Graduate education comes with a hefty price tag, with the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) citing an average cost of $20,368 for a graduate degree from a public university. The good news is that numerous graduate school scholarships cover the entire cost or a significant portion of your degree expenses. While universities are valuable sources of financial aid, many graduate school scholarships are also accessible through private entities, national organizations, and industry-related associations.
To assist you in navigating this scholarship landscape, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top and most sought-after scholarships, complete with guidance on the application process. Delve into this resource to gain insights into application timelines and the essential elements required for a successful scholarship application.
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When considering pursuing a graduate degree, relying on scholarships proves far more advantageous than taking on loans, given that scholarships do not necessitate repayment. According to the Center for American Progress, graduate students have collectively borrowed over $37 billion, contributing to the nation’s staggering $1.4 trillion debt. In contrast, Debt.org reports a counterbalance, with an estimated $53 billion in scholarships awarded annually by the US Department of Education and private sources.
Your university is a prime hub for discovering scholarships, with over 70 percent originating directly from these institutions. Graduate school scholarships are often categorized based on various factors, including
Merit-based scholarships in graduate programs may hinge on the applicant’s exceptional professional and public service experience, academic performance, and potential for future contributions. On the other hand, need-based scholarships consider factors such as student income, family participation, and tuition costs. As you navigate the realm of graduate scholarships, this statistical overview provides insights into the substantial impact scholarships can have on mitigating the financial challenges associated with advanced education.
The process for obtaining a scholarship begins with the search. We’ve done a lot of work for you already. Be sure to apply to as many scholarships for which you qualify. Here is a timeline for landing graduate school scholarships.
Gain acceptance to graduate school.
Perform a comprehensive scholarship search
Visit websites of scholarship-granting institutions to gather application requirements. Note application deadlines for every institution.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application establishes your profile that is used to calculate financial eligibility.
Take all required graduate school admission exams if the scholarship requires them.
Organize applications for scholarships for graduate students by the deadline, tackling the earliest ones first.
Compile the supporting documents required for your application (test scores, essays, transcripts, recommendation letters).
Contact former professors and round up recommendation letters.
Complete personal essays required for the scholarship application. Personalize essays for each granting institution.
Begin submitting applications for scholarships with deadlines this month.
Continue applications to scholarships with May deadlines.
Double-check with the scholarship organization to ensure your application is complete and accepted.
Arrange and conduct on-site, telephone, or online interviews if required. That’s it. Now it’s time for the waiting game.
As you step into advanced education, your financial commitments can be significant. Fortunately, many scholarships stand ready to ease this burden, offering financial support and recognizing merit, dedication, and promise. Explore this curated resource to help you through your journey and secure crucial financial backing for your advanced studies.
Some top popular graduate school scholarships include:
This detailed exploration examines the top 10 graduate school scholarships. Delve into the details of each scholarship, understanding eligibility criteria, application processes, and the unparalleled opportunities they offer. Check these top 10 graduate school scholarships popular across the United States:
Apply early and apply to as many scholarships for which you’re qualified. Seek all scholarships, including those from public and private organizations. There is no law restricting you to one scholarship!
In addition, Online Masters Colleges provides expert advice on how to avoid Scholarship Scams.