LGBTQ+ Scholarships: Empower Your Future

Navigating higher education as an LGBTQ+ student comes with unique challenges, but it also opens extraordinary doors. This scholarship resource is designed to connect you with meaningful financial support, recognize your leadership, and reward your resilience. These 50 carefully curated opportunities honor students whose voices and dreams deserve to be celebrated. Whether you’re a trailblazer, artist, athlete, advocate, or ally, there’s a scholarship here for you!

Bookmark this page and come back often: new scholarships are added regularly, and deadlines change throughout the year. Apply widely, be proud of your story, and know that your education and authenticity matter. The next chapter of your journey starts here.

1. Point Scholarship

The Point Scholarship is the nation’s largest scholarship-granting organization for LGBTQ+ students of merit at the undergraduate and graduate levels. This award offers up to $10,000 per recipient, along with mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Applicants must submit a thorough application, including essays and letters of recommendation, demonstrating both academic excellence and involvement in LGBTQ+ advocacy. Point Scholars are expected to lead in their communities and contribute back to LGBTQ+ causes.
Website: https://pointfoundation.org/scholarships/

2. Pride Foundation Scholarship

The Pride Foundation offers scholarships up to $10,000 for LGBTQ+ and straight ally students across the Pacific Northwest. This competitive scholarship program supports those who have shown leadership or advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality and who face barriers to education. Temporary or permanent residency in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, or Washington is often required. A personal statement and supporting references help determine the scholarship recipients.
Website: https://www.pridefoundation.org/scholarships/

3. Human Rights Campaign Scholarship

This $5,000 annual scholarship from the Human Rights Campaign supports LGBTQ+ undergraduate students aiming to make a positive impact through their education and community service. Applicants submit academic records, a personal statement about their LGBTQ+ experience, and letters of recommendation. Recipients are selected for their commitment to equality, inclusion, and advancing LGBTQ+ rights through academic or extracurricular achievements.
Website: https://www.hrc.org/resources/scholarships

4. Out & Equal Scholarship

Out & Equal awards scholarships up to $10,000 to LGBTQ+ students at undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral levels who show promise in advancing workplace equality. In addition to academic merit, applicants should prepare a portfolio showcasing creative work and two recommendation letters. The scholarship aims to support future leaders who will help create inclusive and diverse professional environments.
Website: https://outandequal.org/scholarships/

5. PFLAG National Scholarship

PFLAG’s National Scholarship Program gives up to $10,000 to LGBTQ+ high school graduating seniors planning to pursue higher education. Applicants are evaluated based on academic achievement, service to the LGBTQ+ community, and need. Required materials include essays, recommendation letters, and a creative portfolio. PFLAG’s commitment is to invest in the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders and allies.
Website: https://pflag.org/resource/chapter-scholarship-programs/

6. Horizons Foundation Scholarship

The Horizons Foundation awards up to $5,000 to LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate leadership and advocacy for equality. Applicants must show a record of community service or activism, in addition to academic performance and financial need. Some awards require submission of a portfolio and personal statement. The scholarship supports students who inspire change at their schools and in broader society.
Website: https://www.horizonsfoundation.org/funding-programs/lgbtq-scholarships-fellowships/

7. Lambda Legal Scholarship

Lambda Legal’s scholarship program recognizes high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students who take a visible role in advocating for LGBTQ+ equality. Recipients may receive up to $2,500 to assist with tuition or education-related expenses. The application process places emphasis on activism, personal essays, and references that speak to the applicant’s leadership and potential for making an impact on social justice causes.
Website: https://www.lambdalegal.org/

8. Live Out Loud Scholarship

This annual scholarship is aimed at LGBTQ+ youth in high school or currently enrolled in college who have demonstrated leadership, courage, and advocacy within their communities. The award, valued at up to $2,500, specifically encourages applicants who have actively promoted inclusion and social change. Judges look for compelling personal stories, letters of recommendation, and evidence of extracurricular engagement.
Website: https://liveoutloud.info/scholarships/

