College Scholarships for Advertising Majors

Expert Answers to the Most Asked Advertising Scholarship Questions

Advertising Scholarships for College Students

The world of advertising thrives on creativity, strategy, and storytelling — and earning a degree in advertising can open doors to careers in digital marketing, media planning, copywriting, and brand management. To help students pursue these dynamic career paths, numerous advertising scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in advertising, marketing, communications, or related fields.

These scholarships recognize academic achievement, creative talent, and a passion for persuasive communication. Whether you’re designing your first campaign or building a professional portfolio, the following advertising scholarships can help you fund your education and launch a rewarding career in the ever-evolving marketing and media industries.

Are There Scholarships for Advertising Majors?

Yes, there are a wide variety of scholarships available for students majoring in advertising, marketing, or related communications fields. These scholarships are awarded by universities, industry associations, nonprofit organizations, and private companies that are invested in developing the next generation of advertising professionals.

Many advertising scholarships are merit-based and reward students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and creative ability. Some are also need-based or designed to support underrepresented groups in the advertising and media industries.

Notable scholarships for advertising majors include:

• AAF (American Advertising Federation) Most Promising Multicultural Students Program – This program provides scholarships and industry connections for diverse students preparing to enter advertising, marketing, or media careers.
• The LAGRANT Foundation Scholarships – Offers $2,000 to $3,250 to underrepresented minority students majoring in advertising, public relations, or marketing, with additional professional development and networking support.
• NSAC (National Student Advertising Competition) Scholarships – Sponsored by the AAF, these are awarded to students who participate in advertising competitions and demonstrate leadership and creativity.
• Marketing EDGE Scholarships – Provides financial support to students studying marketing, advertising, and analytics, with an emphasis on digital marketing and data-driven strategies.

Additionally, many universities with advertising or communications departments offer internal scholarships and fellowships. These may be based on GPA, portfolio quality, or participation in student advertising groups like AdFed, PRSSA, or AMA chapters.

To qualify for advertising scholarships, students are often asked to:

• Submit creative samples or campaign work (ads, branding projects, or writing samples)
• Write essays on advertising trends, personal goals, or ethical challenges in the field
• Demonstrate involvement in internships, student competitions, or industry-related extracurriculars

Whether you’re pursuing a career in copywriting, media planning, branding, or digital advertising, these scholarships can ease financial pressure and connect you with mentors and future employers in the industry.

What Is the American Advertising Federation (AAF) Scholarship?

The American Advertising Federation (AAF) Scholarship is a national award for advertising and marketing students. Eligibility requirements include:

• Being enrolled in an advertising, marketing, or communications program.
• Demonstrating academic excellence and a passion for the advertising industry.
• Submitting a portfolio or creative project.

Awards vary by local AAF chapters, so check with your regional chapter for specific opportunities.

What Is the LAGRANT Foundation Scholarship?

The LAGRANT Foundation Scholarship supports underrepresented students pursuing careers in advertising, public relations, or marketing. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Being a minority student (African American, Hispanic, Asian American, Native American, or Pacific Islander).
• Maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Submitting a written essay and letters of recommendation.

Undergraduate recipients receive $2,500, while graduate students receive $3,750.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Advertising?

Yes, several scholarships specifically support women in advertising, such as:

• Advertising Women of New York (AWNY) Scholarship: Awards for female students pursuing advertising or related fields.
• Zonta International Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship: For women studying business, advertising, or marketing.

These programs encourage female representation and leadership in the advertising industry.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Advertising Majors?

Many universities offer scholarships tailored to advertising majors. Examples include:

• University of Texas at Austin Moody College of Communication Scholarships: Awards for students majoring in advertising or public relations.
• Syracuse University Newhouse School Scholarships: Scholarships for students in advertising, communications, and journalism.
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Advertising Scholarships: Department-specific awards for advertising students.

Check with your college’s financial aid office or advertising department for available scholarships.

Are There Scholarships for Creative Portfolios?

Yes, many scholarships for advertising majors focus on creative portfolios. Examples include:

• One Club Creative Scholarships: Awards for students who demonstrate outstanding creative skills in advertising, copywriting, or design.
• Young Ones Student Awards: A global competition by The One Club for Creativity that offers scholarships to winners.

These scholarships often require students to submit samples of their work, such as advertisements, designs, or copywriting projects.

What Are Some Corporate Scholarships for Advertising Majors?

Several companies in the advertising and marketing industry offer scholarships for students. Examples include:

• Wunderman Thompson Scholarship: A scholarship for advertising students interested in digital marketing and creative advertising.
• Publicis Groupe Scholarship Program: Funding for students pursuing careers in advertising and marketing.
• Omnicom Group Diversity Scholarship: Supports underrepresented students studying advertising, PR, or marketing.

These scholarships often include internship opportunities or mentorship programs.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Advertising?

Yes, some scholarships are available for high school seniors planning to study advertising in college. Examples include:

• NSHSS Business and Public Policy Scholarship: Supports high school seniors interested in advertising, marketing, or business.
• Scholarships from Local AAF Chapters: Many regional AAF chapters offer scholarships for high school students entering advertising programs.

These scholarships encourage students to pursue careers in advertising from an early stage.

What Is the Advertising Educational Foundation (AEF) Scholarship?

The Advertising Educational Foundation (AEF) Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in advertising, marketing, or communications. Eligibility includes:

• Enrolling in an accredited advertising program.
• Demonstrating financial need and academic excellence.
• Participating in industry-related extracurricular activities.

The AEF Scholarship connects students with industry professionals and internship opportunities.

How to Apply for Advertising Scholarships and Grants?

To apply for scholarships and grants for advertising majors:

• Research National and Local Opportunities: Check organizations like AAF, AEF, and The LAGRANT Foundation.
• Prepare a Strong Portfolio: Many scholarships require creative samples of your work.
• Contact Your School: Reach out to your university’s advertising or communications department for program-specific scholarships.
• Meet Deadlines: Ensure you submit all required documents, essays, and applications on time.

Start your search early and tailor your applications to each scholarship’s requirements.