no essay grants

Top 20 No Essay Scholarships to Apply for in 2024

Introduction: No essay scholarships

Let's talk about no-essay scholarships. Whether you've been applying to scholarships for a while or you're completely new to the scholarship process, chances are, at some point you've felt tired, frustrated, or even fully on fed-up with writing all of those essays. Finding financial aid can be a lot of work - I feel you!

A smart strategy when applying for scholarships is to mix up the types of scholarships you're applying for. But what does this actually mean?

Well, if you're familiar with the world of scholarships, you've probably discovered that there are scholarships out there of all sorts, shapes, and sizes.

Some scholarships are for small amounts (think: anywhere from $100 to a few thousand dollars) while others go for larger amounts (sometimes even full-tuition!). Some scholarships have long lists of application requirements, while others only ask you to write a sentence, upload your transcript, or fill out a form.

So, when I say "mix up the types of scholarships you're applying for", I'm saying that it's important to consider things such as scholarship type (is there an essay required?), amount (generally, scholarships with  bigger awards  are harder to earn), and category (how specific does the scholarship get in terms of matching your unique profile?).

This post covers one specific type of scholarship that I'm sure you'll enjoy incorporating into your scholarship strategy: a no-essay scholarship!

Most of these no essay scholarships are open to high school , college , and  graduate  school students, be sure to get those easy applications in, and keep your toes crossed while you get to work on some of those other more labor-intensive opportunities.

*Pro-tip - While some of these no essay scholarships currently have specific deadlines, keep them bookmarked because they often renew monthly, quarterly, or yearly!

20 No essay scholarships to apply for ASAP!

Too cool to pay for school no essay scholarship.

Award Amount:  $1,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Quarterly (last day of the month in September, December, March, and June)

PS - this is one of no essay scholarships awarded by Access Scholarships (that's us!). It's open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students studying in the United States, and is an easy way to win $1,000. 

Niche $10,000 No Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:  $10,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Rolling

ScholarshipPoints No Essay $2,500 Monthly Scholarship

Amount : $2,500 

Deadline : Expires on the last day of each month

Eligibility: The ScholarshipPoints Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

Smart Owl No Essay $1,000 Scholarship

Amount : $1,000 (4 awards per month!)

Deadline : Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month

Eligibility: The Smart Owl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

Sallie Mae College Scholarship

Award Amount : $2,000

Scholarship Deadline : Monthly

Eligibility- Open to high school juniors & seniors and all college students

CollegeVine No Essay $2,000 Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,000

Scholarship Deadline:  December 31

Open to high school students of all years (must be a US resident).

Bold $25,000 Scholarship

Amount:  $25,000

Deadline:  Continuous

CollegExpress Monthly Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,500

Scholarship Deadline:  Last day of each month

Niche No Essay Scholarship

Scholarships360 $10,000 scholarship.

Scholarship Deadline:  Rolling 

Open to high school sophomores and juniors in the US. 

Appily Easy Money Scholarship

Around the corner from college scholarship.

Award Amount : $1,000

Scholarship Deadline : December 31, June 30

Open to all high school students, including students with DACA status and international students who are planning on attending a higher education institution in the US! 

Be Bold No-Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:  $25,000

Scholarship Deadline: Rolling

Christian Connector Scholarship

Eligibility:  Open to high school juniors and high school seniors who are interested in or planning to enroll in a Christian college or university.

Direct Textbook Photo Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:  $500

Discover Student Loans Scholarship Contest

Scholarship Deadline:  January 4

Lounge Lizard Web Design Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  February 27 and October 10

Create A Greeting Card Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  March 9

Frame My Future Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,000 each (5 awards)

Scholarship Deadline: March 15

ULoop Dorm Survey Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  June 30

Frequently asked questions about no essay scholarships

Are no essay scholarships legit.

No essay scholarships are 100% legit!

No essay scholarships are created to be more like contests or sweepstakes. Generally, all you have to do to be considered is enter some information on an application page and you're good to go. This is in contrast with other more labor-intensive scholarships, that require a greater amount of work and time commitment (think: essays, letters of recommendation, videos, interviews).

The fact that no essay scholarships don't require a whole lot of effort (they're definitely the easiest opportunities out there!) doesn't mean that they aren't just as real as other scholarships that do have more detailed eligibility and application requirements to apply. In fact, no essay scholarships can sometimes be just as competitive as full-ride scholarships , given the fact that so many students apply for these opportunities.

At the end of the day, each and every scholarship we feature in our database and in our blog posts aims to guide students in the direction of legitimate opportunities to help you navigate the journey of paying for college.

What are some common qualities of a no essay scholarship?

The most identifiable quality of a no essay scholarship is the fact that it doesn't require an essay! Rather than asking students to upload an essay on the application page, these scholarships generally will ask for the completion of a form, or for students to upload a photo, video, or other unique type of submission. The fact that these scholarships can often be completed much more quickly and easily than other scholarships is what makes them so great.

You'll also find that the majority of no essay scholarships are open to a wide variety of students, and they usually won't have any specific eligibility requirements such as only being open to students in certain majors or with a certain minimum GPA.

Who is eligible to apply for no essay scholarships?

When it comes to eligiblity, as I mentioned just above, no essay scholarships are usually open to a wide range of students. For example, a no essay scholarship might be open to students ages 13 and older in the US, or maybe it's open to all high school students in the US. These eligibility criteria are very generous and intended to give all (or nearly all) students who want to apply an opportunity to do so.

How difficult is it to win a no essay scholarship?

Because no essay scholarships are usually open to so many different types of students, along with the fact that they often require very little effort on the part of the student (and run more like sweepstakes than real in-depth scholarships), means that they are difficult to win, and the process is unpredictable.

Luckily, because these scholarships require so little time commitment to apply, not winning one of these types of scholarships doesn't necessarily indicate that you've wasted your time applying, since it likely didn't take that much time in the first place!

How can I increase my chances of winning no essay scholarships?

No essay scholarships are open to such a wide variety of students in terms of eligible areas of study, state residency, and year in school. This, in combination with the fact that the winners for these scholarships are generally always selected at random, means that increasing your chances of winning one of these scholarships is very, very difficult.

In the spirit of full-transparency: the only way that you can actually increase your chances of winning no essay scholarships is by applying for all of them and not missing any deadlines.

For example, take Tallo's monthly no essay scholarships . They pick at least 12 winners each year, usually at the end of each month. If you want to maximize your chances of winning one of Tallo's no essay scholarships, you should set a reminder to make sure that you apply for them every month, so that you don't miss out on an opportunity to win.

Most of the no essay scholarships I've come across are for small amounts, such as $1,000. Why is this the case?

Most no-essay scholarships are for small amounts (think: $500 - $2,000) because, in comparison to other scholarships that have lots of application requirements, no-essay scholarships tend to run more like contests.

Organizations love to give back to students in any and all ways possible, and they also like to try to make student's lives easier by offering easy scholarship opportunities.

However, from the perspective of private organizations, many of them would rather save their scholarships of higher amounts to be distributed through competitive opportunities where they can select students on the basis of merit, leadership, and other qualities. That's why you'll probably never come across a full-ride scholarship that doesn't require an essay or extra submission of some sort!

Where can I find more scholarships to apply for?

There are tons of resources and places out there that you can use to find "harder" scholarships to apply for to pair with your efforts in applying to the easy ones.

The first place I recommend you go is over to the Access Scholarship Search Engine or Blog, where you can find all types of scholarships based on criteria such as home state, area of study, ethnicity, and more.

After that, I recommend you also do some surfing of the web, as well as outreach to your guidance counselor or financial aid office to help you find local scholarships and even more nuanced opportunities.

Important tips and things to keep in mind with no essay scholarships

Tip #1: apply often..

Many of these scholarships run continuously on a monthly or quarterly basis.

Set a reminder for yourself to revisit these scholarships each month and reapply to give yourself the best chance at winning one!

Tip #2: Find ways to get a leg up.

Scholarships with no essays that have any sort of additional component (like an art or video submission) will tend to give you a "leg up" because they involve more than some luck.

Take full advantage of scholarships like these by putting your best foot forward with that extra submission!

Tip #3: Make no essay scholarships one piece of the puzzle.

Scholarships with no essays should be a key component of your scholarship application strategy because of how easy they are to apply for.

However, it's important to remember they should be balanced with other scholarships that have more specific and stringent requirements.

When you apply for essay-based scholarships, you're given the opportunity to tell the committee about you, who you are and why you should be selected for the opportunity. The winners for these scholarships, unlike their no-essay counterparts, are not chosen at random, so if you choose these scholarships carefully, apply for ones that are specific to your qualities, and write strong essays, you'll have the best chances of winning at the end of the day!

General tips for applying for all kinds of scholarships

Navigating the world of scholarships can be stressful and confusing to say the least. Follow these tips to make sure you’re covering all of your bases and giving yourself the greatest possible chance at success!

#1: Get yourself organized before you dive right in.

Just like with any other part of the college / financial aid process, organization is crucial to success when it comes to searching and applying for scholarships.

My top organization-related recommendation for students is to start by creating a readily-accessible folder on your computer where you can then create subfolders for your scholarship essays, transcripts, and other application materials. This is also the place where you’ll want to house your scholarship tracker , which will help you keep track of scholarships you find, upcoming deadlines, and your overall progress.

#2: Do your brainstorming.

You likely wouldn’t start an essay on the American Revolution without doing some initial brainstorming and planning first. The same rule should apply for when it’s time to search for scholarships.