9. American Institute of Bisexuality Scholarship

The American Institute of Bisexuality awards scholarships of up to $2,000 to undergraduate and graduate students who champion the visibility and understanding of bisexuality. Applicants must demonstrate support of bisexual issues, either through research, community work, or personal narrative. Essays and two recommendation letters are required, making this award well-suited for students wishing to shift perspectives within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community.
Website: https://www.bisexual.org/scholarships/

10. Trans Student Educational Resources Scholarship

This scholarship, awarded up to $2,500, is for LGBTQ+ high school and college students who have shown commitment to transgender advocacy and educational outreach. Applicants are evaluated on their leadership in trans rights, as well as academic performance and need. A personal statement, recommendation letters, and creative portfolio give candidates the chance to stand out and share their impact.
Website: https://www.transstudent.org/scholarships

11. Pride Law Fund Scholarship

Pride Law Fund offers annual awards of up to $2,000 for LGBTQ undergraduates, graduate, and law students furthering equality both inside and outside the legal profession. The scholarship encourages applications from candidates demonstrating leadership, academic success, and a drive to support public interest causes benefiting the LGBTQ+ community. Portfolio and letters of reference are often required.
Website: https://www.pridelawfund.org/scholarships/

12. Point/William Way LGBT Community Center Scholarship

Jointly offered by the Point Foundation and William Way LGBT Community Center, this scholarship helps undergrad and grad students who have made significant contributions to LGBTQ+ advocacy or awareness. The award, currently up to $2,000, recognizes leadership and seeks to empower students continuing their activism in academic settings and beyond.
Website: https://pointfoundation.org/

13. Point Foundation Leadership Awards

Point Foundation also recognizes exceptional students with Leadership Awards of up to $10,000. These scholarships are given to undergraduates and graduates who have distinguished themselves through academic performance and demonstrated leadership in the LGBTQ+ community. Recipients participate in tailored leadership programs and join a network of fellow changemakers.
Website: https://pointfoundation.org/

14. Pride Foundation Community Scholarships

These scholarships, valued at up to $2,500, are part of the broad portfolio managed by the Pride Foundation. They support LGBTQ+ students at various educational stages who have shown strong involvement in their local communities, especially where resources for LGBTQ+ youth may be lacking. Selection is based on community contributions, financial need, and ambition to create positive social change.
Website: https://pridefoundation.org/find-funding/scholarships/

15. Point Foundation Mentorship Program

The Mentorship Program pairs LGBTQ+ college and university students, who receive up to $5,000, with experienced LGBTQ+ professionals. Awardees benefit not only from financial support, but from guidance and networking opportunities designed to foster both academic and personal growth. The program seeks highly-motivated students eager to develop their leadership skills alongside their studies.
Website: https://pointfoundation.org/

16. Audria M. Edwards Scholarship Fund

This regional scholarship is open to LGBTQ+ students or those with LGBTQI parents in Oregon and parts of Washington. Funding amounts vary and are available to support post-secondary or undergraduate study. Residency of at least one year is required, and the fund seeks students dedicated to education and inclusion, regardless of their chosen field of study.
Website: (Refer to Oregon and Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania, Wahkiakum County local resource pages.)

17. Phoenix Pride Scholarship

The Phoenix Pride Scholarship Program provides financial support for high school seniors, college students, and adult learners who identify as LGBTQ+ and are attending any FAFSA-accredited postsecondary institution. The program places a strong emphasis on promoting educational opportunities for those who are actively involved in community service, advocacy, or leadership.
Website: https://phoenixpride.org/communityfoundation/scholarships/

18. Live Out Loud Young Trailblazers Scholarship

This prestigious $5,000 scholarship celebrates LGBTQ+ leaders in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut who have taken bold steps to impact their communities. Candidates must submit recommendation letters from academic and/or organizational professionals that attest to their commitment or leadership potential in LGBTQ+ causes. Live Out Loud recognizes youth trailblazers ready to forge paths for others.
Website: https://liveoutloud.org/programs/young-trailblazers-scholarship/

