Resources & Scholarships for Black Students | EduMed.org
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Scholarships and grants play a critical role in making higher education more accessible and ensuring all students have the opportunity to achieve their higher education and career goals. This guide provides a list of scholarship award programs for the Black community, gives tips on how to make your scholarship application shine, and offers additional resources that provide support to Black students — from enrollment through graduation and beyond.
Scholarships for Black Students
Any financial aid you can get for college is great, but scholarships and grants are the most highly prized since you won’t have to pay them back. Scholarships and grants are offered by a wide range of providers, including:
- Nonprofits
- Professional organizations
- Special interest groups
- Individuals
- Colleges and universities themselves
You might be surprised how many scholarships you’re eligible for, so it’s worth your time and effort to seek them out. The following list of scholarships for Black students (including a handful dedicated to those looking to get into the healthcare field) is a smart place to begin your search.
General Scholarships
Organization
United Methodist Church
Amount
$600
Deadline
Varies (typically in October)
Eligibility
Awarded to African-American students at United Methodist Church historically black colleges/universities, have a minimum GPA of 2.5, and be a member of the United Methodist Church for at least one year. You won’t see this scholarship specifically listed on the linked page, but you’ll automatically be considered for it by filling out the online application.
How to Apply
Visit the United Method Church’s General Board of Higher Education and Ministry website, create an account, then complete the online application.
Organization
Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation
Amount
$1,000
Deadline
April
Eligibility
Applicants must be residents of Philadelphia County, of African-American descent, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and plan to enter an accredited postsecondary institution.
How to Apply
Provide a completed application, official transcript, copy of ACT or SAT scores, essay, and two letters of recommendation.
Organization
National Hook-Up of Black Women, Inc. (NHBW, Inc.)
Amount
$500 to $1,000
Deadline
Varies (typically in February)
Eligibility
Open to African-American students seeking a postsecondary degree who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service.
How to Apply
Application requires proof of acceptance to an accredited college or university, evidence of at least 200 hours of community service, an essay, and high school transcript.
Organization
The Gates Scholarship
Amount
Covers entire cost of attendance
Deadline
September
Eligibility
Open to current high school seniors eligible for the Pell Grant that are African-American or belong to another minority group.
How to Apply
The online application requires students to submit evidence of leadership and an exceptional academic record. An interview may be required.
Organization
Jack and Jill Foundation
Amount
$2,500
Deadline
March
Eligibility
Applicants must be African-American, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and be able to prove at least 60 hours of community service.
How to Apply
Complete and submit the online application that includes a current transcript and one-page essay. Applicants must additionally complete the FAFSA to demonstrate financial need.
Medical and Health Scholarships
Organization
National Assocation of Health Services Executives
Amount
$7,000
Deadline
Varies by NAHSE chapter
Eligibility
Open to African American graduate students enrolled in an accredited college or university program pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in healthcare administration or a related field. Applicant must be a NAHSE member, possess a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate financial need.
How to Apply
Apply through the online application portal on the scholarship website.
Organization
Bedford Community Health Foundation
Amount
$1,000
Deadline
June
Eligibility
Applicant must be a resident of Bedford City or Bedford County, Virginia and enrolled in a Virginia state-approved allied health program. Examples of eligible programs include on-campus and online RN programs, physician assistant programs, medical assistant programs, and more.
How to Apply
Interested students must send a letter along with their application providing information concerning their anticipated education plans and costs.
Organization
National Dental Hygienists’ Association
Amount
$500 – $2,000
Deadline
May
Eligibility
Available to applicants who are of African Diaspora /African/ African American descent and are U.S. citizens who are currently enrolled in a dental hygienist program. Must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
How to Apply
Download the application via the scholarship website, then email the completed application as instructed. Submittal materials include official transcripts, passport-type photo, two letters of recommendation, written essay, and 3-5 minute video.
Organization
Hawai’i Community Foundation
Amount
Varies
Deadline
Varies (typically late February)
Eligibility
Applicants must intend to study in one of any number of fields (including almost any healthcare major), be at least a college sophomore, have a minimum GPA of 2.0, and be a resident of the state of Hawaii.
How to Apply
Go to the Hawai’i Community Foundation website, create an account, and apply via the online application.
