College Scholarships for Fashion (2025 - 2026) Majors

Exploring Fashion Scholarships and Grants

Fashion scholarships help aspiring designers, merchandisers, and creative professionals turn their artistic vision into a viable career. Whether your passion lies in sustainable design, luxury brand management, or digital fashion innovation, there are scholarships designed to support your growth. These awards are offered by leading fashion organizations, major brands, and top design schools to encourage talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship in the industry.

In this guide, you’ll find scholarships for design students, women in fashion, high school seniors, and even those interested in fashion business and marketing. From prestigious awards like the CFDA and YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund to university-specific opportunities, these programs can help reduce tuition costs and open doors to mentorship and career development.

Are There Scholarships for Fashion Majors?

Yes, many scholarships and grants are available for students pursuing degrees in fashion design, merchandising, or related fields. These awards are offered by universities, fashion organizations, and private foundations to support aspiring designers, stylists, and fashion entrepreneurs.

What Is the CFDA Scholarship Program?

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious awards for fashion students.

• Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited fashion program.
• Students must demonstrate exceptional creative talent through a design portfolio.
• Essays, recommendation letters, and academic excellence are key components of the application.

Scholarship amounts vary, with some recipients earning up to $25,000 per year. Winners often gain national recognition and career connections through CFDA’s network of designers.

What Is the Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF)?

The Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF) is another top award supporting students pursuing careers in design, merchandising, or fashion business.

• Open to undergraduate students in accredited fashion programs.
• Requires submission of a case study on innovation, marketing, or fashion strategy.
• Scholarship amounts typically range from $5,000 to $15,000.

Beyond financial aid, FSF offers mentorship, internships, and industry exposure with leading fashion brands.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Fashion?

Yes, several scholarships are dedicated to supporting women in fashion and encouraging female leadership across the industry.

• Fellowship for Women in Fashion: Provides awards for women excelling in design, retail management, or fashion business.
• Women in Fashion Scholarship by FIT: Offered by the Fashion Institute of Technology for female students showing outstanding leadership and creativity.

Tip: Many of these programs pair financial aid with professional mentorship from established women in the fashion world.

What Is the Joe’s Blackbook Scholarship?

The Joe’s Blackbook Scholarship recognizes excellence in fashion design and marketing among upper-level undergraduates.

• Applicants must be juniors or seniors in accredited fashion programs.
• Students submit portfolios or marketing projects that demonstrate creative direction and market understanding.
• Winners receive up to $10,000 in scholarship funding.

This scholarship is known for bridging the gap between design creativity and business insight, making it ideal for multifaceted students.

Are There Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in Fashion?

Yes, high school seniors aspiring to enter the fashion industry can apply for scholarships that reward early talent and creativity.

• Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: Recognizes exceptional work in fashion design or wearable art among high school students.
• National YoungArts Foundation Awards: Offers funding and mentorship for emerging young designers and artists.

Tip: Include photos or digital sketches of your work in applications—these programs often evaluate creativity and originality over formal training.

What Is the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund?

The YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund supports students pursuing degrees in fashion design, business, and marketing.

• Applicants submit a detailed case study related to current fashion industry challenges.
• Open to students at partner universities in the U.S.
• Awards range from $5,000 to $15,000 and include mentorship and networking with major fashion companies.

This program is highly regarded by employers and has launched the careers of many top designers and brand executives.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Fashion Students?

Yes, many global fashion brands and retailers invest in emerging talent through corporate scholarship programs.

• Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Scholarship: Provides funding for students pursuing degrees in design or merchandising, with internship opportunities at the company.
• Nordstrom Scholarship Program: Supports students excelling in fashion business, retail, or supply chain management.
• LVMH Scholarship for Fashion Innovation: Recognizes students focused on fashion sustainability, technology, or innovation in design.

Tip: Corporate scholarships often lead to internships, mentorships, or exclusive recruitment events—making them great career opportunities beyond funding.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Fashion Majors?

Many fashion schools and universities offer internal scholarships tailored to design and merchandising students.

• Parsons School of Design Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based awards for students demonstrating excellence in design innovation.
• FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) Scholarships: Offers financial support for students excelling in fashion, interior design, or graphic design programs.
• SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) Scholarships: Provides awards for outstanding students in fashion, luxury management, and accessory design.

Tip: Many fashion schools hold annual portfolio reviews—use these opportunities to qualify for institutional scholarships.

How to Apply for Fashion Scholarships?

Applying for fashion scholarships requires both creativity and professionalism. Most programs focus heavily on design quality, originality, and industry potential.

• Prepare a Portfolio: Include sketches, photos, or digital designs that showcase your best work and artistic evolution.
• Write a Personal Statement: Explain your creative inspiration, career goals, and contribution to the future of fashion.
• Request Recommendations: Ask instructors, mentors, or industry professionals who can attest to your skill and dedication.
• Stay Organized: Track submission deadlines and tailor your application materials to each scholarship’s theme or focus area.

Tip: Enter fashion competitions and showcases—they not only build your resume but also qualify you for additional scholarship opportunities.

Myth: Fashion Scholarships Are Only for Designers

Fact: Fashion scholarships aren’t limited to design majors. Many programs support students in merchandising, marketing, sustainability, fashion technology, and production management. The fashion industry thrives on collaboration—so scholarships are available for both creative and analytical minds shaping the future of style.