Social Work Scholarships

Alice M. Yarnold and Samuel Yarnold Scholarship Trust

Amount: $1,000 to $5,000

State Restriction: Open to residents in New Hampshire.

Description: The Alice M. Yarnold and Samuel Yarnold Scholarship Trust provides need-based scholarships to New Hampshire residents pursuing degrees in nursing, medicine, or social work at accredited colleges and universities. Awards typically range from a few thousand dollars and can be renewed at the committee’s discretion. Selection is based on financial need, academic potential, and a demonstrated commitment to serving others. Applicants submit a written application, transcripts, and letters of recommendation to the Trust’s board for consideration.

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Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $4,000

Description: The Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship is awarded by the NASW Foundation to MSW students who demonstrate a strong commitment to working with American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino communities, or with underserved and underrepresented populations more broadly. Awards are typically up to $4,000 for one academic year and are open to NASW members enrolled in a CSWE-accredited master’s program in social work. Selection is based on academic achievement, community service, leadership potential, and professional goals aligned with social and economic justice.

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Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund

Amount: Up to $15,000

Description: The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund supports students who are actively involved in peace and social justice movements. Scholarships are need-based and may be awarded up to the mid–five figures over multiple years, depending on available funds and the recipient’s financial situation. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in an accredited degree program and show ongoing participation in progressive social change work on campus or in their communities. Renewal is possible for students who continue both their studies and activism.

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Ima Hogg Scholarships

Amount: $5,000

State Restrictions: Texas-based graduate schools of social work are invited to recommend a student only.

Description: The Ima Hogg Scholarships support graduate social work students in Texas who are preparing for careers in mental health services. Awards are typically $5,000 and are made to students nominated by faculty from accredited social work programs in the state. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, leadership, and a clear commitment to improving mental health outcomes in Texas communities. Funds may be used toward tuition, fees, and educational expenses.

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Jane B. Aron Doctoral Fellowship

Amount: Varies $17,900

Description: The Jane B. Aron Doctoral Fellowship, offered through the NASW Foundation, supports doctoral social work students whose dissertations focus on health care policy and practice, including health services, health equity, and related systems. The fellowship provides a stipend to help cover tuition, research, and living expenses during the dissertation phase. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited doctoral program in social work and demonstrate outstanding academic performance, a strong research plan, and potential to shape policy and practice in health-related social work.

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National Association of Junior Auxiliaries, Inc. Graduate Scholarship Program

Amount: Various

Description: The NAJA Graduate Scholarship is offered to graduate students preparing for careers that focus on children, youth, and families, including social work, counseling, and related fields. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and residents of one of the states where Junior Auxiliary or NAJA chapters are located (primarily in the South). Awards are granted on the basis of financial need, academic achievement, and a demonstrated commitment to serving children. Funds may be renewed if the student maintains satisfactory progress in an eligible graduate program.

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The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF)

Amount: $2,500 – $12,000

Description: The National Italian American Foundation awards scholarships annually to U.S. students of Italian American heritage pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of majors, including social work and human services. Awards typically range from $2,500 to $12,000 and are based on academic achievement, community service, and financial need. Some scholarships have specific regional, field-of-study, or sponsor criteria. Applicants submit a single NIAF application and are matched with appropriate scholarship opportunities.

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Patty Gibbs-Wahlberg Scholarship

Amount: $1,000, $2,000 and $3,000

Description: The Patty Gibbs-Wahlberg Scholarship is available to members of Phi Alpha, the national social work honor society. Each year, $1,000, $2,000, and $3,000 awards are given to outstanding BSW students, with the top recipient often receiving funding to attend a national social work conference. Criteria include Phi Alpha membership, strong academic performance, leadership in the classroom and community, and clear dedication to social work values and ethics. Applicants are typically nominated or endorsed by their chapter advisor.

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The Point Foundation

Amount: Varies

Description: Point Foundation provides scholarships, mentoring, and leadership development for LGBTQ+ students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees at accredited institutions in the U.S. Award amounts vary and may include tuition support, living stipends, and access to a robust support network. Applicants are evaluated on academic achievement, financial need, and a demonstrated record of leadership and advocacy within LGBTQ+ communities. Recipients commit to ongoing leadership and community engagement during and after their studies.

