Scholarships for Teachers

Teachers play a vital role in our society. They are responsible for educating and shaping the next generation of leaders. However, teaching can be a demanding and underpaid profession. For this reason, many teachers struggle to afford the cost of education.

Fortunately, there are a number of scholarships and grants available to teachers. These scholarships and grants can help teachers to pay for their tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

1. Teaching-Specific Scholarships

Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing a career in education. These scholarships are often available at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Here’s a list of some teaching-specific scholarships that are commonly available, although availability may vary by region and time. Be sure to check the specific eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship:

• The TEACH Grant Program
• The National Board Certification Scholarships
• Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program
• The American Montessori Society Scholarships
• Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program
• The PDK Educational Foundation Scholarships

2. Subject-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships are geared toward teachers who plan to specialize in certain subjects or grade levels, such as mathematics, science, special education, or early childhood education. Here is a list of subject-specific scholarships for teachers:

• Mathematics Education Scholarships
• Science Education Scholarships
• English and Language Arts Education Scholarships
• Special Education Scholarships
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Scholarships
• History and Social Studies Education Scholarships
• Foreign Language Education Scholarships
• Arts Education Scholarships
• Early Childhood Education Scholarships
• STEM Research Grants for Teachers

3. Minority and Diversity Scholarships

Various scholarships are designed to promote diversity in the teaching profession. These may be available to minority students or those from underrepresented backgrounds. Here are some minority and diversity scholarships for teachers:

• American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) Holmes Scholars Program
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) Scholarships for Educators
• National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) Scholarships
• American Indian College Fund Scholarships
• Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Teacher Quality and Retention Program
• American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA) Diversity Scholarship
• The White-Riley-Peterson Policy Fellowship
• National Association for Multicultural Education (NAME) Scholarships
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Prospective Teacher NCTM Annual Conference Travel Grants
• National Black Council of School Board Members (NBCSBM) Scholarships
• National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) Scholarships
• Association of American Educators (AAE) Classroom Grant Program
• AFT Robert G. Porter Scholars Program
• National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Early Career Educator of Color Leadership Award
• National Education Association (NEA) Human and Civil Rights Awards and Scholarships

4. Graduate and Master’s Degree Scholarships

Teachers seeking advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Education, may find scholarships dedicated to supporting their graduate studies. Here is a list of scholarships specifically for graduate and master’s degree students who are teachers or aspiring educators:

• TEACH Grant Program
• The Jack Kinnaman Memorial Scholarship
• The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Fellowships
• National Board Certification Scholarships
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Grants and Scholarships
• The Knowles Teacher Initiative Fellowship
• Pi Lambda Theta Graduate Scholarships
• James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation
• National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
• Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program
• The P.E.O. Scholar Awards
• American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA) Graduate Scholarship
• American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) Holmes Scholars Program
• Association of American Educators (AAE) Foundation Scholarship
• The National Art Education Association (NAEA) Ruth Halvorsen Professional Development Scholarship

5. Teacher Certification Scholarships

Aspiring teachers often need financial assistance to cover the costs associated with teacher certification programs. Scholarships can help offset these expenses. Here is a list of teacher certification scholarships:

• The TEACH Grant
• American Montessori Society (AMS) Teacher Education Scholarships
• The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) Holmes Scholars Program
• The National Board Certification Scholarships
• The Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship
• North Carolina Teaching Fellows Program
• New York City Teaching Fellows Program
• The Troops to Teachers Program
• Arkansas Teacher Opportunity Program
• The Teach NYC Scholarship Program
• The Indiana Minority Teacher Scholarship
• Oklahoma Future Teachers Scholarship Program
• Tennessee Minority Teaching Fellows Program
• West Virginia Underwood-Smith Teacher Scholarship Program
• The Arizona Teachers Academy

6. Professional Development Scholarships

Some scholarships support teachers in pursuing continuing education and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge. These scholarships can cover the costs of workshops, conferences, courses, certifications, and other professional development opportunities. Here is a list of professional development scholarships for teachers:

• The National Education Association (NEA) Foundation Grants
• Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms Program
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Professional Development Scholarships
• National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Awards and Scholarships
• The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Professional Learning Scholarships
• International Literacy Association (ILA) Awards and Grants
• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Professional Development Scholarships
• American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Professional Development Scholarships
• National Art Education Association (NAEA) Professional Development Grants and Scholarships
• The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Scholarships and Grants
• National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Scholarships
• The Society for Science & the Public STEM Research Grants
• Toyota International Teacher Program
• The National Geographic Society’s Grosvenor Teacher Fellow Program
• American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) Awards and Scholarships
• American Mathematical Society (AMS) Mathematics Programs Travel Grants
• The American Historical Association (AHA) Professional Development Scholarships
• The American Musicological Society (AMS) Travel and Research Grants

7. International Teaching Scholarships

Individuals interested in teaching abroad may find scholarships to assist with international teaching programs or certifications. Here’s a list of international teaching scholarships for teachers:

• Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program
• The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program
• The Peace Corps Master’s International Program
• Teach Away Scholarships
• Fulbright United States Student Program
• English Language Fellow Program
• English Opens Doors Program (EODP) Fellowship
• The International Educator (TIE) Scholarships
• The BridgeTEFL Scholarship Program
• The Teach Abroad Film Festival Scholarship
• WorldTeach Scholarship Fund
• The CIEE Teach Abroad Program
• The EPIK Program (English Program in Korea) Scholarships
• Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) Scholarships
• The International House World Organisation (IHWO) Scholarships
• TESOL International Association Awards and Grants

8. Online and Remote Teaching Scholarships

With the growth of online education, some scholarships support educators who want to specialize in teaching online or remote classes. These scholarships can cover the costs of courses, certifications, workshops, and other professional development opportunities related to virtual education. Here is a list of online and remote teaching scholarships for teachers:

• The Online Learning Consortium (OLC) Scholarships and Awards
• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Scholarships
• The Quality Matters Scholarships
• The eLearning Guild Scholarships
• University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) Scholarships
• National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Scholarships
• Association of American Educators (AAE) Foundation Scholarship
• Virtual Education Journal (VEJ) Scholarships
• The Coursera for Campus Scholarship
• The edX Scholarships for Educators
• American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AAACE) Scholarships
• The Online Schools Center Online Learning Scholarship
• The Teach Away Scholarship Program
• WGU Excellence in Online Teaching Scholarship
• The American Council on Education (ACE) Scholarships
• The University of California, Irvine (UCI) Division of Continuing Education Scholarships

9. Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

Student loan forgiveness programs for teachers are designed to help educators manage and reduce their student loan debt. These programs typically require teachers to work in low-income schools, high-need subjects, or specific geographic areas. Here is a list of some student loan forgiveness programs for teachers:

• Teacher Loan Forgiveness (TLF)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Perkins Loan Teacher Cancellation
• Federal Teacher Cancellation for Federal Stafford Loans
• State Loan Forgiveness Programs
• Indian Health Service Loan Repayment Program
• Military Service Loan Forgiveness
• TEACH Grant Conversion to Unsubsidized Loan
• Specialized Loan Forgiveness Programs
• Local and School District Forgiveness Programs
• Educator Loan Forgiveness Programs in Other Countries

10. Teaching Abroad Scholarships

Teaching abroad scholarships provide opportunities for educators to gain international teaching experience and broaden their horizons. These scholarships are typically designed for teachers who wish to teach in foreign countries. Here’s a list of teaching abroad scholarships for teachers:

• Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program
• Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program
• The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program
• The Peace Corps Master’s International Program
• Teach and Learn in Korea (TaLK) Program
• English Opens Doors Program (EODP) Fellowship
• Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF)
• Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) Teach Abroad Scholarships
• EPIK Program (English Program in Korea) Scholarships
• The WorldTeach Scholarship Fund
• The Cultural Vistas Fellowship
• China Educational Association of International Exchange (CEAIE) Program
• Japan America Society of Chicago (JASC) Teacher Exchange Program
• The American English Program (AEON) Scholarships
• The English First (EF) Teach Abroad Program

Please note that the availability and criteria for these scholarships for teachers may change over time, so it’s quite important to visit the respective websites of these organizations and institutions for the most up-to-date information on scholarship opportunities and application requirements. Additionally, consider researching specific teaching programs in your desired destination country, as many countries offer their own teaching opportunities and support for foreign educators.

Who is Eligible for Teachers Scholarships

Requirements for scholarships for teachers can vary widely depending on the specific scholarship program and the organization or institution offering it.

However, there are some common requirements and criteria that many teacher scholarships share. Here are some typical requirements you might encounter when applying for scholarships for teachers:

1. Teaching Status

Most teacher scholarships are designed for individuals who are already certified or licensed teachers, or those who are pursuing teacher certification or licensure. Some scholarships may be open to both current teachers and aspiring teachers.

2. Level of Education

Scholarships may be available to undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, depending on the program. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria for the specific scholarship.

3. Academic Achievement

Many scholarships require applicants to have a minimum GPA or academic achievement level. The required GPA can vary from program to program.

4. Field of Study

Some scholarships are specific to certain subject areas or grade levels, such as mathematics, science, special education, or early childhood education.

5. Financial Need

Some scholarships are need-based and require applicants to demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other financial documentation.

6. School or Location

Scholarships may be tied to a particular school, college, university, or geographic area. They may also be specific to public, private, or charter schools.

7. Years of Service

Certain teacher loan forgiveness programs and scholarships require recipients to commit to a certain number of years of service in low-income schools or high-need subjects.

8. Teaching Experience

Some scholarships may require applicants to have a minimum number of years of teaching experience or to demonstrate a commitment to the teaching profession.

9. Recommendations

Applicants may need to submit letters of recommendation from colleagues, supervisors, or professors who can speak to their qualifications and dedication as educators.

10. Essays or Personal Statements

Many scholarships require applicants to write essays or personal statements that explain their educational and career goals, their commitment to teaching, and why they deserve the scholarship.

11. Extracurricular Activities

Some scholarships take into account an applicant’s involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or community service.

