Top Gap Year Scholarships in to Apply to in 2024

Embarking on a gap year is an exhilarating milestone, often packed with learning opportunities and personal growth. However, the financial aspect can be a daunting barrier.

Enter gap year scholarships, a game-changer for aspiring adventurers who are ready to take on the world without the stress of hefty expenses. This treasure trove of financial assistance can transform a dream year into reality, making it crucial to explore and understand.

From needs-based scholarships that consider your financial situation to program-specific scholarships, college students planning for a gap year have plenty of options.

Whether you're aiming to volunteer in far-flung locales or immerse yourself in a new culture through study, understanding these funding avenues is essential. By diving into each scholarship type, we'll uncover how they cater to unique aspirations and circumstances—ensuring you have the knowledge to secure the support you need for an enriching gap year journey.

With our firm commitment to combating student debt and fostering educational aspirations, we at Bold.org offer effective and transparent aid to gap-year students.

Create your Bold profile today to find hundreds of exclusive scholarships for gap year students. Head over to the Scholarship Blog for more free resources on student finances.

What Are Gap Year Scholarships, and Who Can Apply for Them?

Gap year scholarships are financial awards designed to support individuals who choose to take a year off between stages of their education, often referred to as a "gap year." This break provides time for personal growth, travel, volunteering, or work experience.

These scholarships are available to prospective or current students who plan to enroll in a gap year program. Eligibility varies by scholarship; some are open to high school graduates preparing for college, while others are available to current undergraduates seeking a transformative experience before continuing their studies.

Do Gap Year Scholarships Require Applicants to Demonstrate Financial Need?

Many gap year scholarships consider financial need as a criterion for eligibility, but it's not universal. Some focus on merit, leadership qualities, or specific interests and talents. It’s crucial for applicants to thoroughly review the criteria of each scholarship and ensure they meet all requirements before applying.

Best Gap Year Scholarships

Need-Based Scholarships

When planning a gap year, managing finances is crucial. For students looking for financial support based on their economic situation, need-based scholarships can be a lifeline. Each program has unique eligibility requirements and application processes tailored to support those with demonstrated financial need.

1. ARCC's Voyagers Scholarship

• Eligibility: Available to students demonstrating significant financial need who wish to participate in an ARCC Gap Program.
• Application Process: Interested applicants should complete the ARCC Gap Scholarship Application, which includes questions about financial circumstances and a personal essay.

2. Freeman Awards for Study in Asia (Freeman-ASIA)

• Eligibility: Designed for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with demonstrated financial need who are planning to study abroad in East or Southeast Asia.
• Application Process: Submit an online application along with a budget plan, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need.

3. Need-based College Scholarships

• Eligibility: Applicants should be able to demonstrate financial need. Further requirements may vary depending on the scholarship.
• Application Process: Create a free Bold.org profile and submit an online application. Some scholarships will require a personal statement.

4. Go Overseas Scholarship for US Residents Aged 17-20

• Eligibility: Open to U.S. residents aged 17-20 planning an educational trip abroad.
• Application Process: Requires submission of a creative entry, usually an essay or video, and a completed online application form.

5. United Planet Scholarships for Volunteering Abroad

• Eligibility: Applicants must show a strong desire to volunteer abroad and have verifiable financial need.
• Application Process: Candidates must fill out the United Planet Merit Scholarship Application, including personal statements and references.

6. Verto Education's Opportunity Grant and Scholars Award

• Eligibility: Offered to students seeking an alternative freshman year that combines college academics with travel.
• Application Process: Students must apply through Verto Education’s standard application and complete the FAFSA to show financial need.

7. Eva Gunther Foundation Fellowships

• Eligibility: Specifically for young women who require financial assistance to participate in programs that foster independence and self-confidence.
• Application Process: Submission of an application that includes personal essays, a budget outline, and letters of recommendation.

8. The Pollination Project Grants

• Eligibility: Individuals passionate about social change projects that may include gap year initiatives.
• Application Process: The grant requires detailed project proposals submitted through The Pollination Project’s website.

9. Federal Pell Grant

• Eligibility: Undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor's degree and display exceptional financial need might use the grant for certain approved gap-year programs.
• Application Process: Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year they wish to receive funding.

Each scholarship offers its distinct advantages for gap year explorers. It's essential to meticulously review eligibility criteria and prepare all necessary documents well ahead of deadlines. This ensures you present the strongest possible case for why you deserve the award—and opens up a world of possibilities for your transformative gap year experience.

Program-Specific Scholarships

Exploring program-specific scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of a gap year. These scholarships are tied to specific programs and may cater to particular interests, such as volunteering, cultural immersion, or environmental studies.

1. Education Major Scholarships

• Eligibility: Applicants should be accepted into an accredited education program or plan to apply to one.
• Application Process: Create a free Bold.org profile and submit an online application. List includes scholarships with and without essays.