Organization
Allina Health and the Courage Kenny Foundation
Amount
Varies ($2,000 is common)
Deadline
April
Eligibility
Open to culturally-diverse applicants who are residents of or attending a program in Western Wisconsin or Minnesota and accepted to or are enrolled in a post‐secondary or graduate level program in rehabilitation or therapy. Must demonstrate financial need and possess a minimum 3.0 GPA.
How to Apply
Submit the online application. Materials submitted include proof of enrollment, financial need statement, two reference letters, and volunteer/community service essay.
5 Keys to Landing Your Scholarship
When it comes to scholarships, the key word to remember is “competition.” Everybody wants that money, and each scholarship offer will wind up with a big stack of applications.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure your application stands out.
One way to do so is to ensure you’ve filled out every blank and included every bit of information required. Since there are so many applicants, scholarship committees rarely bother with incomplete applications.
So, make sure you’ve covered all the bases! And consider the following tips to make your application shine.
- Key #1: Take advantage of volunteer opportunities.
Working as a volunteer shows that you are a go-getter who is willing to work toward your goals even if you aren’t getting paid to do so. Volunteering also shows that you really want to help others. - Key #2: Get good letters of recommendation.
What others have to say about you holds great weight with scholarship committees by informing them about your character, abilities, talents, and motiviations. Look to mentors, teachers, and community leaders who know you well to pen these all-important letters. - Key #3: Use your essay to impress.
Most application data is rather dry, providing contact information, test scores, transcripts, and the like. It’s through your application essay that you can really make an impression, showing the selection committee who you are and the unique talents you can bring to the world of healthcare. - Key #4: Always get it in well before the deadline.
Never wait until the last minute to submit your application. Some scholarship committees will look at applicants on a first-come, first-serve basis, so your early application can leave an important first impression. - Key #5: Apply locally.
Though the big national scholarships award a great deal of money, smaller scholarships with smaller amounts can add up fast. Look to scholarships from local organizations that want to help students in their immediate area.
College Resources for Black Students
Before, during, and after college, students should take advantage of every outside resource possible. The resources listed below can help Black students to:
- Connect with others in their field
- Find mentors
- Work with individuals who can help them climb the career ladder
- Prepare them for the rigorous education that awaits
Academic & Career
- National Medical Association (NMA)
Professional organization representing the interests of African American physicians and their patients. The NMA accomplishes its mission through its annual conference, public education initiatives, and facilitating research and clinical knowledge. - National Urban League (NUL)
Civil rights advocacy group dedicated to helping African Americans and other disadvantaged groups improve their lives through financial, personal, and political means. The NUL offers a host of benefits, including special educational and mentorship programs. - Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF)
Non-profit organization working to reduce barriers to education, especially for those who are members of the Black college community. The TMCF offers a variety of programs to further this mission, including scholarships, internships, mentorships, and other initiatives.
Social & Networking
- The Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF)
National nonprofit focused on helping minority students achieve their higher education goals. In addition to financial support, the JRF provides mentoring, internship, and networking opportunities. - United Negro College Fund (UNCF)
The UNCF is committed to helping Black students achieve their educational goals through financial support, academic assistance, community support, and professional development. - U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
Network of over 100 local Black chambers of commerce whose mission is to improve Black businesses through advocacy, education, and economic initiatives.
Advocacy & Diversity
- HBCU Foundation
The HBCU Foundation helps students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities by offering scholarships, internships, and professional opportunities. - National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Preeminent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those who suffer from racial discrimination through the use of empowerment programs and other advocacy initiatives. - Shawn Carter Foundation
The Shawn Carter Foundation accomplishes its mission of helping socioeconomically challenged individuals through a variety of programs, including scholarships, college prep bus tours of HBCUs, a study abroad exchange, and community service programs.
Healthcare Education
- American Dental Hygienists’ Association (AHDA)
Open to all dental hygiene professionals and students, the ADHA advocates for the interests of registered dental hygienists by promoting dental hygiene education and practice. - National Society of Allied Health (NSAH)
The NSAH is made up of HBCUs that provide allied health programs. Student resources include awards, career development, and the Epsilon Tau Sigma Honor Society. - Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
In addition to addressing the needs of underserved communities, the SNMA advocates on behalf of minority medical students and offers a host of resources, including fellowships and outreach programs.