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The Roothbert Fund – Fellowship

Amount: Average $5,000-$7,000

Description: Roothbert Fund Fellowships offer modest, need-based support—often in the $5,000–$7,000 range—to students “motivated by spiritual values” who are pursuing full-time study at accredited institutions. The fellowships are open to undergraduates and graduate students in any field, including social work, and can be used for tuition and educational expenses. Selection emphasizes character, ethical commitment, and clarity of purpose more than grades or test scores. Personal interviews are held in selected cities for finalists.

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Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Leadership Grant

Amount: $4,000 — $25,000

Description: The Sons of Italy Foundation and the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America award scholarships to Italian American students each year, with some programs open to students of any background studying Italian language or culture. Awards typically range from a few thousand dollars up to $25,000, depending on the scholarship and sponsor. Selection is based on academic performance, community involvement, and, where applicable, financial need and Italian heritage. National scholarships are complemented by additional awards offered through local lodges.

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The Kosciuszko Foundation

Amount: $1,000 — $7,000

Description: The Kosciuszko Foundation offers tuition scholarships to U.S. citizens and permanent residents of Polish descent, and to students pursuing Polish studies, who are enrolled full-time in accredited colleges and universities. Awards typically range from $1,000 to $7,000 and may be applied to tuition and fees for undergraduate or graduate study. Selection is based on academic merit, involvement in Polish-American community life, and financial need. Applicants submit transcripts, recommendations, and an essay outlining their academic and career goals.

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The Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship (NASW Foundation)

Amount: Up to $5,500

Description: The Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship supports MSW students who are committed to health or mental health practice and to serving African American communities. Administered by the NASW Foundation, the scholarship provides financial assistance—often up to several thousand dollars—for students in CSWE-accredited MSW programs who are also NASW members. Selection emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to health equity and culturally responsive practice.

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Native Forward Scholars Fund (formerly American Indian Graduate Center)

Amount: Varies

Description: Native Forward Scholars Fund (formerly the American Indian Graduate Center) offers a broad portfolio of scholarships and fellowships for American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate and graduate students. Awards vary in amount and may be renewable, often covering significant portions of tuition and related expenses. Eligible students must be enrolled members or descendants of federally or state-recognized tribes and attend accredited institutions. Native Forward’s programs support students in many disciplines, including social work, with an emphasis on leadership and community service.

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Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund

Amount: $500 each

Description: The Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund awards two $500 book scholarships each year to BSW and MSW students who demonstrate a strong commitment to social and economic justice. Applicants must be enrolled in a CSWE-accredited program and show leadership in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in social work education or practice. Selection is based on academic performance, a personal statement, and faculty recommendations. Funds are intended to help offset the cost of required course materials.

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Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)

Amount: $500-$5,000

Description: The Hispanic Scholarship Fund provides merit-based scholarships to Hispanic/Latino students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in any field, including social work. Awards typically range up to $5,000, depending on student need, available funding, and academic performance. Eligibility includes U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or DACA status; Hispanic heritage; and a strong academic record (minimum GPA requirements vary by educational level). HSF Scholars also gain access to mentoring, career workshops, and networking opportunities.

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Indian Health Services – Health Professionals Program

Amount: Varies

Description: The IHS Health Professions Scholarship Program provides full or partial scholarships to American Indian/Alaska Native students pursuing degrees in a wide range of health-related professions, including many behavioral health and clinical social work programs. In exchange, recipients commit to a period of service at IHS, Tribal, or Urban Indian health programs after graduation. Scholarships typically cover tuition, required fees, and a monthly stipend. Selection is based on academic performance, financial need, and a demonstrated commitment to serving Native communities.

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Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship

Amount: Up to $2,000

Description: The Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship is administered by the NAACP in partnership with the POISE Foundation to support NAACP members under the age of 25 who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate study. Awards are generally around $2,000 and may be used for tuition and related expenses. Selection criteria include NAACP membership, academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement. The scholarship is open to students in any discipline, including social work and human services.