Sit down with a pen and paper or a blank word document open, and start to bullet out a list of traits and things that you feel make up who you are as a person. These things should be both academic and personal. To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, here’s a sneak peek into what my own personal list might look like:

-I am from New Jersey

-I am a business student with an interest in marketing

-I like to play sports (tennis, basketball, etc)

-I hold leadership positions in my extracurriculars

-I identify as female

-I am a twin

-I am left-handed

-I enjoy doing crossword puzzles

-I go to college in Wisconsin

I could go on and on with this list, but I won’t bore you! What I’m trying to get at though is that creating a list like this to track your hobbies, academic pursuits, and other things that make up who you are can be incredibly helpful in allowing you to find scholarships that are highly specific to you.

PS - For some students, this may also fall under the initial organization step of the process, but ultimately it doesn’t matter when you do it as long as it gets done.

#3: Know where to look.

Knowing what types of scholarships you want to search for doesn’t really matter if you don’t know where to actually search for them! Here are a few ideas on where you can get started in searching for scholarships:

- Scholarship search engines like AccessScholarships.com, which allow you to search through thousands of scholarship opportunities all in one place

- Normal search engines , such as Google (the more specific you can be here, the better)

-Your school’s college prep, guidance, or financial aid page/website

- Social media (you can follow scholarship accounts and hashtags that might be relevant to help you discover local scholarships)

- Family, friends, teachers, coaches, and other people in your community who might know of local or community-based scholarships that you’re eligible for

#4: If a scholarship has an essay or additional type of submission, make sure you put your absolute best foot forward.

This is, in my opinion, the biggest key to help students see success in actually winning scholarships.

You can have a 4.0 GPA and solid letters of recommendation, but if you don’t also take the time to carefully craft, edit, and perfect the essay (or other additional submission), you’re missing out on giving the scholarship committee the opportunity to learn more about who you are as a person and why you’re a great fit to win the award.

#5: Keep those grades up.

Although this eligibility requirement can definitely vary, many scholarships require students to have at least a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA. Sometimes, the minimum requirement can be even higher, such as a 3.75/4.0.

While grades certainly aren’t the end-all-be-all, keeping your GPA up (as high as you possibly can!) will make sure that you are opening yourself up to as many opportunities as possible.

#6: Apply often.

Unfortunately, applying for scholarships is not a “one and done” process. To give yourself the highest chance at seeing success, you should apply for scholarships as often as you can, or whenever you come across an opportunity that you think is worth applying for.

Many students find it helpful to set specific goals in this area, like to apply for 3 scholarships each month. Ultimately, the goal you set should be one that is specific and realistic, based on all of the other things that you’re juggling!

#7: Ask for feedback along the way.

If you don't ever take the time to assess your weak spots, how can you possibly improve?

Asking for feedback throughout the scholarship process, whether it be from a committee, a teacher, or someone who is helping you along the way, is crucial to helping you grow and becoming a stronger applicant. 

Getting feedback is especially important when it comes to the scholarship essay piece of the puzzle. When we write and edit, we tend to overlook our own mistakes because we're so used to making them. Sometimes it takes an extra set of eyes on an essay to help lead you in the direction of success.

No-essay scholarships: To conclude...

To summarize, no-essay scholarships can be a great addition to any overall scholarship strategy for high school, college, and graduate students.

Since no-essay scholarships often operate on a monthly or quarterly basis, you can give yourself a better chance at winning these scholarships if you enter in every application period that you're eligible for.

Although no-essay scholarships usually aren't for large amounts, the process of entering to win is usually an easy one, so there's no harm in applying for these scholarships to round out your strategy and yes, give you a break from all those essays!

• Best Colleges
• Application Advice

• Scholarships

The 10 Best No Essay Scholarships

So many students have been there before. 

They filled out their application to the best of their abilities, they applied to every internal scholarship imaginable at their hopeful college, and they calculated their odds of winning certain awards ad nauseum. 

And then the acceptance letter comes in, and it’s cause for such a wonderful celebration. Getting into university is incredibly difficult, and you’ve done it. 

But then there’s the second letter—the financial aid award letter. And for so many students, that award just isn’t enough to keep a student from navigating debt for many years to come. 

Even for those students who can utilize internal, university-wide funding to mitigate their tuition costs, having external funding sources will always make a big difference in one’s attempts to finance their education. 

But there are a lot of scholarships out there. And many of them will provide wonderful opportunities, but in order to make the most of one’s scholarship hunt to ensure they will receive enough external aid to impact their tuition costs, they’ll need to apply for a lot of scholarships. 

School, work, and attempts to make the most of one’s teenage/early 20s can make the prospect of writing dozens of scholarship essays and answering a plethora of scholarship questions daunting. 

But there are scholarships out there that provide actual money, which one can apply to in mere minutes. And although the odds of winning such scholarships can be slim, it never hurts to cast as wide of a net as possible. 

And no-essay scholarships are a simple addition to one’s list of scholarship applications that increase one’s chances of receiving funding without increasing the number of hours one spends on the scholarship hunt. 

As such, this article will break down 10 of the best no-essay scholarships out there. 

In making this list, attention was given to the legitimacy of the scholarship organization, the amount of funding each scholarship provided, and the range of students who would be eligible to apply for the scholarship. 

In no particular order, here are the ten best no-essay scholarships that will make easy additions to your scholarship list. 

Big Future’s $40,000 Scholarship

Big Future is an organization that helps students with the step-by-step process of applying for college. 

Big Future is a service offered by the larger College Board website, a non-profit organization that seeks to aid students in their quest to both attend college and succeed while there. 

In order to apply for the $40,000 scholarship , students must make an account on the Big Future section of the College Board website and subsequently begin steps to plan for college. 

Completing steps to prepare for college on Big Future include making a list of potential colleges, preparing for a standardized test, applying for colleges, and more. 

Each year, roughly 25 winners are selected to receive the $40,000 scholarship. Winners’ profiles can be found here . 

“Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

Bold.org is a scholarship website that hosts a wide array of no-essay scholarships. Many of the no-essay scholarships on Bold.org are not available elsewhere and are centered around various themes (i.e. international travel, the arts, etc.). 

One of the largest of Bold.org’s many exclusive no-essay scholarships is their Be Bold , $25,050 scholarship. 

This scholarship is awarded annually to a Bold.org user, and previous winners can be found at the bottom of the scholarship’s page. 

In order to increase one’s likelihood of winning this scholarship, students attain “bold points,” which can be gained by watching advertisements, providing feedback to the website, or otherwise. 

Niche No-Essay Scholarship

Niche is a trusted source for all things college.

They provide rankings for the world’s best universities in a wide array of subject matter, they collect data on acceptance rates, and they are a hub of information for anything a student may need to know regarding their school of choice. 

And alongside this, they also aid students on their scholarship hunt. 

As part of this, they provide a $2,000 no-essay scholarship which is given to students on a monthly basis. 

In order to apply, students need only create an account on Niche.com via the scholarship application. 

Previous winners of the no-essay scholarship can be found on Niche’s website . 

Nitro College No-Essay Scholarship

Nitro has a remarkably easy no-essay scholarship.

In order to apply, students do not even need to make an account on Nitro’s website, but instead merely have to provide the school they hope to attend and their contact information, and they are set to apply. 

Each month, Nitro selects a winner of the $2,000 no-essay scholarship. Previous scholarship winners can be found at the bottom of the scholarship application page. 

Nitro is a website dedicated to helping students understand all things financial regarding the college experience. This includes information on scholarships, loans, and tools to help calculate one’s cost of college. 

CollegeXpress $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship

CollegeXpress hosts an annual no-essay scholarship competition , where one winner will receive a generous scholarship worth $10,000. 

By making an account on the CollegeXpress website via the no-essay scholarship portal, students are automatically enrolled for the chance to win the $10,000 scholarship. 

CollegeXpress is another organization that does not merely offer one no-essay scholarship but several. 

For example, after applying for the $10,000 no-essay scholarship, students can apply for the $2,000, “Favorite Color” scholarshi p—where students only need to answer what their favorite color is in order to apply. 

College Covered $5,000 No-Essay Scholarship

College Covered is an organization owned by Discover that seeks to aid students in financing their education while simultaneously promoting Discover’s student loans. 

Because College Covered seeks to aid students in all things financial, it is no wonder that they also host a variety of scholarship competitions. 

One of the largest of these scholarship competitions is the $5,000 no-essay Discover student loans no-essay scholarship. 

In order to apply, all a student needs to do is provide their basic contact information. 

$1,000 Dorm Survey Scholarship

ULoop is a hub for all odds and ends associated with college preparation. 

Whether it be finding a roommate, a tutor, or finding a place to live, ULoop strives to be a marketplace for all of one’s miscellaneous college needs. 

To best achieve this goal, ULoop naturally needs to harvest a fair amount of data regarding a wide array of colleges to provide accurate and up-to-date information. 

This is where the $1,000 Dorm Survey Scholarship comes in. 

To apply for this scholarship, students fill out a brief questionnaire regarding their experiences living in dorms at their particular university. 

Alongside the dorm survey, students can also enter the off-campus apartment survey scholarship contest, which has an award of $1,000. 

Winners of both scholarships are announced annually, and previous winners can be found on ULoop’s website . 

Tallo $1,000 Scholarship

Tallo is an app where students can update schools, scholarship competitions, and employers regarding their various academic or professional achievements. 

Through this platform, professionals and students connect to develop meaningful relationships. 

By joining the Tallo app, students join a network of over 1 million students and professionals and have access to a scholarship database that includes over $20 billion in scholarships.

When a student joins Tallo, they are automatically enrolled in the $1,000, no-essay scholarship contest. 

Joining Tallo and completing a profile is considered the application for this scholarship. 

Scholarship Owl $7,000 Scholarship

Scholarship Owl is a scholarship database that both seeks to connect students with scholarship opportunities and to provide education to students regarding how scholarships work during the process. 

