20 Jewish Scholarships for College

Jewish Scholarship Snapshot

Jewish scholarships often come from synagogues, local federations, national organizations, and foundations that support Jewish education and leadership. Some awards support general college costs, while others focus on study abroad in Israel, gap year programs, or Jewish studies majors and minors.

We currently have 20 open and verified scholarships in our database tagged as Jewish , representing a combined award value of over $113,000

This snapshot draws from CollegeWhale’s scholarship database and focuses on scholarships specifically tagged for Jewish. Use it as a quick way to see how much funding is available in this category and which opportunities to prioritize as you build your overall scholarship plan.

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1

The Jewish Community Centers of North America Professional Development Scholarship

The Jewish Community Centers of North America (JCC) Professional Development Scholarship is designed to support professionals who are pursuing advanced training, certification, or coursework that will enhance their ability to serve Jewish communities through Jewish Community Centers (JCCs) or related

Award: $1,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (73 min)
2

The American Technion Society Scholarship for Jewish STEM Students

The American Technion Society (ATS) Scholarship for Jewish STEM Students is dedicated to supporting outstanding Jewish students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Backed by the American Technion Society — the U.S. fundraising partner of the

Award: Varies Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
3

The Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation Essay Contest

The Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation Essay Contest is an annual scholarship competition designed to encourage young people to think deeply about Jewish values, ethics, responsibility, and personal growth. The Kaplun Foundation was established to promote educational opportunities, moral

Award: Varies Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (43 min)
4

The JVS Scholarship Program (Jewish Vocational Service)

The JVS Scholarship Program, administered by Jewish Vocational Service, supports Jewish students pursuing higher education who demonstrate academic potential, financial need, and a commitment to completing a post-secondary degree. This long-standing scholarship program distributes multiple awards each year, funded by

Award: $1,000 Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Med (88 min)
5

The Jewish War Veterans Graduate Student Research Grant

The Jewish War Veterans Graduate Student Research Grant supports outstanding graduate students conducting research related to Jewish military history, Jewish service members, veterans’ affairs, or topics connected to the mission of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of

Award: $1,000 Deadline: June Est. Application Time: Med (48 min)
6

The World Union of Jewish Students Scholarship

The World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS) Scholarship supports Jewish students around the world in advancing their academic studies, leadership development, and professional goals. WUJS is an international organization representing Jewish student unions and campus groups across more than forty

Award: Varies Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (33 min)
7

The JCC Association Graduate Scholarship Program

The JCC Association Graduate Scholarship Program supports graduate students who are preparing for professional careers within the Jewish Community Center (JCC) Movement. This scholarship is designed to strengthen the next generation of Jewish communal professionals by assisting students pursuing advanced

Award: Varies Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
8

The National Jewish Committee on Scouting Eagle Scout Scholarship

The National Jewish Committee on Scouting (NJCOS) Eagle Scout Scholarship recognizes and supports exceptional Jewish Eagle Scouts who demonstrate outstanding leadership, character and commitment to Scouting values. This scholarship is awarded to Scouts who have earned the rank of Eagle

Award: Varies Deadline: January Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
9

The B’nai B’rith International Diverse Minds Writing Challenge

The B’nai B’rith International Diverse Minds Writing Challenge is a creative competition designed to promote respect, inclusion and diversity among young people. Students are invited to write and illustrate an original children’s book that teaches a message of tolerance, understanding

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

The Hillel International Scholarships

The Hillel International scholarship program offers multiple distinct scholarships for Jewish students in the U.S. and Canada who are entering or currently enrolled in four-year undergraduate or graduate programs. Eligibility criteria vary by specific scholarship, but common elements include identifying

Award: $5,000 Deadline: March Est. Application Time: Med (33 min)
11

The American Jewish League for Israel Scholarship

The AJLI Scholarship program supports U.S. students (Jewish or committed to strengthening U.S.-Israel Jewish ties) who will live and study in Israel for a full academic year at a designated Israeli university. The mission is to foster Jewish spiritual and

Award: $4,000 Deadline: May Est. Application Time: Med (48 min)
12

The Jewish Community Foundation Scholarships

The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford offers multiple scholarship funds created by donors to support students who have strong potential but limited financial resources. Awards help cover tuition, fees, room and board for undergraduate or graduate study. Eligibility criteria

Award: $1,000 Deadline: May Est. Application Time: Low (28 min)
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Scholarships for Jewish Students

Jewish students have access to a wide range of scholarships and grants that celebrate academic excellence, cultural identity, and community involvement. Offered by Jewish organizations, philanthropic foundations, and educational institutions, these scholarships aim to support both the educational advancement and cultural enrichment of Jewish students around the world. Many programs also include leadership development, travel to Israel, and opportunities to strengthen ties within the Jewish community.

This guide explores the most respected Jewish scholarship programs available for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students — including awards for women, STEM majors, and those studying in Israel.

Community-Based Scholarships from Jewish Federations


The Jewish Federation Scholarship provides financial assistance to Jewish students pursuing undergraduate or graduate education. Eligibility often includes:

  • Active participation in the Jewish community.
  • Demonstrated financial need and academic excellence.
  • Residence in a region served by a local Jewish Federation.

