Colleges
🎓
Harvard UniversityCambridge, MA
Scholarships
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STEM Excellence Scholarship$$5,000
Majors
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Computer Science
$1,000 No Essay Scholarship

Scholarships for Online Students

Discover scholarships for online students. Find financial aid opportunities for distance learners, including undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. Learn how to qualify and apply for scholarships tailored to online education.

719 Active Scholarships Available
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What Are Online Student Scholarships?

Online student scholarships are financial awards specifically for students enrolled in accredited online or distance education programs. These awards may be offered by universities, online learning platforms, nonprofits, corporations, and professional associations. Scholarships may be based on academic achievement, field of study, financial need, leadership, or other criteria relevant to online learners. Online student scholarships recognize the unique challenges and opportunities of remote education, including technology costs, flexibility needs, and evolving learning environments.


Scholarships for Online Students (719 Available)

Browse all scholarships in this category—featured partners highlighted at top.

All Online Student Scholarships Scholarships

Click any scholarship to view full details and application requirements.

Scholarship NameAward AmountDeadlineEligibilityActions
Boren Scholarship
$25,000Jan 27, 202760+ min
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CIA Scholarship Programs
$25,000Varies60+ min
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Dorothy F. Schmidt Doctoral Fellowship in Somaesthetics
$25,000Varies60+ min
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Noyce Scholars Program
$24,000Varies60+ min
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Presidential Transfer Award
$24,000VariesNo essay required · <15 min
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Presidential Transfer Award
$24,000VariesNo essay required · <15 min
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U.S. Bank Student Scholarship
$20,000Oct 30, 2026No essay required · <15 min
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The Harvey Fellowship
$16,000Varies60+ min
View
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
$15,500VariesNo essay required · 30–60 min
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Minority Fellowship Program - Masters
$15,000Varies60+ min
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Online Learning Success Strategies

1. Optimize Your Online Learning Environment

Your scholarship applications improve when you show preparedness:

  1. Create a dedicated workspace
  2. Ensure reliable high-speed internet
  3. List tools/technology you use (laptop, software, study platforms)
  4. Include your online engagement strategy in essays

This tells reviewers you’re serious and ready to succeed.

2. Leverage Online Communities & Networks

Online learners often miss in-person support systems, but these networks matter:

  1. Join program discussion boards and student groups
  2. Participate in online student clubs
  3. Attend virtual career fairs or webinars
  4. Seek mentors in your field of study

Mentioning active participation shows initiative and connectivity — especially in leadership or community awards.

3. Prioritize Flexible & Stackable Credentials

Online certificates and micro-credentials are increasingly valued:

  1. Stack certificates toward degree goals
  2. Apply for awards tied to certificate programs
  3. Use short courses to build experience and scholarship eligibility

This strategy increases both funding opportunities and workforce readiness.

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning

1. Start Early

Begin your scholarship search and applications at least 2–3 months before deadlines. This gives you time to craft compelling essays and gather strong recommendations.

2. Personalize Your Essays

Avoid generic responses. Share your unique story, challenges overcome, and specific goals. Show reviewers why you're the ideal candidate for this particular scholarship.

3. Apply to Multiple Scholarships

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to 10–20+ scholarships to maximize your chances. Even smaller awards add up to significant funding.

4. Follow Instructions Carefully

Many applications are rejected for not following directions. Read requirements thoroughly, meet word counts, and submit all required materials by the deadline.

Common Application Requirements

Required

Personal Essay

500–1000 word essay explaining your background, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.

Required

Academic Transcripts

Official or unofficial transcripts showing your current GPA and coursework.

Often Required

Letters of Recommendation

1–3 letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your qualifications.

Sometimes

Additional Materials

Resume, portfolio, financial documentation (FAFSA), or proof of specific eligibility criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get scholarships for any online program?
Many scholarships support online learners, but eligibility varies by program and institution. Always check requirements.
Are online students eligible for the same scholarships as on-campus students?
Many scholarships are open to both online and on-campus students, but some are created specifically for those enrolled in online programs. Always check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship.
How do I qualify for scholarships as an online student?
Eligibility varies by scholarship, but common criteria include enrollment in an accredited online program, academic achievement, financial need, or specific field of study. Some scholarships may also consider background, military affiliation, or other factors.
Can graduate and undergraduate online students apply for these scholarships?
Yes, there are scholarships available for both undergraduate and graduate online students, as well as those pursuing associate degrees or certificates.
Do I need to be a full-time online student to apply?
Not always. Some scholarships require full-time enrollment, while others are open to part-time or even prospective online students. Review each scholarship's requirements carefully.
Are there scholarships for specific majors or fields of study for online students?
Yes, many scholarships target online students in specific majors such as business, healthcare, technology, education, and more.
Is financial need required to apply for online student scholarships?
Some scholarships are need-based and require proof of financial need, while others are merit-based or open to all online students regardless of financial status.
How can I increase my chances of winning an online student scholarship?
Apply to multiple scholarships, tailor your applications to highlight your strengths as an online learner, and ensure you meet all eligibility and application requirements.