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Loan stacking is the process of applying for multiple loans within an extremely short timeframe to get a lot of money fast. It typically occurs with borrowers applying online for funding, and both individuals and businesses may pursue this path to secure cash.

While loan stacking is not technically illegal, it can lead borrowers to take on more debt than they can comfortably repay — potentially wreaking havoc on their credit scores. Meanwhile, lenders stand to lose a lot of money via loan stacking as borrowers may default on these loans at a higher rate than with single loans. For this reason, some have policies against it written into their loan terms.

In short: Loan stacking is probably not a smart move, even if you’re trying to shore up your finances quickly. Here’s a closer look at this practice.

Defining Loan Stacking

Loan stacking is defined as taking out multiple loans in a short period of time in order to access large amounts of money. It typically happens via securing loans online.

While many consumers have multiple personal loans or credit cards, loan stacking is different because of the speed with which the loan applications are submitted and processed.

Some people and businesses may be legitimately trying to secure multiple loans (say, they’ve discovered they can’t increase the amount of a personal loan they already have and urgently need to fund major home repairs).

However, others who engage in loan stacking may have no intention of ever repaying the loans; they just want access to large amounts of cash fast. This can constitute loan stacking fraud.

How Loan Stacking Works

Given the speed with which many online lenders approve applications — faster, sometimes, than hard inquiries can show up on a credit report — borrowers may be able to secure multiple loans from different lenders in quick succession. When that happens, the borrower may be approved for large amounts of credit they might not otherwise have qualified for. (A lender might have declined to offer a loan if the applicant’s credit report had reflected the other loans being sought.) With a significant amount of debt secured, these borrowers could default on one or all of their loans.

That said, many financial institutions are wise to the ways of loan stacking and may include language against it in the fine print of the contract you sign to apply for the loan.

That means that if you’re engaging in loan stacking, you’re breaking the contract — which could nullify it or, in extreme cases, constitute fraud.

Recommended: What Are Personal Loans Used For?

Risks and Consequences of Loan Stacking

If you feel you need a lot of money in a short amount of time, loan stacking can be tempting. However, there are some serious risks and consequences to consider.

•   Increased debt burden. Obviously, if you borrow a lot of money, you’re going to owe a lot of money — more than you may be reasonably able to pay off. This can add to your financial stress and keep you from other goals, such as saving for the down payment on a house.

•   High interest costs. Most loans aren’t free. Even if you qualify for interest rates on the lower end of the spectrum, when you have multiple loans at the same time, interest can quickly add up.

•   Potential default. If you fail to repay your loans on time, they may go into default and be sent to collections. This can negatively impact both your credit score and your peace of mind. Collections agencies are within their rights to call you daily and may do so until they’re instructed otherwise in writing.

•   Negative credit impact. Aspects of loan stacking can negatively affect your credit score over time. (The amount you owe, for instance, accounts for 30% of the calculation. Getting a stack of loans will send debt higher and likely lower your score.) High interest charges and surging debt levels can cause you to make late payments or miss them altogether, further harming your three-digit number.

In these ways, loan stacking can have significant negative implications for your financial and overall wellbeing.

Recommended: Understanding Personal Loan Interest Rates

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Along with the negative ramifications on your financial standing and credit report, there are also legal and ethical reasons to think twice before loan stacking.

•   As mentioned above, some lenders have explicit policies against taking out multiple loans at the same time. While loan stacking may not technically be illegal, this means that you’d be breaking the lender’s rules.

•   If you carefully read the fine print on the application, you may see that you’re required to disclose any other loans (such as a personal loan or a HELOC) that you’ve recently applied for or taken out. These disclosure requirements mean if you fail to share this information, you may be committing application fraud. At the very least, the contract may be rendered null and void if the lending company discovers what you’re doing.

•   In more serious cases (say, in which other crimes occur), fines, legal fees, and even jail time could be involved.

Alternatives to Loan Stacking

If you’re making the wise decision to avoid loan stacking, there are alternatives that could help you get the financial relief you need without the risks that this tactic carries.

•   Debt consolidation loans. If the reason you’re looking to borrow money is to pay off other money you’ve borrowed, debt consolidation might be the right answer. This involves taking out a new personal loan to consolidate your debt (or balance transfer credit card) to pay off your existing debt and simplify your life by making just a single payment each month.

This financial move, if it involves personal loans, may offer the added bonus of lowering your overall interest rate.

•   Credit counseling. Bad credit habits are unlikely to resolve themselves without intervention. This means that even if you successfully pay down your debt, you might find yourself right back in the same “I owe too much” place in a few months or years. Credit counseling can help you get out of debt and ensure you avoid it going forward.

This service is often offered for free or for a low fee by nonprofit organizations. A certified counselor can help you assess your situation and take steps to better manage your money.

