African American Scholarships: Empower Your Journey

Education changes lives, and for African American students, scholarships can be the key to unlocking doors of opportunity. Whether you’re entering college, pursuing a graduate degree, or seeking to advance your career, this comprehensive list brings together dozens of the best scholarships crafted specifically for Black students. These opportunities recognize your heritage, achievements, and potential to lead and inspire your community.

Bookmark this page and revisit it often: New scholarships open throughout the year, and the right one could make all the difference. Apply broadly, believe in your story, and take the next step toward reaching your dreams. These awards are here to help you achieve them.

1. UNCF General Scholarship

The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) General Scholarship provides crucial support for Black students attending any accredited four-year institution. Applicants must complete a comprehensive profile and FAFSA, demonstrating unmet financial need. Over the years, the UNCF has opened doors for more than half a million students, making this flagship program a cornerstone of African American educational advancement.
Website: https://uncf.org/scholarships

2. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship is awarded to minority high school seniors who exemplify leadership potential, academic excellence, and community service. Recipients receive up to $35,000 over four years, as well as participation in a “Mentoring and Leadership Development Program.” In addition to financial support, scholars engage in workshops and internships aimed at empowering the next generation of Black leaders.
Website: https://jackierobinson.org/apply/

3. Ron Brown Scholar Program

The Ron Brown Scholar Program selects talented, economically challenged African American high school seniors to receive $40,000 in scholarships ($10,000/year for four years) toward the college of their choice. Scholars are chosen for their academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to public service. The program also provides career and professional development support to ensure long-term success.
Website: https://ronbrown.org/

4. Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Scholarships

The TMCF provides merit- and need-based scholarships to students attending publicly-supported HBCUs and Predominantly Black Institutions. Amounts and eligibility requirements vary by award, but all emphasize leadership, strong academics, and a commitment to giving back. As the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black college community, TMCF has distributed over $300 million in scholarships since 1987.
Website: https://www.tmcf.org/students-alumni/scholarship

5. Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Scholarships

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation offers several scholarships, including academic scholarships for students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degrees. Awards focus on leadership, public service, and a demonstrated interest in advancing the Black community. Special topics include health, performing/fine arts, STEM, and more.
Website: https://www.cbcfinc.org/programs/scholarships/

6. Gates Millennium Scholars Program (GMSP)

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program, funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is open to outstanding minority students with significant financial need. It covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, books, and living expenses, for undergraduate and select graduate programs. Scholars receive leadership training, mentoring, and academic support throughout college and beyond.
Website: https://www.gmsp.org/

7. NAACP Scholarships

The NAACP offers multiple awards for African American students at different stages of their academic journeys, including STEM, business, and social science scholarships. Applicants must be members of the NAACP, maintain a minimum GPA, and demonstrate both academic achievement and a commitment to civil rights. Award values and deadlines vary, so check their listings regularly.
Website: https://naacp.org/find-resources/scholarships-awards-internships/scholarships

8. Coca-Cola Scholars Program

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program selects 150 high school seniors each year to receive $20,000 scholarships for their exceptional leadership, service, and academic promise. The award is open to all U.S. citizens and legal residents, but strongly encourages applications from underrepresented minorities and first-generation college students. Winners join a lifelong network of Coca-Cola Scholars and mentors.
Website: https://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org/apply/

9. Apple HBCU Scholars Program

Apple’s HBCU Scholars Program partners with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to invest in Black talent at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The scholarship includes up to $25,000 for the academic year, a paid summer internship at Apple, and ongoing mentorship. Applicants must enroll full-time at a designated HBCU and major in select STEM or business fields.
Website: https://tmcf.org/students-alumni/scholarship/apple-ibm-scholars

10. Dr. Pepper Tuition Giveaway

The Dr. Pepper Tuition Giveaway awards over $2 million each year to students who submit a short video explaining their career goals and how the prize will help them achieve those dreams. Special efforts are made to support applicants from underrepresented or financially disadvantaged backgrounds, including many African American students. Prize amounts range from $2,500 to $100,000 for tuition.
Website: https://www.drpeppertuition.com/

11. Google Lime Scholarship

Google partners with Lime Connect to offer this program for minority students — especially those with visible or invisible disabilities — majoring in computer science, engineering, or related fields. Scholarship recipients get up to $10,000 and access to Google’s leadership summits, internships, and a network of tech professionals.
Website: https://www.limeconnect.com/

12. ESA Foundation Scholarship Program

Targeting African American and other minority students pursuing degrees in video game arts, technology, or interactive entertainment, the ESA Foundation offers multiple awards each year. Recipients are selected for creative talents, leadership, and desire to advance positive representation in gaming.
Website: https://www.esafoundation.org/scholarships

