Philosophy Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Philosophy Majors?

Yes, scholarships and grants are available for students pursuing degrees in philosophy. These awards are provided by universities, nonprofit organizations, professional associations, and private donors to support students interested in ethics, logic, metaphysics, and other philosophical disciplines.

What Is the Thomas D. Sullivan Medal in Philosophy?

The Thomas D. Sullivan Medal in Philosophy is awarded to students excelling in philosophical research and writing. Eligibility includes:

• Being an undergraduate student majoring in philosophy.
• Submitting an essay or paper on a philosophical topic.
• Demonstrating academic excellence in philosophy courses.

This scholarship recognizes outstanding philosophical thought and writing skills.

What Is the American Philosophical Association (APA) Prize?

The American Philosophical Association (APA) Prize supports philosophy students and scholars at various academic levels. Key details include:

• Awards are available for undergraduates, graduates, and professional philosophers.
• Prizes recognize excellence in teaching, research, and philosophical writing.
• Amounts vary based on the specific prize or scholarship.

The APA also provides travel grants to philosophy conferences for students.

Are There Scholarships for Ethics and Moral Philosophy?

Yes, scholarships for students focusing on ethics and moral philosophy include:

• The Elie Wiesel Foundation Prize in Ethics Essay Contest: Awards students who write compelling essays on ethical issues.
• The Kennedy Institute of Ethics Undergraduate Fellowship: Provides funding for students conducting research in bioethics or moral philosophy.

These scholarships promote critical thinking and discussion on ethical challenges in society.

What Is the John Templeton Foundation Grant?

The John Templeton Foundation Grant supports philosophy students and researchers exploring topics such as metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and epistemology. Eligibility includes:

• Being an undergraduate, graduate, or postdoctoral philosophy student.
• Submitting a research proposal related to the foundation’s focus areas.
• Demonstrating academic excellence and innovation in philosophical research.

Grant amounts vary depending on the project and funding needs.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Philosophy?

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

• Philosophy Matters High School Essay Contest: Awards students who submit exceptional essays on philosophical topics.
• National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Young Scholars Award: Provides funding for high school students conducting research in the humanities, including philosophy.

These scholarships encourage young thinkers to explore philosophical questions and studies.

What Is the Philosophy Now Award?

The Philosophy Now Award supports students and educators promoting the public understanding of philosophy. Key details include:

• Awarded to individuals who excel in making philosophy accessible to the general public.
• Includes a scholarship component for students pursuing philosophy degrees.
• Focuses on public engagement and outreach in philosophy.

This award recognizes the value of philosophy in public discourse.

Are There Corporate or Nonprofit Scholarships for Philosophy Students?

Yes, several organizations provide scholarships for philosophy students. Examples include:

• Arthur Schopenhauer Fellowship: Supports students conducting research in existentialism or metaphysics.
• Bertrand Russell Society Scholarship: Provides funding for students studying analytic philosophy or logic.
• Carnegie Ethics in International Affairs Fellowship: Awards funding for students focusing on ethics in global politics and philosophy.

These scholarships often include mentorship and networking opportunities with leading philosophers and scholars.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Philosophy Majors?

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

• University of Chicago Philosophy Scholarships: Provides funding for undergraduate and graduate philosophy students excelling in research or academics.
• Harvard University Department of Philosophy Fellowships: Merit-based awards for students pursuing advanced philosophical studies.
• Yale University Ethics in Society Scholarship: Supports students focusing on moral philosophy and ethics.

Check with your university’s philosophy department for additional opportunities.

How to Apply for Philosophy Scholarships?

To apply for scholarships and grants in philosophy:

• Submit Essays or Papers: Many scholarships require a written essay or research paper on a philosophical topic.
• Write a Personal Statement: Highlight your passion for philosophy, career goals, and academic achievements.
• Gather Recommendation Letters: Obtain letters from philosophy professors or mentors familiar with your work.
• Meet Deadlines: Ensure all application materials, including essays and transcripts, are submitted on time.

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

Myth: Philosophy Scholarships Are Only for Students Interested in Academia

Fact: While many scholarships support students pursuing academic careers in philosophy, there are also opportunities for those interested in applying philosophy to fields like law, public policy, ethics, and business. Philosophy scholarships cater to a wide range of interests and career paths.