Finance Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Finance Majors?

Yes, numerous scholarships and grants are available for students pursuing degrees in finance. These awards are provided by universities, professional organizations, financial institutions, and private companies to support students interested in careers in investment banking, financial analysis, wealth management, and other related fields.

What Is the CFA Institute Scholarship?

The CFA Institute Access Scholarship is designed for finance students planning to take the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams. Eligibility includes:

• Being enrolled in a finance-related program or planning to take the CFA Level I exam.
• Demonstrating financial need and a commitment to a career in finance.
• Submitting a personal statement and letters of recommendation.

This scholarship reduces CFA exam registration fees significantly, making it accessible for finance students worldwide.

What Is the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship?

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

• Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $10,000.
• Open to undergraduate and graduate students studying finance, accounting, or criminal justice.
• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.

This scholarship is ideal for students with a strong interest in forensic finance or fraud prevention.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Finance?

Yes, scholarships specifically for women in finance include:

• Forté Foundation Scholarship: Supports women pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in finance, business, or economics.
• Women in Public Finance Scholarship: Awards for female students interested in careers in public finance or financial policy.

These scholarships encourage gender diversity in finance and leadership roles.

What Is the FINRA Investor Education Foundation Scholarship?

The FINRA Investor Education Foundation Scholarship supports students pursuing finance-related degrees, particularly those focusing on investor education and protection. Eligibility includes:

• Being enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate finance program.
• Demonstrating a commitment to promoting financial literacy and ethical finance practices.

Awards typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 annually.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Finance?

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

• Junior Achievement Scholarship: Awards for students excelling in business and finance education programs.
• National Business Education Association (NBEA) Scholarship: Recognizes students interested in finance, economics, or business education.

These scholarships encourage young talent to pursue careers in finance and business.

What Is the Morgan Stanley Scholarship for Excellence?

The Morgan Stanley Scholarship for Excellence provides financial aid to finance students from underrepresented backgrounds. Eligibility includes:

• Being a sophomore or junior majoring in finance, economics, or a related field.
• Demonstrating strong academic performance and leadership potential.
• Participating in Morgan Stanley’s mentorship and internship programs.

Recipients can receive up to $15,000 in scholarships and networking opportunities with finance professionals.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Finance Students?

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

• Goldman Sachs Scholarship for Excellence: Supports students demonstrating exceptional leadership and academic performance in finance-related fields.
• Bank of America Merrill Lynch Scholarship: Awards students interested in wealth management or investment banking.
• JPMorgan Chase Launching Leaders Scholarship: Provides funding for underrepresented finance students excelling academically and professionally.

These scholarships often include mentorship, internships, or job placement opportunities.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Finance Majors?

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

• University of Pennsylvania Wharton School Scholarships: Merit-based awards for finance students demonstrating academic and leadership excellence.
• New York University Stern School of Business Scholarships: Provides need-based and merit-based scholarships for finance and business students.
• University of Chicago Booth School of Business Fellowships: Supports graduate students excelling in finance, economics, or investment management.

Check with your university’s business or finance department for additional opportunities.

How to Apply for Finance Scholarships?

To apply for scholarships and grants in finance:

• Complete the FAFSA: Many scholarships require a demonstration of financial need.
• Write a Personal Statement: Highlight your passion for finance, career goals, and academic achievements.
• Submit Recommendation Letters: Ask professors or mentors familiar with your academic or professional work to provide strong endorsements.
• Submit Essays or Case Studies: Many scholarships in finance require essays or case studies showcasing your financial knowledge and analytical skills.
• Meet Deadlines: Ensure all application materials, including transcripts and essays, are submitted on time.

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

Myth: Finance Scholarships Are Only for High-Achieving Students

Fact: While some scholarships prioritize academic excellence, many also consider financial need, leadership potential, and career aspirations. Students at various academic levels can qualify for scholarships in finance.