19. Equality Scholarship

The Equality Scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who are LGBTQ-identified, with preference given to those with strong academic records, leadership experience, and a passion for equality. Applicants must submit an essay, two letters of recommendation, and an official transcript. Recipients are selected for both community involvement and their ambition to create change.
Website: https://www.equalityscholarship.org/

20. Stonewall Foundation Scholarship Program

Stonewall Foundation’s scholarships are open to LGBTQ students who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to community service, advocacy, and leadership. Award amounts vary and are determined by committee review of essays, academic achievements, and recommendations. This foundation acts as a launchpad for emerging LGBTQ+ leaders in fields ranging from business to arts to sciences.
Website: https://www.stonewallfoundation.org/scholarships

21. Acorn Equality Fund

The Acorn Equality Fund provides multiple awards to LGBTQ students residing in Illinois, with scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,000. Candidates are selected for academic success, financial need, and a demonstrated commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ equality in the region. Application materials differ by award, but all require a focus on regional impact.
Website: https://www.acornequalityfund.org/scholarships.html

22. Bold Amelia Michelle Sanford LGBTQIA+ Memorial Scholarship

This unique scholarship, worth $2,500, is awarded to LGBTQ+ high school seniors who participate in sports. Applicants are invited to submit an essay or video describing their experiences and leadership in athletics and the LGBTQ+ community. The award is intended to inspire young athletes to pursue higher education and break new ground in representation.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/amelia-michelle-sanford-lgbtqia-memorial-scholarship/

23. National Gay Pilots Association

The National Gay Pilots Association is an influential organization supporting LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing aviation careers. Each year, they award more than $300,000 to students demonstrating financial need, leadership, and commitment to inclusivity in the aviation industry. Application is competitive and open to anyone seeking pilot training or related studies.
Website: https://www.ngpa.org/scholarships?locale=en_us

24. Out For Education Scholarship

The Out For Education Scholarship is one of the largest LGBTQ+ scholarship providers in the Houston area, with awards from $1,000 up to $10,000 over four years. It is designed to help high school and current college students overcome financial barriers while contributing to positive change in the local LGBTQ+ community.
Website: https://outforeducation.org/lgbtq-scholarship-information/

25. Tang Scholarship

Open to Bay Area students from the LGBT and Asian-Pacific Islander communities, the Tang Scholarship provides critical financial assistance to applicants who demonstrate both academic promise and financial hardship. Candidates should have strong personal statements and a history of involvement in their communities.
Website: https://sites.google.com/site/tangscholarship

26. Elijah’s Helping Hand Scholarship Award

Specifically created for LGBTQIA+ youth and students facing challenges related to sexual or gender identity, this award recognizes resilience in overcoming adversity. Open to high school seniors, college, and grad students, recipients are chosen for sharing their personal stories of challenge and perseverance. The scholarship helps alleviate financial burdens as students pursue their dreams.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/elijahs-helping-hand-scholarship-award/

27. Therapist Impact Fund: NextGen Scholarship

Aimed at increasing diversity among therapists, this scholarship supports LGBTQ+ and underrepresented students training to become mental health professionals. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.3 or higher and demonstrate a clear commitment to improving access and advocacy for mental health in the LGBTQ+ community. This large fund awards winners with substantial financial support for their education.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/nextgen-therapist/

28. Rainbow Futures Scholarship

The Rainbow Futures Scholarship supports high school and undergraduate LGBTQ+ students experiencing financial need, offering $1,000 to help them meet educational expenses. The scholarship focuses on supporting those at key points in their academic path and encourages applicants to share their aspirations and how the scholarship will empower their future.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/rainbow-futures-scholarship/