•   Negotiating with current lenders. Even if they don’t advertise it, many lenders will negotiate with you to help lower your monthly payments or extend the time you have to repay your loan. Extending a loan can involve paying more interest over the life of the loan, but it may be a wise move if money is tight and you are struggling with debt.

•   Exploring other funding sources. Taking out a single, large personal loan might be a better idea than loan stacking. In addition, you could also look into borrowing funds from friends and family or peer-to-peer (P2P) lending, a method of borrowing in which people borrow and lend money to one another without a bank being involved.

If you are considering loan stacking, it may be a smart step to consider these alternatives and find one that best fits your current situation.

Recommended: How to Apply for a Personal Loan

The Takeaway

Loan stacking — taking out multiple loans online from different lenders in a short timeframe — can be a dangerous move that can worsen a bad financial situation. It can lead to considerable debt and hefty interest charges, harming your credit score and your financial and emotional status.

If you need cash quickly, other options, such as securing a single personal loan, may be a better path forward.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

Is loan stacking legal?

While loan stacking is technically not illegal, some lenders may have explicit policies against it. This means you may not be qualified for additional credit or borrowed funds if the lender sees that you’ve recently successfully applied for another loan. Additionally, using someone else’s name or personal information to apply for a loan is identity theft or identity fraud, which is a crime.

Can you stack personal loans?

While it’s certainly possible to have more than one personal loan, loan stacking on purpose can backfire. If you borrow more than you can afford to pay back on time, you can tank your credit score. Furthermore, these days, many lenders are wise to loan stacking, and they may not approve your application if they see another recent hard credit check on your file.

What are the risks of loan stacking?

Loan stacking can quickly put the borrower deeply in debt, potentially making it impossible to repay the loans in a timely fashion. This, in turn, can be devastating for their credit score and financial wellbeing. Additionally, since many lenders see loan stacking as a risk to their business, some have beefed up their underwriting process to prevent loan stacking, so you may simply be denied. Finally, if you falsify any information on your loan application or apply for multiple loans with no intention of repaying them, you may be guilty of application fraud, which can lead to fines and other consequences.

Photo credit: iStock/porcorex

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.

SOPL-Q324-017

A home equity loan is a secured loan, using your home as collateral, while a personal loan is unsecured, meaning you don’t put up any collateral. Beyond this key difference, these borrowing options are similar in that both are typically lump-sum, fixed-rate loans that you’ll repay over a specific length of time.

If you’re wondering which is the better choice for your current financial needs, it can be wise to take a closer look at how each one works and the pros and cons involved.

What Is a Home Equity Loan?

Sometimes referred to as a second mortgage, a home equity allows you to use your home as collateral when you need to borrow money. Here are a few key points to note:

•   With this type of loan, the amount you can borrow is based on the equity you have in your home. Your home equity is the difference between your home’s current value and what you currently owe on your mortgage. Lenders may require that you have a minimum amount of equity (typically, at least 15% to 20%) to qualify.

•   If you’re a new homeowner, you may not have built up enough equity to qualify for this type of loan. But if you made a substantial down payment, you’ve owned your home for a while, or your home’s value has increased substantially since you purchased it, a home equity loan could be an option worth considering.

•   Lenders typically offer more competitive terms for this type of secured loan because it’s a lower risk for them. To put it another way: If the borrower defaults, they can foreclose on the property and recover the amount they’re owed.

Recommended: Understanding Home Equity

How Does a Home Equity Loan Work?

Home equity loan funds are generally distributed in a lump sum with fixed-rate monthly payments, though variable-rate options are offered by some lenders. Repayment periods can vary from five to 30 years. Here’s a closer look at how they work:

•   When you apply, you can expect lenders to look at your personal creditworthiness, including your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and credit score. In most cases, you will need a credit score of 680 or higher to unlock favorable terms. A higher three-digit score may help you get approved for a better rate.

•   Your lender will likely require a home appraisal to verify your home’s value. (This is one of the reasons why snagging a home equity loan can be a more time-consuming process than getting an unsecured loan.)

•   If you’re eligible, you may be able to borrow up to 80% or, in some cases, even 90% of your home’s equity. So, for example, if you have $150,000 in equity, you might qualify to borrow $120,000 to $135,000.

It’s important to note that a home equity loan is not the same thing as a home equity line of credit (HELOC). A HELOC is a type of revolving credit (you draw against your limit over time), while a home equity loan is an installment loan, paid out in a lump sum.

What Is a Personal Loan?

A personal loan is similar to a home equity loan in that it allows you to borrow a lump sum of money, and you’ll repay those funds — with interest — in regular installments over a set period of years.

