42 Scholarships for High School Juniors

25 Scholarships for Juniors in High School

1. Davidson Fellows Scholarship

The Davidson Fellows Scholarship is open to students 18 and under who have “completed a significant piece of work in the STEM field, literature, music, philosophy, or the ‘outside the box’ category.”

• Scholarship award amount: $10,000 – $50,000
• 2023 deadline: February 8^th 
• Eligibility: limited to US citizens

This scholarship seeks to award students who have created significant work. This means that experts in any given field would recognize the submission as meaningful with “the potential to make a positive contribution to society.”

2. Horatio Alger Scholarship

The Horatio Alger Scholarship is open to high school juniors who have “faced and overcome great obstacles in their lives.” This essay contest is specifically looking for students with significant financial need and who have persevered in the presence of adversity.

• Scholarship award amount: $10,000 – $25,000
• 2023 deadline: March 15^th 
• Eligibility: families must make under $55,000/year

The eligibility requirement makes this scholarship more need-based than merit-based. In addition to an essay, the Horatio Alger Scholarship requires students to submit a list of extracurricular activities and volunteer work (check out their website to review the full application requirements).

3. National Merit Scholarship

To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, students must have already taken the PSAT/NMSQT. This means that if you hope to become a National Merit Scholar your senior year, you need to have taken the PSAT/NMSQT during your junior year.

• Scholarship award amount: $2,500 – $10,000
• 2023 deadline: students who took the PSAT/NMSQT have already been entered
• Eligibility: take the PSAT/NMSQT no later than your junior year

Eligible students will advance through three different rounds, each with their own requirements and selection process: commended, semifinalists, finalists. Of the finalists, only 7,250 students will become National Merit Scholarship winners.

4. House Foundation Scholarships

US citizens from any year of high school are eligible to apply for this scholarship. The House Foundation provides three awards: $2,000 (1^st place award), $750 (2^nd place award), and $250 (3^rd place award).

• Scholarship award amount: $250 – $2,000
• 2023 deadline: February 1^st 
• Eligibility: US citizen/permanent resident of the US, planning to attend a US-based college

Along with their high school transcripts, students will need to respond to four general questions and two themed questions. The application also includes an optional question for students who have been directly affected by COVID-19-related illnesses.

5. Taco Bell Live Mas Scholarship

Students between the ages of 16-26 can apply for the Taco Bell scholarship. This scholarship is open to students both in high school and post-secondary educational programs (including colleges and vocational, technical, and trade schools).

• Scholarship award amount: unspecified
• 2023 deadline: January 11^th 
• Eligibility: students between the ages of 16-26 

The Taco Bell scholarship is looking for students who are passionate about creating a better future and creating a positive impact in the world. Applicants must submit a video (30 – 120 seconds) that tells the story of their passion.

6. Next Young Leaders

This scholarship is specifically for high school juniors and accepts students outside of the US.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,000 – $20,000
• 2023 deadline: January 30th
• Eligibility: high school junior; planning to enroll in college the fall after they graduate high school

This scholarship is need-based. So, students will need to submit their annual household income in their application.

7. Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes

This scholarship is for students who are or have recently worked on an inspiring service project. Strong applicants will demonstrate how their leadership and determination have made a positive impact on the world.

• Scholarship award amount: $10,000
• 2023 deadline: April 15^th 
• Eligibility: permanent residents of the US or Canada, between 8-18 years old

Applicants must include three letters of recommendation from adults who can advocate for the student and their involvement in their service project. Winners can direct their award to their service project or to their higher education.

8. ConnectHER Film Festival

Students from all over the world can submit a short film about topics and issues impacting women and girls, including topics such as education, ending violence against women, and redefining beauty.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,000 – $5,000
• 2023 deadline: June 1^st 
• Eligibility: applicants must be between 13-25 years old

Two films will be selected as the Judges’ Choice Award winner and runner-up. Nine other films will be selected as winners across distinct categories.

9. Questbridge College Prep Scholarship Program

The Questbridge College Prep Scholarship seeks to give students the opportunity to succeed on college apps rather than providing a monetary award. While a Questbridge College Prep Scholar may receive small financial awards, the main benefit is specialized guidance, resources, and feedback throughout their college application process.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,000 – scholarship to a college summer program
• 2023 deadline: March 21^st 
• Eligibility: must be a high school Junior at a school in the US; families must demonstrate financial hardship

Take a look at the Questbridge Scholarship requirements, including academic achievement, financial qualifications, and personal circumstances, to see if you are a strong applicant.

