College Scholarships for Women (2025 - 2026)

Overview of Scholarships & Grants for Women

Women today have access to an extensive range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs designed to promote education, career advancement, and lifelong learning. This comprehensive guide highlights opportunities from national organizations, private foundations, and universities that support women of all ages — from high school seniors to professionals returning to school. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in STEM, business, healthcare, or education, you’ll find reliable information on merit-based awards, need-based grants, and specialized programs created to help make higher education more affordable and accessible for women everywhere.

What Is the Largest Provider of Scholarships for Women?

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is one of the largest and most established organizations providing scholarships, grants, and fellowships for women. The AAUW supports women pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees through programs such as the Career Development Grant, which assists women preparing for career advancement or change, and the International Fellowship Program, which supports women from around the world studying in the United States. These programs aim to empower women across disciplines by helping eliminate financial barriers to education and leadership development.

What Scholarships Are Available for Female High School Seniors?

Female high school seniors can apply for numerous scholarships that recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Popular options include:

• Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarship: Awards female students planning to study engineering, computer science, or technology.
• Women’s Independence Scholarship Program: Supports survivors of domestic violence who are pursuing higher education.
• Girl Scouts Gold Award Scholarship: Recognizes Girl Scouts who have achieved the prestigious Gold Award and demonstrated exceptional leadership and community impact.

These scholarships help young women transition from high school to college while rewarding initiative and academic achievement.

Are There Scholarships for Women Over 30?

Yes. Many scholarships are available for women over 30 who are returning to college or pursuing new careers. Notable programs include:

• Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award: Provides financial assistance to women who are the primary earners for their families while pursuing education or training.
• PEO Program for Continuing Education: Offers need-based grants to women in the U.S. and Canada whose education has been interrupted and who wish to resume studies.
• Jeannette Rankin Foundation Scholarship: Supports low-income women over 35 pursuing associate or bachelor’s degrees.

These awards help women re-enter higher education and strengthen their economic independence.

What Scholarships Are Available for Female Undergraduate Students?

Undergraduate women can apply for scholarships that support academic excellence and leadership in specific fields of study. Examples include:

• Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program: Encourages women pursuing computer science and technology degrees.
• BHW Scholarship for Women in STEM: Offers funding for women studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
• Zonta International Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship: Supports women pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees in business or management.

These scholarships help bridge gender gaps in STEM and business fields by funding promising future professionals.

Are There Scholarships for Women Over 40?

Yes. Several programs are available for women returning to school after age 40, including:

• AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program: Supports low-income women over 40 seeking new job skills or higher education.
• Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund: Provides financial aid to women 35 and older pursuing undergraduate education.

These programs empower women to reenter the workforce, shift careers, or complete degrees later in life.

What Scholarships Are Available for Women Returning to School?

Women returning to school after time away often qualify for specialized scholarships focused on educational continuity and financial need. Notable examples include:

• Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship: Offers up to $5,000 for low-income women with children pursuing higher education or training.
• Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award: Recognizes women overcoming obstacles to education and career advancement.
• Women’s Opportunity Awards: Provides grants to women balancing family, work, and education.

These scholarships are designed to help women manage the challenges of balancing education with family and career responsibilities.

What Scholarships Are Available for Women in Education?

Women pursuing degrees in education or teaching can apply for several targeted scholarship programs, including:

• TEACH Grant: Provides up to $4,000 per year for students who plan to teach in high-need fields at low-income schools.
• AAUW Selected Professions Fellowship: Supports women entering fields where they are traditionally underrepresented, including education administration.
• NEA Foundation Learning & Leadership Grant: Offers funding for educators pursuing advanced degrees or professional development opportunities.

These scholarships and grants strengthen the teaching profession and support women preparing to lead in education.

Are There Scholarships for Women Over 50?

Yes. Women over 50 can find scholarships that promote lifelong learning and career renewal. Options include:

• AARP Women’s Scholarship Program: Offers financial aid to women 50 and older returning to education for career advancement.
• Road Scholar Financial Aid Program: Provides assistance for educational travel programs that encourage continued learning and global engagement.

These programs help older women gain new skills, explore new opportunities, and continue personal growth through education.

What Scholarships Are Available for Women in Undergraduate Business Programs?

Female students pursuing business degrees can apply for scholarships designed to promote women’s leadership in finance and management. Leading programs include:

• Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship (Zonta International): Awards undergraduate and graduate women studying business management or economics.
• Women in Public Finance Scholarship: Recognizes academic achievement and leadership among women pursuing public finance or related studies.
• Forté Foundation Undergraduate Fellowship: Supports women preparing for careers in business, management, and entrepreneurship.

These scholarships encourage more women to pursue and excel in business-related fields, helping close the gender gap in corporate leadership.