Grants & Scholarships

Jump-start your college experience directly after graduation! The ‘Ahead of the Curve – Summer 2026 New High School Graduate Scholarship’ is for new 2026 high school graduates starting at ArtU in Summer 2026 immediately after graduating from high school. This scholarship will be applied to Fall 2026 tuition and fees at the Academy if all conditions of the scholarship are met. Transitioning directly from high school to college can help maintain academic momentum, and starting college immediately also allows students to potentially complete their education sooner.

Eligibility

• Must be a Spring 2026 high school graduate, starting classes at ArtU in Summer 2026 (start date: June 15^th, 2026)
• Meets the university’s admission requirements:
  • Completion of a Career Planning Session with an Undergraduate Admissions Specialist
  • Submission of an Official high school transcript
  • Must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program (AA/AAS/BA/BARCH/BS) and take at least six units.

Award Amount

• Scholarship is a one-time award of $3,000, given in the Fall 2026 semester.
• Must be enrolled in at least six units for the Fall 2026 semester.
• AND must have passed all six units in the Summer 2026.

Application Process

• Scholarship will automatically be applied once the student has met all the admissions requirements
  • Completion of the CPS
  • Official high school transcript received by the Office of the Registrar
• AND once the student completes their six units in Summer 2026 with passing grades.

ArtU has scholarship opportunities for international students based on academic merit, need, and portfolio submissions, up to $5,000 per semester.

Apply Now

For more information on our Military Scholarship click here

ROTC provides eligible full-time undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to earn a college scholarship while taking ROTC courses.

Mission

• To recruit, educate, train, and inspire ROTC Cadets in order to commission officers of character for the Total Army.

Information

Eligible Academy of Art University students may qualify for:

• Full or partial scholarship towards tuition
• Yearly book stipend up to $1,200 per year
• Monthly Stipend of $420

Take Action

Contact Admissions at Admissions@academyart.edu or 1-800-544-2787 for an introduction to the ROTC recruiter.

The Alumni Tuition Benefit supports all returning Academy alumni with a 20% tuition benefit off all courses and or additional degrees/certificates.

Award Information

• This 20% tuition benefit is for the recipient only and not redeemable for cash. It may only be applied toward tuition expenses.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

• Applicant must have previously completed an undergraduate degree, graduate degree, Certificate, or Award of Completion at Academy of Art University
• Completion of a retro-awarded associate degrees also qualifies a student for the alumni tuition benefit, for all future courses.

Additional Information

Contact your Admissions Specialist at 800-544-2787 or 415-274-2200.

SHARPEN YOUR SKILLS AND BUILD NEW ONES

The Art Educators Studio Program offers art educators one TUITION-FREE art and design class to enhance existing skills, teach new skills, and give art educators an opportunity to master the most up-to-date software artists use.

TUITION-FREE FREEDOM TO EXPLORE

The Academy’s program offers a one-time full tuition grant* for a maximum of one undergraduate or graduate class in either the Spring, Summer, or Fall semester; each class is worth three units.

Art Educators may choose from the entire catalog of classes that do not have a prerequisite course listed.**

*Grant recipients are responsible for supplementary costs and fees, including a $50 administration fee, and any lab, materials, or other fees associated with individual classes, along with dorm costs if recipient chooses to live in Academy of Art University dorms.
**For interest in a class that does have a prerequisite, it may be possible to have the requirement waived. Please speak with an Academy counselor to determine qualification.

THREE UNIQUE WAYS TO STUDY AT THE ACADEMY

• Study on campus in beautiful San Francisco.
• Study online, asynchronously from anywhere in the country.
• Join live classes through Zoom.

ENROLL TODAY

Applying is easy. Download the application by clicking the link below. Scan a copy of your Teaching Credential Certificate or a letter from your supervisor or mentor describing your role in the school as an art teacher. Then, email both (as .pdf or .jpg attachments) to grantprograms@academyart.edu

• Get the Art Educators Studio Program Application
• View Eligible Courses

Academy of Art University offers scholarships to qualified students who are transferring to the Academy from other accredited institutions.