13. Microsoft Scholarships

Microsoft encourages diversity and excellence in STEM by offering several scholarships to minority students. These awards recognize strong academics, interest in computer science, and leadership potential. Recipients may receive up to $20,000 for tuition plus mentorship opportunities and internships.
Website: https://careers.microsoft.com/students/scholarships

14. The Links, Incorporated National Scholarship

The Links, Incorporated is one of the nation’s oldest volunteer organizations for professional women of color. Their scholarship program supports African American youth with strong leadership records, academic achievement, and community service. Many recipients go on to become community leaders and professionals.
Website: https://www.linksinc.org/links-scholars

15. Generation Google Scholarship

Created to encourage African American and other underrepresented students to pursue careers in computer science and technology, this scholarship awards up to $10,000 per year and includes networking opportunities with Google engineers. Applicants should show academic achievement and a passion for innovation.
Website: https://buildyourfuture.withgoogle.com/scholarships/generation-google-scholarship/

16. Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Scholarships

The National Society of Black Engineers offers scholarships for college and graduate school students majoring in engineering and STEM fields. Applicants must be NSBE members. Awards are given for academic achievement, leadership and engagement in NSBE activities, and overcoming adversity.
Website: https://www.nsbe.org/Programs/Scholarships.aspx

17. American Chemical Society Scholars Program

The ACS Scholars Program supports African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Native American students majoring in chemistry or chemistry-related fields. Awards are up to $5,000 per academic year for undergraduates who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong interest in a chemistry career.
Website: https://www.acs.org/education/acs-scholars.html

18. Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund

Founded by Jay-Z’s family foundation, this fund supports African American students facing significant financial challenges. Awards are based on motivation to overcome obstacles and commitment to higher education; all majors welcome. Recipients join a supportive, lifelong alumni network.
Website: https://www.shawncartersf.com/scholarship-fund/

19. American Association of Blacks in Energy Scholarship

AABE scholarships recognize African American students aspiring to work in energy-related fields. The program awards $2,000 to $3,000 scholarships to students with high academic achievement, leadership, and demonstrated need.
Website: https://www.aabe.org/

20. Engebretson Foundation Scholarship

For outstanding high school seniors planning to attend a four-year university, the Engebretson Foundation’s scholarship is valued at $5,000 per semester. Preference given to African American and other minority students with high ACT/SAT scores and significant financial need.
Website: https://www.engebretsonfoundation.org/

21. Ethel Lee Hoover Ellis Scholarship

This award from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is for African American undergraduate and graduate students with a minimum GPA and demonstrated community involvement. The sorority encourages academic achievement, advocacy, and leadership among recipients.
Website: https://aka1908.com

22. Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarships

The oldest intercollegiate fraternity for African American men, Alpha Phi Alpha sponsors scholarships for young Black men at various levels of study, including leadership awards, need-based grants, and graduate fellowships.
Website: https://apa1906.net

23. Buick Achievers Scholarship Program

Buick funds scholarships up to $25,000 annually for minority students pursuing engineering, technology, design, or business. Applicants are judged on academic achievement, community service, and potential to have a positive impact on the auto industry.
Website: https://www.buickachievers.com/

24. The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarships

NBNA offers numerous scholarships to Black students enrolled in nursing programs at all levels. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to improving health outcomes for minority communities.
Website: https://www.nbna.org/scholarships

25. Hertz Fellowship

Open to graduate students in applied physical, biological, and engineering sciences, the Hertz Fellowship is a prestigious award that supports minority students, including African Americans, with stipends, mentorship, and tuition funding.
Website: https://www.hertzfoundation.org/

26. The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs Scholarships

This organization supports African American women pursuing college degrees in business, STEM, and humanities fields. Awards emphasize scholastic achievement, professional potential, and commitment to social change.
Website: https://nanbpwc.org

27. Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

The Gilman Scholarship funds study abroad opportunities for undergraduate students with outstanding academic records and financial need, including many African American students. Amounts range up to $5,000, with preference for historically underserved applicants.
Website: https://www.gilmanscholarship.org/

28. National Black MBA Association Scholarships

NBMBAA offers undergraduate and graduate scholarships for African American students entering business, management, or economics programs. Scholarship recipients are also invited to networking events, mentorship programs, and professional development workshops.
Website: https://nbmbaa.org/scholarships/

29. Xerox Technical Minority Scholarship

Xerox offers awards to African American students pursuing technical degrees, including engineering, computer science, and technology. Recipients are chosen for academic performance and leadership.
Website: https://www.xerox.com/en-us/jobs/minority-scholarships

30. Sallie Mae Fund’s Completing the Dream Scholarship

This scholarship awards up to $2,500 to undergraduate and graduate students of color, including African American students, with financial need, helping them cover tuition gaps and complete degrees.
Website: https://www.salliemae.com/scholarships/completing-the-dream/

31. ATS Institute Nurses Scholarship

ATS Institute offers scholarships to Black nursing students who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to healthcare equity. The program includes mentorship and practical support.
Website: https://www.atsinstitute.edu/