To understand what defines a personal loan and distinguishes it from a home equity loan, consider these points:

•   Most personal loans are unsecured, which means you don’t have to use your home or any other asset as collateral to borrow the money.

•   Because the lender is taking more risk with this kind of loan than a home equity loan, interest rates may be higher.

•   Since you don’t need to have a home appraisal and other steps completed, you may find that securing a personal loan vs. a home equity loan is a significantly quicker process.

How Does a Personal Loan Work?

If you decide to go with a personal loan, you’ll likely have a number of options to choose from — they’re offered by many banks, credit unions, and other lenders. And because lenders’ terms can vary significantly, you may want to do some comparison shopping before you make a choice.

When applying, it’s wise to be aware of these points:

•   If you aren’t using an asset to secure your personal loan, you can expect lenders to put a high priority on your credit score, income, and DTI when you apply. The higher your credit score, the better in terms of getting approved and securing a favorable rate. Many lenders look for a FICO® score of at least 580, but applicants who have scores over 700 are likely offered the most favorable terms. (Personal loan rates are usually lower than credit card rates, however, even if the loan is unsecured.)

•   Pay attention to how the length of the loan affects your payments. Personal loans are typically repaid over a term of two to seven years. If you’re looking for smaller monthly payments, a longer term may suit your needs, but that may increase the overall cost of the loan. A personal loan calculator can help you compare your monthly payments and the total (principal plus interest and fees) to be repaid.

Comparing Home Equity Loans and Personal Loans

Both home equity loans and personal loans usually offer fixed-rate, lump-sum financing options with terms that can be tailored to fit the borrower’s needs. And both offer borrowers a certain amount of flexibility in how the money can be used.

But there are some questions you may want to consider when deciding between the two, including:

How Much Do You Plan to Borrow?

If you need to borrow a large amount and you’re looking for a lower interest rate, you may find a home equity loan is the right product for your needs. Your monthly payments may be smaller if you sign up for a longer repayment period.

If you need a smaller loan — a few thousand dollars, for example, or even just a few hundred — a personal loan may be the more practical choice. But even if you plan to borrow a large amount, you may choose a personal loan to avoid tying your home to your loan. Some lenders offer large personal loans — as much as $100,000 or more — to well-qualified borrowers.

What’s the Timeline?

One of the major drawbacks to a home equity loan is that the approval process can take weeks (say, two to six weeks). Lenders typically will require an appraisal to determine your home’s current value, and there’s usually more paperwork involved with this type of loan.

A personal loan application, on the other hand, can take just minutes to complete online, and some lenders offer same-day approvals. If you’re approved, it may take only two or three days until the money lands in your checking account.

What’s the Risk?

Home equity loans come with more risk for the borrower than a personal loan. If you default on your payments and the lender decides to foreclose, you could potentially lose your home. Also, if you decide to sell your property, you’ll have to pay back the home equity loan.

Personal loans also carry some risk for borrowers. If you default on a secured personal loan, the lender could take whatever asset (a car or bank account, for instance) you used for collateral. And whether your loan is secured or unsecured, late or missed payments could lower your credit score (this can be true for home equity loans as well). If the account goes to collections, you could be sued for what you owe.

How Do You Plan to Use the Money?

You can use funds from both types of loans for just about any (legal) purpose. Borrowers often use them to:

•   Consolidate debt (say, to pay off high-interest credit card debt)

•   Pay for wedding or vacation costs

•   Make home improvements

•   Pay off medical or dental bills

•   Finance car repairs or the purchase of a vehicle

•   Fund moving expenses

There may be benefits to one or the other loan type that makes it a better fit for your specific plans. For instance, with a home equity loan, you can deduct the interest on funds you used to “buy, build, or substantially improve” the home you used to secure the loan, according to the IRS. So if you’re hoping to make home renovations, one of the different types of home equity loans may be the right choice.

You typically can’t deduct the interest on a personal loan. But the ease and speed of getting a personal loan may make it the better pick if an unexpected expense comes up — say, if your refrigerator or air conditioning system goes out, and you need money quickly for a replacement or major repair.

Pros and Cons of Home Equity Loans vs Personal Loans

Here’s a look at some of the advantages and downsides of a personal loan vs. home equity loan:

Personal Loan Pros

•   Flexible borrowing amounts and terms

•   Often unsecured, meaning there’s no risk of losing your home

•   Convenient and fast access to funds

Personal Loan Cons

•   Interest rate may be higher if loan is unsecured

•   Depending on borrower’s creditworthiness, may require collateral

•   Lenders may charge a loan origination fee, late payment fees, and/or a prepayment penalty

Home Equity Loan Pros

•   Flexible borrowing amounts and terms

•   Interest rate may be lower than unsecured loans

•   Interest may be tax-deductible if used for home improvements

Home Equity Cons

•   If you default on the loan, the lender could foreclose on your home

•   Approval process can take longer (two to six weeks) and may include additional costs

•   Some home equity loans have prepayment penalties and/or other fees

•   Must have enough equity in your home to qualify for the amount you want

•   If you sell your home, you’ll have to repay the loan

Carefully considering the upsides and downsides of a personal loan vs. a home equity loan is an important step in making the financial decision that suits you best.

