If you’re hunting for ways to pay for college, there are countless scholarships available. We’ve already covered many of them, but here we focused on the oddball and offbeat options that often slip under the radar. What we found were some pretty… distinctive opportunities you may have overlooked during standard searches.
Some of these awards reward creative thinking, some target incredibly specific — sometimes bizarre — categories, and others are just downright strange. All are worth a look.
So if you’re trying to pad your tuition fund, browse these 100 weird scholarships — they’re quirky, unexpected and often ultra-specific.
Creative Scholarships
Academic smarts aren’t the only ticket — show off your imagination for these cash awards.
1. Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship
Design the best survival plan if a zombie outbreak strikes your high school or college and you could snag $2,000.
Deadline: October 31, 2015
2. Duck Brand Duct Tape “Stuck at Prom” Scholarship Contest
Create a prom outfit (solo or with a partner) made entirely from duct tape for a shot at $500 to $5,000. Entries are judged on “workmanship, originality, use of colors, accessories” and, naturally, the use of Duck Brand duct tape.
Deadline: Annually on May 23
3. Make It With Wool Competition
Sew a garment from 100% wool or a wool blend and pose with it in a photo for a chance to advance to the national round, where scholarship awards typically range from $1,000 to $2,000. (There’s a $12 entry fee.)
No deadline is listed on the site. For details, mail inquiries with a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
National Make It With Wool Competition Mary Roediger PO Box 123 Albany, OH 45710 740-591-5149 [email protected]
4. Beans for Brains Scholarship
Knitting aficionados: Jimmy Beans Wool awards five annual scholarships of $3,200 each to deserving knitters.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for next year’s window.
5. Wholesale Halloween Costumes Scholarship
Several times yearly, WholesaleHalloweenCostumes.com runs a $500 scholarship contest centered on a creative brief. The current challenge — making a meme from a product image on their site — closed August 12, 2015.
Deadline: Varies (check monthly for new contests).
6. Ursinus College Creative Writing Award
Win a $32,000 scholarship renewable all four years and live in JD Salinger’s former dorm room for your freshman year. Winners typically show a Holden Caulfield-esque “it” factor — an offbeat perspective, quirky brilliance and a voice that defies conventional measurement.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for future deadlines.
7. David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship
The late-night comedian funded this award at Ball State University for students showing notable creativity in a telecommunications project (film, audio, video, graphics, etc.). Grades don’t factor in. First place earns $10,000, second $5,000 and third $3,333.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for next year.
8. Fifth Month Scholarship
Claim $1,500 by composing a letter addressed to the numeral five. Yes, really — a letter to the number five.
This year’s deadline has passed; check for future opportunities.
9. Flavor of the Month Scholarship
Explain which ice cream flavor you’d be and why for a shot at $1,500.
Deadline: July 31, 2015
10. Superpower Scholarship
Win $2,500 by answering: “Which superhero or villain would you switch places with for a day and why?”
Deadline: March 31, 2016
11. Make Me Laugh Scholarship
If you’re a natural comedian with a funny anecdote (true or fabricated), you might win $1,500. The entry that makes the sponsor laugh the hardest takes the prize.
Deadline: August 31, 2015
12. I Have a Dream Scholarship
From strange nocturnal visions to aspirations for the future — write the best essay on any dream and you could pocket $1,500.
Deadline: January 31, 2016
13. Sweet and Simple Scholarship
This essay contest asks you to describe a seemingly small gift or gesture that made a lasting impression. The winner receives $1,500.
Deadline: February 29, 2016
14. Shout It Out Scholarship
Answer the prompt: “If you could address the entire world at once, what would you say and why?” in 250 words or fewer for a chance at $1,500.
Deadline: September 30, 2015
15. Junior Duck Stamp Program
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s art contest awards scholarships from $200 to $1,000 for duck stamp designs that meet strict criteria: ducks must appear in natural habitats, feather coloring must reflect the season shown, and the species must be on their eligible list. (Don’t even think about drawing a mute swan!)
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for next year’s dates.
