College Scholarships for Economics Majors

Economics Scholarship Data, Degree Costs & ROI

This snapshot is built from CollegeWhale’s own scholarship database and planning tools. It shows how many awards are available for Economics majors, how much money is on the table, and what early-career pay and typical college costs can look like.

Scholarships in Our Database

We currently have 19 Economics scholarships available in our database. These awards may come from professional associations, nonprofit organizations, and private sponsors. We’re actively adding scholarships tied to Economics. Check back often or use our main scholarship search to uncover more awards that fit your profile.

Total Scholarship Dollars Listed

Across these listings, the total advertised award value comes to roughly $62,500. Many scholarships for this major list flexible or renewable award amounts. As we continue to add additional Economics scholarships, this section will show an estimate of the total dollars currently available in our database.

Early-Career Median Pay & ROI

Graduates with a Economics degree commonly see early-career median pay around $115,000 per year, depending on location, employer type, and experience.

Economics ROI Snapshot:
We estimate a typical 4-year net cost of college at about $108,584.

First-year median earnings are roughly 106% of that total cost. At that pace, it would take about 0.9 years of early-career earnings to “earn back” your degree investment (before taxes and living costs).

Compare Top Economics Scholarships (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best Economics scholarships — fast. Filter by award amount, deadline month, and estimated time to apply, then instantly download your personalized list. No sign-ups, no personal info, no spam — just real, verified scholarships.

1

Teradata H.O.P.E. in Tech Scholarship

The Teradata H.O.P.E. in Tech Scholarship is designed to help students who have faced significant challenges and are pursuing degrees in STEM fields. By providing this financial support, Teradata seeks to foster a more inclusive and diverse technology industry, ensuring

Award: $2,500 Deadline: May Est. Time: Low (~10 min)
2

NSHSS Business and Public Policy Scholarship

The NSHSS Foundation Business & Public Policy Scholarship is awarded by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) to support students pursuing degrees in business, finance/economics, or public policy. This scholarship is open to high school students of all

Award: $1,000 Deadline: May Est. Time: High (~128 min)
3

Goldman Sachs Scholarship for Excellence

The Goldman Sachs Scholarship for Excellence is designed to attract Black, Hispanic, and Native American students to the firm's summer internship program. Recipients receive a paid summer internship offer at Goldman Sachs, with up to $15,000 awarded upon starting the

Award: $15,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Med (~58 min)
4

BMO Capital Markets Equity Through Education Scholarship

The Lime Connect Equity Through Education Scholarship, sponsored by BMO Capital Markets, aims to support students with disabilities who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential while pursuing a degree in business-related disciplines. This scholarship promotes diversity and inclusion within the

Award: $10,000 Deadline: February Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
5

Additional Economics Scholarships

The Additional Economics Scholarships are offered to students at Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) who are pursuing a degree in Economics. These scholarships are designed to support students in their academic journey and encourage them to excel in their field

Award: $500 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Med (~58 min)
6

MasterCard WorldWide Scholarship

The MasterCard WorldWide Scholarship Program has been providing college scholarship opportunities and financial support to students who demonstrate leadership, outstanding talent, and a financial need since 1999. The MasterCard WorldWide Scholarship is available to students attending an accredited UNCF Institute,

Award: $5,000 Deadline: October Est. Time: Low (~10 min)
7

GEICO Achievement Scholarship Program

The GEICO Achievement Scholarship Program is offering $1,000 college scholarship awards to outstanding college students across the country. To be eligible for application to The GEICO Achievement Scholarship Program, students must be current undergraduate students in their sophomore or junior

Award: $1,000 Deadline: February Est. Time: High (~118 min)
8

Virtual Business Scholarship

The Virtual Business Scholarship is a college scholarship opportunity offered by Knowledge Matters, the maker of Virtual Business simulations, for high school students interested in the subjects of business, marketing and/or personal finance. The Virtual Business Scholarship winner will receive

Award: $2,000 Deadline: April Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
9

Buick Achievers Scholarship

If you are a student who is making a difference, achieving academic goals, and helping your community, The Buick Achievers Scholarship is looking for students like you. The Buick Achievers Scholarship is seeking motivated and passionate college bound students nationwide,

Award: $25,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
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Expert Answers to the Most Asked Economics Scholarship Questions

Scholarships for Economics Majors and Students

Economics scholarships provide valuable financial support for students who want to understand how markets work, why economies grow or stall, and how policy choices affect everyday life. Whether you’re interested in microeconomics, macroeconomics, data analytics, finance, or public policy, these awards can reduce the cost of tuition, books, research, and even study abroad.

Funding comes from universities, private foundations, professional associations, corporations, and government-affiliated programs. Some scholarships are purely merit-based, while others factor in financial need, leadership, research experience, or a demonstrated commitment to public service and economic justice.

From high school seniors just discovering economics to graduate students working on advanced econometric research, there are scholarships and fellowships available at every stage. The key is knowing where to look and how to present your academic interests, quantitative skills, and long-term goals.