Eligibility

To qualify for an Academy Transfer Scholarship, you must meet all of the following criteria:

• Must have attended another college or university, and have completed at least 1 semester at a United States based college or university (i.e. NOT Academy of Art University)
• Meet the Academy’s admission requirements for Undergraduate or Graduate programs:
  • Completion of a Career Planning Session (CPS) with an Undergraduate Admissions Specialist
  • Submission of an official high school transcript or official GED
  • Submission of an official college transcript
• Must enroll in a degree-seeking program, be continuously enrolled every Fall and Spring semester, and take at least six units per semester

Award Amount

Transfer scholarships from the Academy are available up to a maximum amount of $10,000 USD. The award is divided evenly across eight semesters ($1,250/ per semester). The student must take at least six units each semester.

Application Process

Scholarship will be applied once you have met all of the admissions requirements:

• Completion of the CPS
• Official high school transcript/GED received
• Official college transcript has been received by the Office of the Registrar
• Transfer Scholarship Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by you and returned to your Admissions Specialist

Apply Now

Empower Your Education with a Cal Grant

Your college journey deserves more than ambition, it deserves support. California’s Cal Grant Program opens doors for students with financial need and academic promise, helping cover tuition, fees, and living expenses so you can focus on your goals.

Awards are based on financial need, GPA, and program type, ensuring that every hardworking student has a fair opportunity to succeed. Students must be enrolled in minimum of six credits for consideration.

You must be a California resident for one year prior to applying for the Cal Grant.

Cal Grant A – Supporting Academic Excellence

The Cal Grant A helps low- to middle-income students who demonstrate strong academic performance and financial need.

How It Works:

• For low- to middle-income students who meet CSAC’s income and asset ceilings
• Minimum GPA: 3.00 (High School Entitlement) or 2.40 (Community College Transfer Entitlement)
• For academic programs that are 2–4 years in length

Best for students planning to attend a four-year college or university and focus on degree completion.

Cal Grant B – Building Opportunity and Access

The Cal Grant B provides vital support for low-income and disadvantaged students, helping you start strong and stay on track through graduation.

How it Works:

• For low-income students who meet CSAC’s income and asset ceilings
• Minimum GPA: 2.00
• For programs at least one year in length
• First year Only: Includes an Access Award for books and living expenses

Best for students beginning their journey at a community college or those needing both tuition and living expense support

Take the Next Step

Please visit the Cal Grant website for more information. If you attended an out-of-state high school and are now a resident of the state of California and wish to be considered for a Cal Grant award, please complete the Cal Grant GPA Verification Form and submit it to the Office of the Registrar (registrar@academyart.edu) before the application-filing deadline of March 2.

Because when you rise, so does California.

Aaliyah Lee Scholarship

Application Deadline: November 30, 2026
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: Aaliyah Lee Scholarship

Details: This scholarship honors the memory of Aaliyah Lee who committed herself to the educational opportunities of her children. Essays may be a maximum of 150 words.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be currently enrolled or plan to be enrolled part-time or full-time in an accredited U.S. college or university. Vocational/technical, two-year, four-year, or graduate institutions are eligible.
• Be a high school junior or senior, undergraduate student, or graduate student
• Have a grade point average of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 system
• Recipients must provide an official transcript confirming their reported GPA and proof of enrollment. No transcript or proof of enrollment is required until after students are selected as winners.

L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of The Future Contest

Application Deadline: December 31, 2026
Award Amount(s): $5,000
Website: L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of The Future Contest – Scholarships.com

Details: A historic and influential contest in the fields of science fiction and fantasy art. Open to new science fiction and fantasy artists worldwide. Entries are evaluated by industry masters. Entrants do not need to pay an entry fee, and they retain all publication rights.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Themes of science fiction and fantasy illustrations
• Open to entrants from all nations

The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline: January 14, 2027
Award Amount(s): $28,000
Website: The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

Details: The Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF) provides a multi-faceted experience designed to not only address the financial needs of students who aspire to attend college but to guide them through the process of higher education and career discernment.  It provides a generous four-year scholarships and comprehensive support services to highly motivated college students with financial needs to ensure their success and further develop their leadership potential.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a US citizen
• Be a graduating high school senior
• Submit evidence of financial need
• Demonstrate leadership potential and a dedication to community service
• Plan to attend an accredited and approved 4-year college/university within the United States or affiliated with a U.S. based college or university
• Have not accrued more than 25% of credits needed to graduate from college

Dave Cross Design Arts Scholarship

Application Deadline: January 15, 2027
Award Amount(s): $500
Website: Dave Cross Design Arts Scholarship | Bold.org