16. Jif’s Most Creative Sandwich Contest
Looking to start your child’s college fund early? Kids ages 6–12 who create the most inventive sandwich using Jif peanut butter could win a $25,000 college account (runners-up get $2,500 each).
This year’s deadline has passed; check for future contests.
17. 10 Things You Love About You Scholarship
Tired of listing activities and GPAs? Instead, write a top-10 list of what makes you awesome. There are no restrictions on content — get creative and boast a little.
Deadline: March 31, 2016
18. Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship
Think you can outwrite or out-design Hallmark? Submit your best greeting card art (hand-drawn, photo, or digital) for a chance at $10,000 for you and $1,000 for your school.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back next year.
19. Savinly’s “Frugal Student Contest”
Savinly offers a $2,000 scholarship to the student who writes the best essay about a clever or unusual way they’ve saved or earned extra money. Tell us your money-saving or income-boosting story!
Deadline: December 31, 2015
Demographically Based Scholarships
Sometimes, you can get money simply for having particular characteristics.
20. Little People of America Scholarships
This nonprofit supporting individuals with dwarfism offers scholarships typically ranging from $250 to $1,000+ for members diagnosed with dwarfism and their families. Preference goes to LPA members, though non-members with dwarfism may qualify as well.
Deadline: Annually on April 22
21. Talls International Club Scholarship
If you’re “vertically endowed” and a TCI member, you can apply for a $1,000 scholarship. Applicants must be at least 5’10” for females or 6’2” for males, under 19, and entering their first year of college.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for updates.
22. C.A.T.S. Tall Club Scholarship
Tall graduating seniors in the Phoenix metro area may be eligible for a $250 award from the Central Arizona Tall Society. See your high school guidance office for application details and deadlines.
23. Scholarships for Twins and Multiples
Many institutions and organizations provide awards specifically for twins and other multiples, whether they attend the same school or separate ones. Two helpful lists are available here and here.
24. Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Left-Handed Scholarship
Sophomores, juniors and seniors at Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA can compete for $1,000–$1,500 awards if they demonstrate academic achievement, financial need and that they are left-handed.
Deadline isn’t listed on the school site. Contact John Wall at [email protected] or (814) 641-3132 for more details.
25. ScholarshipRed
High school juniors or seniors who are natural redheads (or strawberry blondes) can win $500 by submitting childhood and current photos along with a creative piece about what being redheaded means to them.
This year’s deadline has passed; check for future years.
26. Respshop College Scholarship
If you or a loved one has a sleep disorder, you can win $1,500 (plus four $500 runner-up awards) for an essay describing how the disorder affects daily life and/or how CPAP therapy has helped.
Deadline: January 31, 2016
Hobby- and Interest-Related Scholarships
Turn that quirky hobby into cold, hard cash.
27. STARFLEET Academy Scholarships
Trekkies take note: STARFLEET (the International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc.) awards $1,000 scholarships across five areas: engineering; medical/veterinary; business/language/education; arts; and miscellaneous.
Deadline: Annually in June
28. Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship
High school seniors who actively promote vegetarianism in their communities can receive $5,000 to $10,000. Judges look for compassion, courage and commitment to promoting peace through a vegetarian lifestyle.
Deadline: February 20, 2016
29. National Beef Ambassador Program
The NBAP grooms youth to be advocates for beef. Students ages 16–20 can compete in a national public speaking contest; Senior Division winners may receive $1,000 for first place, $750 for second and $500 for third.
The event takes place September 25–26, 2015 in Denver, CO. Contact your local CattleWomen’s association or the NBAP Manager at 303-850-3440 or [email protected] for more info.
30. AANR Foundation Scholarship
If you have ties to the American Association for Nude Recreation (or have had an AANR “experience”), you may apply for a roughly $1,000 scholarship. Recipients may be eligible for renewal.
Deadline: Annually on May 31
31. ARRL Foundation Scholarships
Holders of amateur radio licenses have many scholarship opportunities available. See the full listing here.
32. Student Services Rodeo Scholarship
One of several rodeo-related scholarships at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX. Award amounts vary — see this page for details.