Types of Economics Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants for economics students fall into several broad categories. Understanding these types makes it easier to build a balanced list of opportunities and maximize your chances of earning funding.

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded for strong GPAs, rigorous coursework, standardized test scores, and research accomplishments.
  • Need-Based Grants: Focus on students with financial need; these can be combined with merit-based awards to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
  • Demographic-Focused Awards: Reserved for women, first-generation college students, underrepresented minorities, or students from specific geographic regions.
  • Field-Specific Fellowships: Target students specializing in areas like development economics, behavioral economics, environmental economics, or public policy.
  • Corporate & Industry Scholarships: Sponsored by banks, consulting firms, and financial institutions seeking to develop future talent.

Most students qualify for multiple categories. For example, you might apply as a high-achieving economics major, a first-generation student, and an applicant with demonstrated financial need.

Are There Scholarships for Economics Majors?

Yes. There are a wide range of scholarships specifically for economics majors, ranging from smaller departmental awards to highly competitive national fellowships. Many economics departments offer recurring scholarships each year, often named after influential faculty or donors, and these can provide meaningful support for tuition or research expenses.

Typical eligibility requirements for economics scholarships include:

  • Declaring economics, applied economics, or a related field (like quantitative economics or political economy) as your major.
  • Maintaining a minimum GPA, often 3.0 or higher, with strong performance in mathematics and economics courses.
  • Submitting a personal statement or essay describing your interest in economics and long-term goals.
  • Providing one or more letters of recommendation from economics or math professors.

Some awards emphasize theoretical or academic economics, while others focus on applied work such as economic development, financial markets, data science, or public policy analysis.

Are There Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in Economics?

High school seniors who already know they want to major in economics can start building their funding package before stepping on campus. Many programs reward early interest in research, statistics, or social science analysis.

  • National Merit Scholarship: Recognizes top PSAT performers and is often used by future economics majors to fund their first years of college.
  • Davidson Fellows Scholarship: Honors students who complete significant independent projects in economics, mathematics, or social sciences.
  • Local Community Foundation Awards: Many local scholarships allow you to specify economics, business, or finance as an intended field of study.

To stand out, high school students can highlight AP or IB coursework in economics, participation in Economics Club or DECA, school-based investment or finance clubs, and any independent research or competitions related to economic topics.

What Is the National Economics Foundation Scholarship?

The National Economics Foundation Scholarship is aimed at undergraduate and graduate students studying economics, finance, or public policy. While eligibility details vary by year, recipients generally share several characteristics:

  • Enrollment in an accredited economics or closely related program.
  • A strong academic record in quantitative and analytical courses.
  • Leadership experience in economic or policy organizations on campus.
  • Submission of a short essay addressing a contemporary economic issue, such as inflation, trade, inequality, or climate policy.

Awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year and may be renewable. This scholarship is a good fit for students who enjoy combining theory with real-world policy ideas.

Scholarships for Women in Economics

Women continue to be underrepresented in many advanced economics roles, especially in academia and high-level policy positions. To address this imbalance, several organizations offer scholarships for women in economics, aiming to support female students from the undergraduate level through graduate study.

  • AAUW Fellowships: Provide funding for undergraduate and graduate women in economics and related quantitative fields.
  • Institute for Women’s Policy Research Scholarships: Support women engaged in research on labor markets, wages, social policy, and gender equity in economics.
  • Women in Economics or Women in Finance Awards (university-based): Many economics departments create their own named scholarships for women who excel in coursework and research.

Strong applications typically emphasize both quantitative skills and a commitment to addressing issues like pay equity, labor policy, global development, or financial inclusion.

Scholarships for Graduate Students in Economics

Graduate study in economics—whether at the master’s or Ph.D. level—can be expensive, but it is also where some of the most significant funding becomes available. Many programs fully fund Ph.D. students with tuition waivers and stipends, and a number of prestigious scholarships support master’s-level work.

  • NSF Graduate Research Fellowship: Provides up to three years of funding for research in economics and other social sciences.
  • Rotary Global Grant Scholarship: Supports graduate study abroad in fields such as development economics, international trade, or peace and conflict economics.
  • Central Bank & Policy Institution Scholarships: Some central banks and international organizations sponsor graduate students who focus on monetary policy, financial stability, or international economics.

Graduate students should also explore teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and university fellowships, which often bundle tuition coverage with stipends and research support.

Corporate & Industry-Sponsored Economics Scholarships

Major corporations and financial institutions need economists and analysts who can interpret data, assess risk, and shape strategy. As a result, many companies offer industry-sponsored scholarships that blend financial support with practical experience.

  • Goldman Sachs Scholarship for Excellence: Supports high-achieving economics, finance, or business students from underrepresented backgrounds.
  • JP Morgan Chase Smart Start Scholarship: Combines scholarships with paid internships, professional training, and structured mentorship.
  • Bank of America Student Leaders or similar programs: Focus on community development, economic mobility, and leadership in public or nonprofit sectors.

