Colleges
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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 Part-Time Students

Explore scholarships for part-time students balancing work, family, or commitments. Discover eligibility, deadlines, award types, and smart strategies to help fund your education.

33 Active Scholarships Available
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What Are Part-Time Student Scholarships?

Part-time student scholarships are awards intended for students who are not enrolled full-time (typically less than 12 credits per semester for undergraduates). These scholarships may be offered by colleges, universities, nonprofits, community organizations, corporations, and government programs that recognize the unique challenges faced by part-time learners.

Unlike most traditional scholarships that require full-time status, these awards ensure that part-time students are not excluded from funding opportunities simply because they are pursuing education on a flexible schedule.


Scholarships for Part-Time Students (33 Available)

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

$1,000 (No Essay) Tuition Covered Scholarship

Featured

Amount

$1k

Effort

<15 min
Apply Now

All Part-Time Student Scholarships Scholarships

Click any scholarship to view full details and application requirements.

Scholarship NameAward AmountDeadlineEligibilityActions
Chick-fil-A Remarkable Futures™ Scholarships
$25,000Varies—
View
Robert Alexander Scott Scholarship
Min. GPA: 2.5
$10,000Varies30–60 min
View
Brave of Heart Nursing Scholarship
Min. GPA: 2
$10,000Varies60+ min
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AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs
Min. GPA: 3
$10,000Mar 15, 202760+ min
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Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation Educational Advancement Program
Min. GPA: 2.75
$10,000Varies30–60 min
View
ACB Scholarship Program
Min. GPA: 3
$7,500Feb 14, 202760+ min
View
City Year Detroit Alumni Scholarships
$5,350Varies30–60 min
View
Fifth Year Accounting Student Scholarship
$5,000Varies30–60 min
View
The Abby Sobrato Scholarship
Min. GPA: 2.5
$5,000Varies30–60 min
View
The Abby Sobrato Scholarship
Min. GPA: 2.5
$5,000Varies60+ min
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Part-Time Student Success & Funding Strategy

1. Align Scholarships With Work & Life Commitments

Part-time learners often juggle multiple roles. Use this to your advantage:

  1. Emphasize work-life balance stories in essays
  2. Show how education supports career advancement
  3. Highlight employer support or sponsorship where applicable

This tells committees you’re a purposeful, motivated student.

2. Build a Flexible Funding Plan

Rather than relying on one scholarship:

  1. Combine need-based and merit awards
  2. Include department or major-specific funds
  3. Apply for micro-scholarships (smaller awards add up)
  4. Pair scholarships with tuition waivers or employer tuition benefits

A layered approach increases total funding and reduces financial stress.

3. Use School Resources for Part-Time Students

Many colleges offer:

  1. Flexible scheduling advisement
  2. Part-time student support services
  3. Career & job placement assistance
  4. Work-study compatible aid options

Mentioning engagement with these services in essays demonstrates commitment and planning.

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

What types of scholarships are available for part-time students?
There are merit-based, need-based, demographic-specific, and field-specific scholarships available for part-time students. These scholarships may be offered by colleges, private organizations, nonprofits, and government programs.
Can part-time students qualify for need-based scholarships?
Yes, many need-based scholarships are open to part-time students. Eligibility may depend on your enrollment status, financial need, and other criteria set by the scholarship provider.
Are there scholarships for part-time students in specific majors?
Absolutely. Many scholarships are tailored to students in particular fields such as business, healthcare, engineering, and the arts, and some are open to part-time students within those majors.
Do part-time students need to complete the FAFSA to apply for scholarships?
Some scholarships require the FAFSA to determine financial need, while others do not. Always check the specific requirements for each scholarship.
How can part-time students improve their chances of winning scholarships?
Part-time students should highlight their unique circumstances, academic achievements, and community involvement in their applications. Applying to multiple scholarships and meeting all eligibility requirements can also improve chances.
Are there scholarships for non-traditional or adult part-time students?
Yes, many scholarships are specifically designed for non-traditional, adult, or returning students who are enrolled part-time.
Can international or DACA students studying part-time apply for these scholarships?
Some scholarships are open to international or DACA students, including those enrolled part-time. Eligibility varies by scholarship, so it is important to review each opportunity carefully.
Do part-time students have to maintain a certain GPA to keep their scholarships?
Many scholarships require recipients to maintain a minimum GPA or meet other academic standards, even for part-time students. Always review the renewal criteria for each scholarship.