33. MSU Rodeo Club Scholarships
Michigan State Rodeo Club members can claim awards ranging from $250 to amounts that cover travel, lodging and tuition depending on their role with the club.
Deadlines vary by scholarship.
34. San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo Scholarship
Participants who are Texas residents planning to attend a Texas college or vocational school are eligible for $1,000 in renewable aid.
Deadline: Annually on April 1
35. Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Scholarships
For those in the Texas ranching scene: a variety of awards are available, totaling between $9,000 (over two years) and $18,000 (over four years) depending on the scholarship.
Deadlines vary by award.
36. United States Bowling Congress Earl Anthony Memorial Scholarship
Each year, five USBC Youth members have a shot at $5,000 apiece from this scholarship honoring pro bowler Earl Anthony.
Deadline: December 1, 2015
37. Billy Weilu Scholarship
This award grants $1,000 to an amateur bowler who pairs notable bowling talent with academic excellence.
Deadline: Annually on June 15
38. USA Boxing Scholarships
Active USA Boxing athletes can choose from several scholarships, including the Gene Rabbitt Scholarship (for female boxers) and the Michael Nunnally Scholarship (for those pursuing education degrees). Amounts aren’t always listed on the site.
Deadline: Annually on July 15
39. Easton/NFAA Scholarship
If archery caught your fancy (thank you, Katniss), NFAA or NAA/USA Archery members could earn anything from $100 up to $20,000 in scholarships.
Deadline: Annually on December 31
40. United States Chess Federation Scholarships
Schools in several states offer scholarships for strong chess players. See the full list here.
41. National Marbles Tournament Scholarships
Young competitors (ages 8–14) who become “King and Queen of Marbles” each receive $2,000; the best sportsmanship boy and girl each get $1,000.
The 2015 tournament has concluded; check back for the 2016 schedule.
42. Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship
Working as a caddie can pay off big time. Sponsored by the Western Golf Association, this scholarship covers full tuition plus room and board, ideally at one of the 14 universities with an Evans Scholarship Chapter House.
Deadline: September 30, 2015
43. Chick and Sophie Marie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest
High school seniors able to produce an authentic duck call can compete for $2,000 (first), $1,000 (second), $750 (third) or $500 (fourth). Quack!
Deadline: November 28, 2015
44. Harness Tracks of America Scholarship Fund
If you’re involved in harness racing (the driver rides in a small cart behind the horse), you or a parent involved in the sport could be eligible for $1,500 to $5,000 in aid.
Deadline: July 10, 2015
45. American Quarter Horse Association Scholarship
Youth AQHA members can apply for many different scholarships — check this list, where awards range from $500 to as much as $35,000.
Deadline: Annually on December 1
46. Pokemon World Championship Scholarship
Your parents might regret telling you to stop playing — competing at the Pokemon World Championship (August 21–23, 2015 in Boston, MA) could put you in contention for a share of $500,000 in scholarships.
Qualify by participating in tournaments listed here.
Industry- or Career-Specific Scholarships
If you or your family are involved in a specific industry, specialized awards may be available.
47. National Potato Council Scholarship
Graduate students conducting research benefiting the potato industry can receive $10,000 to support their work.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for next year.
48. Asparagus Club Scholarship
Full-time college juniors, seniors and grad students pursuing grocery industry-related degrees can win one of ten awards providing $2,000 per semester for up to four consecutive semesters.
Deadline: Annually on April 30
49. Michigan Llama Association Scholarship
MLA members (or those who join) may qualify for one of two $1,000 scholarships, renewable up to three times. Alpaca enthusiasts can often join the MLA as well.
Deadline: Annually on May 1
50. Sheep Heritage Foundation Memorial Scholarship
Graduate students doing sheep and/or wool research (animal science, ag econ, veterinary medicine, etc.) can receive $2,500 toward their studies.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back later.
51. National Dairy Shrine Scholarships
If cows are more your thing, NDS provides a variety of scholarships from $1,000 to $3,000 for students majoring in dairy or related agricultural fields.
