10 Grants & Scholarships for Online Students

Updated on March 22nd, 2024

Today, students enrolled in college have more options than in years past. Many traditional universities offer an array of online learning opportunities. Plus, there are online-only institutions providing a variety of highly desirable degrees. Fortunately, students can make either experience more affordable by landing scholarships for online students.

If your student wants to keep the cost of their education down, online students do have options. Scholarships are an excellent way to cover the cost of an online degree program, and they can work for undergraduate and graduate students alike. If you and your student want to learn about online student scholarships, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a quick trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve a spot today.

Scholarships for online college or university courses are ideal because they help students avoid loans, which makes graduating debt-free easier. Whether your student is planning on attending community college, going to a four-year college, or even earning a Master’s degree through a graduate program, here’s what they need to know, as well as a list of 10 grants and scholarships for online students.

What Are Grants and Scholarships for Online Students?

Online students often face the daunting task of funding their education. Fortunately, scholarships for online degree programs – including undergraduate and graduate degree programs – play a crucial role in alleviating this financial burden.

These scholarships can come from various sources, including universities, private organizations, and philanthropic foundations, and are designed to support students who choose the flexibility of online learning. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them an ideal form of financial aid for students dedicated to advancing their education without accruing debt. In some cases, scholarships are based on financial need, though in others, merit plays a big role in who receives the award.

Grants are a lot like scholarships. They offer tuition assistance to students, but they are often based on financial need rather than merit. Online students – including those just graduating from high school and established college students – may be eligible for federal grants. In some cases, grants are also available from state governments, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations, providing essential financial support to ensure that online learning is accessible to a broader range of students.

For a graduating high school senior or current college student looking to advance their education, navigating the landscape of scholarships and grants is key to achieving academic goals without the heavy burden of student loans. Online students, in particular, benefit from these forms of tuition assistance, as they often balance their studies with other commitments such as work or family. By tapping into the resources available for scholarships and grants, online learners can invest in their future and pursue their degrees with financial peace of mind.

How to Win Scholarships for Online Degrees and Classes

In the digital age, the pursuit of online education is on the rise, with education statistics revealing a growing number of students opting for virtual classrooms. By winning scholarships for online degrees and classes, students significantly reduce the cost of their education. As a result, students need to learn how to up their chances of getting chosen by the scholarship committee.

Each award can have unique eligibility requirements, so students need to review the rules carefully. Scholarships can require students to demonstrate not only academic excellence but also a keen engagement with their chosen field, even in an online setting.

Additionally, the application process itself can vary. Most gather basic information from students as a starting point, such as contact information. Then, they’ll request further details – like copies of transcripts or FAFSA copies – to assess academic performance, financial need, or both.

One area where students should go the extra mile is their scholarship essay. Scholarship committees often look for candidates who possess excellent leadership skills, a commitment to community service, and the ability to overcome challenges, and essays are how students highlight what they bring to the table in those areas.

As a result, students need to learn how to write winning scholarship essays. Understanding how to answer the questions, what formatting is best, and what to avoid makes a difference. Additionally, reviewing scholarship essays that won money is also helpful, as it shows students what catches the attention of committee members.

Organization is also a factor in the equation. Creating a mechanism – like a spreadsheet or calendar – to track due dates and submissions ensures students don’t miss deadlines or forget critical steps. Plus, it can help them follow up on applications if the need arises.

Finally, students need to ensure that they follow any and all instructions outlined precisely. Forgetting to submit a required document, writing essays that don’t align with the prompt, and similar missteps can make a student ineligible for the reward since they didn’t follow the directions. Since that’s the case, students should review the instructions several times as they complete their applications, as that reduces the chances that they’ll make a mistake along the way.

10 Grants & Scholarships for Online Students

1. Get Educated Online College Scholarship

For students attending an accredited online college degree program, the Get Educated Online College Scholarship is an option to explore. It’s worth $1,000, and it’s open to students pursuing any major who otherwise meet the requirements.

2. Study.com Online Undergraduate Degree Scholarship

With the Study.com Online Undergraduate Degree Scholarship, students can receive $1,000 to help cover the cost of an online program. Students must be attending an accredited institution and have a minimum of 30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) left before they complete their degree.

3. AFCEA STEM Majors Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

The AFCEA Stem Majors Scholarships are open to undergraduate students pursuing specific degree programs, and they’re worth up to $5,000. Applicants must be at least in the second year of their program and enrolled as sophomores or juniors. Additionally, it’s only open to students attending four-year colleges.