10. The Phyliss J. McCarthy Scholarship for Excellence in Writing

For students who love writing, this scholarship provides an opportunity to win a scholarship with creative writing. Students will select one of three prompts (narrative, meta, and wacky) and create an original piece of 2,000 words or fewer.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,000
• 2023 deadline: July 23^rd
• Eligibility: high school juniors and seniors

The award committee selects three winners each year.

11. 4-H Youth in Action Awards

This award is limited to students who are already a part of 4-H. The Youth in Action program provides recipients with media training and opportunities to share their stories from 4-H. 

• Scholarship award amount: $5,000
• 2023 deadline: March 27^th 
• Eligibility: students must be members of 4-H

Four winners will receive a $5,000 scholarship paid directly to their chosen school.

12. Paradigm Challenge

For this scholarship, students can choose to enter on their own or to enter as part of a collaborative team. The Paradigm asks students to brainstorm solutions for real-world issues affecting society. This scholarship is open to all ages.

• Scholarship award amount: $250 – $25,000
• 2023 deadline: May 1^st 
• Eligibility: between 4-18 years old

First, second, and third place winners will be selected for each age division. One of the three first place winners will then receive the grand prize.

13. JFK Library Profiles in Courage Essay Contest

The Profiles in Courage Essay Contest asks students to reflect on an act of political courage. Essays should be between 700 – 1,000 words and focus on the actions of an elected US official.

• Scholarship award amount: $100 – $10,000
• 2023 deadline: January 13^th 
• Eligibility: 9-12^th grade students

Winners of the Profiles in Courage Essay Contest include first-place, second-place, five finalists, and eight semifinalists.

14. Create Real Impact Contest

Unlike other essay contests, students will create a social media campaign or an original work. These submissions can include a short 30-second video, a poster, an infographic, or a brochure.

• Scholarship award amount: $250 – $10,000
• 2023 deadline: April 10^th 
• Eligibility: students 14-22 years old

The award committee evaluates students based on their creativity, execution, and the effectiveness of their message.

15. AFSA National Essay Contest

The National Peace Essay Contest asks students to choose a country and describe how the US Foreign Service’s involvement in that country was either successful or unsuccessful. 

• Scholarship award amount: $2,500
• 2023 deadline: April 3^rd 
• Eligibility: 9-12^th grade students

National Peace Essay Contest submissions must be 1,500 words or less. The winner of the National Peace Essay Contest will receive the scholarship award as well as an all-expense paid educational voyage and a trip with their parents to Washington DC.

16. National Ag Day Essay Contest

This college essay contest asks students to consider how American agriculture produces nutritious and safe food for consumers while responsibly taking care of the environment.

• Scholarship award amount: $100 – $1,000
• 2023 deadline: February 13^th 
• Eligibility: US citizens; 9-12^th grade students

Students can submit either a written essay or a video essay.

17. Iefa Teen Changemakers Essay Contest

This essay contest asks students to answer the question “How can students’ mental health be supported virtually?” In an essay of 500 – 1000 words, students will describe their virtual mental health campaign and how they would implement it in their school.

• Scholarship award amount: $250 – $1,000
• 2023 deadline: December 1^st 
• Eligibility: 9-12^th grade students

Three awards will be given: $1,000 (first place), $500 (second place), and $250 (third place).

18. Youthlinc Young Humanitarian Award

The Youthlinc scholarship recognizes students in Utah who have performed outstanding humanitarian service.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,500 – $7,500
• 2023 deadline: March 1^st 
• Eligibility: high school juniors/seniors and undergraduate students in Utah

Students applying to the Youthlinc scholarship must submit proof of enrollment, a service resume, and two essays, two letters of recommendation.

19. Transform Rhode Island Scholarship

This scholarship is an opportunity for your students of color to describe how they would better the lives of Rhode Island’s BIPOC communities with one million dollars. Students can submit an essay, a video, or a comparable multimedia presentation.

• Scholarship award amount: $5,000 – $25,000
• 2023 deadline: March 31^st 
• Eligibility: 9-12^th grade students of color in Rhode Island

Unlike other college essay contests, the winning idea will receive funding to bring their ideas to life.

20. Diller Teen Awards

The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards recognize Jewish teens who show are leaders and in community service. Students who engage in many different service initiatives must choose a single project to describe in their application.

• Scholarship award amount: $36,000
• 2023 deadline: January 5^th 
• Eligibility: 13–19-year-olds who self-identify as Jewish 

Winners can use their award to fund their college education or their philanthropic work.