Their $7,000 scholarship does not require an essay and merely requires that students create a profile on the Scholarship Owl website. 

Although only 1 in 140,000 students win, approximately every applicant is considered equal during the scholarship drawing. 

As such, no one student has a significantly greater chance of winning the no-essay scholarship compared to another. 

ScholarshipPoints $10,000 Scholarship

ScholarshipPoints hosts a variety of no-essay scholarship contests, with the largest of these having a $10,000 value .

ScholarshipPoints operates by having students gain “scholarship points” by doing things like surveys, watching ads, or engaging with website sponsors. 

Then, students spend these points to enter scholarship sweepstakes. 

One point spent is the equivalent of 1 entry in the random drawing of scholarship winners. 

The more points one spends in entering a scholarship, the more likely it is that a student will win the said scholarship. 

As such, not only do Scholarship points offer the large, $10,000 no-essay scholarship, but several no-essay scholarships in which spending scholarship points takes the place of writing a formal scholarship application. 

Even if the chances of winning can be slim for some of these scholarships, it is real money that real winners have received in the past.

Related Posts

An education in the STEM field is a valuable asset. STEM, referring to science, technology,…

If you ask any artist what they need to succeed, you’ll probably get some exciting…

Some of the best and most rewarding scholarships require applicants to write a personal essay,…

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

10 Colleges With Amazing Financial Aid

25 Top Colleges with Full Tuition Scholarships

The 10 Best STEM Scholarships for High School Students

The 10 Best Law School Scholarships

The 10 Best MBA Program Scholarships

The 10 Best Dental School Scholarships

POPULAR POSTS

The 10 Best Marine Biology Colleges in the US

Here Are the 10 Best Optometry Schools in the US

Here Are the 10 Best Dental Schools in the US

Popular category.

• Acceptance Rates 253
• Hidden Gem Colleges 81
• Medical Schools 76
• Ivy League Schools 62
• Law Schools 49
• Performing Arts 45
• Art Schools 42
• Health Sciences 40
• Summer Programs 39
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy

20 No Essay Scholarships You Should Apply For

With the rising cost of higher education, it’s important to secure as much financial aid for school as possible. You may not realize it, but you probably already qualify for dozens of scholarships.  You may be a competitor for awards because of your strong GPA, academic area of interest, hobbies, or even because you graduated high school in a particular county.

While there are many scholarships that require you to submit a long list of supporting documentation, not all applications are so taxing. The list below offers information on 20 scholarships that do not require you to write a personal essay or statement of academic goals. 

These no essay scholarships save you time and energy and could result in you garnering hundreds or thousands of dollars in free money for school.

Tips When Applying To These Scholarships

Here are a couple of things to consider while compiling your no essay scholarship applications. Bear in mind that even no essay scholarships will require you to submit at least a few important documents. Be sure that you meet all of the submission requirements for each scholarship, as each one will ask for specific information. If you don’t submit all of the required documents, they may toss out your application. 

Secondly, in addition to searching for scholarship opportunities at the local level and students in your county, state, or region, do not overlook scholarships that offer smaller awards. No matter the size of the scholarship, all of the money you receive means taking on less debt through loans or paying out of pocket.

1. Richard J. Seif Technical Sales and Marketing Scholarship

This $3,000 award is reserved for learners pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business or engineering with a concentration in marketing or sales. Applicants should possess a 2.5 or higher GPA and be U.S. or Canadian citizens. This one is closed for the year but will reopen again in early 2024 so mark your calendars!

2. Honeywell Scholarship

Offered by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), this award is for students in a graduate or undergraduate program preparing for a career in computer science , engineering , or engineering technology. Awards range from $1,000-$15,000. Applicants must identify as women and be enrolled in an ABET-accredited program. Applications will be open in December and February and are due in February or May, depending on the applicant’s grade level.

3. Reisher Scholars Program

The Reisher Scholars Program offers both merit- and need-based scholarships for sophomores and transfer students in Colorado. Awards range from $4,000-$11,000, with the average being $7,984. Applicants should be full-time students at one of the seven Reisher partner universities 3.0 or higher GPA. Application due dates vary depending on the student’s institution.

4. Alwin B. Newton Scholarship

The $5,000, one-year Newton Scholarship requires applicants to possess a 3.0 or higher or be in the top 30% of their class. Applications must include three letters of recommendation and documents that demonstrate the student’s financial need. Applications are due on December 1 for awards granted the following fall semester.

5. Welder Training Scholarship

This $2,500 award is reserved for students studying welding engineering. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a 3.0 or higher GPA and enrolled in a four-year undergraduate welding engineering technology program. Applicants must include two letters of recommendation and be submitted by November 30, 2023. 

6. Tang Scholarship

Established by Edward C. Tang, this scholarship is designed to help Asian and Pacific Islander students who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community . Up to four awards are given each year, with each award being up to $15,000. Applicants must have graduated from a high school located in one of the nine Bay Area counties with a 3.0 or higher GPA. This application is closed for the 2023-2024 academic year, but should reopen in early 2024. Applications are due in April.

7. Western Digital Scholarship Program

This award is reserved for any undergraduate student who is a biological dependent of a Western Digital employee. Applicants must be enrolled, or plan on enrolling, in a four-year college or university program as a full-time student. Competitive applicants possess a 3.0 or higher GPA. Awards range from $2,000-$5,000. The application opens in January and is usually due at the beginning of April.

8. Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program

The foundation offers up to 20 scholarships of $1,000 to outstanding high school seniors each year. Applicants must reside in California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Texas, or Washington. The need-based award is for learners who plan on attending a four-year program in one of the states previously listed and possess a 3.0 or higher cumulative high school GPA. Applications are due at the beginning of April each year.

9. James R. Bullock Scholarship

Reserved for students residing in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Georgia, the Bullock Scholarship is a one-year award for undergraduates in architectural or mechanical engineering worth up to $5,000. Applicants should possess a 3.0 or higher GPA or be in the top 30% of their class. Applications are due by December 1, 2023.

10. Project Grant

Offered by the Connecticut Space Grant Consortium, the Project Grant is worth up to $1,000. The award is designed to offset the cost of materials for students completing their senior capstone projects or undergraduate research projects. Applicants need a 3.0 or higher GPA and must be enrolled at a Consortium Member Institution. Applications are open in January for spring scholarships, and in September for fall scholarships. 

11. Coca-Cola Scholars Program

Prospective recipients must be current high school students in one of the 50 states or Puerto Rico with a 3.0 or higher GPA. Applicants must have plans to attend a degree-granting, accredited college or university in the U.S. Up to 150 scholars are chosen each year for this $20,000 award. Applications will be open from August 1-October 2, 2023 for students who will graduate during the 2023-2024 academic year.

12. ASHRAE General Scholarship

The ASHRAE General Scholarship award is worth $5,000. Applicants must be full-time undergraduate engineering or pre-engineering students with a 3.0 or higher GPA at an ABET-accredited institution. Applications must include official academic transcripts and three signed letters of recommendation. Applications are due by December 1, 2023.

13. Tennessee HOPE Scholarship

Funded by the proceeds from the Tennessee State Lottery, this award is for new college freshmen enrolling in one of 16 eligible colleges or universities in the state. The award is for $1,500-$2,250 per semester, depending on whether the student is attending a two- or four-year school. Students with a 3.0 or higher GPA planning to pursue a bachelor’s or associate degree are eligible to apply. Standardized test scores may be required. Applications are due by September 1 each year.

14. Children of Veterans Tuition Grant

Applicants must be biological or adopted 16-26-year-old children of veterans living in Michigan. Their veteran parents must have passed away or become disabled as a result of their military service. Applicants should have a 2.25 or higher GPA and be enrolled at least half-time at a participating institution in Michigan. Full-time students can receive up to $2,800 per academic year. The application deadline varies per year.

15. Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

Applicants must be Florida residents and a U.S. or eligible citizen to apply. Prospective recipients must have graduated from a Florida high school with a 3.0 or higher GPA. Applications must include documentation of at least 75 hours of community service. Competitive ACT or SAT scores are also required. This award is worth up to $212.71 per credit hour. Applications are due by August 31 after high school graduation.

16. The Scott McClean Love Scholarship

This award is for undergraduate learners with a 2.0 or higher GPA who are children of former U.S. Army personnel. Eligible students have graduated high school, currently attending a college or university, and are 24 years old or younger. Awards range from $500-$2,000 per year. Applications open every January and close in April.

17. Robert W. White, Sr. Scholarship

The Robert W. White, Sr. Scholarship is for full-time students who are juniors or seniors in a four-year welding engineering degree program. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a 3.2 or higher GPA. This need-based scholarship requires proof of financial need and is renewable for up to two years. The $2,500 award may be used for tuition and fees only. Applications are due by March 1 each year. 

18. Pearl Scholarship

The Pearl Scholarship is for students in Oregon who have lived or remain in foster care and want to attend a public college or university in the state . The award is for those interested in studying health sciences. Applicants should be 26 years old or younger and plan to enroll at least half-time in school. The amount awarded varies per year. Applications are open from November - March for the upcoming academic year. 

19. General Mills Internship and Scholarship

This program is open to graduate students enrolled in a food science program who want to take on a paid summer research and development internship. The scholarship portion of the award is worth $4,800 for one academic year. Prospective recipients should have a 3.0 or higher GPA and must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program for fall 2022 to be eligible. Applications are due by September 30. 

20. Scholarship America Dream Award

Applicants for the American Dream Award must be 17 years of age or older with at least one year of college completed. Prospective recipients must be currently enrolled as a full-time student in an associate or bachelor’s degree program with a 3.0 or higher GPA. These awards are need-based and worth between $5,000-$15,000. The application will reopen February 2024. 

