College Scholarships for History Majors

History 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 History 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 History scholarships available in our database. These awards may come from professional associations, nonprofit organizations, and private sponsors. We’re actively adding scholarships tied to History. 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 $253,500. Many scholarships for this major list flexible or renewable award amounts. As we continue to add additional History scholarships, this section will show an estimate of the total dollars currently available in our database.

Early-Career Median Pay & ROI

Graduates with a History degree commonly see early-career median pay around $60,000 per year, depending on location, employer type, and experience.

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

First-year median earnings are roughly 55% of that total cost. At that pace, it would take about 1.8 years of early-career earnings to “earn back” your degree investment (before taxes and living costs).

Compare Top History Scholarships (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best History 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

The Gilder Lehrman Institute Civil War Essay Prize

The Gilder Lehrman Institute Civil War Essay Prize is an annual writing contest encouraging students to engage deeply with the history, causes, legacy, and continuing impact of the American Civil War. This competition invites high school and college students to

Award: Varies Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~43 min)
2

The Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society Scholarships

The Phi Alpha Theta (PAT) Honor Society provides multiple scholarships to its student members who are pursuing advanced study or demonstrating leadership in the discipline of history. These awards support master’s and doctoral students, chapter projects, and undergraduate research framed

Award: $1,250 Deadline: March Est. Time: Low (~28 min)
3

The Colonial Dames of America National History Scholarship

The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA) offers scholarships to support students engaged in American history research, historic preservation, restoration, or administration of historic sites. These scholarships further the Society’s mission of preserving heritage and promoting education

Award: Varies Deadline: April Est. Time: Med (~48 min)
4

The Phi Alpha Theta Lynn W. Turner Graduate Scholarship

The Lynn W. Turner Prize, awarded by Phi Alpha Theta, recognizes the best research paper submitted by an undergraduate member of the honor society. The competition aims to promote original historical research and outstanding writing among undergraduate history students. Eligibility

Award: $500 Deadline: July Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
5

National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship Application

Name: National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Scholarship Application Award Amount: Scholarship award amounts vary depending...

Award: Varies Deadline: January Est. Time: Med (~86 min)
6

Daniel and Florence Guggenheim Fellowship

The Guggenheim Fellowships are competitive three- to twelve-month in-residence fellowships for predoctoral or postdoctoral research in aviation and space history. Fellows are encouraged to produce scholarly works intended for publication, such as peer-reviewed articles or books (postdocs) or a doctoral

Award: $30,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
7

Charles A. Lindbergh Chair in Aerospace History

The Charles A. Lindbergh Chair in Aerospace History is a competitive 12-month fellowship open to senior scholars with distinguished publication records, who are working on or planning to work on books in aerospace history. The fellowship encourages interaction with Museum

Award: $100,000 Deadline: December Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
8

Smithsonian Big Ten Academic Alliance Fellowship

The Smithsonian Big Ten Academic Alliance Fellowship is available to doctoral students from universities in the Big Ten Academic Alliance. Eligible applicants must have completed all degree requirements except the dissertation. The fellowship provides the opportunity for independent research in

Award: $45,000 Deadline: October Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
9

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Fellowship Grant

The NEH Fellowship Grant supports individuals pursuing advanced research in the humanities. This grant is available for both independent scholars and those affiliated with academic institutions, enabling recipients to dedicate time to research projects that advance knowledge in fields such

Award: $60,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
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Expert Answers to the Most Asked History Scholarship Questions

Scholarships and Grants for History Majors

History scholarships provide financial support for students pursuing degrees in history, public history, or museum studies. These awards are offered by universities, historical societies, government organizations, and private foundations to encourage students passionate about research, preservation, and education in the humanities.

Are There Scholarships for History Majors?

Yes, there are numerous scholarships and grants for students majoring in history. Awards are available for various specializations, including U.S. history, world history, archival research, and historical preservation. These programs recognize students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to studying the past.

What Is the Gilder Lehrman History Scholar Award?