21. Hoover Presidential Foundation Uncommon Student Award

The Herbert Hoover Uncommon Student Award asks students to plan and pitch a public service project. Selected students will then present their projects in October, where all students will receive $1,500, and three students will be selected to receive a $10,000 scholarship.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,500 – $11,500
• 2023 deadline: March 15^th 
• Eligibility: high school juniors in Iowa

Students who apply to the Herbert Hoover Uncommon Student Award must be available on June 24^th and 25^th to meet other uncommon students at the Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch, Iowa.

22. Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

For this scholarship, the Gen and Kelly Tanabe program asks students to write a short, 250-word essay on a topic of their choosing.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,000
• 2023 deadline: July 31^st and December 31^st 
• Eligibility: 9-12^th graders, college, and graduate students

Open to 9th-12th grade high school, college, or graduate students including home-schooled students and adult learners. You may be studying abroad, but you must be a legal resident of the U.S. Since the Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship is judged on the application alone, financial need and past academic performance are not considered.

23. Samsung American Legion Scholarship

This scholarship is a fund meant to show appreciation for the families of US veterans who fought in the Korean War.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,250 – $10,000
• 2023 deadline: Day 1 of their respective American Legion program
• Eligibility: high school juniors and seniors; part of the American Legion Boys or Auxiliary Girls State program and have a parent or legal guardian who is a member in good standing

Applicants to the Samsung American Legion Scholarship will be evaluated on their academic record and their involvement in school and community service.

24. Voice of Democracy Essay Program

As a college essay contest, the Voice of Democracy Essay Program asks students to submit a 3–5-minute audio essay about a specific topic. This year’s essay topic is: “Why is the veteran important?” Applicants to Voice of Democracy will be judged on originality, content, and delivery.

• Scholarship award amount: $1,000 – $35,000
• 2023 deadline: October 31^st 
• Eligibility: 9-12^th grade students

Check out the Voice of Democracy website for examples of past winners.

25. United States Senate Youth Program

This program looks for students who have demonstrated leadership by serving in elected positions, like in student government or community service organizations.

• Scholarship award amount: $10,000
• 2023 deadline: February 1^st 
• Eligibility: high school juniors and seniors

Selected applicants will be invited to attend the United States Senate Youth Program Washington Week, where students will have the opportunity to meet the Senate Co-Chairs and learn more about the federal government.

4 Easy Scholarships for High School Juniors

1. Big Future Scholarships

By completing certain steps on the CollegeBoard website, students are automatically eligible to enter a drawing for $500 or $40,000 in scholarship money each month. This program encourages students to complete six college and career preparation goals.

Big Future Scholarships are scholarships for high school juniors as well as high school seniors. Drawings occur monthly until the beginning of February in a student’s senior year. So, there is no single deadline to enter to win Big Future scholarships. Students can also qualify for multiple entries based on household income. 

Since Big Future scholarships select winners by random drawing, it’s one of the easiest scholarships for high school juniors to enter. While $500 isn’t a huge award amount, it can still make a difference, especially when combined with other scholarship awards. 

2. ScholarshipPoints

ScholarshipPoints is a monthly scholarship drawing—no essay required. Students simply need to complete a basic online form to qualify. The only qualifications to enter are that students are 13 years or older and are planning to attend college in the United States.

While this isn’t one of our college scholarships for high school juniors specifically, it is one of the easiest scholarships for high school students. In addition to applying to more formal essay contests, we recommend applying to our easy scholarships – you never know when you might be the lucky winner!

3. CollegeXpress

Another one of our easiest college scholarships for high school juniors is CollegeXpress’s annual scholarship contest. Each spring, one lucky student is selected to receive a $10,000 scholarship to put toward their continued education. There is no essay required – all you have to do is create a free CollegeXpress profile.

Students must be at least 13 years old to enter. You can enter and win the scholarship any year, but you’ll only be eligible the year you graduate high school or begin your graduate program.

4. Cappex Scholarships

Just like ScholarshipPoints, Cappex scholarships for high school juniors are another easy opportunity to win scholarship money. Recipients of Cappex scholarships are selected monthly to receive $1,000. 

Cappex scholarships don’t require students to write an essay or have a minimum GPA. Students only need to be 13 years or older to be eligible for this drawing.

5 Unusual Scholarships for High School Juniors

1. Duck Brand Stuck at Prom Contest

Of all our scholarships for high school students, this one might be the most creative. The contest? Make the best prom outfit out of Duck brand duct tape. High school students of all ages are invited to create a prom outfit using Duck brand duct tape and/or crafting tape and compete for scholarship money.