Data Source: Peterson’s Databases copyright 2023 Peterson’s LLC All rights reserved

Scholarshipsowl

Top no-essay scholarships for easy application: unlock free college funding.

In an era where student loan debt is soaring to unprecedented levels, the quest for scholarships has become more critical than ever. One avenue that has gained popularity is the realm of “ no essay scholarships ” — a lifeline for students seeking quick and straightforward ways to fund their education without the hassle of lengthy essay submissions. This article explores the landscape of no-essay scholarships in 2023, shedding light on their significance, application process, and the impact they can have on alleviating the burden of rising college costs.

Table of Contents

Maximizing Success in No-Essay Scholarship Applications: A Strategic Approach

In the pursuit of no-essay scholarships, students often find themselves drawn to the allure of a streamlined application process, free from the burdensome task of essay writing. However, as the popularity of these scholarships grows, so does the competition. To navigate this landscape effectively and increase your chances of success, consider adopting a strategic approach outlined in the following key points:

1. Seek Competitions Over Randomized Drawings:

While the simplicity of no-essay scholarships is enticing, many operate as scholarship sweepstakes, offering a low probability of winning. To boost your chances, target opportunities that assess additional materials, such as videos, portfolios, or photographs submitted by applicants. This not only distinguishes you from the competition but also enhances your overall application.

2. Exercise Caution Against Scholarship Scams:

The convenience of no-essay scholarships makes them a hotspot for scammers. Before applying, ensure you’re not divulging personal information that could compromise your identity. Never agree to pay a fee for entering a scholarship competition. To navigate potential scams effectively, familiarize yourself with the red flags outlined in our guide on how to spot scholarship scams.

3. Persistence Pays Off:

Many no-essay scholarships, particularly those conducted through random drawings, announce monthly winners and reopen applications. To maximize your chances of securing a scholarship, make it a habit to revisit these opportunities each month and reapply. Persistence can be a key factor in turning the odds in your favor.

4. Explore Similar Scholarship Categories:

For those seeking to minimize essay-related commitments, exploring alternative scholarship categories is a wise strategy. Video scholarships and easy scholarships, although potentially requiring short essays, generally demand less time and effort than traditional applications. Diversifying your application portfolio across various categories broadens your opportunities.

5. Balance Your Scholarship Strategy:

While no-essay scholarships offer a convenient way to seek educational funding, it’s crucial not to over-rely on them. Diversify your scholarship strategy by exploring local scholarships facilitated by community organizations and high school counselors. A balanced approach increases your chances of securing funds from various sources.

6. Don’t Overlook Financial Aid Opportunities:

If you have demonstrated financial need, federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant, stands as an accessible and straightforward source of funds for your higher education journey. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on time is pivotal in gaining eligibility for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Don’t underestimate the power of financial aid as a significant contributor to your educational funding.

In adopting these strategic measures, students can approach no-essay scholarship applications with a well-rounded and informed perspective. By navigating the terrain intelligently, you position yourself for success in securing the financial assistance needed to pursue your academic aspirations.

The Student Loan Crisis

To appreciate the relevance of no-essay scholarships, it’s essential to understand the backdrop against which they operate. Student loan debt in the United States has reached staggering heights, approaching $1.6 trillion. This figure surpasses the nation’s credit card debt, making it a formidable financial challenge for students and graduates alike. By delving into the dynamics of the student loan crisis, we can better comprehend the urgency of alternative funding solutions such as no-essay scholarships.

The spiraling student loan debt has reached unprecedented levels, inching close to a daunting $1.6 trillion in the United States. This figure, surpassing even the colossal credit card debt, poses a formidable financial challenge for both current students and graduates. In the following sections, we will dissect the intricate layers of the student loan crisis, exploring its origins, current status, and the profound impact it has on individuals and society as a whole.

The Rising Costs of Education

The escalating costs of education, outpacing inflation, present a significant hurdle for aspiring students. Tuition at four-year public colleges has doubled since 1988, and federal grants, once a reliable source of support, now cover only 29% of the expenses at public colleges. The financial strain on students has led to a reliance on loans, with 69% of 2018 graduates shouldering an average debt of nearly $30,000. No-essay scholarships emerge as a beacon of hope in mitigating this financial burden.

As the costs of education continue to skyrocket, the financial burden on students has become more acute. Four-year public colleges, in particular, have witnessed a doubling of tuition since 1988, creating a considerable gap in funding. Federal grants, once considered a robust support system, now cover a mere 29% of the expenses associated with public college attendance. This dire financial landscape has forced 69% of the graduating class of 2018 to resort to loans, with the average graduate accumulating a staggering debt of almost $30,000.

Understanding No-Essay Scholarships

No-essay scholarships, as the name suggests, do not require applicants to submit lengthy essays. Instead, they often feature alternative application materials such as videos, pictures, or creative projects. Some scholarships, however, have no application requirements at all. This diversity makes them accessible to a wide range of students across different educational levels.

In the realm of scholarship applications, no-essay scholarships stand out as a unique and accessible option for students. Unlike their traditional counterparts, these scholarships do not demand lengthy essays. Instead, they embrace alternative methods of application, allowing students to showcase their skills and talents through videos, pictures, or creative projects. Moreover, some of these scholarships come with no application requirements whatsoever, simplifying the process even further and broadening their appeal across various educational levels.

Qualifications for No-Essay Scholarships

No-essay scholarships stand out for their simplicity and accessibility. Key qualifications include the absence of an essay requirement, open eligibility to various students, and a quick and straightforward application process. The broad eligibility criteria make these scholarships appealing to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, providing a versatile funding option for diverse educational pursuits.

The allure of no-essay scholarships lies in their simplicity and accessibility. These scholarships typically share common qualifications: the absence of an essay requirement, open eligibility to a wide range of students, and a streamlined application process. This makes them an attractive funding option for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students alike, offering a versatile solution to the financial challenges associated with pursuing diverse educational paths.

Why Choose No-Essay Scholarships?

The appeal of no-essay scholarships lies in their ease of application. With minimal time and effort required, busy students can apply to multiple scholarships, increasing their chances of securing much-needed financial assistance. While recognizing the value of traditional essay-based scholarships, the article emphasizes the practicality and efficiency of no-essay scholarships for students juggling academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and professional commitments.

Amidst the myriad of scholarship options, the attractiveness of no-essay scholarships is underscored by their straightforward application process. The minimal time and effort required make them a practical choice for busy students who are balancing academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and professional responsibilities. While acknowledging the merit of traditional essay-based scholarships, this article highlights the efficiency and accessibility of the no-essay alternative, positioning it as a pragmatic solution for those navigating the complexities of higher education.

Types of No-Essay Scholarships Available

A comprehensive overview of the various types of no-essay scholarships reveals the breadth of opportunities available to students. From scholarships that require just a few clicks to apply to those with creative elements like videos or photographs, the options cater to different preferences and skill sets. This section showcases the diversity within the realm of no-essay scholarships.

The world of no-essay scholarships is diverse, offering a spectrum of opportunities for students with varying interests and talents. Some scholarships require no more than a few clicks to apply, while others encourage creativity through videos, photographs, or other artistic expressions. This section aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the types of no-essay scholarships available, emphasizing their flexibility and inclusivity.

Finding No-Essay Scholarships: The Bold.org Platform

Navigating the landscape of no-essay scholarships becomes more accessible with platforms like Bold.org. This section provides insights into how students can utilize Bold.org to create a profile, match with relevant scholarships, and filter opportunities based on interests, characteristics, and educational levels. The platform’s role in simplifying the scholarship search is highlighted, empowering students to discover tailored funding options.

In the digital age, platforms like Bold.org have emerged as valuable tools for navigating the landscape of no-essay scholarships. This section delves into the functionalities of Bold.org, offering insights on how students can leverage the platform to their advantage. From creating a personalized profile to matching with relevant scholarships and filtering opportunities based on individual characteristics, interests, and educational levels, Bold.org is pivotal in simplifying the scholarship search. By empowering students with tailored funding options, these platforms contribute to a more efficient and effective scholarship application process.

When to Start Applying for No-Essay Scholarships

Timing is crucial when it comes to scholarship applications. While students can start applying at any point in high school, the article encourages early engagement, particularly for high school juniors and seniors. Insightful tips guide readers on when and how to initiate their scholarship journey, emphasizing the importance of starting early to maximize opportunities.

The optimal timing for initiating the application process for no-essay scholarships is a key consideration. While the flexibility exists for students to begin their application journey at any point during high school, this section encourages early engagement. Insightful tips are provided, guiding readers on when and how to embark on their scholarship journey. Emphasis is placed on the importance of starting early to maximize opportunities, ensuring that students are well-positioned to navigate the competitive landscape of scholarships.

Tips for Winning No-Essay Scholarships

While no-essay scholarships offer a streamlined application process, standing out among applicants remains essential. This section provides actionable tips for increasing the likelihood of winning scholarships, including seeking out more restrictive scholarships, applying early and frequently, and making one’s profile unique to leave a lasting impression.

The streamlined nature of no-essay scholarships doesn’t diminish the importance of standing out among applicants. In this section, readers will find actionable tips to enhance their chances of securing these scholarships. Strategies such as seeking out more restrictive scholarships, applying early and frequently, and crafting a unique profile to leave a lasting impression are explored. By providing practical advice, this section equips students with the tools needed to navigate the competitive landscape and emerge successful in their pursuit of no-essay scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions about No-Essay Scholarships

Addressing common concerns and inquiries, this section provides clarity on the legitimacy of no-essay scholarships, strategies for improving the chances of winning, the number of scholarships one can attain, tax implications, application numbers, and the existence of GPA requirements. By dispelling doubts and providing comprehensive answers, the article aims to empower readers with the knowledge needed to navigate the world of no-essay scholarships confidently.