4. UA Online Scholarships

For students interested in the University of Alabama, the UA Online Scholarship Programs are worth exploring. There are several awards offered by the school, and the requirements of each one vary. Many are open to full-time and part-time students, and some work for undergraduate or graduate degrees. As a result, students need to review the available options to see if they’re eligible.

5. Western Governors University Online Access Scholarship

The WGU Online Access Scholarship is open to WGU students earning a college degree online. It’s open to new students who are starting their program and gives the recipient the technology they need to ensure they can complete their online education.

6. K-State Global Campus Scholarships

K-State Online has a scholarship program specifically for distance education students. The K-State Global Campus Scholarships are open to students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees, and the minimum number of credit hours needed for the award term is just three, making this open to part-time students, too. The value of the scholarship varies depending on the specific award, ranging from $250 to $1,000.

7. NursingColleges.com Scholarship

For students interested in earning a nursing degree online, the NursingColleges.com Scholarship is an excellent option. This $2,500 award is open to students attending accredited online nursing schools or programs. A minimum of one semester of attendance is also required to become eligible.

8. FoS Student Scholarship Program

The FoS Student Scholarship Program offers up to $10,000 to students pursuing degrees online or taking online classes. It’s open to graduating seniors specifically and can be used at a variety of schools, including four-year universities, community colleges, trade schools, and more.

9. PEO Program for Continuing Education

The PEO Program for Continuing Education (PCE) is a need-based award worth up to $4,000. It’s open to women who previously experienced an education interruption or must return to school to grow marketable skills to make them employable.

10. Liberty University Online Scholarships

There are several Liberty University Online Scholarships that students can explore, each targeting a specific group. For example, students who are also first responders receive a 25 percent tuition discount. Students can also explore other programs, including some focused on Canadian students, current and former military service members, and students affiliated with specific companies or organizations.

Other Types of Financial Aid for Online Students

Scholarships That Aren’t Online Specific

Many scholarships don’t focus specifically on students attending online colleges. Instead, they’re more flexible, allowing the recipients to use the funds to attend a suitable school either in-person or online. Usually, that means remote students need to go into an accredited online degree program, though some awarding organizations may have a more flexible definition, too.

For example, the College JumpStart scholarship is open to an array of students, including nontraditional ones. The Florida Bright Futures scholarship similarly doesn’t restrict applicants to just students attending classes in person, and the same is true of many other Bright Futures scholarships.

When exploring these broader scholarship opportunities, students need to ensure that they’re usable by students attending an online school. In most cases, those details are outlined in the rules, terms and conditions, or similar sources of information about the scholarships offered. However, if students don’t see anything explicit about whether the funds are usable by those pursuing an online undergraduate or graduate degree, it’s wise to reach out to a contact person to get more information.

Pell Grants and Other Federal Financial Aid

Pell Grants and other forms of federal financial aid play a crucial role in making higher education more accessible to a broad spectrum of students. As a cornerstone of federal student aid, Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate significant financial need, with eligibility largely determined by the students and their families’ annual household income and assets.

Unlike federal student loans, Pell Grants do not need to be repaid, making them an invaluable resource for students who wish to minimize debt. To be considered for a Pell Grant, students must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an accredited post-secondary institution and must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

In addition to Pell Grants, the federal government offers other financial aid options to students who demonstrate financial need. Federal student loans, for example, are available to both undergraduate and graduate students and offer various repayment plans that are designed to be flexible and affordable. In most cases, interest rates for these loans are lower than those of private loans, and some federal loans have subsidized interest, meaning the government covers the interest while the student is in school or during other specified periods. Plus, there are programs to help students and graduates who experience a financial hardship during repayment, creating avenues for avoiding default.

Work-study programs are another form of federal aid that allows students to earn money for their education through part-time employment. These programs are designed to provide not only tuition assistance but also valuable work experience that is often related to the student’s field of study.

Work-study positions can be found both on and off campus, and the earnings are directly applicable to education expenses. Just keep in mind that these arrangements may be harder to set up for online students.

Additionally, the federal government offers specialized grants like the TEACH Grant, which provides financial assistance to students who are completing or plan to complete coursework needed to begin a career in teaching. To receive a TEACH Grant, students must sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve, in which they formally commit to teaching in a high-need field at an elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency that serves students from low-income families for a specific period. This and other targeted federal aid programs underscore the government’s commitment to supporting students in various fields of study, ensuring a diverse and well-educated workforce for the future.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans emerge as a significant alternative for students navigating the financial landscape of online education, especially when scholarship funds and federal financial aid fall short. Unlike scholarships, which are essentially free money awarded based on various criteria, and federal aid, which often comes with specific eligibility requirements, private loans offer a different kind of flexibility. They can fill the gaps in funding a college education, covering expenses that other forms of aid may not, such as additional course materials or living costs. For online students, whose eligibility for certain scholarships and federal programs might be limited, this can be particularly advantageous.

