Top 30+ Best Private U.S Scholarships for Teachers And Educators

Both teachers seeking graduate-level training and aspiring educators will find the list below to be a useful resource. While a large number of these scholarships are open to all applicants, some have additional requirements or are subject- or state-specific.

Top 30+ Most Prestigious Private Scholarships for Teachers & Educators In The U.S

1. The Gates Millennium Scholars Program

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program

Low-income, minority students who are interested in education (among other majors) are supported by this full-ride scholarship. As long as they are enrolled in a post-secondary degree-granting program, awardees pay their full tuition for all of their coursework—undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral. Students must be graduating high school seniors with a 3.3 GPA, complete eight essays of 1,000 words each, submit two letters of recommendation, and show proof of eligibility for financial aid in order to be considered.

Every year, applications must be submitted by the second week of January. There are 1000 scholarships awarded.

2. Jack Kent Cooke Scholars Program

Each year, 40 deserving high school seniors who are committed to a career in service, such as teaching, are given this $30,000 scholarship. Need-based requirements include a minimum GPA of 3.5 and SAT scores in the top 15% percentile for this scholarship. Students must submit a transcript, SAT results, a personal essay, and three letters of recommendation, one of which must come from their principal, in order to be considered.

Financial data about the parents must also be provided. Applications must be submitted by November 1st.

3. Ron Brown Scholars Program

This program gives 20 students a total of $40,000 over four years. Although there is no requirement for a specific major for this scholarship program, education majors are strongly encouraged to apply because the program's goal is to support commitment to service and educational advancement. Students must be African Americans, in their senior year of high school, be academically outstanding, and have a financial need in order to be eligible. The required GPA for this scholarship is not specified. Two deadlines are set: one early on November 1 and one later in the first week of January.

To apply, send an application that is fully completed, two essays, your transcript, your SAT results, and two letters of recommendation. There is no online application; all information must be mailed.

4. Harry S. Truman Scholars Program

This highly competitive $30,000 scholarship is given to 55 graduate students who want to work in the public sector, like teaching. Applicants typically have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and are active in leadership service positions in their schools or communities, though there is no minimum GPA requirement. After receiving a nomination from their college or university, students are required to apply in their junior year. The student receives $3,000 in support for their senior year, with the remaining funds going toward their graduate studies.

To apply, submit three letters of recommendation, a transcript, and a personal statement by the first Tuesday in February after requesting to be nominated by a faculty representative from a particular school.

5. University of Pittsburgh GEMS Scholarship Program

Students attending the University of Pittsburgh School of Education qualify to receive one of two $20,000 merit-based scholarships to support the pursuit of an MAT degree in either Mathematics or Science Education. Students entering the Pitt MAT program who intend to become a math or science teacher are automatically considered for this scholarship. No application necessary.

6. Ford Foundation Fellowship Program

Ford Foundation Fellowship Program

Students who want to teach at the university level and are pursuing graduate studies in particular fields designated by the Foundation, such as education, are eligible for this competitive scholarship. Women and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply because the program's goal is to increase faculty diversity at the university level. A stipend of $24,000 per year is provided to recipients for three years of assistance.

Visit their website for specific information regarding qualifications, which vary depending on degree level. Students are required to submit a personal statement, transcripts, recommendation letters, and a study plan. In November, applications are due.

7. James Madison Graduate Fellowships

This competitive $24,000 award helps students who want to teach high school students about the American Constitution. This is best for postgraduates pursuing an MA, MSEd, or MAT degree with a concentration in American history or government, as well as for social studies educators who are currently working in the field. Each year, more than 50 awards are given (one in each state, plus one each in Washington, DC, and US Territories). Award recipients are required to agree to teach for a year after finishing their graduate studies. Candidates must submit an essay about James Madison, a proposed course of study, a current transcript, and three letters of recommendation in addition to having a high GPA (there is no minimum requirement for this). The first week of March marks the application deadline.

8. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Prospective 7-12 Secondary Teacher Coursework Scholarship

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics sponsors this $10,000 scholarship, which is given each year to a deserving college junior who wants to become a high school math teacher. Candidates must be in their junior year, have a 3.0 GPA, and submit three letters of recommendation in addition to a proposal for coursework (including a budget), an essay outlining why they want to teach high school mathematics, and other requirements. On May 1st, applications are due.