2. Medical School Scholarships

• Eligibility: Available to students who are planning to attend medical school.
• Application Process: Create a free Bold.org profile and submit materials for an online application, such as transcripts and a personal statement.

3. Alzar Gap's Merit-Based Scholarships

• Eligibility: Merit-based, focusing on leadership qualities and academic achievement.
• Application Process: Includes essay submissions detailing leadership experience.

4. Journalism College Scholarships

• Eligibility: Open to students who intend to pursue journalism as a career.
• Application Process: Create a free Bold.org profile and submit a streamlined online application. Includes financial aid opportunities with and without essay requirement.

5. Omprakash Grants and Scholarships

• Eligibility: For those involved in Omprakash partner volunteer opportunities.
• Application Process: Requires a thoughtful essay on social impact and an interview process.

6. EdGE Scholarships

• Eligibility: Students with demonstrable financial need participating in EdGE programs.
• Application Process: Financial documentation and a personal statement are required.

7. Cow House Studios Gap & Summer Scholarships

• Eligibility: Aimed at artists and creatives seeking an immersive studio experience.
• Application Process: Submission of portfolio work and an artist’s statement.

Each scholarship comes with its unique requirements; some focus on the financial need while others highlight merit or specific talents. It's essential to closely examine eligibility criteria and prepare materials that reflect personal strengths and aspirations within the context of each program.

How to Apply for Gap Year Scholarships

Embarking on a gap year journey is an exhilarating adventure filled with opportunities for personal growth and exploration. As you start this journey, securing financial assistance should be a top priority. So, how do you apply for these golden tickets, known as gap year scholarships? Let's dive in.

1. Research and Identify Financial Aid Opportunities

Begin your quest for funding by researching available scholarships. Numerous organizations, foundations, and educational institutions offer scholarships specifically targeted toward high school seniors planning a gap year. Websites like Bold.org offer a platform where you can browse through various scholarships based on your eligibility and preferences.

Don't limit yourself to just gap year programs offering scholarships. Widen your search to include other organizations that promote cultural exchange, language learning, service projects, or internships.

2. Gather All Necessary Application Materials and Information

Once you've identified potential scholarships, start assembling your application materials. This typically includes:

• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal essays
• Proof of acceptance into a gap year program
• Financial information to demonstrate financial need

Remember, each scholarship has its unique requirements. It's crucial to collect all the necessary documents that align with each scholarship's specific criteria.

3. Carefully Review the Scholarship Requirements and Deadlines

As you prepare your application, pay close attention to the scholarship requirements. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.

Deadlines are equally important, as missing them could cost you the opportunity. Mark all relevant deadlines on your calendar or set reminders to ensure the timely submission of applications.

It's wise to submit applications ahead of the deadline, as some scholarships review applications on a rolling basis.

Following these steps will set you on the right path toward securing financial assistance for your gap year adventure. Remember, every bit of funding counts when it comes to making this life-changing experience more accessible and enriching.

Tips for Applying to Gap Year Scholarships

When you're applying for financial aid to support your gap year, having a strategic approach can make all the difference. It can be what sets your application apart from the rest. Here are some tips on how you can make your application stand out:

Prepare a Persuasive Scholarship Application

• Craft an Impactful Essay: Your essay is your chance to speak directly to the scholarship committee. Use it as an opportunity to share your story and explain how taking a gap year will help you grow as an individual and achieve your long-term goals.
• Secure Stellar Letters of Recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your character, accomplishments, and potential. Give them enough time to write a thoughtful letter and provide them with any necessary information about the scholarship.
• Showcase Your Plans: Clearly outline what you plan to do during your gap year. Whether it's volunteering, interning, or conducting research, explain how these activities will enhance your education and future career.

Apply for Multiple Scholarships

By applying to a variety of scholarships, you increase your chances of receiving financial assistance. Here's what you can do:

• Organize Your Efforts: Keep track of all the scholarships you're interested in using a spreadsheet or an app. Note down important details such as deadlines and requirements.
• Tailor Each Application: Avoid using the same generic application for every scholarship. Instead, take the time to personalize each one based on the specific criteria and values of the scholarship.

Stand Out from Other College Students

To make yourself memorable and unique among other applicants:

• Come up with an Original Project Proposal: If it's relevant to your gap year plans, propose a project that shows creativity, initiative, and dedication. This could be starting a community initiative or conducting independent research.
• Emphasize Your Learning Goals: Clearly state what you hope to learn or achieve during your gap year and how it relates to your future academic or career aspirations.

By putting effort into every aspect of your scholarship application and presenting a comprehensive view of your intentions for the gap year, you present yourself as more than just another candidate. Instead, you come across as someone with a clear vision and purpose. This approach makes it easier for scholarship committees to understand why investing in your future is worthwhile.