The Takeaway

Home equity loans and personal loans both typically offer lump-sum payments at a fixed rate for a specified term. Home equity loans use your property as collateral, while personal loans are often unsecured.

It’s important to look at how each one might sync up with your particular financial situation and your reasons for borrowing the money. If you’re a homeowner, tapping into your home equity might get you a lower interest rate and a possible tax break. But the loan process is typically quicker and easier for a personal loan — and you won’t have to tie the loan to your home and put your residence at risk.

If you think a personal loan might be right for you, see what SoFi offers.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

Can personal loans be used to consolidate debt?

Yes, debt consolidation is one of the top reasons borrowers choose to get a personal loan. You might use this kind of loan to pay off one or more high-interest loans or credit card accounts, potentially simplifying repayment and lowering your costs.

What credit score is needed for each loan type?

Here are how credit scores for home equity loans vs. personal loans typically stack up: Lenders typically like to see a credit score of 680 or higher for home equity loans and 580 or higher for personal loans. Borrowers with higher credit scores usually qualify for more favorable loan rates.

What is the downside of a home equity loan?

The biggest drawback to a home equity loan vs. a personal loan is that it’s tied to the home you use to secure the loan. This means that if you default on your payments, the lender could foreclose on your home. Also, if you decide to sell your home, you’ll have to pay back your home equity loan as well as your mortgage.

Photo credit: iStock/milorad kravic

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.

SOPL-Q324-016

Personal loans are usually not considered income and are therefore not taxable. Rather, they are viewed as a kind of debt. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule which create situations in which a personal loan could be taxable.

Read on to learn the details about personal loans and their tax implications.

What Constitutes Taxable Income?

Taxable income is money that’s been earned and is subject to tax, such as your salary, investment income, and even lottery winnings. To figure out your taxable income, you take your gross income and subtract your exemptions and itemized or standardized tax deductions.

Definition and Examples

Taxable income falls under two main camps. Taxable income can include earned income, such as:

•   Wages

•   Salaries

•   Bonuses

•   Tips

•   Investment income

It also includes “unearned” income, such as:

•   Taxable interest earned

•   Ordinary dividends

•   Capital gains distributions

•   Alimony payments

•   Social Security benefits

•   Inheritances

•   Property income

As you can see, income can come in many different forms, such as money, goods, services, and property. Generally speaking, most income is taxable. It’s only non-taxable if it’s specifically exempted by law.

Personal Loans and Taxation

The Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, does not and cannot tax personal loans. That’s because a personal loan represents a kind of debt. The proceeds from this loan need to be repaid, and therefore personal loans aren’t considered taxable income.

That means they aren’t taxed — for the most part — and it doesn’t matter how small or large a loan may be or what you use the proceeds for. Neither the principal nor the interest paid can usually be taxed.

What’s more, there’s also zero impact on taxation whether you’ve taken out an unsecured personal loan or a secured one.

Worth noting: While personal loans aren’t usually taxable, they’re not tax-deductible either. (This differs from the situation with mortgages and student loans, in which cases the interest is typically tax-deductible.)

To sum it up, your personal loan usually won’t impact your tax situation in any way. In turn, you probably don’t need to note the loan on your tax returns. No additional forms need to be filled out and added to your return.

Recommended: Using a Personal Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Exceptions and Special Cases

While personal loans aren’t generally taxable, there is an exception. If the lender cancels the debt or gives you loan forgiveness, the proceeds of the loan then fall under cancellation of debt (COD) income. Once proceeds from the loan are forgiven, it then can be taxed.

While loan forgiveness isn’t too common (except for student loans), a portion of your personal loans can be nixed if you reach an agreement with the lender where you’re no longer responsible for paying back the remaining balance.

If you’re financially stretched thin and unable to repay the remainder of your loan, you can receive forgiveness in a couple of ways:

•   One, you enter debt settlement, where you negotiate with your lender by paying less than the amount owed.

•   Another way you can be cleared of your debt is if your lender has a hardship program. If you meet the eligibility requirements, the lender might wipe part or all of your remaining debt.

There are a few instances where canceled debt usually isn’t taxable, however:

•   A loan that’s forgiven by a private lender (i.e., family, friend) or an intra-family loan (aka a loan between two family members) is forgiven as a gift. Because these are treated as gifts, they are exempt from the gift and estate tax up to certain limits. In 2024, up to $18,000 in gifts can be excluded from taxation per donee (or recipient).

