The rising costs of college have made paying for a college education difficult for many students. In order to pay for tuition, books, and other expenses, student need to thoroughly explore a variety of funding options. Scholarships are one of the best ways to obtain extra money for college. Virtually all schools offer some form of scholarship program, so always check with the financial aid or scholarship office at your university to learn what is available.
Students interested in psychology are often dismayed to find few scholarships targeted directly at psychology majors. However, with a little effort and investigation, you can uncover financial awards that are right for your needs. Searching free scholarship listing services is a great way to find funding opportunities, but there are also a few organizations that provide scholarships, awards, and research grants specifically aimed at psychology students.
The following sources are great places to begin your search for psychology scholarships:
1. FastWeb
If you need scholarships, this website is THE place to begin your search. Simply fill out a user profile to begin searching for the financial awards that are matched to your qualifications, skills, interests, and needs.
2. Psi Chi
Psi Chi, the National Honor Society in Psychology, offers research grants for both undergraduate and graduate students. Available awards include the Allyn & Bacon Publishers award ($1,000) and the Psi Chi/Erlbaum Awards in Cognitive Science ($500), as well as a number of research grants and regional chapter awards. You can learn more, download award guidelines, view lists of previous winners, and submit an application online by visiting the Psi Chi website.
3. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA maintains a list of possible funding sources for psychologists at all educational levels, from undergraduates to post-doctoral students. These opportunities include scholarships, research grants, work-study, and fellowships. You can view the listings by visiting the APA website linked above.
4. Your High School, College, or University
Psychology scholarships may also be available through your school. Check the scholarship board at your high school, college, or university to see if there are any specific awards for psychology majors. Remember to also look at other scholarships for which you may also be eligible.