29. Adam Montes Pride Scholarship

Created to support underrepresented LGBTQ+ minorities and first-generation students, this scholarship awards $1,000 to applicants who share how their identities have shaped their educational journey. Strong personal narratives and commitment to advocacy are especially valued during the review process.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/adam-montes-pride-scholarship/

30. Pride in Diversity Scholarship

This annual scholarship supports LGBTQ+ students who actively promote diversity, inclusion, and equity. Open to all disciplines, it invites applicants to write about their advocacy efforts and plans for advancing equality. Recipients can use funds toward any accredited program, and are recognized for their leadership across fields.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/pride-in-diversity-scholarship/

31. Healthy Transitions Scholarship

The Healthy Transitions Scholarship supports LGBTQ+ individuals who have overcome significant obstacles in their mental health or gender journey. Special consideration is given to those who have engaged in awareness campaigns, peer support, or leadership in mental health spaces. The award aims to help these students continue their education and advocacy.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/healthy-transitions-scholarship/

32. APIQWTC Scholarship

This scholarship provides $1,500 to LGBTQ+ Asian and Pacific Islander students at any level of higher education. The award is focused on advancing social justice, leadership, or community service. Applicants should highlight the unique challenges they overcome and their participation in advocacy for equality on campus or in their community.
Website: https://apiqwtc.org/apiqwtc-scholarship-fund/

33. Billie Eilish Fan Scholarship

Targeted at LGBTQ+ students who are passionate about music, the arts, or creative expression, this $2,000 scholarship seeks compelling stories about how music has inspired resilience and self-discovery. Open to students enrolled in arts-related programs, the award encourages the use of creativity as a force for empowerment and change.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships/billie-eilish-fan-scholarship/

34. Saginaw Valley Scholarship

The Saginaw Valley Scholarship, worth $1,500, is for LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education in the Saginaw Valley region. It rewards leadership, involvement in community advancement, and commitment to inclusivity, especially for those in rural or underrepresented areas.
Website: https://www.saginawfoundation.org/scholarships/

35. Loud Foundation Scholarships

Loud Foundation Scholarships are open to LGBTQ+ students in any field of study, with a focus on advancing social justice and equity. The award amount varies, and applicants are selected based on their demonstrated activism and plans for making a positive difference in the world. The foundation values innovative approaches to community empowerment.
Website: https://loudbusiness.com/apply-for-a-scholarship

36. Audre Lorde Scholarship Fund

Named after renowned Black lesbian feminist poet Audre Lorde, this scholarship honors Black lesbians aged 50 and older who have contributed meaningfully to their communities. Award amounts start at $1,000 and support recipients as they pursue accredited undergraduate or graduate coursework. The fund celebrates mature women whose ongoing activism inspires future generations to create social change.
Website: https://www.zaminobla.org

37. NWSA Lesbian Caucus Award

The National Women’s Studies Association offers this $500 award to graduate students working in Lesbian, Queer, or LGBTQI+ studies. Preference is given to Association members, and applicants are chosen for their original research, commitment to feminist issues, and a willingness to challenge norms in gender and sexuality scholarship. The award recognizes both academic achievement and community engagement.
Website: https://www.nwsa.org

38. Fund for Education Abroad Rainbow Scholarship

This scholarship assists LGBTQ+ students who wish to study abroad, offering variable financial support based on need. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and recipients are selected for their academic achievement, potential for leadership, and clear goals for how international study will impact their futures. This unique opportunity helps students gain global perspective as they explore their identities abroad.
Website: https://fundforeducationabroad.org

39. LEAGUE Foundation LGBTQ Scholarship

LEAGUE Foundation provides scholarships to graduating high school seniors identifying as LGBT, with a keen focus on academic excellence and leadership in extracurricular or community activities. Amounts vary each cycle, and the program has helped numerous recipients achieve their college goals while fostering inclusivity and visibility for LGBTQ youth.
Website: https://www.leaguefoundation.org

