Delaware Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of Delaware Scholarships & Grants

Delaware offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in Delaware more affordable.

Consider Delaware SEED (for DTCC/UD Associate in Arts) and Inspire scholarships.

What Scholarships Are Available for Delaware Residents?

Delaware students have access to several state-funded and institution-specific scholarships that make college more affordable. Key programs include:

• SEED Scholarship: Covers tuition for eligible students attending Delaware Technical Community College or the University of Delaware Associate in Arts Program.
• Inspire Scholarship: Provides up to $3,000 per year for students attending Delaware State University who maintain a 2.75 GPA and perform community service.
• Governor’s Education Grant for Working Adults: Offers financial aid to Delaware residents over age 18 who are working and returning to school part-time.

Tip: Most of these scholarships require Delaware residency and timely FAFSA completion. Apply early to maximize eligibility.

What Is the Delaware Scholarship Compendium?

The Delaware Scholarship Compendium is a free, state-sponsored guide created by the Delaware Higher Education Office. It lists hundreds of local, state, and national scholarships for Delaware students, with filters by:

• Grade level and academic year
• Field of study or intended major
• Need-based and merit-based criteria

What Are the Delaware Community Foundation Scholarships?

The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) administers over 300 scholarship funds that help students across the state pay for college. Awards range from $500 to $10,000 and are based on:

• Academic merit
• Financial need
• Intended field of study
• Geographic location within Delaware

What Scholarships Are Available at the University of Delaware?

The University of Delaware (UD) offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships for incoming and current students. Examples include:

• UD Trustee Scholarship: Highly competitive, awarded to top-performing high school seniors.
• Blue Hen Success Grant: Need-based grant designed to help students close small financial gaps that could prevent graduation.
• Associate in Arts Program Scholarships: Designed for students enrolled in the UD two-year pathway.

Tip: Students are automatically considered for many scholarships with their UD admission application, but some require separate forms.

Are There Scholarships for International Students at Delaware State University?

Yes, Delaware State University (DSU) offers several scholarships for international students, including:

• Global Partnership Scholarship: Awarded to students from DSU partner institutions abroad.
• Merit-Based International Student Scholarships: Based on GPA, test scores, and academic promise.

Tip: International students should also explore private scholarships and check with their country’s Ministry of Education or cultural exchange programs for additional funding options.

What Scholarships Are Available from the Delaware Department of Education?

The Delaware Department of Education (DOE) administers several major scholarships, including:

• Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship: $1,250 annually for students with strong academic performance who plan to major in humanities or social sciences.
• Teacher Education Scholarship: Awards $5,000 per year to students who commit to teaching in a Delaware public school after graduation.

Tip: These scholarships often require additional essays, service commitments, or interviews. Be sure to review full eligibility.

Who Is Eligible for the SEED Program in Delaware?

The Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED) Scholarship is a full-tuition program available to Delaware residents who:

• Graduate from a Delaware high school with a GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Enroll at Delaware Tech or the University of Delaware Associate in Arts Program
• Maintain full-time status and meet academic progress requirements

The SEED program covers tuition for up to six semesters and does not require repayment.

Tip: Students must file the FAFSA annually and complete the SEED application through their college’s financial aid office.