9. Prospective Middle School Mathematics Teacher Course Work Scholarships

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics sponsors this $3,000 scholarship, which is given each year to a deserving college junior who wants to become a middle school math teacher. Candidates must be in their junior year, have a 3.0 GPA, and submit three letters of recommendation in addition to a proposal for coursework (including a budget), an essay outlining why they want to teach math to middle schoolers, and other requirements. On May 1st, applications are due.

10. Mathematics Course Work Scholarships for Grades Pre-K-5 Teachers

This $2,000 scholarship is given to several math educators who want to advance their elementary school math instruction by enrolling in graduate-level coursework. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, whose members are required to apply for the award, sponsors this prize. An applicant must submit a coursework proposal (with a budget), a resume, and a letter of support from their current principal in addition to having three years of experience teaching mathematics at the elementary school level. The first week of November is the deadline for applications.

11. Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program

Nearly all of the country's top schools and colleges of education offer this scholarship program. This extensive scholarship program, which is supported by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, aids undergraduates and recent graduates who want to teach a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subject. Depending on the scholarship award amount, recipients of scholarships agree to teach for two to five years in exchange for receiving full tuition reimbursement and a stipend. Since the program's inception in 2010, more than 500 awards have been given; currently, several awards are given each year. States and universities/colleges have different deadlines.

12. Horatio Alger Scholarship Program

At the national level, this competitive scholarship gives $22,000 to over 100 students each year, and even more at the state level. Applications are encouraged from students who have overcome obstacles and want to serve their communities by working in fields like teaching. Students must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0. Apply online and include a certification form, transcript, recommendation letter, financial disclosure, and personal statement. The application deadline is in January.

13. Teach NYC Scholarship Program

This scholarship program offers full tuition support for students pursuing a Master's degree in a variety of bilingual education fields for those who are interested in bilingual education and are determined to teach in NYC. Each award has a different value, and students can choose from a large selection of colleges to finish their coursework at. For each year of support, awardees agree to teach in NYC for two years. A Bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, fluency in two or more languages (English must be one of them), and an interview are requirements for admission. Beginning of May is when applications are due.

14. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Teachers for America’s Future

Several students who are interested in instructing any of the STEM subjects at the middle or high school level will each receive a $5,000 scholarship. A 3.0 GPA is needed at the very least. To apply, undergraduates must be enrolled full-time and in their sophomore, junior, or senior year. Graduate students must be enrolled in a graduate program at least part-time. Students who want to teach STEM subjects must already hold a bachelor's degree in the subject. Candidates must submit an essay, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation—one of which must come from the principal of their current school if they are already certified teachers. The National Science Teachers Association is funding this scholarship. The application deadline is April 1.

15. Alpha Kappa Alpha Education Advancement Fund

Undergraduate students can receive awards from $1,000 to $3,000 through this scholarship program, depending on their merit or financial need. Students interested in becoming teachers support AKA's mission to get involved in the community. A 3.0 GPA is required for merit-based scholarships, while a 2.5 GPA is required for need-based scholarships. A personal statement, resume, financial need documentation (if necessary), three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts are required of applicants. The application deadline is in April.

16. Hipic Scholarship Fund

Hipic students with a 3.0 GPA or higher can apply for awards from $2,500 to $15,000 through this scholarship program. Awards are given based on merit and financial need. Although this program does not specifically support any particular majors, students who are interested in becoming teachers in their communities are encouraged to apply. For assistance with undergraduate or graduate studies, students may apply. To apply, send a personal statement, two recommendation letters, your transcript, and details about your financial situation. Check the website for specific dates as deadlines can vary.

17. Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship

Twenty to forty undergraduate or graduate students who are under the age of 25 will each receive a $2,000 award. To apply, candidates must be NAACP members. Applications for this award are especially encouraged from students of color who want to pursue careers in education. This scholarship is based on financial need. Students must submit a transcript, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, financial need information, and have a GPA of at least 2.5 (for high school seniors and undergraduates) or 3.0 (for graduate students) in order to be considered for admission. The application deadline is in March.