However, the reliance on private loans necessitates a careful consideration of their terms, including interest rates and repayment plans, which can vary significantly from those of federal student loans. Online students should meticulously evaluate their options, ensuring that the private loan they consider aligns with their financial situation and long-term educational goals. It’s crucial to understand that while private loans can provide necessary funds for an online education, they typically do not offer the same protections and benefits as federal student aid, such as income-driven repayment plans or loan forgiveness programs.

Moreover, the eligibility criteria for private student loans can differ from traditional financial aid, often requiring a credit check or a co-signer. This can pose a challenge for some online students, particularly those just graduating high school or those without a substantial credit history. As such, it’s important for prospective borrowers to research thoroughly and consider all financial avenues, including scholarships, federal aid, and work-study opportunities, before turning to private loans as a means to fund their online education. By doing so, students can make informed decisions that support their academic pursuits while maintaining financial health.

Fellowships

Fellowships offer a unique financial resource for students pursuing higher education, serving as a bridge to attend college with less financial burden. Unlike traditional loans or scholarships that might focus solely on tuition, fellowships can provide a more comprehensive support system, covering a range of educational expenses from tuition fees to school supplies.

Generally, fellowships are awarded based on academic achievement or potential, offering both monetary support and valuable professional experiences or academic opportunities. This makes fellowships particularly appealing for students who demonstrate strong academic prowess or who are engaged in specialized fields of study.

For students pursuing advanced degrees or specialized programs, fellowships can significantly reduce the financial strain of college by providing stipends. Potentially, that alleviates the need for part-time work, allowing students to focus more intently on their studies and research.

Plus, fellowships create environments where students can thrive academically and professionally, fostering communities of scholars who share similar interests and goals. This makes professional networking far simpler, enhancing the overall college experience.

One thing to note is that fellowships are usually focused on students attending a physical campus, and they’re incredibly rare at online schools. However, students taking online courses and also going to in-person classes may find options.

In many cases, a school’s financial aid office will have details about institutional fellowship options. For those offered by private organizations, students may need to conduct their own search to see which programs may apply.

FAQs

Can Scholarships Be Used for Online Classes?

Scholarship awards, traditionally designed to support students based on financial need or academic excellence, are increasingly adaptable to the evolving landscape of education, including online classes. Many organizations and institutions now recognize the legitimacy and value of online education, offering scholarships that can be applied towards tuition and other expenses associated with online learning. This shift reflects a broader understanding of the diverse needs of modern students and the importance of making education accessible in various formats, ensuring that those pursuing degrees through online platforms can also benefit from the financial relief scholarships provide.

Can Part-Time Students Get Scholarships?

Part-time students – including high school seniors aiming for an undergraduate degree and those enrolled in online programs – are eligible for a variety of scholarships tailored to their unique educational paths. Recognizing the growing diversity in how education is pursued, many scholarship providers have expanded their criteria to include part-time learners, acknowledging their efforts and needs. This inclusive approach ensures that students who balance education with other commitments, such as work or family, can still access financial support to achieve their academic goals.

Does FAFSA Cover Online Classes?

Yes, the FAFSA extends its coverage to online classes, much like it does for traditional students seeking a quality education through campus-based programs. As long as the online program is part of an accredited institution, students enrolled can apply for federal aid to help cover tuition, books, and other associated costs.

Does FAFSA Give Money for Online School?

Just as funds secured based on a student’s FAFSA can cover the cost of online classes, nontraditional students attending school entirely online can potentially use FAFSA money for their education. Online college students enrolled in school must attend an accredited institution for their distance learning to qualify in most cases, so students should keep that in mind.

Are There Scholarships for Online Masters Degrees?

As with undergraduate students, students pursuing online degrees at the Master’s level or higher can find scholarship opportunities. This can include awards focused on online students and general scholarships that don’t require students to go to a physical campus as part of their conditions.

Does Liberty University Online Give Scholarships?

Yes, a college student attending Liberty University can apply for scholarships to cover the cost of their online degree program. Students can learn more about the available options by going to the Liberty University Online Scholarships page.

Are There Online Scholarships for International Students?

International students may be able to find scholarships to pay for their online education. This is particularly beneficial for international students who want to remain in their home country while getting an education at a university in another nation.

If your student wants to keep the cost of their education down, online students do have options. Scholarships are an excellent way to cover the cost of an online degree program, and they can work for undergraduate and graduate students alike. If you and your student want to learn about online student scholarships, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a quick trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve a spot today.