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National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW)

Amount: Various

Description: The National Association of Black Social Workers offers multiple scholarships, such as the Joyce Beckett, Selena Danette Brown, and Cenie Jomo Williams awards, to Black undergraduate and graduate social work students. Applicants must be active NABSW members and demonstrate a commitment to the organization’s mission of enhancing the quality of life and empowering people of African ancestry. Awards may be applied to tuition, books, and educational expenses. Selection emphasizes academic performance, leadership, and service to Black communities.

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National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers (NAPRHSW)

Amount: Varies

Description: The National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers provides scholarships to MSW students who are preparing to serve Puerto Rican and broader Hispanic/Latino communities. Applicants are typically full-time graduate social work students with a record of community service, advocacy, and academic excellence. Selection is based on GPA, financial need, and alignment with the organization’s mission to promote social justice and culturally competent practice. Funds may be used for tuition, books, and professional development.

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Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance (ONNSFA) – Graduate Award

Amount: $2,500 – $5,000

Description: ONNSFA administers scholarships for enrolled members of the Navajo Nation pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees, including MSW and related programs. Graduate awards often range from approximately $2,500 to $5,000 per term, depending on funding levels and the student’s enrollment status. Students must meet citizenship, residency, and academic progress requirements and submit applications by the posted spring and fall deadlines. Funding can be applied toward tuition, fees, and other approved educational expenses.

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The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

Amount: Up to $90,000 over two years

Description: The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships support New Americans—immigrants and the children of immigrants—pursuing full-time graduate study in the United States, including social work, public policy, law, and related fields. Each fellowship provides up to $90,000 in combined tuition support and a living stipend over two years. Selection is highly competitive and based on academic achievement, creativity, leadership, and a commitment to contributions that enrich American life. Applicants must meet specific immigration or parental immigration criteria.

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William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students

Description: The William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship, offered through the Aspen Institute’s Philanthropy and Social Innovation program, supports underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students of color interested in philanthropy, social innovation, and nonprofit work. Fellows receive a stipend for a semester-long internship in Washington, DC, where they contribute to research, writing, and programmatic work. Selection criteria include academic strength, writing ability, and a demonstrated interest in social justice, philanthropy, or public service.

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Post-9/11 GI Bill

Amount: Varies

Description: The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides comprehensive education benefits to eligible veterans, service members, and, in some cases, their dependents. Benefits may include coverage of tuition and fees (up to an annual cap for private schools), a monthly housing allowance, and a books and supplies stipend for study at approved institutions, including BSW and MSW programs. The level of benefit depends on qualifying active-duty service. Prospective students should use the VA’s GI Bill Comparison Tool to estimate their specific benefits and eligible institutions.

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Yellow Ribbon Program

Amount: Varies

Description: The Yellow Ribbon Program is a supplement to the Post-9/11 GI Bill that helps cover tuition and fees above the GI Bill cap at participating colleges and universities. Under this program, schools voluntarily contribute a set amount toward remaining tuition; the VA matches that contribution. To qualify, students must generally be at the 100% eligibility level under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Availability and award amounts vary by institution and program, so students should check with their school’s veterans’ affairs office.

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Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB)

Amount: Varies

Description: The Montgomery GI Bill provides a monthly education benefit to eligible active duty (MGIB-AD) and Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) service members for study at approved institutions. Students may use MGIB benefits for undergraduate, graduate, and vocational programs, including social work degrees. Benefit rates are set by Congress and change regularly; the actual amount depends on service history, enrollment status, and other factors. Students can review current rates and eligibility on the VA’s website.

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Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

Amount: Varies

Description: VEAP is an older, contribution-based education benefit available to certain veterans who entered active duty between 1977 and 1985 and contributed to the program while serving. The government matches the veteran’s contributions at a specified rate, creating an education fund that can be used for college, vocational programs, or other approved training. Because eligibility is limited to a specific era of service, VEAP now applies to a relatively small group of veterans. Interested students should confirm eligibility and remaining entitlement with the VA.

