As the cost of education continues to rise, securing funding through grants has become more critical than ever. Grants offer financial support that does not need to be repaid, making them an invaluable resource for students and educators alike. In 2024, several significant and lucrative education grants are available, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and deadlines. This guide will highlight some of the top education grants you shouldn’t miss this year.
1. Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant remains one of the most substantial sources of financial aid for undergraduate students. The grant is designed to help students with exceptional financial need who have not yet earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Demonstrated financial need based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status.
- Enrollment in an eligible degree or certificate program at a participating institution.
Deadline:
- FAFSA should be submitted as soon as possible after October 1, 2023, for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Award Amount:
- For 2024, the maximum award amount is $7,395.
2. TEACH Grant
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides funding for students who intend to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school or educational service agency.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrollment in a TEACH Grant-eligible program.
- Maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25.
- Agreeing to teach for at least four years within eight years of completing the program.
Deadline:
- Varies by institution, so check with your school’s financial aid office.
Award Amount:
- Up to $4,000 per year.
3. Fulbright U.S. Student Program
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers grants for individually designed study/research projects or for English Teaching Assistant Programs. It operates in over 140 countries worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria:
- U.S. citizenship.
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent before the start of the grant.
- Proficiency in the host country language (varies by project).
Deadline:
- October 10, 2024, for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Award Amount:
- Varies depending on the grant type and country of assignment, typically covering travel, living costs, and sometimes tuition.
4. National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
The NSF GRFP supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees.
Eligibility Criteria:
- U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents.
- Enrolled or planning to enroll in a research-based graduate program.
Deadline:
- Varies by field of study but typically falls in late October.
Award Amount:
- $34,000 annual stipend plus a $12,000 cost of education allowance for tuition and fees.
5. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
This highly competitive scholarship program is aimed at high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities.
Eligibility Criteria:
- High school senior with a cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.5 or above.
- Demonstrated unmet financial need.
- Intent to enroll in an accredited four-year college.
Deadline:
- November 16, 2024.
Award Amount:
- Up to $55,000 per year.
6. Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this program provides outstanding African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American students with an opportunity to complete an undergraduate college education.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3.
- Federal Pell Grant eligibility.
- Leadership qualities through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities.
Deadline:
- January 15, 2024.
Award Amount:
- Full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid.
7. Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship
This program awards 150 scholarships annually to high-achieving high school seniors for their capacity to lead and serve, and their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Current high school senior.
- U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or other eligible non-citizen status.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA at the end of junior year of high school.
Deadline:
- October 31, 2024.
Award Amount:
- $20,000.
8. Microsoft Tuition Scholarship
Microsoft offers scholarships to students pursuing degrees in computer science and related STEM disciplines, demonstrating academic excellence and a passion for technology.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrollment full-time in a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year college or university in the United States, Canada, or Mexico.
- Demonstrated interest in computer science and a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Deadline:
- February 15, 2024.
Award Amount:
- Full or partial tuition for one academic year.
9. Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund
The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund provides grants to students actively working for peace and justice, whether in the U.S. or internationally. This is an excellent opportunity for those involved in social activism.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Active participation in movements for social and economic justice.
- Enrolled in an accredited educational program.
Deadline:
- April 1, 2024.
Award Amount:
- Up to $15,000.
Securing an education grant can significantly alleviate the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education. With numerous grants available in 2024, there are ample opportunities for students and educators to access the necessary funds. It’s crucial to start the application process early, carefully review eligibility criteria, and submit all required documentation before the deadlines.
Each grant has unique requirements and deadlines, so thorough research and preparation are essential. By taking advantage of these grants, you can focus on your educational pursuits without the overwhelming stress of financial constraints. Keep this guide handy as you navigate the application process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s financial aid office or other advisors for assistance. With determination and the right resources, you can secure the funding needed to achieve your academic goals.