Scholarship amounts and criteria vary by location, and many Federations also fund study abroad programs in Israel. Students are encouraged to contact their nearest Federation for specific details.

Leadership and Cultural Awards from Hillel International

Hillel International offers multiple scholarships that recognize Jewish students active in leadership, cultural, or campus life programs. Examples include:

  • Handelman Family Leadership Scholarship: Supports students who demonstrate outstanding leadership within Hillel or other Jewish organizations.
  • Hillel Study Abroad Scholarships: Provides funding for Jewish students participating in Israel-based or Jewish heritage programs abroad.

These awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 and often include mentorship or networking opportunities through Hillel’s extensive campus network.

Scholarships and Fellowships for Jewish Women


Several foundations offer dedicated scholarships to empower Jewish women pursuing higher education. Notable examples include:

  • Jewish Women’s Foundation Scholarship: Provides financial support for Jewish women committed to leadership, advocacy, and professional advancement.
  • Hadassah Foundation Awards: Focuses on developing Jewish women and girls as leaders through education and community engagement.

These programs encourage women to make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities while maintaining cultural and ethical values.

The Bronfman Fellowship for Jewish High School Students

The prestigious Bronfman Fellowship is designed for high-achieving Jewish high school juniors in the U.S. and Canada. It combines academic enrichment with cultural and leadership experiences. Eligibility includes:

  • Being a Jewish high school junior with demonstrated leadership and intellectual curiosity.
  • Excellence in academics and community involvement.
  • Participation in a summer study program in Israel and year-round fellowship activities.

Recipients gain lifelong mentorship, educational guidance, and financial assistance for continued academic success.

Scholarships for Jewish Students Studying in Israel


Many Jewish organizations support students who wish to study or live in Israel during their academic journey. Leading programs include:

  • Masa Israel Journey Grants: Offer funding for Jewish students participating in study abroad, gap year, or internship programs in Israel.
  • Na’ale Elite Academy Scholarships: Provide free high school education in Israel for Jewish students worldwide.

These programs strengthen Jewish identity, promote cross-cultural understanding, and connect students to Israel’s academic and cultural life.

Financial Aid from the Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)

The JVS Scholarship Program assists Jewish students who demonstrate financial need and academic promise. Typical eligibility includes:

  • Enrollment at an accredited college or university.
  • Documented financial need and good academic standing.
  • Residence within areas served by a local JVS branch.

Awards typically range from $1,000 to $10,000 per year and may be renewable. Many JVS offices also provide career counseling and internship placement assistance.

STEM-Focused Scholarships for Jewish Students

Jewish students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics can apply for specialized awards such as:

  • American Technion Society Scholarships: Provide funding for students attending the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology.
  • Jewish Federation STEM Awards: Recognize and support Jewish students excelling in STEM disciplines.

These programs encourage Jewish representation in high-demand scientific and technological fields while fostering innovation and leadership.

Corporate and Philanthropic Scholarships for Jewish Students

Private corporations and family foundations also fund scholarships that honor leadership, service, and academic excellence. Examples include:

  • Simon Family Foundation Scholarship: Offers substantial funding to Jewish students who demonstrate exceptional academic and leadership achievements.
  • Jewish United Fund (JUF) Scholarships: Supports Jewish students across a range of academic disciplines with both need-based and merit-based awards.

These programs often include networking events and mentorship opportunities that connect recipients with Jewish professionals and business leaders.

University-Specific Scholarships for Jewish Students

Many colleges and universities provide scholarships and leadership awards for Jewish students. Examples include:

  • University of Southern California Jewish Leadership Scholarship: Recognizes students active in Jewish campus organizations and leadership initiatives.
  • Brandeis University Jewish Day School Scholarships: Offers funding for graduates of Jewish day schools attending Brandeis.
  • Yeshiva University Scholarships: Provides both merit-based and need-based aid for Jewish students across its undergraduate and graduate programs.

Students should contact their university’s Jewish student center or Hillel chapter for updated funding opportunities and application details.

How to Apply for Jewish Scholarships Effectively

When applying for Jewish scholarships and grants, students should prepare materials that reflect both academic achievement and cultural involvement:

  • Craft a Personal Statement: Highlight your connection to Judaism, leadership experience, and educational goals.
  • Secure Strong Recommendations: Request letters from rabbis, educators, or community leaders who can attest to your character and commitment.
  • Research Thoroughly: Explore opportunities through local Jewish Federations, Hillel chapters, and synagogue networks.
  • Stay Organized: Track application deadlines and required materials carefully to avoid missing key opportunities.

Applying to multiple scholarships — even smaller awards — increases your overall financial aid potential.

Dispelling the Myth: Jewish Scholarships Are Only for Religious Students

Fact: Many Jewish scholarships are open to students from diverse backgrounds and fields of study. While some programs emphasize Jewish education or religious engagement, others support Jewish students pursuing degrees in STEM, business, law, arts, and public service. The goal is to encourage educational success, leadership, and community connection — regardless of denomination or level of observance.

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