Top 27 Nebraska Scholarships & Grants for 2027 - 2028

Nebraska Scholarship & Financial Aid Snapshot

This quick snapshot is built from CollegeWhale’s scholarship database and state-level resources. It shows how many scholarships we currently list for Nebraska, the total dollars represented, and a short overview of key state aid programs.

We currently have 27 verified scholarships in our database for Nebraska. This includes statewide programs, school-specific awards, and private or foundation-based scholarships.

Across our Top 27 Nebraska Scholarship & Grant listings, the total advertised award value comes to roughly $41,500. Some programs are renewable or stackable, so your real lifetime value could be even higher depending on how long you remain eligible.

Nebraska’s top tuition program is Nebraska Promise, which makes tuition free at University of Nebraska campuses for qualifying low- and middle-income families. The Nebraska Opportunity Grant provides additional need-based support. High-demand workforce grants are available for students entering technical programs, making certificate and associate pathways very affordable. Private and community colleges also offer strong institutional scholarships. Nebraska students should file the FAFSA early, explore Nebraska Promise eligibility, and apply broadly for community foundation awards that can stack with state aid.

Apply for 27 Nebraska Scholarships Now (Scholarship FastFind™)

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1

Nebraska Newspaper Publishers Association Scholarship

The Nebraska Newspaper Publishers Association (NeNPA) Scholarship is a financial award offered by the Nebraska Newspaper Publishers Association to support students who are pursuing post-secondary education, particularly in fields related to journalism, communications, media studies, or related disciplines. This scholarship

Award: Varies Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Med (73 min)
2

Wilson Scholarship

The Wilson Scholarship is a locally supported academic award offered through the Willa Cather Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather and fostering educational opportunities for students in Nebraska. This scholarship was established

Award: $500 Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Med (88 min)
3

Antonia Scholarship

The Antonia Scholarship is an academic award offered through the Willa Cather Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of Nobel Prize-winning author Willa Cather and supporting students who demonstrate dedication to literature, the humanities, and academic excellence. This

Award: $2,500 Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
4

Antonette Willa Skupa Turner Scholarship

The Antonette Willa Skupa Turner Scholarship is a focused academic scholarship awarded through the Willa Cather Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather and supporting students pursuing the study of literature

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

Norma Ross Walter Scholarship

The Norma Ross Walter Scholarship is an established scholarship fund administered by the Willa Cather Foundation, dedicated to supporting academically promising young women from Nebraska who plan to pursue a college education in English. Named in memory of Norma Ross

Award: $3,000 Deadline: January Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
6

ISL Midwest Senior Scholarship

The ISL Midwest Senior Scholarship is a college funding opportunity offered by ISL Education Lending, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students and families navigate the cost of higher education. This scholarship is specifically designed for graduating high school seniors

Award: $1,500 Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Low (13 min)
7

Barrientos Scholarship

The Barrientos Scholarship, awarded by the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation (BSF), is a community-focused scholarship program dedicated to empowering Latino students in Nebraska who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and personal ambition. Established to honor the legacy of the Barrientos

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

Susan T. Buffett Scholarship

The Susan T. Buffett Scholarship is one of the most significant need-based scholarship programs available to students in Nebraska, created to ensure that motivated, capable students can access higher education without financial barriers. Funded by the Susan T. Buffett Foundation,

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

C. Bertrand and Marian Othmer Schultz Collegiate Scholarship

Hosted by the Nebraska Academy of Sciences (NAS), this scholarship supports undergraduate students who are majoring in a natural science—such as chemistry, physics, biology or geology—at an accredited four-year college or university in Nebraska. The award is intended for sophomores

Award: $3,000 Deadline: February Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
10

The G. Robert Muchemore UNO Scholarship

The G. Robert Muchemore UNO Scholarship is a merit-based award designed to provide financial assistance to outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to their community. This scholarship is named in honor of G. Robert

Award: Varies Deadline: February Est. Application Time: Low (20 min)
11

Nebraska Eagle Scout Scholarship

The Nebraska Eagle Scout Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving Eagle Scouts who are residents of Nebraska and plan to enroll full-time at UNO. This scholarship recognizes the outstanding accomplishments and leadership qualities of Eagle Scouts, and it aims to provide

Award: Varies Deadline: February Est. Application Time: Low (10 min)
12

Scott Scholars Walter Scott Jr. Scholarship

The Scott Scholars program, named after Walter Scott, Jr., is a prestigious scholarship designed to support high-achieving students who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to making a difference in their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition and fees

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

Nebraska Scholarships, Grants & Financial Aid Overview

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How to Get a Grant for College in Nebraska?

