Top Scholarships Available for Online Learning Programs
As the popularity of online learning continues to surge, more students are seeking flexible and affordable ways to achieve their educational goals. Online programs offer the convenience of learning from anywhere in the world, but the cost can still be a barrier for many. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are specifically designed to support students pursuing online education. This article explores some of the top scholarships available for online learning programs.
1. The eLearners Scholarship Program
The eLearners Scholarship Program offers financial assistance to students enrolled in online degree programs. Eligible students can receive up to $1,000 to help cover education-related costs. To apply, students must complete an application form and submit an essay detailing their educational and career goals. The scholarship committee looks for candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to their academic pursuits and a clear plan for their future.
2. Get Educated Online College Scholarship
The Get Educated Online College Scholarship is another excellent resource for online learners. This scholarship is open to U.S. citizens who are enrolled in an accredited online degree program. Two awards of $1,000 each are given twice a year. Applicants must submit a short essay discussing their experience with online education, as well as their academic transcripts. The selection committee prioritizes students who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have demonstrated financial need.
3. University of the People Scholarships
University of the People (UoPeople) is a pioneering online university that offers tuition-free education. However, students are still responsible for minimal assessment fees. UoPeople provides various scholarship opportunities to help mitigate these costs, including the Simone Biles Legacy Scholarship Fund and the Microsoft 4Afrika Scholarship. These scholarships aim to support students from underserved communities and help them obtain a college degree. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary for each scholarship, so students should review the specific requirements on the UoPeople website.
4. Cappex Easy Money Scholarship
The Cappex Easy Money Scholarship is a monthly drawing open to students planning to enroll in college within the next year, including those opting for online programs. This scholarship is straightforward, with no essay requirement. Students simply need to create a Cappex profile and express their interest in the scholarship. Each month, one student is randomly selected to receive $1,000. It’s an excellent opportunity for students seeking financial help without the hassle of extensive application procedures.
5. Online Learning Scholarship by Study.com
Study.com offers an Online Learning Scholarship designed to help students who choose online education. The $500 scholarship is awarded annually to a student enrolled in an accredited online program. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and submit a short essay explaining how online education has impacted their goals and plans. The scholarship committee evaluates essays based on clarity, coherence, and originality. This scholarship aims to encourage online learners to persist in their educational endeavors.
6. P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education
The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education provides need-based grants to women whose education has been interrupted and who are now returning to school, including online programs. Up to $3,000 is available to eligible women to cover tuition, books, and other educational expenses. Applicants must be sponsored by a local P.E.O. chapter and demonstrate financial need and a clear educational plan. This program is ideal for women seeking to complete their education and improve their career prospects.
7. Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarships
Alpha Sigma Lambda (ASL) is an honor society for adult learners who are returning to college. ASL offers multiple scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 for students enrolled in non-traditional or online degree programs. Eligible students must be members of ASL, have a minimum GPA of 3.2, and have completed at least 24 semester hours of undergraduate work. The application process includes submitting a personal statement, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. These scholarships recognize the dedication and achievements of adult learners.
8. Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Scholarships
The DAR offers various scholarships to students pursuing different fields of study, including those enrolled in online programs. The organization provides scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and specific criteria related to the applicant’s field of study or heritage. Award amounts vary, and applications typically require essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Students must review the specific requirements for each DAR scholarship to identify the ones for which they are eligible.
9. Purdue Global Institution Scholarships
Purdue University Global, an institution that offers online degrees, provides several scholarships tailored to its online student population. These include need-based and merit-based scholarships, as well as scholarships for military personnel and their families. The Purdue Global Achievement Scholarship, for example, awards up to $7,000 to high-achieving students. To apply, students must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at Purdue Global and submit an essay or statement detailing their educational and professional goals.
10. American Legion Auxiliary Non-Traditional Student Scholarship
The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) offers the Non-Traditional Student Scholarship, which is open to students who are returning to the classroom after a significant break or who are continuing their education later in life. This $2,000 scholarship is available to ALA members or their immediate family members, including those enrolled in online degree programs. Applicants must submit an essay, describe their educational objectives, and provide evidence of their academic achievements.
11. The Forever GI Bill and Other Military Scholarships
Veterans and active-duty service members have access to the Forever GI Bill, which allows them to pursue online education with full or partial coverage of tuition, housing, and other education-related costs. Additionally, organizations such as the Pat Tillman Foundation offer scholarships to military personnel and their families. These scholarships can be applied to both traditional and online learning programs. Requirements vary, but they generally include proof of service, academic transcripts, and a personal statement.
12. PepsiCo Foundation Uplift Scholarship
PepsiCo Foundation, in partnership with the UNCF (United Negro College Fund), offers the Uplift Scholarships to African American students pursuing online degree programs. The scholarship provides up to $5,000 per year to cover tuition and related expenses. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, and a commitment to community service. This scholarship aims to support minority students in achieving their educational and career goals through online learning.
13. The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship
The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship, awarded by Zonta International, supports women pursuing business degrees, including those studying online. Scholarships range from $2,000 to $8,000 and are available to women who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The application process includes submitting an essay, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. This scholarship empowers women to advance in the business world by providing the financial support they need.
14. Tech Students Diversity Scholarship by Course Hero
Course Hero’s Tech Students Diversity Scholarship is aimed at underrepresented students in the tech field who are pursuing online degrees. The scholarship awards $5,000 to selected students based on academic performance, a personal essay, and a demonstration of financial need. The goal of this scholarship is to increase diversity in the technology sector by supporting students from diverse backgrounds.
Online learning programs offer unparalleled flexibility and access to education, but financial barriers can still pose significant challenges. These scholarships provide crucial support for students seeking to advance their education through online programs. By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can alleviate the financial burden and focus on achieving their academic and career aspirations.
