Nebraska Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of Nebraska Scholarships & Grants

Nebraska offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in Nebraska more affordable.

Nebraska Promise (tuition-free for many) and Nebraska Opportunity Grant are key.

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.