•   Canceled debt from a Chapter 11 bankruptcy (which is a legal process, when a person or entity declares they cannot pay creditors)

•   Canceled debt from insolvency (defined as a financial state in which a person is unable to pay bills)

Recommended: Guide to Insolvency vs. Bankruptcy

Reporting Loans on Tax Returns

Generally, you won’t need to report money you get from loans on tax returns — that is, unless it gets canceled or forgiven.

Getting into the weeds, the IRS usually requires you to report the canceled amount to the IRS on Form 1099-C, which is used for cancellation of debt (COD). To fill out the form, you’ll need to provide the following information:

•   Creditor’s name

•   Creditor’s address

•   Creditor’s tax ID (TIN)

•   Debtor’s name

•   Debtor’s address

•   Debtor’s tax ID (TIN, which may be an SSN)

•   Date of loan forgiveness

•   Amount cleared

•   Interest paid on the canceled debt

Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

Avoiding Tax Pitfalls with Personal Loans

As mentioned, usually your personal loans won’t impact your tax situation in any way. Uncle Sam doesn’t need to know when you take out the loan or when you pay off your balance. Neither the lump sum you receive in the form of a personal loan nor the interest you pay is taxable. What’s more, they aren’t typically tax-deductible either, meaning you won’t receive any tax breaks.

To steer clear of potential tax pitfalls, consider following this advice:

•   Don’t report the proceeds of the loan or how much you paid off in a given year. Remember: A personal loan isn’t considered income. It’s money you owe and need to be repaid.

•   Money you pay back on a personal loan isn’t tax-deductible — neither the principal nor the interest.

•   If part or all of the remaining balance of the loan is forgiven or canceled, you’ll likely need to pay taxes on the forgiven amount. A form 1099-C (COD) will need to be completed by the tax deadline for individual tax returns.

•   Know that in some instances, you might not have to pay taxes on the forgiven amount of a personal loan. For instance, if the personal loan was from a friend or family member and forgiven as a gift, taxes won’t likely be due up to gift tax limits. The same can hold true if you filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy or are insolvent; you may not have to pay taxes.

•   If you have any questions, consult with a tax professional for guidance and one-on-one advice.

Speaking of taxes, if you owe a sum, you can use a personal loan to pay off taxes. However, it can be a smart idea to explore other options, such as an IRS payment plan, as well.

When comparing options, you’ll want to look at the personal loan interest rate, fees, monthly payment, and total cost of a personal loan to see if it fits your budget.

The Takeaway

For the most part, a personal loan doesn’t count as taxable income. It’s a debt, so you don’t have to fret over owing the IRS anything on the interest or the principal. There are a few exceptions, such as personal loans that are forgiven by a private lender or canceled due to, say, bankruptcy or insolvency.

Shopping for a personal loan? See if a loan from SoFi could be the right choice for you.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

Do I report a personal loan as income on taxes?

Personal loans don’t count as income, so they don’t need to be reported to the IRS for tax purposes. To be a bit more specific: Because proceeds from personal loans aren’t taxable, the interest paid or the amount paid back don’t need to be reported to the IRS.

What if a personal loan is forgiven or canceled?

If a personal loan is forgiven or canceled, you’ll most likely need to pay taxes on the amount that’s forgiven or canceled. You’ll also need to complete and submit a tax form 1099-C (Cancelation of Debt) form as part of this process. There are some exceptions to this, however, so delve into your specific situation, possibly with a tax professional, to understand it in detail.

Can interest paid on personal loans be tax-deductible?

No part of a personal loan is typically tax-deductible, and that includes the interest paid. With other kinds of loans, such as home mortgages and student loans, the interest may be tax-deductible.

Photo credit: iStock/shurkin_son

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.

SOPL-Q324-015

Scholarships are a type of financial aid that you don’t need to pay back. Students may find scholarships that are need-based or merit-based, as well as scholarships for minorities that are historically underrepresented on college campuses.

College scholarships for minorities are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. We’ve outlined a list of scholarships for minority students below, plus some tips for applying and what to expect for eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Requirements

It’s important to check the eligibility requirements before applying for scholarships and grants. There are multiple types of scholarships that students could qualify for based on where they live, their chosen field of study, or being recruited as a student athlete.

Minority scholarships are often based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of the two. Competitive merit scholarships can involve GPA minimums, community service experience, or proficiency in the arts or a specific academic discipline.

Need-based scholarships, which are based on a student’s financial need, can help make college more affordable for students from low-income backgrounds. Whether applying for federal grants or private scholarships, students need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

💡 Recommended: Balancing Being a Student Athlete & Academics in College

How to Find Minority Scholarships

There are many scholarship options for students from underrepresented populations. Finding minority scholarships begins with completing the FAFSA to determine eligibility for need-based awards, such as Pell Grants.

