[Page 2] The 240 Best Merit-Based Scholarships in September 2026

This scholarship honors Deena Collins by supporting female-identifying high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in Kansas or Nebraska with a 3.0+ GPA who are pursuing healthcare (including mental health) careers, with preference for those planning to practice in rural areas.

This scholarship supports Puerto Rican heritage, first-generation-college-bound high school seniors pursuing a two- or four-year degree in social work, psychology, sociology, political science, international relations, or criminal justice.

This scholarship seeks to support and uplift Black girls who demonstrate academic promise, leadership potential, and financial need as they pursue education and career pathways in S.T.E.A.M.

This scholarship supports undergraduate students majoring in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies who hold at least a 3.0 GPA, encouraging them to pursue their diverse interests while serving their communities.

This scholarship supports Maryland and Virginia undergraduates with at least a 3.2 GPA who have lost a parent, guardian, or caregiver to cancer and are pursuing a service-oriented career.

This scholarship seeks to honor the life and lasting impact of Equan Bedenfield by supporting students who share her ambition.

This scholarship honors the memory of Bre Hoy by supporting high school seniors and undergraduate students with a 3.2+ GPA who play softball.

This scholarship aims to honor the life of Dr. Shuqiao by supporting students who are pursuing their ambitions in psychology and psychiatry.

This scholarship supports undergraduate juniors and seniors at four-year colleges with a minimum 3.75 GPA who plan to attend law school and pursue a career in the legal field.

This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Brian Chellios by supporting the next generation of brave fire service workers.

This scholarship seeks to support BIPOC high school seniors and undergraduate students pursuing careers in public education with preference given to first-generation college students and male applicants.

This scholarship supports low-income California high school seniors with a 2.5+ GPA who are pursuing careers in the arts, music, design, or performing arts.

This scholarship aims to encourage the next generation to combat bullying and to protect children and teens on the internet.

This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Michelle (Burris) Fishburn by supporting students who share her passion for giving back to the global world.

This scholarship aims to support students who are pursuing studies in science in order to advance the field.

This scholarship will honor an exceptional man's legacy by assisting a student who exhibits similar strengths and resilience.

This scholarship supports Jefferson High School seniors in Boulder, Montana, who have played volleyball for four or more years as they transition to college.

This scholarship supports determined students who want to be at the forefront of aeronautics or aerospace and need additional financial assistance to achieve their goals.

This scholarship supports high school seniors, undergraduates, or trade school students with a 3.0+ GPA who were raised in a single-parent or blended-family home.

This scholarship aims to honor the life of Scarlet Croft by supporting students who are preparing to graduate from high school and pursue their college goals.

This scholarship aims to uplift young Black men as they pursue higher education and forge their path in STEM.

This scholarship aims to support college-bound students as they prepare to complete their high school journeys.

This scholarship honors Kira Jennings by supporting graduating seniors at Center High School in Antelope, California who are actively involved in community service and school activities.

The Jamie Anderson Scholarship aims to support and encourage young individuals who, like Jamie, have a desire to pursue a career in social work despite facing difficult circumstances.

This scholarship seeks to honor students whose determination, resilience, and dedication inspire others.

This scholarship will support college students looking to better the social-emotional wellbeing of gifted children.

This scholarship seeks to honor the memory and incredible legacy of Kalia D. Davis by supporting students who share her work ethic, kindness, and drive.

In memory of Evan James Vaillancourt, an Army Combat Medic, this scholarship supports high school seniors with a 3.5+ GPA pursuing a nursing degree who have community service or volunteering experience.

This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Kenneth G. Tanner by making college more affordable and accessible so aspiring students can fulfill their dreams.

This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Glenda I. Tanner, who believed that everyone should have the chance to attend college.