As students explore the landscape of no-essay scholarships, they inevitably encounter questions and concerns. This section serves as a comprehensive guide, addressing common inquiries and dispelling doubts. Topics covered include the legitimacy of no-essay scholarships, strategies for optimizing success, the potential number of scholarships one can attain, tax implications, application numbers, and the presence (or absence) of GPA requirements. By providing thorough and accurate information, this section empowers readers to navigate the world of no-essay scholarships with confidence and clarity.

Understanding the Landscape of Student Loan Debt

Delving deeper into the overarching issue, the article explores the factors contributing to the surge in student loan debt. Rising tuition rates, outpacing wage growth, and the changing dynamics of financing education are examined. By understanding the root causes, readers gain a more profound insight into the urgency of seeking alternative funding avenues.

The pervasive issue of student loan debt demands a closer examination of its contributing factors. In this section, readers are guided through an exploration of the dynamics that have fueled the surge in student loan debt. The escalating tuition rates, which have outpaced wage growth, coupled with the evolving dynamics of financing education, are dissected to provide a comprehensive understanding. By unraveling the root causes, readers gain a more profound insight into the urgency of exploring alternative funding avenues.

Disparities in Student Loan Distribution

Student loan debt is not distributed evenly across demographics, giving rise to racial and gender-based gaps. The average debt differs between white and Black borrowers, and women, despite constituting a majority of college students, bear a disproportionate amount of student debt. This section explores the implications of these disparities and highlights the importance of scholarships tailored to disadvantaged groups.

The burden of student loan debt is not borne evenly across demographics, leading to pronounced racial and gender-based disparities. This section delves into the disparities in average debt between white and Black borrowers. It also addresses the disproportionate amount of student debt carried by women, who, despite constituting a majority of college students, face unique challenges. The implications of these disparities are examined, underscoring the importance of scholarships specifically tailored to address the financial challenges faced by disadvantaged groups.

Connecting the Dots: Scholarships for Underrepresented Groups

Bringing the narrative full circle, this section reinforces the significance of scholarships designed for racial minorities, first-generation students, women, and other underserved groups. By showcasing the scholarships available on Bold.org and similar platforms, the article underscores the role of targeted financial support in addressing disparities in student loan debt.

In the final section, the article brings the narrative full circle, emphasizing the pivotal role of scholarships tailored for underrepresented groups. Racial minorities, first-generation students, women, and other underserved demographics are highlighted, and the article showcases specific scholarships available on Bold.org and similar platforms. By illuminating the existence of targeted financial support, the article underscores the potential for scholarships to address and mitigate the disparities in student loan debt faced by marginalized and underrepresented groups. Embark on your scholarship journey with confidence!

Explore a plethora of opportunities at Scholarshipsowl.com, where educational dreams come to life. Maximize your chances of success by applying strategic tips and discovering a diverse range of scholarships tailored to your unique strengths. Don’t let financial barriers hinder your path to education—visit http://scholarshipsowl.com/ today and seize the opportunity to shape your academic destiny! Your future begins with the right scholarship, and Scholarshipsowl.com is here to guide you every step of the way. Start your scholarship adventure now!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

18 Essay-Free Scholarships to Apply for in 2024

Scholarships are a fantastic way to save money on your college tuition and avoid taking on too much student debt. But, let’s face it, the process of applying for scholarships can be time-consuming and, sometimes you just want something a little easier.

The good news is that easy scholarships – in particular, scholarships without essays – do exist. Some require as little effort as simply entering your name and email address (a scholarship “sweepstakes”), while other scholarships without essays require you to submit something else (like a short video, social media post, or illustration) rather than an essay. These second group of scholarships rewards effort and creativity. 

Avoiding Scholarship Scams

5 sweepstakes-style scholarships with no essays, 3 easy scholarships with short answers.

• 10 Creative, essay-free scholarships

Ready to apply for your own scholarships without essays?

It’s important to keep in mind two things about the easiest scholarships without essays:.

• Your chances of winning a scholarship award are much lower than with traditional scholarships. This is because more people usually apply for these easier scholarships. 
• You run the risk of being spammed with loads of emails. In fact, many scholarship sweepstakes are created with the sole idea of getting your email address in mind. We therefore recommend using easy scholarship sweepstakes as a secondary option for paying for college. Consider using the majority of your time applying for scholarships with essays that you find on reputable scholarship sites.

And if you’re mostly worried about saving time, consider using Going Merry to apply for scholarship bundles , which combine multiple scholarships with the same essay prompts into one application. Sign up for Going Merry today to begin applying.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some easy, no-essay scholarships are actually scams.  Follow the tips below to avoid getting scammed.

Scam Tip #1: Say “No” to Upfront Fees!

A scholarship shouldn’t cost anything at all to apply for (except postage). Be wary of any company or scholarship provider who requires you to pay an upfront fee in order to apply. Chances are they have nothing to offer you!

Scam Tip #2: Do The Paperwork Yourself

Some scammers will try and lure you in by telling you that they’ll take care of all the scholarship paperwork for you, including answering all the questions. You can just sit back, relax, and wait for the money to start rolling in. It almost seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? We hate to break it to you, but that’s because it is. Doing your own applications will save you loads of trouble!

(Psst – You can, however, save on some of the paperwork and the repetitive form filling by using Going Merry , which auto-fills your scholarship forms with information from your profile. You’ll still need to answer any scholarship application-specific questions yourself though!)

Scam Tip #3: Guaranteed Scholarships Don’t Exist

If scholarships were guaranteed, student loans would be a thing of the past. Avoid any company claiming to offer you a guaranteed scholarship. It’s a guaranteed scam.

Scam Tip #4: Avoid Dodgy Offers

If you receive an email from an unknown and unprofessional-looking company claiming to offer an amazing scholarship if you enter personal information on their site, it’s best to avoid it. If you’re unsure, simply do a quick Google Search and see if others have reported it as a scam before , and talk to your guidance counselor to see if he or she has information or experience working with the company.

Scam Tip #5: Do Your Research!

Doing a quick search (on Google or snopes.com ) can save you tons of trouble in the end.  Unfortunately, easy scholarships are too good to be true a lot of the time.

Get matched to scholarships

See how much money you qualify for. Personalized matches . Click below to get started.

Match me to scholarships

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, here’s our list of scholarships without essays:

These are scholarships that require almost no effort.

1. Going Merry Seasonal Scholarships (Spring, Summer)

Amount: $1000 per year (one $250 winner each season)

Provider : Going Merry

When you create a free profile on Going Merry, you’re automatically matched with thousands of scholarship opportunities, including the Going Merry No Essay Scholarship, offered four times a year in the Spring , Summer , Fall , and Winter . Simply click “Start application,” and then “Submit application” to apply. It’s that easy!

Bonus: When you first register, we’ll prompt you to apply for our bundle of four no-essay, seasonal scholarships for the next year. This way, you won’t even have to think about submitting a new application each season. It’s our way of welcoming you to our platform! Sign up today to take advantage.

2. Christian College Scholarship

Amount: $2,500

Provider: The Christian Connector IncIf you’re planning on attending a two- or four-year Christian college, you’re eligible to enter the drawing for this $2,500 Christian College Scholarship . Simply fill out a short online survey and you’re good to go!

Loving these scholarships, but need help applying for your government financial aid? We can help you fill out your FAFSA and state aid.

3. Citizens Scholarship

Amount: $15,000

Provider: Citizens Bank

Citizens wants to honor the dedication of students and families pursuing higher learning! We are offering a Citizens Grand Prize Scholarship of $15,000 to use towards school expenses. We will also be offering a $2,500 Scholarship monthly.

4. AFSA Second Chance Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: AFSA Scholarships

If you didn’t have the luck of winning the AFSA High School Senior Contest, try your luck again after graduation with the AFSA Second Chance Scholarship . This $1,000 award is awarded to five high school graduates during the summer months. Deadlines change on a yearly basis, so check out the scholarship website for the most up-to-date information.

5. Scholarship4Moms

Amount: $10,000

Provider: Scholarships4MomsThe Scholarship4Moms scholarship and its organization was created by a group of mothers who wanted to help bring financial relief to moms who are seeking to further their education. Simply register with your first name, last name, and phone number, and you’ll be entered to win!

Want more scholarships? Get 20 new scholarships delivered to your inbox each week.

These are scholarships that don’t require essays (you know, those longer 500-word type ordeals), but do require you to answer a few questions or to write a short piece (e.g. letter, caption, tweet).

6. Aspire Scholarship

Provider: Access Scholarships Foundation

The Aspire Scholarship , hosted by Access Scholarships and CollegeVine, is yet another one of our easy scholarship opportunities created to give back to a deserving student who is applying for scholarships to help pay for college. In just five sentences or less, this scholarship asks you to answer the following prompt: “Tell us what you aspire to achieve and how you believe a college degree can help you to accomplish it.”

7. E-waste Scholarship

Provider: Digital Responsibility

Each year, 20 to 50 million tons of e-waste are discarded in the world. According to the EPA, recycling e-waste allows more than 100 million pounds of materials to be reused annually. The purpose of the E-waste scholarship is to help you understand the impact of e-waste and what can be done to reduce e-waste. This scholarship just requests a short statement that completes this sentence: “The most important reason to care about e-waste is…”

8. The Customized Girl Annual Scholarship

Amount: $500

Provider: Customized GirlCustomized Girl prints bold statements on customized shirts. Naturally, they know an eye-catching quote when they see one. To apply to the Customized Girl Annual Scholarship , post your statement as a caption on Instagram to be chosen as one of two winners, and your statement may be featured on a customized shirt! Check out past winners on the scholarship page for inspiration.