Details: Tell us why you’re passionate about design or photography, what type of project excites you, and how you plan to take advantage of digital design tools (400-600 Words). Additionally, link your portfolio.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Undergraduate student
• Pursuing a degree in Graphic Design, Media Arts, Digital Design, or Photography
• Must Submit a portfolio

I Have a Dream Scholarship

Application Deadline: January 31,2027
Award Amount(s): $1,500
Website: I Have a Dream Scholarship Details – Apply Now | Unigo

Details: The “We want to know… what do you dream about? Whether it’s some bizarre dream you had last week, or your hopes for the future, share your dreams with us for a chance to win $1,500 for college.” (250 words or less)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Legal U.S. Resident of one of the 50 United States
• At least 14 years of age and enrolled in a post secondary education institution.

The John F. and Anna Lee Stacey Scholarship Fund

Application Deadline: February 1, 2027
Award Amount(s): $500 to $5,000
Website: The John F. and Anna Lee Stacey Scholarship Fund

Details: The purpose of the Scholarship, in accordance with the clear stipulation of the Stacey’s will, is to foster high standard in the study of form, color, drawing, painting, design, and technique, as these are expressed in modes showing patent affinity with the classical tradition.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Open to United States citizens, both men and women, single or married, irrespective of race, creed, or color. The age limit is between 18 and 35 years.
• Only those devoted to classical or conservative tradition should apply.
• The online application will ask the applicant to outline their ambitions and plans as well as submit no more than 6 examples of their paintings/drawings
  • Painting from life
  • Drawing from the figure (nude)
  • Composition
  • Landscape
  • Any other examples of your work which you think advisable

Wendy Alders Cartland Visual Arts Scholarship

Application Deadline: February 3, 2027
Award Amount(s): $5,000
Website: Wendy Alders Cartland Visual Arts Scholarship | Bold.org

Details: Wendy is passionate about providing children from under-resourced communities with opportunities to participate in the visual arts. Due to societal barriers, low-income students continue to have limited access to the careers of their dreams as a lack of family support, local programs, and school resources stand in their way.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Low Income Student
• Undergraduate or Graduate Student majoring in Visual Arts
• Has non-profit, volunteering, or work experience involving the visual arts

Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant

Application Deadline: February 12, 2027
Award Amount(s): $3,000 annually (up to 5 years)
Website: Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant – Jeannette Rankin

Details: Continuing Jeannette Rankin’s commitment to creating better futures for American women, our Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant provides unrestricted nontuition funding and support to women students across the country. National Scholar Grant recipients are age 35 or older, demonstrate financial need, self-identify and present as women, and are pursuing a technical or vocational education, a first associate’s degree or a first bachelor’s degree at an accredited nonprofit U.S. institution. Scholar Grants are up to $3,000 annually, distributed directly to recipients and are renewable for up to five years.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age 35 years old or older
• African American Women
• First associate or bachelor’s degree

The LAGRANT Foundation – 2027 Graduate Scholarship

Application Deadline: February 15,2027
Award Amount(s): $3,750
Website: The LAGRANT Foundation – 2027 Graduate Scholarship Application

Details: This scholarship is awarded to students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree who meet the below criteria and completing the online application.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or DACA recipient.
• Must be a full-time student at a four-year, accredited institution in the U.S., carrying a total of 9 units or more per semester/quarter
• Must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA
• Must major in a field of study that has an emphasis in advertising, marketing, public relations
• MUST have a MINIMUM OF TWO ACADEMIC SEMESTERS or ONE-YEAR left to complete his/her Master’s degree from the time the scholarship is awarded in Spring 2027. Summer semesters DO NOT count.
• Recipients MUST be available to participate in the scholarship activities in April 2027. If chosen, the applicant MUST attend TLF’s scholarship activities as noted at top of page to receive the scholarship. The applicant must make a one-year commitment to maintain contact with TLF to receive professional guidance and academic support.

The LAGRANT Foundation – 2027 Undergraduate Scholarship

Application Deadline: February 15,2027
Award Amount(s): $2,500
Website: The LAGRANT Foundation – 2027 Undergraduate Scholarship Application

Details: This scholarship is awarded to students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree who meet the below criteria and completing the online application.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or DACA recipient.
• Must be a full-time student at a four-year, accredited institution in the U.S., carrying a total of 12 units or more per semester/quarter
• Must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA
• Must major in a field of study that has an emphasis in advertising, marketing, public relations
• Must have AT LEAST ONE YEAR to complete his/her degree from the time the scholarships are awarded in April 2027
• Recipients MUST be available to participate in the scholarship activities in April 2027. If chosen, the applicant MUST attend TLF’s scholarship activities as noted at top of page to receive the scholarship. The applicant must make a one-year commitment to maintain contact with TLF to receive professional guidance and academic support.