32. National Urban League Scholarship Programs

The National Urban League partners with corporations and foundations to offer scholarships, internships, and leadership development for African American youth. Awards vary by region and field of study, with the goal of empowering future leaders.
Website: https://nul.org/

33. Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) Scholarship

Microsoft’s BAM Scholarship is for high school seniors of African descent planning to pursue STEM careers. Recipients receive up to $5,000 and mentorship from tech industry leaders.
Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/bam-scholarship.aspx

34. 100 Black Men of America Scholarship

This leadership organization awards scholarships to African American students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service. Local chapters offer additional opportunities for mentoring.
Website: https://100blackmen.org/scholarship/

35. Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh Scholarship

This scholarship, offered by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports African American students pursuing arts disciplines: visual, literary, or performing. Awards help foster the next generation of Black artists in the region.
Website: https://pittsburghfoundation.org/node/31155

36. UNCF STEM Scholars Program

UNCF’s STEM Scholars program supports highly talented African American students entering college studies in science, technology, engineering, or math. Awards include mentorship, workshops, and up to $5,000/year in financial support.
Website: https://uncfstemscholars.uncf.org/

37. UNCF Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program

This $10,000 annual scholarship honors the legacy of Frederick Douglass. It is open to juniors attending HBCUs who demonstrate strong leadership and commitment to social justice and civil rights.
Website: https://uncf.org/scholarships

38. Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for Young Hispanic Leaders

While the emphasis is on Hispanic students, this award is open to African American students with demonstrated leadership and advocacy in social justice. Up to $1,000 is awarded for tuition expenses.
Website: https://www.ushli.org/juan-andrade-scholarship/

39. Tylenol Future Care Scholarship

Tylenol offers scholarships to minority students, including African Americans, pursuing degrees in healthcare or pharmacy. Multiple awards up to $10,000 each are available for high-achieving, service-oriented applicants.
Website: https://www.tylenol.com/news/scholarship

40. National Minority Supplier Development Council Scholarship Program

This program provides scholarships to minority business students at select institutions. African American undergraduates and MBAs receive support for coursework, professional development, and internships.
Website: https://nmsdc.org/resources/scholarships/

41. National Black Law Student Association Scholarships

NBLSA supports African American law students by offering need-based and merit scholarships, networking events, and mentorship opportunities for aspiring attorneys and legal scholars.
Website: https://www.nblsa.org/scholarship.html

42. Lewis Latimer Scholarship

Administered by the American Institute of Architects, this scholarship supports Black students pursuing careers in architecture, honoring the legacy of African American inventor Lewis Latimer.
Website: https://www.aia.org/resources/6073346-lewis-latimer-scholarship

43. Public Relations Student Society of America Foundation Diversity Multicultural Scholarship

PRSSA Foundation supports African American and other minority students entering public relations, communications, and journalism programs. Recipients demonstrate creativity, leadership, and a commitment to diversity and equity in media.
Website: https://www.prssa.org/scholarships-awards/

44. American Dental Education Association Minority Dental Scholarships

ADEA offers scholarships and fellowships to African American dental students nationwide. Amounts and program details vary, but all are aimed at increasing the representation of minority professionals in dentistry.
Website: https://www.adea.org/

45. Gates Scholarship

A highly selective, full-cost scholarship for outstanding minority high school seniors, including African American students, for use at any accredited US college or university. Academic achievement, leadership, and financial need are key selection criteria.
Website: https://www.thegatesscholarship.org/

46. Regions Riding Forward Scholarship

Regions Bank provides scholarships to African American students who submit essays honoring Black historical figures. Awards up to $5,000 encourage applicants to reflect on cultural heritage and personal aspirations.
Website: https://www.regions.com/about-regions/diversity-and-inclusion/riding-forward-scholarship

47. The Links Foundation Scholarships

Funds African American youth demonstrating exceptional academic achievement and leadership. Recipients join a nationwide network of Links Scholars dedicated to service and social change.
Website: https://www.linksinc.org/links-scholars

48. Sphinx Competition Scholarships

The Sphinx Organization supports young Black and Latinx classical musicians. Awards include cash scholarships and performance opportunities at prestigious venues.
Website: https://www.sphinxmusic.org/

49. Ed Bradley Scholarship

This scholarship from the Radio Television Digital News Association supports Black undergraduate students studying journalism. Recipients are selected for talent, academic achievement, and potential for leadership in media.
Website: https://rtdna.org/scholarship/ed-bradley-scholarship/

50. Umoja Scholarship

Umoja Community, supporting African American students in California community colleges, provides academic awards, mentoring, and leadership training. Candidates are selected for academic improvement, community involvement, and leadership potential.
Website: https://umojacommunity.org/

— Got a scholarship we should list? Leave it in a comment below!