10 Creative, essay-free scholarship s

These are scholarships that require you to submit videos, drawings, business plans, etc. instead of essays. Get creative!

9. Two Ten Higher Education Footwear Design Scholarship

Provider: Two Ten Footwear Foundation

Amount: Up to $3,000

Submit: Three design drawings

Sneakerheads can show-off their inner hypebeast/hypebae for the Two Ten Higher Education Footwear Design Scholarship ! Students studying design with a focus on footwear are encouraged to apply. Provide three design drawings from your portfolio for consideration.

10. Illustrators of the Future Contest

Provider: L. Ron Hubbard

Submit: Illustrations

L. Ron Hubbard’s Illustrators of the Future Contest is an opportunity for new science fiction and fantasy artists worldwide to have their work judged by some of the masters in the field and discovered by a wide audience.

11. Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship

Provider: The Gallery Collection

Amount: $10,000 (+$1,000 prize for the school)

Submit: An original photo, art, work, or graphic design

If you have a knack for art and sentiment, apply for the Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship with your original art. You can use all art forms. Just upload an example as a JPEG (.jpg) for the application. Students 14 years or older are eligible to send their ideas.

12. Build A Better Future Scholarship

Provider: Honors Graduation

Submit: Short video

Ever wondered just how much of a difference high school students can make in their communities? The winners from previous years have proven it can be profound. That’s why the Annual Design a Better Future scholarship continues to be a design-thinking, community-improvement project.

Each year, Honors Graduation funds up to five $10,000 tuition awards, with the top project receiving up to $5,000 to keep the project going.

13. #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

Provider: U.S. Higher Education (Led by Temple University)

Amount: At least 50% of tuition

Submit: A video or an essay

First-year international students at participating American universities can cut down the cost of education with the #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship . The #YouAreWelcomeHere campaign gained nationwide support in creating a scholarship awarding two students per university. The video submission must express ideas of advancing intercultural learning. Check the list of participating universities on the campaign’s scholarship page .

14. “Create Real Impact” Contest

Provider: Impact Teen Drivers

Amount: $500- $1,500

Submit: A video, music, creative writing, or graphic design

Students between 14-22 years old may apply to the “Create Real Impact” Contest . The contest seeks original work about a solution and strategy regarding reckless and distracted driving. Choose either video, music, creative writing, or artwork. There are many submission options and contest categories, so make sure to visit the scholarship page for details!

15. GoSkills Scholarship

Provider: GoSkills

Amount: $2,000

Submit: An application and business plan

Calling future girl bosses: Here is your time to debut your online business ambitions. The GoSkills Scholarship (Fall) and (Spring) is open to female high school and college students. There are open-ended questions on the application, but it’s more like a friendly conversation. The questions ask you about your concerns and your role models. Besides the application, you need to provide a link to your business plan (GoSkills provides instructions for your business plan right above the area for the link). Try your hand at mapping a business plan to be your own boss in the future.

16. Anytime Games Scholarship

Provider: Anytime Games

Amount: $3,200

Submit: A video

Because Anytime Games has a keen passion for helping students achieve academic excellence, they’re sponsoring the Anytime Games scholarship contest . To enter, choose one of the six thought-provoking questions from the list, and answer the question needs in the form of an essay or video. Two lucky winners will receive cash they can use towards tuition at the college of their choice.

17. Doodle for Google

Provider: Google

Amount: $55,000

Submit: A doodle illustration

Doodle for Google is an annual contest open to students in grades K-12. Students are invited to create their own Google Doodle for the chance to have it featured on Google.com, as well as win some great scholarships – like this Doodle for Google scholarship – and tech packages for their schools.

18. HeadSetPlus.Com College Scholarship

Provider: HeadSetPlus.Com

HeadSetPlus.Com wants to help you pay for college with the HeadSetPlus.Com College Scholarship … no essay needed! Be creative and create a video with a maximum length of five minutes detailing why you deserve the scholarship and what inspired you to pursue a degree in your field.

You can find and apply for scholarships without essays right on our website. You can request letters of recommendation, upload your resume, and apply for scholarships. Sign up for free today .

• Recent Posts

• 7 Outstanding Oregon Scholarships for 2021 - November 6, 2020
• Great Scholarships for Students in Ohio for 2021 - November 4, 2020
• Great Scholarships for Students in Texas for 2021 - July 30, 2020

Ready to find scholarships that are a match for you?

"Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship

At Bold.org , we believe that the world will be shaped by the bold—the fighters, the risk-takers, the earnest overachievers who won’t take no for an answer—the ones who know that a mountain is climbed a step at a time.

Bold.org is built for students, like you, who are determined to make the climb.

As you join the Bold.org platform, you get the opportunity to showcase your goals, achievements, and drive to scholarship panels via your student profile.

The $25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile.

To us, boldest does not mean “best”, or “most accomplished”. Being bold means being:

The scholarship will be awarded to the student whose profile is most bold, according to these characteristics.

Furthermore, this scholarship will be similar to the many easy scholarships available on Bold.org in that it will favor students who apply earlier—who are bold and seize the day without procrastinating.

Students at any education level , state , field of study , and GPA will be considered.

Winners and Finalists

December 2023.

December 2022

November 2021

November 2020

Explore All Kinds of Scholarships for All Kinds of Students

The application deadline is Jun 1, 2024. Winners will be announced on Dec 1, 2024.

Your privacy is a top priority on the Bold.org platform, and you can find our privacy policy in full here . You may opt out of communications from Bold.org at any time, and unless we’ve first notified you and gotten your consent, you’ll never receive communication from any third parties related to personal information you give us.

Award amounts per winner are designated by the donor. Check the award amount for a detailed breakdown.

The winner will be publicly announced on Dec 1, 2024. Prior to the announcement date, we may contact finalists with additional questions about their application. We will work with donors to review all applications according to the scholarship criteria. Winners will be chosen based on the merit of their application.

Award checks will be sent to the financial aid office of the winner's academic institution or future academic institution in their name to be applied to their tuition, and in the name of their institution (depending on the school's requirements). If the award is for a qualified educational non-tuition expense, we will work with the winner directly to distribute the award and make sure it goes towards qualified expenses.

Before we award the scholarship, the winner will be required to confirm their academic enrollment status. Depending on the circumstances, verification of Student ID and/or their most recent transcript will be required.

If you have any questions about this scholarship or the Bold.org platform, just email [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as quickly as we can.

Yes. The terms and conditions for this scholarship can be found here .

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

28 Super Easy Scholarships to Apply for in 2023

What’s covered:, 28 easy scholarships to apply for, strategies for applying to easy scholarships.

Applying for scholarships is an important part of preparing for college. Given how expensive higher education is, these awards can relieve lots of anxiety and provide students with unique opportunities. Unlike loans, scholarships do not have to be paid back.

That said, after a grueling college application process, the thought of completing more applications can feel overwhelming to many students. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy scholarships you can apply for in under an hour. Some don’t even require essays. We’ve rounded up X super-quick scholarships with applications you’ll complete in no time at all.

1. CollegeVine Scholarships

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: Quarterly

Eligibility: High school student and US resident

Application Requirements: Create a free CollegeVine account or fill out your chancing profile if you already have an account

CollegeVine provides a quarterly, no-essay scholarship of $2,000. All you have to do is sign up for a free account, which allows you to see your chances of acceptance at 1,600+ schools, get your essays reviewed by a peer, ask questions in our community forum, and more. If you already have an account, just make sure your chancing profile is filled out.

Awards will be paid out directly to students to help them cover any educational costs. Learn more about the CollegeVine scholarships .

2. Because College Is Expensive Scholarship

Amount: $500

Deadline: End of each quarter at 11:59 pm EST

Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, college students, and graduate students

Application Requirements: Simple online form

Cedar Education Lending gives out the aptly-named Because College Is Expensive Scholarship once per quarter. All you need to do to apply is complete a simple form, and you’ll be entered into a $500 random drawing.

3. I Have a Dream Scholarship  

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: January 31, 2024

Eligibility: Must be a legal U.S. resident; must be at least 14 years old at the time of application

Application Requirements: Short answer question

For this scholarship, applicants will submit an online written response to the following prompt in 250 words or fewer:

“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.”

4. SmarterCollege Scholarship

Amount: $2,500

Deadline: Recurring (next deadline is June 30, 2023)

Eligibility: Must be at least 17 years old; must be a US resident

All you have to do to apply for this scholarship is complete a 5 question application! You can apply each month.

5. Cappex Easy Money Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: The end of each month

Eligibility: Must be a registered Cappex user; must be at least 13 years old; must be a US resident; must be planning to enroll in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher learning within 4 years

In order to enter this scholarship contest, sponsored by Cappex, all you need to do is complete the online registration form. Perhaps that’s why it’s called “Easy Money!”

6. “No Essay” College Scholarship

Deadline: Monthly (next deadline is May 31, 2023)

Eligibility: High school students, college students, and others planning to attend college or graduate school within the next year ( additional eligibility requirements )

As noted in the name, this scholarship requires no essay to enter. The recipient is selected by a random drawing, and you can enter once per month. If you win, you can use the award for education-related expenses, such as tuition, housing, and books.

7. No Essay Smart Owl Scholarship

Deadline: May 29, 2023

Eligibility: Must be at least 16 years old and a U.S. resident in any state, territory, or the District of Columbia, except for Rhode Island and Michigan; must be enrolled in a U.S. high school, college, or university

When you create an account on Scholarship Owl on or after April 30th, 2023, you’ll automatically be entered to win the scholarship. You can then enter again once every seven days during the Sweepstakes Period. 