40. Prism Foundation Scholarships

The Prism Foundation supports LGBTQ+ students –especially those from Asian and Pacific Islander backgrounds — by awarding $1,000–$5,000 to help cover college expenses. Applicants must demonstrate a meaningful impact on both API and LGBTQ+ communities, whether through advocacy, activism, or creative work. The program encourages intersectional leaders breaking barriers in education and society.
Website: https://theprismfoundation.org

41. NLGJA Leroy F. Aarons Scholarship

Named in honor of journalist Leroy F. Aarons, this scholarship is designed for LGBTQ+ students pursuing a career in journalism or communications. Awards are up to $5,000 and reward applicants who show both professional promise and an understanding of issues facing the LGBTQ community. Scholars are encouraged to use journalism to foster fair and inclusive media representation.
Website: https://www.nlgja.org/resources/aarons

42. Malyon-Smith Scholarship Research Award

Offered by the American Psychological Association, this $1,000 scholarship supports graduate students in psychology whose research addresses LGBTQ issues. Recipients are selected on the merit of their research proposals, their personal statements about research impact, and recommendations from faculty advisors. The award aims to advance mental health and social understanding for queer communities.
Website: https://apadivisions.org

43. Kenneth W. Payne Student Prize

Administered by the Association for Queer Anthropology, this $500 prize is given annually for outstanding undergraduate or graduate work in anthropological research related to LGBTQ+ topics. Submissions can include papers, theses, or dissertations and should advance scholarship on sexuality, gender, and queer theory within the field of anthropology.
Website: http://queeranthro.org

44. Out to Innovate™ Scholarships

These awards, up to $5,000 each, are for LGBTQ+ undergrad and grad students pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Established by professionals in the queer science/tech community, the scholarship seeks candidates with demonstrated academic strength, leadership, and a plan to link scientific work with LGBTQ+ advocacy or outreach in the future.
Website: https://noglstp.org

45. Roy Scrivner Memorial Research Grants

This grant, which can be as much as $10,000, supports advanced graduate research focused on LGBTQ family psychology and therapy. Sponsored by the American Psychological Foundation, it is intended to encourage innovative research projects that address challenges faced by LGBTQ families and promote evidence-based interventions for healthy family dynamics.
Website: https://www.apa.org

46. Gay’s Den Scholar Award

The Gay’s Den Scholar Award is given to LGBTQ+ high school graduates in Florida who have a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants are asked to submit an essay detailing the impact of their coming out journey on themselves and their community. This $1,500 scholarship empowers students to celebrate their authenticity as they transition to higher education.
Website: https://bold.org/scholarships

47. SOULE Foundation Scholarships

SOULE Foundation Scholarships are designed for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults of color, with awards up to $5,000 and a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. Applicants should demonstrate leadership in their community and a desire to use education as a tool for empowerment and change. Rolling deadlines make it accessible for students at multiple points in their academic planning.
Website: https://www.soulefoundation.org

48. Team DC Student-Athlete Scholarships

Team DC awards $2,000 scholarships to LGBTQ+ student-athletes from the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Students must be engaged in varsity-level athletics and display academic and extracurricular achievement. The initiative spotlights athletes who are out and proud, promoting LGBTQ+ visibility in sports while encouraging youth participation.
Website: https://www.teamdc.org

49. Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship

The Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship, up to $5,000, supports high school and college students working to advance social or health justice, particularly in the fields of HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQ+ rights. Zamora Scholars are recognized for both academic and community commitments, reflecting the legacy of the late AIDS educator and activist.
Website: https://www.aidsmemorial.org

50. Traub-Dicker Rainbow Scholarship

This $4,000 scholarship is awarded annually to lesbian-identified women attending accredited colleges. Candidates are selected on the basis of academic achievement, outstanding community service, and strong leadership qualities. Preference is given to those deeply engaged with LGBTQ+ advocacy and activism within their local, state, or national communities.
Website: https://stonewallfoundation.org