Annual application window: March 1 to April 15
52. Berrien Fragos Thorn Arts Scholarship for Migrant Farmworkers
Migrant farmworkers (age 16+) with artistic aspirations — visual art, poetry, crafts, etc. — can apply for grants up to $2,500. Enrollment in school is not required.
Deadline: Annually on June 1 and November 1
53. American Society for Enology and Viticulture Scholarship
Aspiring winemakers and vineyard managers can apply for ASEV scholarships; award amounts vary by year.
Deadline: Annually on March 1
54. Parapsychological Association Research Endowment
For students studying psi phenomena (telepathy, clairvoyance, psychokinesis, etc.), this endowment offers grants typically between $2,000 and $5,000.
This year’s deadline has passed; check for the next cycle.
55. Eileen J. Garrett Scholarship
This award grants $3,000 to undergrad or grad students researching topics like telepathy, near-death experiences or reincarnation.
Deadline: Annually on July 15
56. The Gilbert Roller Fund Parapsychological Phenomena Research Scholarship
Interested in large-scale spooky phenomena? This fund backs studies into macroscopic psychokinetic events (sitter-groups, séances, poltergeist activity) and theoretical approaches to explain such effects. One or more awards may be given annually, with total grants not exceeding $10,000. Recipients receive 90% of funds upfront and 10% upon reporting results.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for updates.
57. Marian Madison Gypsy Lore Society Young Scholar’s Prize in Romani Studies
If you can produce a publishable scholarly paper on Romani topics suitable for the journal Romani Studies, you could win $500 and publication.
Deadline: October 30, 2015
58. Mycology Society of America
If your research centers on fungi, the MSA offers multiple awards. See the full listing here.
Deadlines vary by award.
59. Rolex Scholarship
Not for watches — this scholarship supports students pursuing careers related to underwater disciplines (diving, research, tourism, photography, etc.). Awards are regionally given, with the North American grant worth $25,000.
Deadline: December 31, 2015
60. Robert J. Marriott Scholarship
If fishery management is your calling, the International Federation of Fly Fishers offers $500 scholarships. Nominations are required.
Deadline for nominations: Annually on April 1
61. Union Internationale de la Marionnette – USA Scholarship
UNIMA-USA provides $1,000 for members to study with a recognized puppetry professional or attend an international puppetry festival outside the U.S.
Deadline: December 1, 2015
62. Southeastern Turfgrass Conference Scholarship
Sophomores studying turf management at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, GA may be eligible for scholarship support. Contact ABAC at 1-800-733-3653 for specifics; the site doesn’t list amounts or exact deadlines.
63. Concrete Industry Management Scholarships
Prospective Middle Tennessee State University CIM students can apply for numerous scholarships. See this page for details and deadlines.
64. American Welding Society Scholarships
AWS offers several scholarships for students pursuing welding careers. Visit their opportunities page for deadlines and requirements.
65. American Fence Association Scholarships
If you or your parents work in the fence, deck, railing or perimeter security industry, the AFA offers funds and awards based on annual funding availability.
This year’s deadline has passed; check for next year’s announcement.
66. Northern Tier Hardwood Association Scholarship
Two $500 scholarships are available to students majoring in forest management or related fields who’ve lived in certain Pennsylvania counties — a very specific but worthwhile opportunity.
Deadline: June 1, 2015
67. National Opera Association Scholarly Paper Competition
Submit an essay (up to 3,000 words) on an operatic topic — history, criticism, stagecraft, costuming, etc. — for a chance at $500.
Deadline: October 1, 2015
68. National Gay Pilots Association Scholarships
Private pilot certificate holders who actively support the LGBT community (regardless of personal orientation) may qualify for awards ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 for exceptional candidates.
This year’s deadline has passed; check back for updates.
69. Ludo Frevel Crystallography Scholarship Award
Graduate students conducting promising crystallography research can receive $2,500 to support their studies.
Deadline: Annually on October 21
70. Society of Vacuum Coa
(Article truncated in the original source; check organization sites for the remainder of the list and additional niche scholarship options.)
