Pursuing a college education in the United States can be expensive, but with the right scholarships, undergraduate students can significantly reduce tuition and living costs. Whether you’re a U.S. citizen or an international applicant, this guide provides a comprehensive list of scholarships for undergraduate students in the USA for 2025, along with eligibility criteria and application tips.
Why Apply for Undergraduate Scholarships?
Reduce student loan debt
Cover tuition, fees, housing, and books
Recognize academic and extracurricular achievements
Improve chances of university acceptance
Top Scholarships for Undergraduate Students in the USA (2025)
1. Gates Scholarship
Award: Full cost of attendance
Eligibility: High school seniors, minority backgrounds, U.S. citizens, Pell Grant eligible
Deadline: September 2024
2. Coca-Cola Scholars Program
Award: $20,000
Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors with a strong academic record and leadership skills
Deadline: October 2024
3. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)
Award: $500 to $5,000
Eligibility: U.S. citizens of Hispanic heritage with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Deadline: March 2025
4. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship
Award: Up to $55,000 per year
Eligibility: High-achieving students with financial need, GPA of 3.5+
Deadline: November 2024
5. Dell Scholars Program
Award: $20,000 + laptop + support
Eligibility: Low-income, college-bound students who have overcome significant challenges
Deadline: December 2024
6. QuestBridge National College Match
Award: Full four-year scholarship to partner colleges
Eligibility: High-achieving, low-income high school seniors
Deadline: September 2024
7. Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarship
Award: $1,000 to $12,500 per year
Eligibility: High school seniors in the U.S., based on academic excellence and financial need
Deadline: November 2024
8. Burger King Scholars Program
Award: $1,000 to $50,000
Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors, Burger King employees and their children
Deadline: December 2024
9. National Merit Scholarship Program
Award: $2,500 (corporate and college-sponsored awards available)
Eligibility: PSAT/NMSQT performance in junior year
Deadline: Fall 2024 (via school nomination)
10. United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarships
Award: Varies ($500 to $10,000+)
Eligibility: African American students attending a UNCF-member institution
Deadline: Rolling throughout the year
Tips for Applying Successfully
Start early and track deadlines
Create a strong personal statement and essays
Ask for recommendation letters well in advance
Keep your grades up—most scholarships require strong GPAs
Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances
There are countless scholarships available to help you afford a high-quality undergraduate education in the USA. Whether you excel in academics, athletics, leadership, or community service, there’s a scholarship out there for you.
Ready to Fund Your Future?
Start your scholarship search early, prepare strong applications, and take the first step toward earning your undergraduate degree in the USA without financial stress.