12. Certifications

Scholarships for specialized areas like ESL (English as a Second Language) or bilingual education may require applicants to hold relevant certifications.

13. Interviews or Auditions

In some cases, applicants may need to participate in interviews or auditions as part of the scholarship selection process.

14. Citizenship or Residency

Some scholarships may be open only to U.S. citizens or residents, while others may be available to international students.

15. Application Deadlines

Be aware of scholarship application deadlines, as missing these dates can disqualify you from consideration.

In order to find teacher scholarships that match your qualifications and needs, it’s essential to research various scholarship opportunities and carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each one.

Additionally, reach out to your school’s financial aid office, local education associations, and relevant professional organizations for information on scholarships that may be available to you.

Application Procedure for Teachers Scholarships

Applying for scholarships for teachers involves a series of steps, and the specific process can vary depending on the scholarship program. However, here’s a general guide on how to apply for teacher scholarships:

1. Research Scholarship Opportunities

Start by researching available scholarships. Look for scholarships that align with your qualifications, field of study, teaching level, and career goals. Make use of scholarship search engines, education association websites, university financial aid offices, and professional organizations in the field of education to identify potential opportunities.

2. Read Eligibility Criteria

Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you’re interested in. Ensure you meet all the requirements, including academic qualifications, teaching experience, and other specific criteria.

3. Organize Application Materials

Gather the necessary application materials, which may include:

• Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all educational institutions attended.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A comprehensive document highlighting your educational and professional background.
• Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from teachers, professors, supervisors, or colleagues who can speak to your qualifications and commitment to teaching.
• Essays or Personal Statements: Prepare essays or personal statements that address the scholarship’s specific prompts, outlining your career goals, teaching philosophy, and why you’re a deserving candidate.
• Financial Documentation: If the scholarship is need-based, provide financial documentation, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other relevant financial information.
• Proof of Certification: If applicable, provide proof of teacher certification or licensure.
• Citizenship or Residency Documentation: Some scholarships may require proof of citizenship or residency status.
• Any other materials specified in the scholarship application.

4. Meet Application Deadlines

Note the application deadlines for each scholarship and make sure to submit your application materials well in advance. Late applications are typically not accepted.

5. Complete the Application Form

Fill out the scholarship application form accurately and completely. This may involve providing personal information, academic history, and details about your teaching experience.

6. Write Compelling Essays

Craft well-written essays or personal statements that address the scholarship’s essay prompts. Clearly communicate your passion for teaching, your educational and career goals, and why you are an ideal candidate for the scholarship.

7. Secure Letters of Recommendation

Request letters of recommendation from your chosen referees early in the application process. Provide them with the scholarship’s guidelines and deadline for submission.

8. Proofread and Edit

Thoroughly proofread and edit all application materials, including essays, your resume or CV, and any other written documents. Errors can negatively impact your application.

9. Submit the Application

Follow the scholarship program’s submission instructions, which may include submitting your application online through a scholarship portal or mailing a physical application package.

10. Keep Copies

Make copies or save digital versions of your application materials for your records.

11. Follow Up

After submitting your application, follow up with the scholarship provider if you don’t receive confirmation or acknowledgment of your submission. Ensure that all your materials have been received and are complete.

12. Prepare for Interviews or Auditions (if applicable)

Some scholarships may require interviews or auditions as part of the selection process. If you’re selected for this stage, prepare accordingly.

13. Wait for Notifications

Scholarship providers typically have a selection committee that reviews applications and selects recipients. Be patient and wait for notifications regarding the results of your application.

14. Accept or Decline Offers

If you’re awarded a scholarship, carefully review the terms and conditions. Decide whether to accept or decline the offer and follow the provided instructions for acceptance.

15. Thank the Scholarship Provider

Express gratitude to the scholarship provider by sending a thank-you note or email. This helps maintain a positive relationship and may be required as part of scholarship terms.

Remember that each scholarship program may have specific requirements and deadlines, so it’s crucial to closely follow the instructions provided by the scholarship provider. Additionally, it’s a good practice to start your scholarship search and application process well in advance to ensure you have ample time to gather materials and meet deadlines.

Conclusion

The available scholarships for teachers serve as a valuable means of recognizing and supporting the dedication and commitment of educators in their pursuit of excellence in the classroom. These scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden of education but also provide opportunities for professional development, career advancement, and the enhancement of teaching skills. They play a crucial role in fostering a skilled and passionate teaching workforce, ultimately benefiting students and the education system as a whole.

Aspiring and experienced teachers alike should explore the wide range of scholarships available to them, from those that support teacher certification and graduate education to specialized awards for teacher leaders, minority educators, and those interested in teaching abroad. The application process may require careful planning, including meeting eligibility criteria, organizing application materials, and adhering to deadlines. However, the potential rewards are significant, as scholarships can open doors to expanded horizons, new experiences, and increased effectiveness in the classroom.

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, scholarships for teachers continue to evolve as well, adapting to the changing needs and challenges faced by educators. Aspiring and current teachers are encouraged to seek out these opportunities, invest in their professional growth, and pursue their passion for teaching with the support of scholarships that recognize the vital role they play in shaping the future of our students and society as a whole.