholarships for Graduate Students

Students in a master’s or doctoral program can apply for specific STEM scholarships to help cover tuition and living expenses. Scholarship eligibility may be based on the program type and focus of a student’s research.

Below are five STEM scholarships for graduate students.

•   American Nuclear Society Scholarship Program: Multiple awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for graduate and undergraduate students enrolled in a degree program related to nuclear science or nuclear engineering.

•   American Welding Society Research Fellowships: Funding and support up to $35,000 annually for graduate students who are engaged in cutting-edge research within the field of welding.

•   Charles LeGeyt Fortescue Scholarship: Funding for one year of full-time graduate studies (up to $24,000) in electrical engineering at an accredited engineering school in the U.S.

•   DOE Computational Science Graduate Fellowship: Tuition assistance, stipend, and professional development ($45,000 value) for incoming and first-year PhD students enrolled in engineering, physical, computer, mathematical, or life sciences programs.

•   Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program: Financial support of up to $47,000 for master’s and doctoral students in oceanography, marine biology, engineering, and resource management disciplines conducting research related to the mission of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

For a chance to win SoFi’s monthly $2,500 Scholarship Sweepstakes, simply let us know your name, email address, and school.

STEM Scholarships for Undergraduates

There are many STEM scholarships available to undergraduate students. Eligibility requirements may include a student’s major, location, financial need, academic achievement, and class standing.

Below are five STEM scholarships for undergraduate students.

•   Changing the World Scholarship: Offers $1,000 awards per semester for undergraduate students who are pursuing a STEM degree and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrated financial need.

•   Cold War Veterans Scholarship: Three $2,500 scholarships for students who are an active member of the Marine’s Memorial or a child or grandchild of an active member to pursue undergraduate studies in a STEM field.

•   Goodyear STEM Career Day Scholarships: Multiple awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 for Ohio high school graduates pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a STEM discipline.

•   Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship: Multiple scholarships for undergraduate students enrolled in a four-year degree program and majoring in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physics.

•   SAE/Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies Scholarship: One $5,000 scholarship for an incoming freshman pursuing an engineering or related science degree at an accredited U.S. college or university.

Recommended: Grants, Scholarships, Loans: The Differences

How to Apply for a STEM Scholarship

To apply for a STEM scholarship, you first need to put in the time to research and find STEM scholarships you qualify for. During your search, keep track of submission deadlines and application requirements for any opportunities you plan on applying to, as these can vary between scholarships.

A personal statement or essay is a common requirement for STEM scholarships. While it’s best practice to tailor your writing to address the scholarship’s specific prompts and instructions, creating a generic personal statement that you can modify for each application can save time.

STEM scholarships often require school transcripts and a letter of recommendation or references. Think about which high school teachers, college professors, or employers are best suited to speak to your academic merit and personal character. When applying for a STEM-specific scholarship, using a reference who teaches or works in a STEM field could be advantageous.

Recommended: How to Pay for College

When Should I Apply for STEM Scholarships?

There are STEM scholarships and grants available to help pay for all levels of higher education, from freshman year of undergrad to completing a master’s or doctoral degree.

For high school seniors, it’s okay if you’re not sure what college you should go to yet to begin applying for college scholarships. Some scholarship deadlines are one year in advance, so it’s helpful to be planning well ahead for applications.

Current college and graduate students can continue applying for scholarships every year of their education, and it may be necessary to reapply for an award if it doesn’t renew annually.

What Kind of GPA Do I Need to Apply for a STEM Scholarship?

STEM scholarships have different eligibility criteria, including GPA requirements. However, many merit-based scholarships require a GPA of at least 3.0 to apply, whereas students could qualify for some need-based awards with a GPA below a 3.0.

Recommended: Tips for Getting Straight A’s in College

Are International Students Eligible for STEM Scholarships?

Many STEM scholarships are intended for students who are U.S. residents. But there are still opportunities for international students to consider, including university-specific scholarships and grants.

Recommended: Can International Students Get Student Loans to Study in the U.S.?

Top 5 STEM Scholarships for Women

There are many scholarships specifically for women pursuing a STEM degree and career. STEM scholarships for women are offered by companies, professional associations, and nonprofit organizations.

The top five STEM scholarships for women include:

•   Advancing Women in Science Scholarships: Various awards for undergraduate and graduate students who are pursuing degrees in STEM fields and members of the Association of Women in Science.

•   Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship: One $1,040 STEM scholarship for a woman who intends to enter a career that leverages technology to make the world a better place, with preference for a student involved in a STEM field and entrepreneurial endeavors.

•   SAE Women-in-Automotive Scholarship: Thirteen $5,000 scholarships for women with strong academic achievement and who are enrolled in an engineering degree program to pursue a career in the automotive industry.

•   Scholarships for Future Women Engineers: Multiple awards ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 for women pursuing an associates or bachelor’s degree in STEM, manufacturing, or industrial engineering.

•   STEMinist Scholarship: Financial support of up to $5,000 for women of color from the Chicago metropolitan area pursuing a college degree in engineering or a STEM-related field.