The IFDA Educational Foundation

Application Deadline: March 1, 2027 to March 31, 2027
Award Amount(s): $1,500 to $6,000
Website: The IFDA Educational Foundation

Details: The IFDA Educational Foundation fosters educational and philanthropic activities that strengthen the furnishings and design industries — funding scholarships, professional grants and leadership programs, every single year. Awards 10 scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students in interior design and related programs — from $1,500 to $6,000.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants need not be U.S. citizens, but must attend school in the U.S. All applications must be in English.
• Funds are paid directly to the recipient’s school, earmarked for tuition (see each scholarship for exceptions).
• Read each scholarship’s full criteria and requirements — the committee will not review incomplete or late applications.

The Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest

Application Deadline: March 8, 2027
Award Amount(s): $10,000
Website: The Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest

Details: This scholarship is open to all high school, college and university students enrolled during the time period of the contest in an academic program designed to conclude with the awarding of a diploma or a degree.

Eligibility Requirements:

• This contest is open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia, as well as American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. International students who have a student visa to attend school in the United States are considered legal residents and eligible.
• Applicants must be 14 years old of age or older at the time of entry, unless prohibited by law. Participation in the Contest constitutes applicant’s full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance of these Official Rules.
• Be a high school junior or senior, undergraduate student, or graduate student
• One application allowed per person.
• Scholarship will be paid directly to the institution so far as is necessary to complete payment of the Winner’s tuition, fees, and books and supplies expenses.

Your Story Film Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 31, 2027
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: Your Story Film Scholarship

Details: Every good story starts with someone willing to chase it. The Your Story Film Scholarship backs the students who are doing exactly that.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Canadian or US citizens
• Working towards a degree in film, video production, or a related field
• GPA 2.5+
• At least 1 semester left

“Creativity Takes Courage” Scholarship for Art Students

Application Deadline: April 15, 2027
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: ”Creativity Takes Courage” Scholarship for Art Students – Scholarships360

Details: The French artist Henri Matisse once said, “another word for creativity is courage.” Releasing art into the world involves overcoming fear and self-doubt. Even the most successful artists grapple with questions like “am I good enough?” or “will people like this?” If you’re a creative student who has ever struggled with these questions, we encourage you to apply for this scholarship!

Eligibility Requirements:

• Students studying visual or performing arts, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Photography
• Write an essay about the importance of courage when it comes to not only being creative, but sharing that creativity with others.
• Financial Need
• S Citizens/Permanent Residents
• All Grade Levels

All About Education Scholarship

Application Deadline: April 30, 2027
Award Amount(s): $3,000
Website: All About Education Scholarship Details – Apply Now | Unigo

Details: It’s often been said that “education is the key to success.” What doors could your educational “key” open? It’s not cheap to get a college degree, and many college-bound students see a shut door for education. We’re here to help open it again.

Eligibility Requirements:

• All Grade levels – 14 yrs ad older
• U.S. Resident
• Write an essay of 250 words or less on how this scholarship would make a difference in your life.

The Domaine Scholarship Program

Application Deadline: May 1st (Fall)/December 1st (Spring)
Award Amount(s): $2,000
Website: The Domaine Scholarship Program

Details: The Domaine Scholarship Program seeks to reward and support one student per semester who is actively pursuing an undergraduate degree in exchange for a thoughtful research and perspective piece on the buying patterns of the next generation of consumers.

Through this scholarship program, we are looking to tap into the fresh perspectives and insights of today’s college and university students. As a leading Shopify agency, we want to understand this generation’s shopping behaviors and preferences as we design and develop the ecommerce shopping experiences of the future, rewarding one innovative mind per semester with a $2,000 scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Open to all undergraduate students regardless of major.
• Must be current, full-time students at accredited two-year or four-year U.S. universities or colleges.
• Students should not be entering their first semester as a Freshman or their last semester as a Senior.

