Scholarships for Women in College

College Scholarships for Women

The gender pay gap still exists. According to 2018 Census Bureau data, women of all races earned an average of 82 cents for every $1 men of all races made. These numbers emphasize the importance for women to take advantage of scholarship opportunities to help avoid incurring student loan debt. 

Colleges and universities offer academic and extracurricular scholarships, but these funds do not always cover all education expenses. In this article, we highlight several scholarships for women funded by nonprofits, private companies, and professional organizations. 

Most of these awards feature application requirements like recommendation letters, writing essays, and official transcripts. For this reason, we suggest starting the application process at least two months before the noted due date to ensure candidates have ample time to complete the application.

What is the Difference Between a Grant and Scholarship?

Grants and scholarships are both forms of gift aid meaning students who receive a grant or scholarship do not need to pay back any money received. A grant is awarded based on a student's financial need. Typically grants are awarded by a government agency or a trust. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, including academic or athletic. Private scholarships are awarded by private foundations or philanthropic organizations.

The Importance of Women's Education

Progress of Women Attending School

From 2007 to 2017 the number of women in school has increased by seven percent, according to NCES. Although men have higher rates of attending college, women made up 57 percent of students attending college in 2017. In an article published in 2019, NPR found that 29.5 million women in the workforce had bachelor's degrees, while only 29.2 million men had the same degree, with women accounting for 50.2% of the workforce in America. These findings show that women are more likely to attend college now more than ever. While the wage gap is still an issue in America, the number of women seeking college degrees is encouraging.

With the number of women attending college has increased, the funding available to women through scholarships has increased as well. With more women entering the workforce in fields like STEM and business, women can take advantage of scholarships within those fields.

Scholarships for Women

Scholarships often include competitive applicant pools. Learners can increase their chances of earning an award by applying for scholarships catered to their background and career focus. The following sections outline scholarships for women.

Industry-Specific Scholarships

Industry specific scholarships are a great way for applicants to find financial assistance for their major. Many women entering the STEM field can benefit from finding scholarships from companies and foundations that aim to support women working in typically male dominated industries. Women who are entering the fields of engineering, technology, science, or business should seek out organizations or school scholarships that support their future career.

Scholarships for Special Groups

Women looking for scholarships should consider applying for a special group scholarship. Special groups and organizations highlight socioeconomic, racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds among others. Women can look for scholarships like organizations like The Development Fund for Black Students in Science and Technology and American Veteran association.

Finding Scholarships for Women Going Back to School

When looking for scholarship opportunities, students should first consider looking for scholarships specific to their school and program. If a student is entering a bachelor's in biology, they should consider seeing if the school they are attending offers any scholarships. The more niche a scholarship the fewer students can apply. Women should also look for scholarships available through organizations or community groups they are involved in.

More College Scholarships for Women

Tessa Cooper

Tessa Cooper is a freelance writer and editor who regularly contributes to international and regional publications focused on education and lifestyle topics. She earned a bachelor’s in public relations from Missouri State University and is passionate about helping learners avoid high student loan debt while pursuing their dream major. Tessa loves writing about travel and food topics and is always planning her next meal or vacation.

See articles by Tessa