Recommended: 10 Popular Scholarships for Women

Full Eligibility Requirements

When browsing STEM scholarships, it’s important to verify that you meet eligibility requirements before spending time and effort applying. There may be minimum GPA and residency requirements for applicants.

Depending on the type of scholarship, students could be required to demonstrate leadership experience, involvement in community service, and other experiences or skills to qualify.

Completing the FAFSA can be a prerequisite to apply and be considered for both need-based awards and merit scholarships.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step

The Takeaway

Earning a degree in a STEM field can put you on the path to a rewarding and high-paying career. There are many scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students interested in a variety of STEM-related disciplines. Students can apply every year of school to increase their chances of getting scholarships and grants for college.

Still, many students require additional financing, such as federal and private student loans, to fund their education.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What does STEM scholarship stand for?

A STEM scholarship is a type of free financial aid for students studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics — a collection of subject areas known as STEM.

What is a STEM scholar?

A STEM scholar is someone who studies an academic discipline related to either science, technology, engineering, or math.

How can I apply for STEM scholarships?

To apply for STEM scholarships, students usually need to complete an online application, provide academic transcripts, and sometimes submit essays or letters of recommendation detailing their interest in a STEM field.

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SOISL-Q324-085

If you’re juggling a car loan and student loans, you might be wondering which debt to prioritize. While it’s important to keep up with minimum payments on all your loans, making extra payments on one of these types may help you save money on interest.

The decision of whether to pay off car or student loans first ultimately depends on your personal financial situation, but the considerations in this guide can help you determine which path is best for you.

Understanding Your Debt Types

First, it’s important to understand the difference between student loans and car loans. Student loans may be federal or private, and they might come with fixed or variable interest rates. They’re unsecured loans, meaning they’re not backed by collateral.

Federal student loans qualify for various benefits and plans that can help lower student loan payments, such as income-driven repayment, as well as programs to temporarily pause payments if needed, like deferment and forbearance. Federal student loans are also eligible for forgiveness programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

Private student loans don’t have as many benefits as federal loans, but some private lenders will let you modify or postpone payments if you run into financial hardship. You might also explore refinancing student loans to see if you can qualify for a lower interest rate or more favorable terms that might help make your payments more manageable.

Car loans, on the other hand, typically have fixed interest rates and they are secured by your vehicle. If you fall behind on car loan payments, a lender can repossess your car. Car loans commonly have repayment terms of 36 to 84 months.

Unlike student loans, auto loans don’t usually offer much flexibility if you’re having trouble making payments. And car loan payments can be costly — the average car payment in 2024 is $734 a month. By comparison, the average student loan payment is estimated to be about $500 when adjusted for inflation in 2024, according to the Education Data Initiative.

Factors to Consider When Prioritizing Debt

There are several things to think about when deciding whether to pay car or student loans first. Some of the main considerations include your loan’s interest rate, tax implications, and repayment terms.

Interest Rates and Total Costs

It typically makes sense to pay off the loan with the highest cost of borrowing first. This usually means the loan with the highest interest rate. If your student loan has a rate of 5.00%, and your car loan has a rate of 10.00%, paying off the car loan would save you more money in the long run.

Along with the interest rate, consider whether the loan carries any other fees, such as a prepayment penalty. Student loans don’t charge penalties for prepayment, but a car loan might. Compare each loan’s annual percentage rate (APR), as this figure takes both interest and fees into account.

Tax Implications and Deductions

Another factor has to do with tax deductions. The student loan interest deduction allows you to deduct up to $2,500 a year in student loan interest from your taxable income, depending on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI). At certain income limits, student loan tax deduction phase-outs begin. In 2024, if your MAGI is less than $80,000 a year if you’re a single filer, and $165,000 if you’re married and filing jointly, you can qualify for the full deduction. If you earn between $80,000 and $95,000 ($165,000 and $195,000 if married filing jointly), you can make a partial deduction.

Car loans don’t qualify for a tax deduction on interest unless you are self-employed or a business owner and use the vehicle for business.

Loan Terms and Repayment Periods

Student loans tend to have more flexible repayment terms than car loans. Federal student loan borrowers are eligible for various repayment plans, including the Standard plan, which spans 10 years, and the Extended plan, which is 25 years.

Federal loans are also eligible for income-driven repayment (IDR), which adjusts your monthly payments in accordance with your income and might eventually lead to loan forgiveness. Plus, you may qualify to postpone payments through deferment or forbearance if you go back to school or lose your job.

Car loans don’t qualify for many options. You’ll often choose a repayment term of three to seven years and be expected to pay monthly on your agreed-upon rates and terms. If you can’t make payments, the lender can repossess your vehicle.

Benefits of Paying Off Car Loans First

Paying off a car loan before your student loan can have several advantages, especially since car loans don’t have as much repayment flexibility or offer any tax benefits for vehicles that are strictly for personal use. Here are some reasons to consider prioritizing your car loan over your student loans.

Eliminating Secured Debt

Defaulting on a car loan could lead to losing your car. The sooner you can pay off your secured car loan, the sooner you’ll own your car outright and you won’t have to worry about the possibility of car repossession.

