College Scholarships for Psychology (2025 - 2026) Majors

Psychology Scholarship Opportunities

Students pursuing degrees in psychology can apply for a wide range of scholarships and grants from universities, professional associations, nonprofit foundations, and private donors. These programs support future psychologists, counselors, researchers, and mental health professionals who are committed to advancing human understanding and well-being.

American Psychological Association (APA) Graduate Student Scholarship

The APA Graduate Student Scholarship provides financial support for graduate students enrolled in accredited psychology programs. Key details include:

• Open to master’s and doctoral students pursuing psychology degrees.
• Scholarship amounts typically range from $1,000 to $5,000.
• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to research or clinical practice.

This award helps psychology students fund graduate-level study and develop professional skills in counseling, research, or clinical psychology.

Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology Scholarships

The Psi Chi Scholarship is available to members of the International Honor Society in Psychology who demonstrate strong academic performance and service to the field. Eligibility requirements include:

• Active Psi Chi membership in good standing.
• High academic achievement in psychology coursework.
• Submission of an essay and faculty recommendations.

Scholarships typically range from $2,000 to $3,000 and are open to both undergraduate and graduate students.

Scholarships for Women Pursuing Degrees in Psychology

Several programs provide dedicated financial aid for women studying psychology. Examples include:

• APA Committee on Women in Psychology Scholarships: Supports women completing doctoral degrees and conducting gender-related psychological research.
• Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund: Provides funding for low-income women aged 35 and older pursuing psychology or counseling degrees.

These scholarships promote gender diversity, empowerment, and representation within the psychology profession.

American Psychological Foundation (APF) Graduate Student Scholarship

The APF Graduate Student Scholarship assists graduate students demonstrating strong potential for psychological research. Eligibility requirements include:

• Enrollment in a graduate psychology program accredited by the APA.
• Excellence in academic performance and research innovation.
• Submission of a detailed research proposal aligned with APF priorities.

Awards range from $1,000 to $25,000, supporting graduate-level research in areas such as developmental, clinical, or cognitive psychology.

Psychology Scholarships for High School Seniors

High school students planning to major in psychology can apply for early funding opportunities, such as:

• Davidson Fellows Scholarship: Honors high school students conducting original research or innovation in psychology or behavioral science.
• APA High School Psychology Scholarship: Recognizes students excelling in psychology coursework or participating in psychology clubs or research projects.

These awards encourage young scholars to explore psychology before entering college programs.

APA Minority Fellowship Program

The APA Minority Fellowship Program provides financial assistance and mentorship to psychology graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds. Key program features include:

• Funding for students enrolled in clinical, counseling, or school psychology programs.
• Support for tuition, fees, and living expenses during study.
• Professional development and networking through APA mentorship events.

This program strengthens diversity in mental health fields and expands access to culturally competent psychological services.

Scholarships for Students Specializing in Mental Health

Students focusing on mental health and counseling can apply for targeted awards such as:

• National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation Scholarships: Provides funding for graduate students specializing in mental health counseling or therapy.
• Elizabeth Munsterberg Koppitz Child Psychology Scholarship: Supports research in developmental and child psychology for graduate students.

These scholarships help meet the growing demand for skilled mental health professionals nationwide.

Corporate and Private Scholarships for Psychology Students

Many private corporations and foundations fund psychology students dedicated to improving health and wellness. Examples include:

• Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: Awards students pursuing degrees in psychology, nursing, or healthcare-related fields.
• Coca-Cola Foundation First Generation Scholarship: Provides financial assistance to first-generation college students studying psychology or social sciences.

These awards often combine financial support with mentorship and leadership development opportunities.

University-Based Scholarships for Psychology Majors

Universities frequently offer scholarships designed for students majoring in psychology. Examples include:

• University of California, Berkeley Psychology Department Awards: Provides funding for undergraduates and graduate students excelling in research or clinical work.
• University of Michigan Psychology Research Scholarships: Supports students conducting studies in cognitive, social, or behavioral psychology.
• Stanford University Graduate Psychology Awards: Merit-based scholarships for students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership in the field.

Students are encouraged to check their psychology department’s website or financial aid office for additional institutional funding options.

How to Apply for Psychology Scholarships

When applying for psychology scholarships and grants, students should:

• Write a Focused Personal Statement: Describe your goals, academic interests, and motivation for studying psychology.
• Submit a Research Proposal: Highlight any independent research or applied projects that align with the scholarship’s focus area.
• Gather Strong Recommendations: Request letters from professors, supervisors, or research mentors who know your work.
• Stay Ahead of Deadlines: Plan applications early to ensure essays, proposals, and transcripts are submitted on time.

Applying to multiple scholarships—across universities, organizations, and private foundations—maximizes your funding opportunities and strengthens your professional network.