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Survivors and Dependents Assistance (DEA)

Amount: Varies

Description: DEA (Chapter 35) provides up to 45 months of education benefits to eligible spouses and dependent children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition, or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected condition. Benefits may be used for degrees, certificate programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training, including social work and counseling programs. Recipients receive a monthly stipend to help cover education and training costs.

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Tuition Assistance Top-Up 

Amount: Varies

Description: Tuition Assistance Top-Up allows eligible active-duty service members to use their GI Bill benefits to cover tuition and fees that exceed what is paid by the Department of Defense’s Tuition Assistance (TA) program. Top-Up can be used at approved institutions, including those offering social work degrees. However, months of entitlement used under Top-Up are deducted from the service member’s overall GI Bill benefits, so students should plan carefully and consult an education counselor to decide when to use this option.

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American Association of University Women (AAUW)

Amount: Varies

Description: AAUW offers a suite of grant and fellowship programs that support women pursuing graduate and professional education, including social work and public health. Programs include American Fellowships, Career Development Grants, and International Fellowships, distributing millions of dollars in funding annually. Awards may be used for tuition, living expenses, research, and completion of dissertations. Eligibility and award amounts vary by program, but all emphasize academic excellence and a commitment to advancing equity for women and girls.

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Juliette Derricotte Scholarship (Delta Sigma Theta)

Amount: $1,500 — $2,000

Description: The Juliette Derricotte Scholarship is one of several educational awards offered by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a historically Black sorority committed to public service. The scholarship honors the legacy of Juliette Derricotte, an educator and activist, and supports undergraduate or graduate members pursuing degrees that align with the sorority’s mission, including social work. Award amounts vary from year to year; applicants should consult Delta Sigma Theta’s national scholarship information for current details, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

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Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation Scholarship

Amount: Varies (most scholarships are for $3,000 for one year)

Description: The Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation provides scholarships to initiated members of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and involvement in campus and community life. Most scholarships are around $3,000 and may be used for undergraduate or graduate study in any field, including social work. Applicants complete a centralized application, and awards are matched to recipients based on specific criteria set by each endowed fund.

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Pi Gamma Mu Scholarship

Amount: $1,000 – $2,000

Description: Pi Gamma Mu, the international honor society in social sciences, awards several graduate scholarships—now often at $2,500 each—to members beginning their first year of graduate study in fields such as social work, sociology, political science, and related disciplines. Applicants must be active members with a strong academic record and must be accepted into an appropriate graduate program. Selection is based on academic achievement, recommendations, and a statement of goals. Funds are intended to help offset tuition and required educational costs.

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Omega Psi Phi – George E. Meares Memorial Scholarship

Amount: Up to $5,000

Description: The George E. Meares Memorial scholarship is awarded to full-time graduate or professional students in social work, social sciences or criminal justice. All students in the U.S. are eligible to apply; but application must come from Chapter nomination.

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Bill Raskob Foundation Educational Loan Program

Amount: Varies

Description: The Bill Raskob Foundation offers interest-free educational loans to U.S. citizens pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees at accredited institutions. Loans may cover tuition and other educational expenses and are repaid after graduation according to an agreed schedule. The program prioritizes students with financial need and solid academic performance. Social work students, including those in BSW, MSW, and doctoral programs, are eligible to apply.

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National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment Program

Amount: Varies

Description: The National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program helps licensed health professionals—including Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) in eligible behavioral health roles—repay qualifying student loans. In exchange for a service commitment at approved high-need sites, participants may receive tens of thousands of dollars in loan repayment, with options for full-time or half-time service and for continuing beyond the initial contract. Eligible practice sites include community health centers, rural clinics, and other safety-net organizations serving underserved populations.

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Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Amount: Varies

Description: PSLF offers federal loan forgiveness to borrowers who make 120 qualifying payments on Direct Loans while working full-time for an eligible public service employer, such as government agencies, public schools, or many nonprofit social service organizations. After meeting all requirements, any remaining qualifying loan balance may be forgiven tax-free under current law. PSLF rules and guidance have evolved in recent years, so social workers should rely on the official PSLF Help Tool at Federal Student Aid and confirm that their loans, employer, and repayment plan all qualify.

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Find social work scholarships specific to your state by clicking on your states name below:

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