Potential Savings on Interest

Car loans may come with higher interest rates than student loans, so paying off the auto loan first could lead to more savings. Let’s say, for example, that you owe $15,000 on a car loan at a 10.00% rate and a $15,000 student loan at a 5.00% rate, and that both loans have five years left on their repayment.

If you put an extra $100 per month toward your car loan, you’d save $1,232 on interest and get out of debt nearly a year and a half sooner. If you put that extra $100 toward your student loans, you’d also get out of debt about a year and a half sooner but you would save just $574 in interest charges. Our student loan payoff calculator can help you crunch the numbers on your student debt.

You could also consider refinancing your car loan for a better rate to help save on interest. This option might be worth exploring if interest rates are lower now than when you originally took out the loan.

Building Equity in Your Vehicle

The faster you pay down your car loan, the more equity you’ll hold in your vehicle. That means you’ll own more of your car outright, which could come in handy if you ever want to sell it. Plus, you’ll be less likely to end up underwater on your car loan, which can happen when the debt you owe on your vehicle exceeds what the vehicle is worth.

Advantages of Prioritizing Student Loans

Although it often makes sense to prepay a car loan before a student loan, there are certain advantages to paying off student loans first. Here are some scenarios where you could benefit from prepaying your education debt:

•   Your student loans have a variable rate: Some private student loans have a variable rate that can increase and make your borrowing costs unpredictable. If you’ve been dealing with a rising variable rate, you may want to pay off those loans as quickly as you can. You might also explore refinancing those loans, which could allow you to switch to a fixed (and potentially lower) interest rate.

•   You’re not using income-driven repayment or loan forgiveness: Federal student loans come with a variety of borrower protections, but you may not require any of them for managing your student loan debt. If you don’t need an IDR plan and you aren’t pursuing loan forgiveness, for instance, you might focus on paying off your federal loan debt.

•   You’re considering filing for bankruptcy: If you’re in dire financial straits, you might be looking into potentially erasing or restructuring your debts through bankruptcy. Although it’s possible to discharge student loans in bankruptcy, the process is notoriously difficult. It may be easier to discharge a car loan through bankruptcy than a student loan.

Develop a Debt Repayment Strategy

Once you’ve decided which loans to pay off first, it’s important to develop a strategy for repayment. Here are some steps to take.

Create a Budget and Debt Snowball

Start with making a budget so you have a clear sense of your income and expenses. Track your spending, and look for areas where you could cut back. By reducing your spending, you might find room in your budget to direct extra payments toward your debt.

There are debt pay-off strategies that can help. For example, with the debt snowball method, you pay off the loan with the smallest balance first. Then you work on paying off the next smallest loan and so on. The debt avalanche, in contrast, targets the loan with the highest interest rate first, and then the loan with the next highest interest rate, and it can save you the most money in the long run.

The debt snowball may not save you as much money as the debt avalanche, but it can be psychologically rewarding to pay off a debt in full before moving onto the next one.

Seek Additional Income Sources

After budgeting and cutting down on spending, you might explore ways to increase your income. This could mean going for a promotion and raise at work or finding a new job. You could also consider taking on a side hustle, such as driving for a ride-sharing service or doing freelance tutoring.

By setting up additional income streams, you’ll have more cash to put toward your loans and get out of debt faster.

Negotiate with Lenders

If you’re looking to modify payments or adjust your interest rate, try negotiating directly with your lender. Notify the lender that you’re having difficulty repaying the loan and see if they might be willing to work with you. Depending on the type of loan it is, the lender might offer a repayment plan or reduce the loan interest rate, for instance. Although there’s no guarantee of success, it’s worth a try.

The Takeaway

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether you should pay off a car loan or a student loan first, paying off the loan with the highest interest rate can generally save you the most money. For many borrowers that may be their car loan.

If your student loans have high interest rates, you might consider student loan refinance. If you’re eligible for a lower rate, it may help make your payments more manageable. However, refinancing federal student loans makes them ineligible for federal benefits like income-driven repayment, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as you weigh your options.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

FAQ

Is it better to pay off higher interest debt first?

Paying off high-interest debt first usually makes the most financial sense, since it will save you more money in the long run. However, it’s important to keep up with the minimum payments on all your debts so you don’t end up in delinquency or default.

Can I deduct student loan interest on my taxes?

It depends on your income. The student loan interest deduction lets you deduct the interest you pay on student loans, up to $2,500 a year if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $80,000 for single filers and $165,000 if you’re married and filing jointly. If you earn between $80,000 and $95,000 ($165,000 and $195,000 if married filing jointly), you can make a partial deduction. Anything more than that and you cannot take the student loan interest deduction.

What happens if I default on my car loan or student loans?

A car loan is secured by your vehicle, and if you default on the loan, the lender can repossess your car. Student loans are unsecured, so a lender can’t take your personal property. However, the government can garnish your wages, tax refunds, and Social Security benefits if you default on a federal student loan. Defaulting on private and federal student loans can also damage your credit, and a private lender could potentially take you to court to try to collect the money.

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SoFi Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). SoFi Student Loan Refinance Loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers, or may become available, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, PAYE or SAVE. Additional terms and conditions apply. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal.

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