College Scholarships for Social Work (2025 - 2026) Majors

Social Work Scholarship Opportunities

Students pursuing degrees in social work can access a wide variety of scholarships and grants designed to support careers dedicated to helping others. These programs are offered by universities, nonprofit foundations, and government agencies to assist students who are committed to social justice, community service, and mental health advocacy. Many awards are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Scholarship Programs

The NASW Foundation Scholarship offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing accredited social work degrees. Applicants must:

• Be active NASW members in good standing.
• Be enrolled in an accredited social work program (BSW or MSW).
• Demonstrate academic excellence and a clear commitment to serving others.

Scholarships typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the specific NASW program and applicant qualifications.

Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship

The Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship is awarded to master’s-level social work students focusing on health and mental health services in African American communities. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be enrolled in an accredited MSW program.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Show a commitment to improving access to mental health and community support services.

Recipients receive $2,000 annually to support their education and fieldwork experience.

Scholarships for Students Focused on Child and Family Welfare

Several programs fund social work students specializing in child welfare and family services, including:

• Bernice Murray Scholarship: Supports students whose social work practice benefits children and families in need.
• Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) Scholarship: Assists students preparing for careers in child advocacy, foster care, and family counseling.

These scholarships strengthen the workforce serving vulnerable children and families across communities.

New York State Social Work Education Consortium Scholarship

The New York State Social Work Education Consortium Scholarship supports students committed to child welfare careers. Eligibility requires:

• Enrollment in an accredited social work program within New York State.
• A demonstrated commitment to work in child welfare after graduation.
• Proof of financial need and academic achievement.

Recipients may receive tuition assistance and living stipends in exchange for a post-graduation service commitment.

Scholarships Supporting Minority and Underrepresented Social Work Students

Several programs aim to increase diversity and cultural competency within the social work profession. Examples include:

• Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship: Awards funding to minority students or those working with culturally diverse and economically disadvantaged populations.
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund: Provides financial support for Hispanic and Latino students earning social work degrees.

These awards help ensure that social work professionals reflect and serve the diverse populations they advocate for.

HRSA National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship

The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarship, offered through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), assists social work students planning to serve in underserved areas. Benefits include:

• Full coverage of tuition, required fees, and educational expenses.
• A monthly living stipend during study.
• A post-graduation service commitment in an approved health or mental health facility.

This scholarship is ideal for students pursuing careers in clinical or medical social work in shortage areas.

Scholarships for Social Work Students Focused on Mental Health

Students planning to specialize in mental health or counseling can apply for targeted programs such as:

• Elizabeth J. Davis Scholarship: Provides support for students preparing for careers in social work, mental health counseling, or psychology.
• NHSC Loan Repayment Program: Offers repayment assistance to licensed social workers providing behavioral health services in high-need communities.

These awards help expand access to quality mental health care and strengthen the behavioral health workforce.

University-Based Scholarships for Social Work Majors

Many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for social work students. Examples include:

• University of Michigan School of Social Work Awards: Merit-based and need-based scholarships for MSW students in clinical and community practice.
• Columbia University School of Social Work Grants: Funding for students demonstrating leadership and academic excellence in social work.
• Boston University School of Social Work Scholarships: Awards for students pursuing community, policy, or clinical social work careers.

Students should check their institution’s financial aid office or department website for the most current scholarship listings.

Tips for Applying to Social Work Scholarships

To strengthen your application and improve your chances of receiving funding:

• Complete the FAFSA: Many social work scholarships require proof of financial need.
• Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Emphasize your dedication to helping others, leadership in the field, and future career goals.
• Secure Strong Recommendations: Ask professors or field supervisors who can speak to your commitment and performance.
• Stay Organized: Track application deadlines and required materials well in advance.

Applying to multiple scholarships — both national and school-based — maximizes your chances of funding your education while minimizing student debt.

Common Misconception: Social Work Scholarships Are Only Need-Based

Fact: While many social work scholarships consider financial need, there are also merit-based awards recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and service impact. Students specializing in areas like mental health, child welfare, community development, and social policy may qualify for targeted scholarships even without financial-need requirements.