Searching for scholarships online is a common approach. The Department of Labor maintains a scholarship database, known as CareerOneStop.

SoFi’s scholarship finder is another resource to find free money to help pay for college, graduate school, or trade school. Users can filter results by residency, field of study, ethnicity, and other criteria.

Scholarships for Minority Students

Below are some scholarships for minority students to begin their search.

•   AICPA Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students: Financial assistance to minority students pursuing a degree as an accounting major.

•   Diversity Advancement Scholarship: Awards for minority students planning to enroll in a NAAB-accredited architecture degree program.

•   Government Finance Professional Development Scholarship: Multiple scholarships for minority students enrolled in a course of study preparing for a career in state or local government.

•   Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program: Scholarships to support undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors become effective K-12 STEM teachers.

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

Types of Scholarships Available for Minorities

Scholarships for minorities can be specific to certain ethnicities and heritages, rather than open to all minority groups.

Minority students may also use grants for college expenses. Like scholarships, grants typically don’t need to be repaid. A couple distinctions to note: Grants are usually based on financial need versus academic merit, and funds are often from federal and state government instead of private and non-profit entities.

Here’s a look at college scholarship opportunities for several different minority groups.

Recommended: Grants, Scholarships, and Loans: Differences

Scholarships for African American Students

Black and African American students can apply for specific minority scholarships and grants to help minimize college debt. Scholarship eligibility may be based on a student’s major, location, and the type of institution.

•   CBC Spouses Education Scholarship: Scholarships for African American or Black students who demonstrate leadership through community service, pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.

•   HBCU Sustainable Communities Initiative Scholarship: Awards for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and majoring in STEM, business, or sustainability-related disciplines.

•   Historically Black Law School Scholarship Program: Awards a scholarship to one student at each historically black law school in the U.S.

•   National Forum for Black Public Administrators Scholarships: Awards for African American students enrolled in a four-year degree program, preferably at an HBCU, who demonstrate leadership related to public service.

•   NSBE Scholarship Program: Multiple scholarships for African-American undergraduate and graduate students majoring in engineering.

Scholarships for Hispanic/Latino Students

Hispanic and Latino students have unique funding opportunities to apply for among the list of scholarships and minority grants for college. Eligibility may depend on the institution type and location, as well as a student’s location and financial need.

•   Café Bustelo® El Café Del Futuro Scholarship: Scholarships for college students with a passion for community involvement and enrolled at a Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities member institution.

•   Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for Young Hispanic Leaders: Need-based awards for full-time students of Hispanic ancestry enrolled at a two- or four-year institution.

•   Hispanic Heritage Foundation Youth Awards: Scholarships for students of Hispanic heritage enrolled at an accredited higher education institution.

•   HSF Scholar Program: Merit-based awards for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, eligible non-citizens or DACA of Hispanic heritage enrolling in undergraduate or graduate school.

•   Latinos in Technology Scholarship: Scholarships and summer internship opportunities for Latino and Hispanic students enrolled in a STEM program in their junior or senior year at a college in Northern California or a graduate of a high school in Northern California.

Scholarships for Native American Students

Some minority scholarships are available to Native American students exclusively. Tribal enrollment and field of study are two eligibility requirements to be mindful of.

•   American Indian Education Fund Scholarships: Awards for Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.

•   Catching the Dream Scholarship: Awards for Native American and Alaska Native students to study business administration, economic development, and related subjects.

•   Full Circle and Tribal College Scholarships: Awards for Native American and Alaska Native students seeking technical, undergraduate, and graduate degrees at tribal colleges or accredited non-profit schools.

•   NativeVision Scholarship: Scholarships for Native American students to help fund their first year of college.

•   Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship: Awards for enrolled members of a U.S. federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe pursuing a degree in banking, management, or a related field.

Scholarships for Native Hawaiian Students

There are a variety of scholarships for Native Hawaiian students to help pay for the cost of college. Eligibility for scholarships may vary based on the field of study and a student’s residency.

•   AIANTA Tourism & Hospitality Scholarship: Financial assistance for Native Hawaiian, Alaska Native, and Native American students toward a degree or certificate in hospitality, culinary arts, or related fields.

•   AISES Scholarships: Scholarships for Native Hawaiian and Native American undergraduate and graduate students pursuing STEM degrees.

•   CCAPW Scholarships: Assistance for American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women from specific central California communities.

•   Clem Judd Jr. Memorial Scholarship: Awards for Hawaiian residents of Hawaiian ancestry enrolled in hotel management degree programs.

•   Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program: Scholarships for Native Hawaiians pursuing careers in primary and behavioral health disciplines.