All Star Verified Scholarship

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: All Star Verified Scholarship

Details: This is a merit-based scholarship and financial need is not considered. We designed this scholarship to help students pay for college and it may be used to pay for tuition or any related fees such as room and board. The first prize is $1,000.

Eligibility Requirements:

• This scholarship is open to high school, college, graduate, or adult students and parents of high school and college students.

SuperMoney’s Financial Literacy Scholarship

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $500
Website: SuperMoney’s Financial Literacy Scholarship

Details: SuperMoney’s mission is to help everyone reach their financial goals. SuperMoney’s Financial Literacy Scholarship seeks to celebrate students who share our same mission.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled full-time in high school as a senior or be a part-time or full-time student in a college, graduate school, trade school, or coding bootcamp.
• Have an overall average GPA of at least 3.0
• Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.

Johnny Chen Media Content Writing Annual Scholarship Contest

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $600
Website: Johnny Chen Media Content Writing Annual Scholarship Contest

Details: Johnny Chen, with Johnny Chen Media, has built his successful SEO agency through education and determination. At Johnny Chen Media, we understand the value of investing in the future. That’s why we offer an annual scholarship to students who need financial support to further their education.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled in a college or university in the United States for the upcoming school year
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
• Application submissions are due by the last day of the month for each school semester

UncommonGoods Scholarships

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: UncommonGoods Scholarships

Details: We know it isn’t always easy when you’re just starting out in a creative field of study. So, we’re offering a scholarship to help hardworking student-artists out, because hey—you might be gracing our assortment with your work someday!

Eligibility Requirements

• We’re looking for undergraduate art or design majors at accredited universities.

ChooseWhat Scholarship

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: ChooseWhat Scholarship

Details: Have you ever earned money as a contractor or a small business owner? If so, this scholarship opportunity is for you.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Any undergraduate or graduate student currently enrolled in a degree program at any accredited American College, University or Trade School with self-employment experience may apply.

Edith Nourse Rogers Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Scholarship

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): Maximum of $30,000
Website: Edith Nourse Rogers Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Scholarship

Details: VA has launched the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship program for students training in high demand STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields. The Rogers STEM Scholarship will provide up to nine months of additional Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits (to a maximum of $30,000) to qualifying Veterans and Fry Scholars seeking an undergraduate STEM degree or who have earned a STEM degree and are seeking a teaching certification.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a Veteran or Fry Scholar enrolled in a STEM degree program and has completed at least 60 semester credit hours (or 90 quarter credit hours)
• Must be a Veteran or Fry Scholar who has earned a STEM degree and is now seeking a teaching certification

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site.

Nitro College Scholarship

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $5,000
Website: Nitro College Scholarship

Details: Nitro cares about providing you the resources you need to successfully navigate financing college. That’s why we’re offering you the opportunity to earn a $5,000 scholarship from Nitro. We know that college is a big step forward in achieving your goals and we want to help you get there using all the tools Nitro has to offer.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Open to all legal residents of the United States and the District of Columbia
• Students must be applying to or enrolled in an accredited college or university for the upcoming (2017-2018) school year

Roshan Rahbari Scholarship Fund

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $5,000
Website: Roshan Rahbari Scholarship Fund

Details: The Roshan Rahbari Scholarship Fund seeks to support outstanding community college students with financial need to transfer to and complete their bachelor’s degrees at four-year colleges and universities.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Current resident of California
• Current community college student transferring to a four-year college or university on a part-time or full-time basis
• Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0
• Demonstrated service to community or school
• Demonstrated financial need
• Character qualities such as integrity, compassion and generosity

The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $15,000
Website: The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant

Details: Available to emerging figurative artists with a representational style of painting, drawing, sculpture, or printmaking. Offers additional renewal awards to selected applicants.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must attend a university, a four-year college or a two-year college
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Restricted to individuals with the following interests: art

Blankstyle Scholarship

Application Deadline: Open/No Deadline
Award Amount(s): $1,000
Website: Blankstyle Scholarship

Details: At Blankstyle.com we realize the importance of education. Our employees range from artists to content writers, and from programmers to customer service representatives. The commonality with our team is great communication hinging on a solid foundation of education. We understand that in today’s economy, it is expensive and challenging to obtain a quality education. As we benefit from our educated team here at Blankstyle.com, so does the world in that education equates to a brighter future for all who seek it.

Eligibility Requirements:

• a high school senior that has been accepted to an accredited university or
• a current student enrolled in college courses