These scholarships can be especially valuable because they often create a direct pathway to internships, networking events, and full-time job offers in consulting, banking, or economic research.

What Is the Joseph A. Johnson Jr. Distinguished Economics Scholarship?

The Joseph A. Johnson Jr. Distinguished Economics Scholarship supports minority students pursuing degrees in economics or related quantitative disciplines. It is designed to recognize both academic excellence and resilience.

  • Eligibility: Full-time enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program in economics, finance, or a related field.
  • Selection Criteria: Strong GPA, evidence of leadership or service, and a clear interest in economic research or policy.
  • Application Materials: An essay discussing academic and career goals, a letter of recommendation, and academic transcripts.

Recipients generally receive up to $2,500 annually, which can be used for tuition, books, or research-related expenses. Because the scholarship emphasizes both performance and potential, it is particularly attractive for students who want to pursue graduate study later on.

What Is the American Economic Association (AEA) Summer Program?

The AEA Summer Program is one of the most influential initiatives supporting undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds who are considering Ph.D. programs in economics. While it is not a traditional scholarship, it is a fully funded, immersive academic experience that can significantly shape your career trajectory.

  • Full Funding: Covers tuition for intensive summer coursework, plus a living stipend, housing, and travel support.
  • Advanced Training: Offers rigorous classes in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, similar to first-year Ph.D. coursework.
  • Mentorship: Connects students with faculty mentors, graduate students, and professional economists.

Participation in the AEA Summer Program strengthens graduate school applications, opens doors to research assistant positions, and helps students build a professional network early in their careers.

What Is the Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund (SYLFF)?

The Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund (SYLFF) supports graduate students studying economics, international relations, public policy, and related social sciences at participating universities around the world.

  • Eligibility: Enrollment at a SYLFF-affiliated institution and a strong academic record in economics or policy-related studies.
  • Selection Focus: Leadership potential, commitment to addressing global economic and social issues, and the ability to bridge disciplines and cultures.
  • Benefits: Research funding, stipends, and access to a global network of SYLFF fellows engaged in public policy and economic development.

SYLFF is especially well suited for students who want to combine economics with international development, diplomacy, or global governance.

University Scholarships for Economics Majors

Most economics students receive at least some funding directly from their universities. These awards might be automatically considered during admission or require a separate departmental application.

  • University of Chicago Economics Scholarships: Merit-based awards that may factor in performance in advanced math and economics courses.
  • Harvard Kennedy School Fellowships: Provide full and partial funding for graduate students pursuing economics-heavy degrees in public policy.
  • Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program: A full-ride scholarship for future global leaders studying economics, finance, or policy at the graduate level.

Beyond these headline programs, most universities offer smaller departmental awards for top-performing economics majors, outstanding thesis projects, or students demonstrating exceptional service as tutors, teaching assistants, or research assistants.

How to Apply for Economics Scholarships

Winning economics scholarships requires both strong credentials and thoughtful presentation. Treat each application like a mini research project, tailored to what each scholarship values most.

  • Research Broadly: Look at national scholarships, university awards, private foundations, and local community grants. Check economics department pages, career centers, and financial aid offices regularly.
  • Highlight Quantitative Skills: Emphasize calculus, statistics, econometrics, data analysis, and programming experience (such as R, Stata, or Python).
  • Showcase Research & Projects: Mention independent research, honors theses, policy briefs, competition entries, or data-driven projects you’ve completed.
  • Tell a Clear Story: In your essays, connect your background, interests (e.g., inequality, climate policy, development, finance), and long-term goals in a cohesive narrative.
  • Secure Strong References: Ask professors who can speak to your analytical ability, work ethic, and potential as an economist.
  • Stay Organized: Create a spreadsheet with deadlines, requirements, and submission status so nothing slips through the cracks.

Applying to multiple scholarships—especially a mix of large national awards and smaller local or departmental ones—can significantly reduce your overall cost of attendance.

Myth: Economics Scholarships Are Only for Future Professors

Fact: While many scholarship programs emphasize research and academic excellence, economics scholarships are not limited to students planning to become professors. Award committees also look for future policy analysts, central bankers, development practitioners, data scientists, consultants, and leaders in the private and nonprofit sectors.

When applying, don’t hesitate to describe career goals outside academia—such as combating poverty, shaping monetary policy, improving environmental regulations, working in behavioral economics for tech companies, or modeling risk for financial institutions. As long as you demonstrate how economics will help you tackle real-world problems, you’ll be a strong candidate for a wide range of scholarships and fellowships.

College Scholarships By Category

Quickly navigate to some of our most popular scholarships, such as state-specific scholarships, major-specific scholarships, and other popular categories. Please search our Scholarship Database to get matched with many more scholarships specific to your personal criteria.