Scholarships for Asian American Students

There are minority scholarships designated for Asian American students. Note that scholarship eligibility may be specific to certain ethnic groups and ancestry.

•   ESASID Scholarship: Scholarship for students of South Asian Indian heritage attending medical school full time in Pennsylvania.

•   Kimbo Foundation Scholarship: Multiple awards for Korean-American college students.

•   NSRCF Scholarships: Multiple awards for high school seniors of Southeast Asian ancestry living in designated areas of the United States.

•   Taiwanese American Scholarship Fund: Need-based scholarships for Taiwanese American college students of all majors.

•   Upakar Foundation Scholarships: Merit- and need-based scholarships for Indian American college students.

Recommended: How Do Student Loans Work? Guide to Student Loans

Tips for Applying

Applying for scholarships can be made easier with some prior planning. After identifying scholarship options, making note of application deadlines is a useful place to start.

If a scholarship requires an essay or personal statement, double check that you’re following the prompts and word limit requirements. Highlighting your personal experience, strengths, and achievements can help you stand out as an applicant.

Letters of recommendation are a common application requirement. Think about which teachers or employers would be best suited to write a recommendation — and give plenty of notice if asking them to do so.

Applying for scholarships isn’t a one-and-done scenario. Students can apply for scholarships every year of their education, and it may be necessary to reapply for a scholarship award if it doesn’t renew year-to-year.

Recommended: 8 Tips for Asking a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation

The Takeaway

Scholarships and grants are a great way for minority students to pay for college and reduce student debt. But 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

Are there scholarships for multi-racial students?

Yes, multi-racial students can access minority scholarships that relate to any part of their multicultural heritage or ancestry. Eligibility requirements for minority status or specific ethnic groups are typically outlined in the scholarship description.

Do minority scholarships consider financial need?

Entities offering minority scholarships may consider a student’s financial need, academic merit, or a combination of the two.

What documents are required for minority scholarships?

To apply for minority scholarships, students may need to submit their transcripts, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, essays, and the FAFSA®.

Photo credit: iStock/Maca and Naca

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.

SOISL-Q324-037

Pursuing a college education as a single mom can be both challenging and rewarding. With the added responsibilities of parenting, managing finances, and balancing schoolwork, finding the necessary resources to fund your education is essential. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships specifically designed to support single mothers in achieving their academic goals.

Keep reading to learn various types of scholarships for single moms, their eligibility requirements, and how to apply, empowering you to pursue your educational dreams.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility requirements for scholarships for single moms differ from scholarship to scholarship. Carefully review the qualifications for each scholarship so you understand whether you’ll qualift. Beyond being a single parent, scholarship committees may impose other requirements, such as:

•   Citizenship

•   Where you live

•   Academic qualifications (grade point average/test scores)

•   Major in college

•   Credit hours in college

•   Financial qualifications; may require filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

•   Essay requirement

•   High school or college transcripts

•   Letters of recommendation

•   Extracurricular activities

It can be tricky to keep all the eligibility requirements organized for each scholarship, so you may want to create a spreadsheet to keep it all straight.

How to Find Scholarships for Single Moms

Scholarship databases can help you find scholarships specifically geared toward single moms, and you can also look for scholarships based on keywords specific to your area, major, and more. For example, you may want to use the keywords “scholarships for single moms in medical school” or other criteria that will allow you to find scholarships for your situation.

Furthermore, you can also file the FAFSA to learn more about the types of scholarships you can apply for based on the school you want to attend.

Scholarships for Single Moms

Below is a list of scholarships for single mothers. Make sure to check out the requirements and deadlines for each.

•   The Colwell Law Group, LLC Single Parent Scholarship: To qualify for this $1,000 award, you must be enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or law program within the U.S., have a minimum GPA of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and submit an up-to-date resume, current official or unofficial transcripts, and a 750-word essay about how being a single parent has impacted your life.

•   Women-in-Transition Scholarship: This scholarship offers $8,000 over two years to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university or $4,000 over two years for students pursuing an associate’s degree. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA, enroll in an accredited school in the U.S., commit to an accounting or finance degree, and demonstrate financial need.

•   Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation: The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation offers up to $5,000 for students at least 17 years of age pursuing a first degree at an accredited postsecondary institution. Individuals must demonstrate financial need to qualify for this scholarship.

•   ANSWER Scholarship: The ANSWER Scholarship, which typically ranges from $2,750 per year for associate’s degrees to $5,500 per year for bachelor’s degrees, goes to primary female caregivers with at least one school-age child. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and legal residents of Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan, Stanly, or Union County in North Carolina or Lancaster or York County in South Carolina. They must also attend accredited institutions in those counties and plan to achieve specific degrees. Recipients must also participate in the Mentors for Mom Program, maintain satisfactory academic performance, as well as attend ANSWER luncheons and fundraisers.

