College Scholarships for Social Science (2025 - 2026) Majors

Social Science Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

Students pursuing degrees in social sciences — such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, political science, or economics — can access a variety of scholarships and grants to support their studies. These awards come from universities, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies committed to helping students understand and improve society. Many scholarships reward leadership, academic excellence, and research that addresses social issues and human behavior.

National Science Foundation (NSF) Scholarships for Social Science Students

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in the social sciences. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program in disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, or political science.
• Submit a research proposal that demonstrates innovation and scientific merit.

Recipients receive up to $37,000 per year to help cover tuition, research expenses, and living costs while completing their graduate studies.

Scholarships for Women Pursuing Social Science Degrees

Numerous scholarships encourage and empower women to pursue higher education and research in social sciences. Notable programs include:

• P.E.O. International Scholarships: Awards funding to women pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in social science disciplines.
• American Association of University Women (AAUW) Scholarships: Supports women advancing research or earning degrees in psychology, political science, or sociology.

These programs aim to increase women’s representation in social research, policy, and leadership roles.

Harry S. Truman Scholarship for Public Service

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship is one of the nation’s most prestigious awards for students planning careers in public service. Applicants must:

• Be college juniors majoring in public policy, political science, or other social sciences.
• Demonstrate exceptional leadership, community involvement, and academic performance.
• Commit to working in government or nonprofit organizations after graduation.

Recipients receive up to $30,000 toward graduate studies in public service, policy, or social research, along with access to mentorship and leadership training.

Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in Social Sciences

High school students planning to major in the social sciences can apply for early opportunities such as:

• Davidson Fellows Scholarship: Recognizes outstanding high school research in psychology, sociology, or related areas.
• Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program: Awards students who balance academic success, athletics, and community engagement — including involvement in social science-related clubs or service projects.

These programs encourage promising students to pursue degrees focused on understanding society and human behavior.

American Sociological Association (ASA) Minority Scholarship Program

The ASA Minority Scholarship Program supports underrepresented graduate students earning advanced degrees in sociology. Eligibility includes:

• Belonging to a racial or ethnic minority group underrepresented in sociology.
• Enrollment in a doctoral program at an accredited university.
• Submission of academic transcripts and a statement outlining career goals.

Recipients receive financial assistance for tuition, research, and conference participation to help them succeed in academic and professional sociology careers.

Corporate and Private Scholarships for Social Science Majors

Several major foundations and companies offer scholarships for students studying social sciences. Examples include:

• Ford Foundation Predoctoral Scholarship: Provides funding for graduate students conducting research that promotes diversity and inclusion in the social sciences.
• Coca-Cola Scholars Program: Supports high school seniors who demonstrate strong leadership and academic performance, including interest in social impact fields.
• Google Public Policy Scholarship: For students studying political science, sociology, or public policy with an emphasis on the intersection of technology and society.

These awards often include mentorship, career development, or internship opportunities in related industries.

University-Based Scholarships for Social Science Students

Many universities provide internal scholarships specifically for social science majors. Examples include:

• Harvard Kennedy School Public Policy Scholarships: Supports students focusing on public policy, government, or economics.
• University of Chicago Social Science Merit Awards: Offers funding for undergraduates majoring in anthropology, sociology, or political science.
• Stanford University Public Service Scholarships: Recognizes students pursuing research and careers in social justice and policy reform.

Most universities list social science scholarships on their department websites or financial aid portals, often combining merit-based and need-based criteria.

Scholarships for Minority Students in Social Science Fields

Programs promoting diversity in the social sciences include:

• Gates Millennium Scholars Program: Provides full funding for minority students majoring in social science disciplines.
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund: Awards funding to Hispanic students pursuing degrees in psychology, sociology, or political science.

These scholarships aim to build inclusion in the social sciences and encourage diverse perspectives in research and policy-making.

Steps to Apply for Social Science Scholarships

To apply successfully for social science scholarships and grants:

• Identify Relevant Programs: Focus on opportunities related to your discipline, such as sociology, economics, or anthropology.
• Craft a Purposeful Essay: Explain your passion for understanding society, improving communities, or shaping policy.
• Gather Recommendations: Ask professors, mentors, or community leaders to endorse your leadership and academic skills.
• Stay Organized: Track application deadlines, required essays, and supporting materials carefully.

Applying to multiple scholarships — including university, corporate, and nonprofit programs — increases your chances of funding success.

Common Misconception: Social Science Majors Don’t Qualify for STEM Scholarships

Fact: Many interdisciplinary scholarships include social sciences within their eligibility criteria, especially those related to data analytics, public health, and behavioral science. Students who demonstrate how their work connects social research with technology or quantitative analysis often qualify for STEM-related awards.