8. Make Me Laugh

Deadline: August 31, 2023

Here’s one for the comedians out there. This is not only an opportunity to win $1,500 in scholarship money but also a chance to showcase your comedy set. In 250 words or fewer, respond to this prompt:

“OMG… finding and applying for scholarships is serious business, but it’s time to lighten things up a little. We don’t want to know why you deserve $1,500 or how great your grades are, we simply want to LOL. Describe an incident in your life, funny or embarrassing (fact or fiction), and make us laugh!”

9. ScholarshipPoints Scholarship

Deadline: Monthly

Eligibility: Legal residents of the U.S. who are at least 13 years old; must sign up as a member of ScholarshipPoints.com

This simple online form secures $2,500 scholarships for randomly selected students each month. Completing the form means you will be automatically entered.

10. Flavor of the Month Scholarship

Deadline: July 31, 2023

I don’t know about you, but I love ice cream. The premise of this scholarship is simple: you just need to talk about your favorite flavor of the (objectively) best dessert out there. In 250 words or fewer, respond to this prompt:

“Summer and ice cream go hand-in-hand. In fact, July is National Ice Cream Month, and that’s the inspiration behind this award. We think people are very similar to ice cream; some are nutty, others a little exotic, while some are very comforting. If you were an ice cream flavor, which would you be and why?”

11. Courage to Grow Scholarship

Eligibility: Must be a high school junior or senior or a college student with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a U.S. citizen

This scholarship is awarded once per month. To enter, you just need to describe in 250 words or fewer why you believe you should receive the scholarship.

12. College Is Power Scholarship

Deadline: May 31, 2023

Eligibility: Must be at least 17 years old and plan to start college within the next 12 months or already be enrolled; must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Full- or part-time students may apply for this easy scholarship. Judging is mainly based on your response to the following prompt, which you should address in 150 words or fewer:

“What is your primary goal for going to school?”

13. Nitro Scholarship

Eligibility: Must be at least 17 years old and a high school senior or college student, parent of a high school senior or college student, or loan-paying college graduate or parent of a graduate; must be a legal U.S. resident

This scholarship, open to both students and their parents, is offered once per month. All you need to do is complete a short form to enter the competition.

14. SuperCollege Scholarship

Deadline: May 31, 2023 

Eligibility: High school seniors, college or graduate students, or adults planning to enroll in college or university; must be a permanent U.S. resident; Employees, officers, and directors (and their relatives) of SuperCollege and its affiliates are not eligible

To enter the SuperCollege Scholarship drawing, you just need to complete this form . Winners are chosen at random and may apply the award to education-related expenses.

15. Tallo + Niche Scholarship

Eligibility: Must be 13 years of age

Application Requirements: Create a profile and short answer questions

You don’t need to write an essay for this scholarship—you just need to create a profile on the sponsoring site, click “Opportunities,” and enter “Niche” in the keyword field. From there, you can apply by answering very brief questions:

“What’s your next step after school? Is there a company you have your eye on? Tell us! Just answer a few questions—no essays, we promise—and you’ll be entered to win!”

16. $40,000 BigFuture Scholarships

Eligibility: High school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students

Application Requirements: Make account and complete simple steps

The College Board offers scholarships with easy requirements—advance your college application process. You get entries into their drawing for things like building your college list, practicing for the SAT, exploring scholarships, strengthening your college list, completing the FAFSA, and applying to colleges.

17. Book Recommendation Scholarship

Amount: $1,300

Eligibility: N/A

Application Requirements: Simple online form and short answer question

All you have to do to get entered to win this scholarship is register and answer the following question in one sentence:

“What is a good book you’d recommend to a friend for the summer?”

18. $5,000 Christian Connector Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

Eligibility: Must request Christian college, university, and/or Bible college information; must be enrolling for the first time as a full-time student at a Christ-centered Christian college, university, or Bible college

Students planning to attend a Christian college can fill out a simple online form to submit for this online drawing, which will surely draw fewer students than others on the list. 

19. $2,000 CampusReel Virtual Tour Scholarship

Deadline: June 30, 2023

Eligibility: Open to all high school, college, community and graduate students

Application Requirements: Watch a video

Students can easily get their name entered into this lucrative drawing by watching a student-led virtual tour!

20. Annual Catholic College Scholarship

Eligibility: Must be at least 13 years old

To submit to this drawing, students must complete a form to receive information from Catholic colleges and universities.

21. Community Champions Scholarship

Eligibility: Must have applied to or be enrolled in a degree program; or the parent or legal guardian of a person who has applied to or who is enrolled in a degree program; Must be legal resident of the US; Must be age 18 or older

Application Requirements: Social media engagement and a simple online form

To be entered in this drawing, students must follow @AscentFunding on Instagram,“like” a specific post, tag two friends in a post with a specific hashtag, save the post, and complete a contact form.

22. Shining Stars Scholarship

To be entered in this drawing, students must follow @AscentFunding on Instagram,“like” a specific post, leave a comment about mental health with a specific hashtag, save the post, and complete a contact form.

23. Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship

Deadline: October 31, 2023

Eligibility: Students age 14 or older; Must be planning to enroll in a postsecondary institution sometime before the Fall of 2027

This application asks you to respond to a specific prompt in 250 words or less:

“ Describe your escape plan if there were a zombie outbreak at your school.”

24. Education Matters Scholarship

Deadline: November 30, 2023

Eligibility: Must be U.S. student; Must be 14 years of age or older; Must be a legal U.S. resident

To submit to this competition, students must respond to the following prompt in 250 words or less:

“What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn’t matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?”

25. Top Ten List Scholarship

Deadline: December 31, 2023

“Create a Top Ten List of the top ten reasons you should get this scholarship.”

26. Unigo $10k Scholarship

Amount: $10,000

“Would you rather be smart, funny or rich? Why?”

27. Too Cool to Pay for School No Essay Scholarship

Deadline: Quarterly (next deadline is June 30, 2023)

Eligibility: Must be high school, college, or graduate school student; Must be currently enrolled full time (in high school or at an accredited university) or planning on enrolling within 24 months

This easy online form submits you for a drawing that will happen four times this year.

28. Around the Corner from College Scholarship

Deadline: June 30th, 2023

Eligibility: Open to current high school students (freshman, sophomores, juniors, and seniors)

This drawing requires filling out a quick and simple online form.

1. Apply to as many easy scholarships as possible. 

Given that many of these scholarships are lottery-based, it’s easy to apply. Even those that have short essays require minimal time to complete the application process, so they won’t eat up too much of your day. You can maximize your chances of winning one by applying to as many as possible.

Additionally, many of these scholarships you can apply to every month. Make a schedule and fill out the simple online forms for each drawing.

2. Balance easy scholarships out with more specific ones.

You shouldn’t focus solely on “easy” scholarships since your odds of winning are much lower. Because applying to these scholarships takes minimal effort, they draw a high number of entrants. This means your odds of winning are lower than they are for scholarships with a more rigorous application process. 

If you apply to scholarships that are tailored to your profile and require more of a time commitment to enter, you will increase your award potential. That might mean entering scholarship contests for people who share your background or demographics or for students intending to study a certain discipline. Find more opportunities on the scholarship section of our blog .

3. Apply to schools with generous merit scholarships.

Most scholarship money comes from schools themselves and not external providers. Many schools consider students for merit scholarships just based on their application, so it’s no extra work; in fact, many schools have automatic scholarships based on SAT/ACT scores . Applying to schools where you’re in the top 75th percentile or above in terms of grades and test scores can maximize your chances of getting merit scholarships.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Niche $15,000 No Essay Scholarship

Help cover the cost of college without writing a single essay!

Niche is giving one student $15,000 to help pay for tuition, housing, books, and other educational expenses.

Apply below for your chance to win so you can focus on what really matters instead of worrying about finances. Good luck!

This scholarship has ended

Be sure to check out all the scholarships we offer on Niche!

Who Can Apply

All high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year. Please note: Not everyone is eligible for this scholarship. Niche sponsored scholarships and sweepstakes are for people with US citizenship or a valid Visa/US passport only. Read the scholarship rules. Questions? Visit our Scholarship FAQs .

How It Works

The $15,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is an easy scholarship with no essay required! Only one entry allowed per person. The winner will be determined by random drawing and then contacted directly and announced in Niche's e-newsletter and on the Scholarship Winners page.

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the 10 easiest scholarships to apply for.

Financial Aid

Scholarships are awesome resources if you're checking out different ways to pay for college. It's free money after all—what's not to love?

As it turns out, most scholarship programs have application processes that aren't exactly lovable. Students generally have to submit a lot of information about themselves: transcripts, GPAs, test scores, resumes, community service activities, and so on. There might even be a few essays and grade requirements thrown in as well. You don't want to complain—because, again, free money—but these applications sure are tedious when you're working on college apps, high school courses, and financial aid applications all at the same time.

The following easy scholarships have application processes that are a bit more manageable. Some ask you to write short essays, while others don't require any essays at all! The awards might not be as large as some other scholarships out there, but when the application process is so easy, you really don't have much to lose. I'll start off with some words of warning before getting into the good stuff: essay and no-essay scholarships that are so easy to apply for, you might end up applying to all of them!

Caveat: If a Scholarship Seems Too Good to Be True ...

Unfortunately, there aren't too many legitimate "easy" scholarships out there. If a scholarship application sounds too good to be true, be cautious—you don't want to fall victim to a scholarship scam!