•   Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant: National Scholar Grant applicants must be 35 or older, demonstrate financial need, and have a plan for reaching their goals. They must also be pursuing a technical or vocational education degree, an associate’s degree, or a first bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution. The award is worth up to $2,000 per year for up to five years.

•   Judith McManus Price Scholarship for Women and Minorities in Planning: This $5,000 scholarship is for women and minority students enrolled in Planning Accreditation Board (PAB)-approved programs who are citizens of the U.S. and who demonstrate need.

•   Beatrice F. Kroesche Memorial Scholarship: Applicants for this $1,000 to $2,000 scholarship for single parents must enroll in the College of Education or Department of English at the University of Utah. Applicants must carry at least 12 hours of study and maintain a 3.0 GPA or better.

•   Women With Promise Scholarship: Full- or part-time students who are residents of north Texas and plan to attend accredited institutions can apply for this scholarship. Students can receive between $250 and $5,000 for tuition, books, and fees.

These aren’t the only scholarships available. Search for other scholarships as well, and check for potential scholarships at your intended college or university.

Types of Scholarships Available for Single Moms

Single moms can tap into two main types of scholarships for moms: need-based and merit-based scholarships. What’s the difference between the two? Let’s dive into it below.

Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are scholarships for women given to students based on financial need. In most cases, students qualify for financial need if they have a low income. Need-based aid often comes from the government, though nonprofit organizations and businesses may prioritize giving scholarships and awards to low-income students.

In many cases, students may also qualify for grants, which do not need to be repaid. For example, a student with high financial need might receive the Pell Grant after filing the FAFSA. For the 2025-26 school year, students can potentially receive a maximum Pell Grant award of $7,395. The Pell Grant amount adjusts every year.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are not based on need, but rather a multitude of other factors, such as:

•   Academic achievements (such as GPA or test scores)

•   Extracurricular activities

•   Leadership

•   Community service

•   Talents and skills

They come from a wide variety of sources, such as colleges and universities, private organizations, and businesses. Check with the college or university you plan to attend to learn more about merit-based scholarships. In most cases, you’ll have to submit your application materials to the college or university to qualify for merit-based scholarships, which could include:

•   Transcripts

•   Recommendation letters

•   Resume

•   Essays

•   Interviews

•   Performance or display (such as in the case of theater, music, or art merit-based scholarships)

What happens if you don’t qualify for need-based or merit-based scholarships or grants? You can tap into private student loans or student loans for single parents.

Tips for Applying

To successfully apply for scholarships and increase your chances of getting selected, consider the following tips:

•   Meet application deadlines. One of the most important things you can do is to meet your application deadlines. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to gather materials — including letters of recommendation — so the application doesn’t look rushed or messy.

•   Apply for everything. Apply for everything that fits your situation, even if the award amount is small. Smaller awards ($250 to $500) usually have less competition, so your odds are greater when it comes to being selected.

•   Write a good essay. The essay is your opportunity to showcase your situation and qualifications. If needed, hire a proofreader to ensure your essay is error-free.

•   Don’t get discouraged. If you get declined for a scholarship, there are thousands of others available. Consider all your qualifications, not just the ones that have to do with your single parent status.

•   Use our scholarship search tool. Our scholarship search tool, arranged in order of closest deadline, helps you see scholarships by keyword, award type, location, study level, and more. Learn more about our monthly $2,500 Scholarship Sweepstakes.

The Takeaway

Securing a scholarship can be a transformative experience for single moms pursuing higher education, providing both financial support and motivation to achieve academic and career goals. By understanding the various scholarships available, carefully reviewing eligibility requirements, and submitting strong applications, single moms can significantly reduce the cost of their education and focus more on their studies.

If scholarships aren’t enough to pay for the cost of college, you can rely on cash savings or federal 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

Is there a limit on how many scholarships you can apply for?

No, you can apply for as many scholarships as you want, but keep in mind that the college or university that you apply to may revoke some awards if you earn more in outside scholarships than the allowable limit. For example, if you receive a $10,000 outside scholarship, it may affect your financial aid award. Get in touch with the college or university of your choice to learn more.

Are there scholarships for single dads, too?

Absolutely! Use Google to search for scholarships for single dads, just like you would for scholarships or grants for single mothers. Ask your college or university for information about other scholarships and awards (including merit-based scholarships) you can apply for, as well.

Do I need to be a full-time student for single mom scholarships?

No, not necessarily. You can get grants and scholarships for single moms whether you are a part-time or full-time student. However, check the scholarship requirements. If it’s not clear, check with the scholarship committee for more information.

Photo credit: iStock/miniseries

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.

SOISL-Q324-035