18. The Hubertus W.V. Willems Scholarship for Male Students

20–40 male students who are enrolled in undergraduate or graduate STEM programs will receive this $3,000 award. The NAACP encourages applicants to join once they submit their applications. For students of color, combining STEM studies with a minor in education provides the ideal opportunity to earn their teaching certification. This scholarship is based on financial need. Students must submit a transcript, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, financial need information, and have a GPA of at least 2.5 (for high school seniors and undergraduates) or 3.0 (for graduate students) in order to be considered for admission. The application deadline is in March.

19. Thurgood Marshall College Fund

This scholarship program aids students enrolled in HBCUs who want to work in a profession that emphasizes service, such as teaching. Awards are based on either merit or financial need and range up to $6,000 in value. Students must have a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate a strong commitment to volunteering, and have a faculty member at their university or college recommend them. A personal statement, FAFSA Student Aid Report, transcript, one recommendation letter, and resume must be submitted with your application. In May, applications are due.

20. AT&T Scholarship Program

The United Negro College Fund and AT&T are partners in this scholarship program, which is open to students of color with a parent working for AT&T. Applications are encouraged from students interested in a career in education. A 3.0 GPA and being under the age of 26 are requirements for applicants. The awards are between $1,500 and $2,500.

Application materials required include a personal statement, transcript, two letters of recommendation, and documentation of parent's AT&T employment. Applications must be submitted by February.

21. FedEx/UNCF Scholarship Program

Five high school seniors who want to attend an HBCU receive this $4,000 scholarship each year. The United Negro College Fund is the organization behind this prize. Applications from students of color interested in a career in education are encouraged. 3.0 GPA is necessary. The scholarship is merit-based.

To apply, provide a personal statement, two recommendation letters, your transcript, and verification that you have been admitted to an HBCU. Mid-May is the application deadline.

22. AFT Robert G. Porter Scholars Program

Four high school students with parents who work for the American Federation of Teachers will each receive a $8,000 scholarship. Additionally, there are up to 10 $1,000 awards that can be given out. Students seeking careers in teaching or other fields that support labor unions and civic engagement are especially encouraged to apply. Although there is no minimum GPA requirement for applicants, those who receive this award must maintain a 2.75 GPA.

To apply, you must send your resume, personal statement, supplemental essay, transcript, and two letters of recommendation. We will confirm your parents' AFT membership. For a $1,000 one-time scholarship to support ongoing graduate studies, practicing teachers may also apply. By March 31st, applications must be postmarked.

23. Union Plus Scholarship Program

Over 100 scholarships worth $500 to $4,000 are given to union members, their spouses, and their kids through this fiercely competitive scholarship program for members of Union Plus organizations across the nation. 3.0 or higher GPA is strongly advised. Union Plus aims to assist students entering careers like teaching that support labor unions and community development. This scholarship is open to graduate, undergraduate, and senior high school students.

To apply, you must send your resume, personal statement, supplemental essay, transcript, and two letters of recommendation. Membership in the union will be examined. The deadline for applications is the end of January.

24. Jack Kinnaman Memorial Scholarship

The National Education Association (NEA) sponsors this $2,000 scholarship, which is given each year to one student who has demonstrated financial need and wants to become a teacher. For consideration for this scholarship, no electronic applications will be accepted; all materials must be mailed. A GPA of at least 2.5 and enrollment in the NEA Student Program are requirements for eligibility.

A letter outlining your financial need, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a most recent transcript are required for application. The deadline for submissions is April 15.

25. American Foundation for the Blind Scholarship Program

The Rudolph Dillman Memorial Scholarship, which is sponsored by the AFB and offers $2,500 to four legally blind students interested in a career in teaching the visually impaired, was established in his memory.

To apply, one must provide documentation of visual impairment. Graduate and undergraduate students are both qualified. Send your official transcript, two letters of recommendation, and three brief essays with your application. The application deadline is May 31.

26. Albert Shanker Scholarship Program United Federation of Teachers Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is offered to NYC high school seniors who meet the requirements for a Pell Grant through the FAFSA and is sponsored by the United Federation of Teachers. The scholarship was established in Albert Shanker's memory, a longtime educator in the NYC public schools. Each year, more than 200 students receive more than $1 million in scholarships, each worth $5,000 over the course of four years. There is no minimum GPA requirement, but students must be low-income to be considered.

