Accounting Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Accounting Majors?

Yes, there are many scholarships and grants available for students pursuing degrees in accounting. These awards are offered by universities, professional organizations, and private companies to support students interested in careers in public accounting, financial management, auditing, and more.

What Is the AICPA Scholarship Program?

The AICPA Scholarship Program is a prestigious award for accounting students provided by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Eligibility requirements include:

• Being enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate accounting program.
• Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Demonstrating leadership and academic excellence.

Scholarship amounts range from $2,000 to $10,000 annually, depending on the program.

What Is the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship?

The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), supports students interested in careers in fraud examination or forensic accounting. Key details include:

• Scholarship amounts of $1,000 to $10,000.
• Open to undergraduate and graduate students in accounting, criminal justice, or finance.
• Requires an essay and letters of recommendation.

This scholarship is ideal for students planning to specialize in fraud detection and prevention.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Accounting?

Yes, scholarships specifically for women in accounting include:

• Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting (EFWA) Scholarships: Supports undergraduate and graduate female students in accounting programs.
• AWSCPA Women’s Accounting Scholarship: Awards for women excelling in accounting studies.

These scholarships aim to increase gender diversity in the accounting profession.

What Is the National Society of Accountants (NSA) Scholarship?

The NSA Scholarship Foundation provides financial aid to students pursuing degrees in accounting or taxation. Eligibility includes:

• Being enrolled in an undergraduate accounting program at an accredited institution.
• Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Demonstrating financial need.

Scholarships range from $500 to $2,200 annually.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Accounting?

Yes, high school seniors planning to study accounting can apply for scholarships such as:

• Future CPA Scholarships: Awards for high school students demonstrating interest in becoming Certified Public Accountants.
• Junior Achievement Scholarship: Recognizes students excelling in business and financial education programs.

These scholarships encourage young students to pursue careers in accounting and finance.

What Is the PCAOB Scholars Program?

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholars Program provides funding for accounting students committed to careers in public accounting. Eligibility includes:

• Being nominated by a participating university.
• Demonstrating academic excellence and financial need.
• Exhibiting leadership potential in the field of accounting.

Recipients receive $10,000 annually to cover tuition and other educational expenses.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Accounting Students?

Yes, several companies offer scholarships for accounting students. Examples include:

• Deloitte Foundation Accounting Scholarships: Awards for students pursuing graduate degrees in accounting or related fields.
• KPMG Future Leaders Program: Supports students with leadership potential in accounting and finance.
• PwC Impact Scholarship: Provides funding for students demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion in accounting.

These scholarships often include mentorship or internship opportunities with the sponsoring companies.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Accounting Majors?

Many universities offer scholarships tailored to accounting students, such as:

• University of Illinois Accounting Scholarships: Merit-based awards for undergraduate and graduate students excelling in accounting.
• Texas A&M Mays Business School Scholarships: Funding for students in the accounting program.
• University of Southern California Leventhal School of Accounting Scholarships: Provides financial aid for students enrolled in accounting programs.

Check with your university’s accounting or business school for additional opportunities.

How to Apply for Accounting Scholarships?

To apply for scholarships and grants in accounting:

• Complete the FAFSA: Many scholarships require a demonstration of financial need.
• Write a Personal Statement: Highlight your passion for accounting, career goals, and academic achievements.
• Submit Letters of Recommendation: Ask professors or mentors familiar with your academic or professional work to provide strong endorsements.
• Meet Deadlines: Ensure all application materials, including essays, transcripts, and proof of enrollment, are submitted on time.

Applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of receiving funding for your education.

Myth: Accounting Scholarships Are Only for CPA Candidates

Fact: While many scholarships support students pursuing CPA certification, others are available for students in related fields like forensic accounting, financial management, and auditing. Opportunities exist for students at various academic and career stages.