English Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Graduate Students in English?

Yes, graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in English, literature, or creative writing can apply for scholarships and fellowships like:

• National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Fellowships: Supports graduate-level research in literature and the humanities.
• Ford Foundation Fellowships: Offers funding for doctoral students from underrepresented backgrounds.
• The Beinecke Scholarship: For students entering graduate studies in English or related humanities fields.

These scholarships often support thesis research, teaching assistantships, or dissertation writing.

Are There Scholarships for Minority Students Studying English?

Yes, several programs support diversity in English studies. Examples include:

• UNCF Scholarships: Offers numerous awards for Black students majoring in English or liberal arts.
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): Supports Latino students in all fields, including literature and writing.
• Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIA): Assists students pursuing English and humanities degrees.

These scholarships help underrepresented students pursue literary and academic careers.

Can You Get Scholarships for Poetry or Creative Writing?

Absolutely! Many scholarships focus specifically on creative writing genres such as poetry, fiction, or playwriting. Popular examples include:

• The Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowships: For emerging poets between ages 21–31.
• YoungArts Writing Awards: For high school writers submitting fiction, creative nonfiction, or poetry.
• The Norman Mailer College Writing Awards: Recognizes outstanding literary work by college students.

A strong writing portfolio is usually required for these awards.

What Is the Academy of American Poets Prize?

The Academy of American Poets Prize is a prestigious award for undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional talent in poetry. Offered at over 200 participating colleges and universities, this award is often coordinated through English or creative writing departments.

• Eligibility: Must be a student at a participating institution.
• Application: Submit original poetry for faculty review or campus contest.
• Award: Winners receive a cash prize and publication on the Academy’s website, with national recognition in the poetry community.

What Is the Norman Mailer College Writing Award?

The Norman Mailer College Writing Award honors outstanding student writers in creative nonfiction, journalism, and literary storytelling. Sponsored by the Norman Mailer Center, this competition encourages students to develop their voice and explore important topics through narrative writing.

• Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students in English, creative writing, or journalism.
• Application: Submit an original manuscript, essay, or nonfiction work.
• Award: Scholarships range from $2,500 to $10,000, along with potential publication and recognition by the Norman Mailer Center.

What Is the Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowship?

The Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowship is one of the most generous awards for emerging poets in the United States. Offered by the Poetry Foundation, this fellowship helps early-career poets focus on their craft and gain national recognition.

• Eligibility: Poets aged 21–31 with demonstrated talent and potential.
• Application: Submit a portfolio of 10 original poems.
• Award: Up to five poets receive $25,800 each to support their work and writing journey.

What Is the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition?

The Writer’s Digest Writing Competition is one of the most well-known contests for aspiring writers of all genres, including fiction, poetry, essays, and memoir. It’s open to students as well as non-students and offers a pathway to recognition in the professional writing world.

• Eligibility: Open to all writers; students often participate in the poetry, short story, or personal essay categories.
• Application: Submit original work in a chosen category. Fees apply.
• Award: Prizes include up to $5,000 in cash, publication in Writer’s Digest, and writing mentorship opportunities.

What Is the Sigma Tau Delta Scholarship?

The Sigma Tau Delta Scholarship is available to members of the International English Honor Society, which recognizes academic excellence in English and literary studies. These scholarships support undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in English, creative writing, and literature.

• Eligibility: Must be a current member of Sigma Tau Delta and enrolled in an English-related program.
• Application: Submit a personal statement, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters.
• Award: Scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.