Applications from students interested in a career in education are especially encouraged. By January 31st, send an application that is fully completed, your transcript, a personal statement, your financial information, and two letters of recommendation.

A scholarship worth $6,000 that is distributed over three years is also available to graduate students pursuing a Master's degree in education.

27. Charles Richard Drew Memorial Scholarship

Omega Psi Phi is providing this competitive scholarship to help young men who are considering a career in service, such as teaching. The range of awards is $4,000 to $10,000. Candidates must be undergraduate students enrolled in the fraternity, have a cumulative GPA of 3.3, and apply directly to their district office in order to be considered. Send your application, a brief bio, three letters of recommendation, and your transcripts. Applications are typically due in the spring, though deadlines can vary.

28. Shawn Carter Foundation Scholarship Program

Jay-Z wants to cover your college expenses! Anyone with a 2.0 GPA or higher who is under 25 and qualifies is eligible for this scholarship. To be eligible for one of these $2,500 scholarships, just that is needed. It doesn't matter if you're a senior in high school, a high school graduate who hasn't started college yet, a student in an undergraduate program, or a student at a vocational school. Ideal for students who want to major in education, the Shawn Carter Foundation helps students who have faced challenges and want to give back to their community. You must submit a personal statement along with an online application to be considered. In April, applications are due.

29. Future Educators Association Prospective Educator Scholarship

For high school seniors planning to major in education and college freshmen presently enrolled in a teacher education program, Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) is offering a $1,000 scholarship. One must be a Future Educators Association member, the child or grandchild of an active PDK member, or possess a letter of recommendation from an active PDK member in order to be eligible. A goals statement, letter of recommendation, and official transcript are required for applications, which are due on April 1. Each year, up to 30 scholarships are given out.

30. Edwyna Wheadon Postgraduate Training Scholarship Fund

This $500–$1,000 scholarship is available to working teachers who want to pursue graduate studies. The National Council of Teachers of English is the organization that sponsors the prize. Current middle or high school English teachers must submit a 500-word essay outlining their proposed coursework and how it will improve their teaching methods in order to be considered. There are numerous awards given each year. Submissions must be made by January 31.

31. Pi Lambda Theta Bushaw-Redumis Leadership Scholarship

Current Pi Lambda Theta undergraduate members who are pursuing a career in education and have a 3.5 GPA are eligible for this $1,000 award. Candidates must show they have the ability to lead in the field of education. To be considered, you must also send your resume, college transcript, a 200-word personal statement outlining your teaching and learning philosophies, along with two letters of recommendation. Multiple applicants will each receive a scholarship after the application deadline of April 1.

32. Pi Lambda Theta Nadeen Burkeholder Williams Music Scholarship

One outstanding K12 educator who wishes to continue their graduate studies will receive this $1,000 scholarship. Candidates may be currently employed as music teachers or teachers of other subjects who frequently integrate music into their lesson plans. Although Pi Lambda Theta is the sponsor, there is no membership requirement to apply for this prize.

To be eligible, a candidate must be a licensed teacher who has worked a minimum of one year as a full-time employee, have a 3.5 GPA, and submit a resume, one letter of recommendation, a 1,000 word essay on music education, as well as proof that they have taught students to play an instrument. The application deadline is April 1.

33. Pi Lambda Theta Tobin Sorenson Physical Education Scholarship

The recipients of this $1,000 scholarship are a number of students aspiring to become physical education teachers. Although Pi Lambda Theta is the sponsor of this award, membership is not required to apply. Candidates must meet the following requirements in order to be considered: they must have a 3.5 GPA, be at least a college sophomore currently enrolled in undergraduate coursework, show potential for leadership in the field of education, and submit a resume, college transcript, and two letters of recommendation. The application deadline is April 1.

34. Mathematics Graduate Course Work Scholarships for Grades 9–12 Teachers

Many math educators who want to advance their education and improve their math teaching will receive this $2,000 scholarship. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, whose members are required to apply for the award, sponsors this prize. One must submit a coursework proposal (with a budget), a resume, and a letter of support from their current principal in addition to having three years of high school mathematics teaching experience to be considered.

The deadline for submissions is October 15.

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