Communications Scholarships for College

Expert Answers to the Most Asked Communications Scholarship Questions

Overview of Communications Scholarships & Grants

Whether you dream of working in journalism, public relations, broadcasting, or digital media, a degree in communications can open doors to diverse and dynamic career paths. However, communications programs often come with costs for specialized equipment, creative projects, and professional experiences like internships. Fortunately, there are many scholarships and grants available to help communications majors fund their education while building the skills needed for careers in media, storytelling, and strategic communication.

This guide highlights scholarships for communications students at every level—from high school seniors planning to major in media to undergraduates already enrolled in communications, journalism, or digital marketing programs. You’ll also find opportunities for women in media, digital creators, public relations students, and aspiring journalists. Whether you’re pursuing a traditional communications degree or exploring new fields like social media strategy or digital storytelling, these scholarships can help you gain valuable experience and reduce college costs.

Are There Scholarships for Communications Majors?

Yes, many scholarships are available specifically for students majoring in communications, journalism, public relations, media studies, or digital media. These scholarships support future professionals in fields such as broadcasting, advertising, corporate communication, and social media strategy.

Examples of scholarships for communications majors include:

• National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Education Foundation Scholarships: Offers awards up to $5,000 for students pursuing careers in broadcasting or digital media.
• Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Scholarships: Offers several scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for PR and communications majors who are PRSSA members.
• Broadcast Education Association (BEA) Scholarships: Offers 15+ scholarships annually for students in communications, broadcasting, and media studies. Awards range from $1,500 to $4,000.

Tip: Join organizations like PRSSA, AWC, or your university’s student media to become eligible for exclusive scholarships.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Communications?

Yes, several scholarships are dedicated to supporting women pursuing careers in communications, journalism, and media. These scholarships aim to increase gender equity and promote leadership among women in media-related professions.

Top scholarships for women in communications include:

• Association for Women in Communications (AWC) Scholarship: Supports female undergraduates or graduate students in communications fields. Awards range from $1,000 to $2,000.
• Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship (Zonta International): While broadly focused on business, this scholarship supports women studying communications, marketing, and leadership. Awards up to $8,000.
• Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Scholarships: Offers several awards for women studying media, communications, and journalism. Includes the Ford Emerging Voices Scholarship and Loreen Arbus Scholarship for disability coverage in media.

Eligibility Tip: Most of these programs require strong academic standing, demonstrated leadership, and a personal commitment to advancing women in media industries.

Are There Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in Communications?

Yes, high school seniors planning to study communications in college can begin applying for scholarships as early as fall of their senior year. These awards often encourage diversity, leadership, and early interest in journalism, PR, or media studies.

Scholarships for high school students entering communications programs include:

• John Bayliss Radio Scholarship: Awards $2,500 to students pursuing careers in radio broadcasting or audio production.
• Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship: Offers up to $30,000 over four years to minority high school seniors entering fields like journalism, media, or communications.
• SPJ High School Essay Contest: Sponsored by the Society of Professional Journalists, this contest awards $300 to $1,000 for essays on the role of the press in democracy. Winners are often encouraged to pursue journalism or media in college.

Tip: Start building a portfolio of writing, media projects, or broadcasting work to strengthen scholarship and college applications in the communications field.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Communications Majors?

Many colleges and universities offer exclusive scholarships to students in their communications programs. These awards are often based on academic achievement, leadership, financial need, or creative work.

Examples of university-specific scholarships for communications students:

• USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism: Offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students in communications, journalism, and PR. Awards vary but may range from $2,000 to full tuition.
• Syracuse University Newhouse School Scholarships: Provides multiple awards for students in journalism, advertising, and media management. Includes the Newhouse Leadership Scholarship and Glenn Steinfast Scholarship for diversity in media.
• University of Texas at Austin – Moody College of Communication: Offers dozens of donor-funded scholarships for majors in public relations, communication studies, journalism, and advertising. Most awards range from $1,000 to $5,000.