To secure a college grant in Nebraska, start by completing the FAFSA, as it’s required for most federal and state grants. Nebraska residents can apply for grants like the Nebraska Opportunity Grant (NOG), which is based on financial need and awarded through participating colleges. Additionally, explore specific institutional grants offered by Nebraska universities and technical colleges. Each program has unique eligibility requirements, so it’s essential to contact your school’s financial aid office for personalized guidance.

What Is the Nebraska Opportunity Grant?


The Nebraska Opportunity Grant (NOG) is Nebraska’s primary state-funded grant for undergraduate students demonstrating financial need. To qualify, students must:

  • Be Nebraska residents.
  • Complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need.
  • Attend a participating Nebraska institution, including public, private, and community colleges.

Award amounts vary based on financial need and available funding. Check with your institution to see if they participate in the NOG program.

Does Nebraska Offer Full-Ride Scholarships?

Nebraska does offer several full-ride scholarships. Programs like the Regents Scholarship at the University of Nebraska provide full tuition for high-achieving students. The Peter Kiewit Foundation Scholarship is another full-ride opportunity, focusing on Nebraska residents committed to community involvement and academic excellence. These scholarships are highly competitive and often require strong GPAs, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Seniors in Nebraska?


Nebraska high school seniors have access to various scholarships, such as:

  • Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees Scholarship: A full-tuition award for students with a minimum ACT score of 25 and strong academic records.
  • Nebraska Career Scholarship: Supports students pursuing degrees in high-demand career fields like healthcare, IT, and manufacturing.
  • Local Community Scholarships: Many Nebraska towns and counties offer scholarships through local organizations and foundations.

Check with your high school counselor to uncover regional opportunities and deadlines.

Scholarships in Nebraska for Adults

Adult learners in Nebraska can benefit from programs like the Re-Entry Scholarships offered by state colleges and universities, which provide financial support for returning students. The Nebraska Workforce Retraining Initiative funds education and training in high-demand fields for adults looking to upskill. Many community colleges in Nebraska also offer scholarships specifically for non-traditional students pursuing their first degree or re-entering the workforce.

University of Nebraska Scholarships


The University of Nebraska system offers numerous scholarships for its students, including:

  • Regents Scholarship: Full tuition for high-achieving in-state students.
  • Davis-Chambers Scholarship: A need-based award for students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Chancellor’s Scholarship: Merit-based funding for top academic performers.

Students should visit the university’s scholarship portal to explore additional options, including departmental and program-specific awards.

What Is the Davis-Chambers Scholarship?

The Davis-Chambers Scholarship is a unique award aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from diverse backgrounds in Nebraska. Applicants must:

  • Be Nebraska residents.
  • Demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to academic achievement.
  • Submit an essay detailing their educational goals and experiences.

This scholarship emphasizes leadership, community service, and overcoming barriers to education.

What Is the Nebraska Career Scholarship?

The Nebraska Career Scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing high-demand careers in fields like healthcare, IT, and engineering. Offered through Nebraska state colleges and universities, this scholarship covers tuition and additional educational costs. Students must:

  • Be Nebraska residents.
  • Enroll in an eligible career-focused program.
  • Maintain academic excellence throughout their studies.

This program supports workforce development by preparing students for in-demand industries in Nebraska.

What Scholarships Are Available for Community College Students in Nebraska?

Community college students in Nebraska can apply for scholarships such as:

  • Nebraska Community College Gap Assistance Program: Covers tuition and fees for students enrolled in high-demand workforce training programs.
  • Nebraska Community Foundation Scholarships: Awards funding to students attending community colleges in rural areas.
  • Program-Specific Scholarships: Many Nebraska community colleges offer scholarships tailored to specific fields, like nursing or agriculture.

Check with your community college’s financial aid office for detailed information.

Grants for College in Nebraska

Nebraska offers several grants to help students afford college, including:

  • Nebraska Opportunity Grant (NOG): A need-based grant for undergraduate students attending participating institutions.
  • Federal Pell Grant: Available to low-income students who complete the FAFSA.
  • Community Foundation Grants: Local organizations across Nebraska provide grants for students pursuing higher education.

These grants are essential for ensuring access to education for Nebraska residents with financial need.

How to Apply for Nebraska Scholarships and Grants

To apply for scholarships and grants in Nebraska:

  • Complete the FAFSA: This is the first step for most state and federal aid programs.
  • Check State Programs: Explore options like the Nebraska Opportunity Grant and the Nebraska Career Scholarship.
  • Apply Through Institutions: Contact your college’s financial aid office for institutional scholarships and grants.

Apply early, meet deadlines, and ensure you submit all required documentation to maximize your funding opportunities.

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.