Top 78 Scholarships & Grants with December Deadlines

December Scholarships, Grants & Financial Aid Overview

Why do many scholarships close in December despite the holiday season and academic stress?

Because December sits right at the intersection of sentimentality and fiscal responsibility. Foundations are finalizing their donor reports, adjusting year-end budgets, and trying to distribute the remainder of their scholarship funds before the calendar resets. Even though students are busy with exams and family events, committees know December applications tend to be more heartfelt and honest because applicants are emotionally stretched. It’s also a quiet test: students who apply in December show persistence in a month when most people simply can’t manage the overwhelm. Committees appreciate that. December may feel inconvenient, but it reveals motivated students.

Pro Tip:
Submit before the last week of December — committees often do early scoring rounds before holiday closures.

Is competition lighter for December scholarships?

Surprisingly, yes. December isn’t a high-participation month simply because students are overwhelmed, traveling, or mentally checked out. Many never even look at scholarship listings this month. The ones who do apply tend to be determined or genuinely in need of support, which creates a smaller, more focused applicant pool. Some committees have openly acknowledged that December winners often come from a relatively small group of submissions — not because they lowered standards, but because fewer students applied at all.

Pro Tip:
December is the ultimate “low noise” month. If you can stay focused, even one or two thoughtful applications can produce outsized results.

Why are December scholarships useful for spring semester expenses?

Because they typically disburse funds in January, right before the spring term begins. This is perfect timing for students who underestimated costs during fall semester or who need to pay for textbooks, lab fees, transportation, or internships. Many colleges also reassess financial aid during the break, which means December scholarships can help fill sudden funding gaps. Committees know this and frequently prioritize students who explain specific, upcoming spring expenses. December awards aren’t a bonus; they’re often the missing piece that helps a student finish the academic year strong.

Pro Tip:
Mention spring classes or upcoming academic needs in your application — December reviewers love knowing exactly how their award will make an immediate difference.