The contest usually begins in late March, and submissions are open until mid-June. One tux and one dress will be picked to win the grand prize of $10,000. Four runners-up from each category are also selected to win $500. Check out Duck Tape’s photo gallery to see examples of past recipients of Duck Brand’s scholarships for high school juniors.

2. Stockholm Junior Water Prize

The Stockholm Junior Water Prize is open to all high school students grades 9-12 who have conducted a project in water science research. Students can apply either on their own or as a team of two. Research papers will be evaluated by the foundation on six criteria: relevance, creativity, methodology, subject knowledge, practical skills, and report and presentation.

Students first must enter their state Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition before advancing to the national competition level. The deadline to submit your research paper is April 15^th. 

3. Doodle for Google

Another one of our creative scholarships for high school juniors is Google’s doodle competition. This scholarship awards prizes for creating an original doodle. This year’s Doodle for Google prizes will be awarded based on the theme of what you are grateful for.

The deadline to enter your doodle is March 7^th, and the Doodle for Google prizes will be announced in June. One national winner will receive a $30,000 scholarship and a $50,000 technology package for their school or a non-profit organization. 

4. SCAD Challenge

This is another one of our scholarships for high school juniors and seniors. The SCAD Challenge is a scholarship sponsored by SCAD, an arts and design-focused university located in Georgia. To apply, students must submit their creative work for the chance to win up to $4,000 in merit aid.

Winners will receive a scholarship of $2,000, $3,000, or $4,000 that can be renewable every year of their bachelor’s degree. These scholarship funds can only be used to pay tuition at SCAD specifically, and winners will receive their scholarships upon gaining admission.

5. Association for Women in Mathematics Student Essay Contest 

This essay contest is open to students in middle school, high school, and college. Students are asked to write an essay “based primarily on an interview with a woman currently working in or retired from a mathematical sciences career.” The deadline to enter is February 1^st.

The award amount is not currently published on the website. Like other scholarships for high school juniors, the winner will receive some type of monetary prize. However, it’s not technically a scholarship. Unlike other essay contests, the award doesn’t have to be used for schooling or sent directly to your university.

California Scholarships for Juniors

1. California Association of Collectors Educational Scholarship

This is one of our scholarships for high school juniors and seniors in California. Essays should be between 700 – 1,000 words and describe the importance of establishing and maintaining good financial credit during your college years. Awards are $2,500 for 1^st place, $2,000 for 2^nd place, and finally, $1,500 for 3^rd place.

2. Carson Scholars Fund

This application process for this award is slightly different from our other scholarships for high school juniors. Schools choose one student to nominate from their school, grades 4-11, to apply for this scholarship. Applicants are evaluated on their community service, teacher recommendation, and application essay. Winners will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

Texas Scholarships for Juniors

1. BAFTX Community Service Award

One of our scholarships for juniors in high school in Texas is the Susan Howard Community Service Award. This scholarship focuses on leadership skills and community service. Students aged 11 – 21 are invited to apply and share their experience working on an inspiring community service project. This $5,000 scholarship is for academically adept students of low-income families.

2. UIL Essay Contests

The University Interscholastic League sponsors two essay contests for students grades 9-12 attending UIL member high schools. The Barbara Jordan Historical Essay Competition asks students to discuss the contributions of African Americans to Texas’s history. The Latino History Essay Competition asks students to discuss the historical and cultural legacies of Latinos in Texas’s history.

Full Ride Scholarships for High School Juniors

1. Coolidge Scholarship

While other scholarships for high school juniors are based on location, financial status, or area of study, this is a general merit scholarship students of all backgrounds can apply to. You can also use the Coolidge Scholarship to attend any university in the country. Students with an interest in public policy and service and can demonstrate academic excellence should submit their application by the deadline: February 23^rd.

2. Cameron Impact Scholarship

This scholarship covers four years of tuition for up to 15 high school students. Like other scholarships for high school juniors, applicants of all backgrounds can apply for this scholarship so long as they meet the GPA and citizenship requirements. Applications are received on a rolling basis. Then, 75 – 100 Finalists will be selected to have an in-person interview to help determine the winners.

3. ROTC Scholarships

The ROTC Scholarship offers students the chance to have their college tuition covered at any university with an Air Force ROTC detachment. Selected students will also receive an annual book stipend, a monthly living expense stipend, and travel reimbursements for traveling to and from home.