The Gilder Lehrman History Scholar Award is a prestigious national award recognizing outstanding history students. Eligibility includes:

  • Enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student majoring in history or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated academic excellence and dedication to historical scholarship.
  • Submission of an essay or research paper as part of the application process.

Recipients gain national recognition, financial awards, and opportunities to participate in historical events and conferences.

Are There Scholarships for Women in History?

Yes, many scholarships are designed specifically for women pursuing degrees in history or related fields. Examples include:

  • Phi Alpha Theta Scholarships: Awards for female undergraduate and graduate students who excel in historical studies.
  • Margaret Storrs Grierson Scholarship: Supports women studying history, with a focus on women’s and gender history.

These programs aim to promote gender equity and empower women to contribute to historical research and academia.

What Is the National WWII Museum Student Scholarship?

The National WWII Museum Student Scholarship honors students with a strong interest in World War II history. Eligibility requirements include:

  • Being a high school senior or college undergraduate.
  • Submitting an essay, video, or multimedia project about World War II history.
  • Exemplary academic performance and research ability.

Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $5,000 and often include an invitation to visit the National WWII Museum in New Orleans.

Are There Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in History?

Yes, several programs support high school seniors who plan to study history in college. Examples include:

  • James Madison Memorial Fellowship: Provides funding for students planning to become history or social studies teachers.
  • National History Day Scholarships: Awards students who excel in historical research and presentations through the National History Day competition.

These scholarships encourage students to explore history early and pursue degrees in the humanities.

What Is the American Historical Association (AHA) Research Grant?

The American Historical Association (AHA) Research Grant supports original historical research conducted by undergraduate and graduate students. Eligibility includes:

  • Membership in the American Historical Association.
  • Submission of a detailed research proposal and budget outline.
  • A project focused on an innovative or underexplored area of history.

Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000 and may cover travel, archival access, or research materials.

Are There Scholarships for Public History and Museum Studies?

Yes, students pursuing careers in public history or museum studies can apply for specialized funding opportunities, including:

  • Smithsonian Institution Internships and Fellowships: Provides financial support for students engaged in museum, archival, or research projects.
  • American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) Fellowship: Supports students preparing for careers in public history, curation, or preservation.

These opportunities are ideal for students seeking hands-on experience in museums, archives, or cultural institutions.

What Is the Organization of American Historians (OAH) Scholarship?

The Organization of American Historians (OAH) Scholarship assists students specializing in U.S. history. Key details include:

  • Funding for undergraduate and graduate research projects in American history.
  • Opportunities to present work at OAH annual meetings and network with professional historians.

Scholarship amounts vary, and recipients gain national recognition within the history community.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for History Majors?

Yes, several corporations and foundations offer scholarships for history majors who demonstrate leadership and academic excellence. Examples include:

  • Coca-Cola Scholars Program: Awards high-achieving high school seniors pursuing diverse fields, including history and social sciences.
  • Rotary Foundation Global Grant: Supports graduate-level studies abroad in history, peace, or international relations.

These programs often include professional networking, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for History Majors?

Many colleges and universities offer internal scholarships for history students. Examples include:

  • University of Virginia Corcoran Department of History Scholarships: Awards for outstanding undergraduate and graduate history students.
  • Yale University History Fellowships: Need-based and merit-based funding for students excelling in research and writing.
  • Stanford University Humanities Fellowships: Provides support for interdisciplinary research in history and related fields.

Students should contact their university’s history or humanities department for institution-specific opportunities.

How to Apply for History Scholarships?

Follow these steps to strengthen your scholarship applications:

  • Prepare a Strong Research Proposal: Many history scholarships require a clear description of your research interests or thesis topic.
  • Write a Compelling Personal Statement: Emphasize your academic achievements, research goals, and dedication to historical study.
  • Gather Recommendation Letters: Request recommendations from professors or mentors familiar with your work in history.
  • Track Deadlines Carefully: Submit essays, transcripts, and supporting materials before the listed due date.

Applying for multiple scholarships increases your chances of securing funding for your history education.

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