Tip: Check your school’s scholarship portal and ask your department about additional opportunities that may require a separate application or portfolio.

Are There Scholarships for Digital Media and Social Media Studies?

Yes, if you’re focusing on digital media, content creation, or social media strategy, there are scholarships tailored to your interests. These awards often support students pursuing careers in online journalism, influencer marketing, or multimedia storytelling.

Digital and social media scholarships include:

• Social Media Club (SMC) Scholarship: Provides funding for students who demonstrate interest in social media, online communities, or digital marketing. Awards range from $500 to $2,000. May require a personal project or campaign.
• Adobe Creativity Scholarships: Offers up to $10,000 per year for students using visual storytelling or media to create positive change. Open to students studying digital media, graphic design, and communications.
• Women in Digital Media Scholarship (varies by school/region): Some universities and nonprofits offer scholarships to support women entering the tech and digital communications space.

Tip: Build a portfolio of social campaigns, video content, or blogs to support your application and show off your media skills.

How to Apply for Communications Scholarships?

Applying for communications scholarships requires a mix of research, preparation, and creativity. Whether you’re pursuing journalism, digital media, public relations, or broadcasting, following a strategic approach can improve your chances of winning funding.

Steps to apply for communications scholarships:

• Research Industry Organizations: Start with groups like PRSA, RTDNA, NABJ, NAHJ, and the AWC. Many offer student scholarships annually.
• Prepare a Portfolio: Include writing samples, articles, blog posts, audio/video work, or PR campaign projects. Highlight versatility and originality.
• Write a Strong Personal Statement: Share your communications goals, experiences, and why you’re passionate about media or storytelling.
• Gather Recommendations: Ask professors, mentors, or media professionals who know your work to write letters of support.
• Meet Deadlines: Stay organized and apply early. Many scholarships open in fall and close by spring.

Tip: Apply for both large national scholarships and smaller local or campus-based awards to boost your chances.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Communications Majors?

Yes, many companies, media organizations, and entertainment brands offer scholarships for students majoring in communications, PR, journalism, and media production. These often include mentorship, internships, or industry exposure in addition to financial support.

Examples of corporate scholarships:

• Disney Scholars Program: Supports students interested in media, storytelling, or communications. Scholarships are offered through partnerships with organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). Awards vary and may include internship opportunities at Disney.
• Time Warner Media Scholarship: Provides financial support for students studying journalism, public relations, or entertainment media. Often offered through partnerships with diversity-focused nonprofits.
• Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship: Awards $1,000 to $5,000 to high school seniors demonstrating leadership and academic achievement. Open to students pursuing media, tech, or communications degrees.

Tip: Many corporate scholarships prioritize leadership, diversity, and community impact—highlight these qualities in your application materials.

What Is the PRSA Foundation Scholarship?

The PRSA Foundation Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in public relations and communications. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Being an undergraduate or graduate student majoring in public relations, communications, or a related field.
• Demonstrating academic excellence and leadership skills.
• Submitting a personal statement and letters of recommendation.

Scholarship amounts vary, and some awards are tailored for underrepresented students.

What Is the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Scholarship?

The NABJ Scholarship provides financial assistance to Black students pursuing careers in journalism, communications, or media. Eligibility includes:

• Being a current undergraduate or graduate student majoring in journalism, communications, or a related field.
• Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Submitting a portfolio, personal statement, and references.

Awards range from $1,500 to $5,000 annually.

What Is the Lee Thornton Scholarship?

The Lee Thornton Scholarship, offered by the Radio Television Digital News Foundation (RTDNF), is designed for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in broadcast or digital journalism. Eligibility requirements include:

• Being enrolled in a communications, journalism, or media-related program.
• Demonstrating academic excellence and a commitment to digital or broadcast journalism.

The scholarship provides $2,000 to $3,000 annually.