Here are some things to look out for:

• A scholarship application that asks for personal information that isn't relevant to the award: Many top scholarship programs ask for personal information (transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and even financial information for need-based scholarships); however, this info is all relevant to candidate evaluation. If you're ever uncomfortable providing personal info for a scholarship program, dig deeper. Can you verify that the program is legitimate? Does it have its own website, or can you only find info about it through a third party? Try Googling "[award name] scam" to see whether anything suspicious pops up.
• A scholarship that asks you to make payments to enter or win: Scholarship programs are in the business of giving money to students, not taking it. A scholarship program is likely just a scam if the application asks you to make a payment—especially if it asks you to enter credit card information.

Now that we've got that out of the way, it's time to get to the good stuff: all the best easy essay and non-essay scholarships and how to win them!

Essay Scholarships

The scholarships in this section ask students to submit short essays with their applications. Even though you'll have to write an essay, the rest of the application (and the essay itself) should be easy and manageable for all these awards. In fact, most of these applications shouldn't take more than one to two hours to complete.

Bachus & Schanker, LLC Scholarship

This scholarship program is a bit different from most of the other awards included in this post—it's funded by a private law firm in Colorado. Students compete for a $2,000 award by writing an essay (at least 800 words) about the 7th Amendment and how it affects their lives. Scholarships are awarded twice a year, to be paid toward tuition for the upcoming semester.

• Eligibility: High school seniors who have been accepted to a four-year university and university students with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Deadline:  July 30 (to win a scholarship for the fall semester) and November 30 (to win a scholarship for the spring semester)

Courage to Grow Scholarship

This $500 award is given out to one lucky student every month. To compete for the award, applicants must explain in 250 words why they think they deserve the scholarship, intended to support students who found “courage to forge ahead when sometimes it would be easier to give up.” Past recipients’ essays have discussed overcoming obstacles from bullying to breast cancer.

• Eligibility: US high school juniors and seniors and college students with a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Deadline: Last day of every month 

Odenza Marketing Group Scholarship

Odenza Marketing Group gives away two $500 scholarships each year, once in the spring and again in the fall. To compete for this award, applicants must like the Odenza Facebook page and write two short essays of about 500 words each. Each scholarship must have a clear thesis statement, offer supporting evidence in paragraph format, and be grammatically correct. In other words, these essays should follow the argumentative essay format you've learned in English class.

• Eligibility: Current high school students (US or Canadian citizens) aged 16-25 or students who have at least one year of college remaining. Applicants must also have a minimum 2.5 GPA.
• Deadline March 30 for spring, November 15 for fall

Some of these applications won't take you longer than a few minutes.

No-Essay Scholarships

When it comes to easy applications, you can't get much easier than the following scholarship programs. You'll still have to submit some information about yourself (and, in some instances, complete some brief activities or tasks), but you won't have to write any essays to qualify.

AFSA High School Scholarship

For this scholarship, all you need to do is complete an entry form and answer an eight-question quiz. Five $1 ,000 awards are given out each year. Winners are randomly selected by a computer-generated drawing. Your odds of winning are based on the total number of entries received. Essentially, it’s a scholarship raffle, and you get one ticket per “draw.”

• Eligibility: Current high school seniors (US citizens or legal residents)
• Deadline: June 30, 2023

Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

This scholarship has one of the easiest applications out there: just fill out a few questions, and you're done! A $1,000 scholarship is awarded every three months. Winners are selected randomly.

• Eligibility: Current high school, college, and graduate students studying in the US
• Deadline: The last day of every March, June, September, and December

The Annual Haiku Society of America Haiku Award in honor of Harold G. Henderson

This scholarship program gives out three prizes of $200, $150, and $100 , but the application process is fun and easy. Students qualify by simply writing and submitting up to five original haikus. If you win, your haiku also gets published in an anthology and on the HSA website! Note: There is a small fee to apply, but the site is indeed reputable.

• Eligibility: All students in grades 7-12
• Deadline: Open June 1 - July 31

"No Essay" College Scholarship

This $2,000 award is given out monthly. To apply for this scholarship, submit an application that includes basic identifying information, your GPA, and your SAT/ACT scores. Winners are randomly selected, and you can submit a new application every month.

• Eligibility: High school students, adults heading back to school, current college students, and anyone else looking to attend college or graduate school within the next year

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Do you have a creative side and an eye for fashion? Students can compete for the grand prize of $10,000 (one each for the dress and tux categories) by designing and wearing prom outfits made out of duct tape. Check out the website for fun pictures of past winners!

Eight $500 prizes are given to runners-up (four for dresses and four for tuxes).  Applicants can enter as individuals or as part of a couple. Submissions that get the most votes win prizes, so be sure to recruit your friends to vote for you!

• Eligibility: High school students in the US and Canada (excluding certain states and territories—refer to the official rules for details)
• Deadline: The submission window is generally open from March through June, and winners are announced in July. Check the website for exact dates. 

U.S. Bank Student Union Scholarship

Multiple awards are available through this scholarship. To qualify, you'll need to create an account and complete learning modules about financial education. The more modules you complete, the more money you're eligible to earn. 

One first prize winner and one second prize winner are randomly selected during each of two entry periods. Winners can receive up to $20,000 , depending on how many learning modules they complete 

• Eligibility: Current US undergraduate students
• Deadline: Spring and fall of each year. Check website for more details.

Because College is Expensive Scholarship

This $500 scholarship is awarded to one student four times a year (March, June, September, and December) .If you want to enter, all you have to do is fill out the form on the Cedar Lending website.

• Eligibility : High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors; current college students; anyone else looking to attend college or grad school
• Deadline : March 31st, June 30th, September 30th, and December 31st. One winner is selected by the 15th of each month. 

3 Tips for Winning Easy Scholarships

Just because a scholarship is easy to apply for, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easy to win. Since these scholarship applications are so simple to complete, you'll probably have a lot of competition. Here are some strategies to help you submit your best applications possible:

#1: If you have to write an essay, you'll have a better shot at success if your views align with those of the organization awarding the scholarship. To prepare, do some research about the company or charity's mission statement. For instance, don't write an essay about how much you love fossil fuels if the scholarship is offered by an environmental organization! 

#2: Make sure your application is polished. You won't have the opportunity to make more than a first impression (remember, these apps are short and sweet!), so double-check for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors.

#3: Last but not least, be sure that your application is complete and on time!

What's Next?

These scholarships are excellent options if you want to churn out as many applications as possible. As you might've noticed, though, the award amounts are a bit underwhelming (though keep in mind that several smaller awards can be just as helpful as one big award!). Larger scholarships and grants are often available through colleges directly and applying for financial aid using the FAFSA .

You'll have to spend more time on your applications if you're gunning for a top scholarship, but the payoff can be more than worth it. To learn more about some of the best scholarships out there, check out our guides to the top scholarships for high school juniors and seniors .

Francesca graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and scored in the 99th percentile on the SATs. She's worked with many students on SAT prep and college counseling, and loves helping students capitalize on their strengths.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

Enter to win the Encourage for Students Sweepstakes. No essay or minimum GPA required.

You’ll also get access to customized college & scholarship matches through the Encourage app—available on iOS, Android, and on the web.

Sweepstakes winners will be randomly selected. Official Rules apply .

Encourage is the nation’s largest free college and career planning program. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends 9/30/24. Subject to 5 monthly Entry Periods & official rules at encourageme.com/sweeps. Open to legal residents of 50 US/DC, between 14 and 18 years old. Void where prohibited. By submitting this form you may hear from colleges and providers of educational products/services that may be a good fit for you.

* indicates a required field.

• Scholarships

The fastest path to earning scholarships

Simplify and focus your application process with the one-stop platform for vetted scholarships.

• No elements found. Consider changing the search query.
• List is empty.
• High school freshman
• High school sophomore
• High school junior
• High school senior
• College 1st year
• College 2nd year
• College 3rd year
• College 4th year
• Graduate student
• Adult/Non-traditional Student
• Agriculture and Related Sciences
• Architecture and Related Services
• Area, Ethnic, Cultural and Gender Studies
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences
• Business, Management and Marketing
• Communication and Journalism
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Construction Trades
• Engineering
• English Language and Literature
• Family and Consumer Sciences
• Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistics
• Health Professions and Clinical Sciences
• Legal Professions and Law Studies
• Liberal Arts / General Studies
• Library Science
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Mechanic and Repair Tech / Technicians
• Military Technologies
• Multi / Interdisciplinary Studies
• Natural Resources and Conservation
• Parks, Recreation, and Fitness Studies
• Personal and Culinary Services
• Philosophy and Religious Studies
• Physical Sciences
• Precision Production
• Public Administration and Social Service
• Security and Protective Services
• Social Sciences
• Technology Education / Industrial Arts
• Theology and Religious Vocations
• Transportation and Materials Moving
• Visual and Performing Arts
• Not Listed / Other

Trusted by 9 million students and parents.

We just generated 3 new

scholarship recommendations.

You have 12 applications

with a status update.

Check what others say about us

Applying for scholarships is overwhelming.

But without scholarships, your ability to go to college is at risk.

Students should be able to focus on their education rather than worrying about how to pay for it.

We know it’s not fair.

Your one-stop scholarship application system

Get matched to scholarships that are most relevant to you. View scholarship credibility scores to know where to focus your time and energy.

The entire search, match and application process happens all in one place. You can even write, edit and proof your essays right in the platform!

Our smart system utilizes AI to generate scholarship recommendations tailored just for you, based on your profile and habits.

Each time you apply, our AI will suggest scholarships with a similar topic or requirement. You can even repurpose your essays to apply for them!

"Using ScholarshipOwl, I was able to find the HonorsGradU Design a Better Future Scholarship. Aligning with my interest I was able to win the scholarship. I think the “fit” factor is crucial when it comes to strategically applying for scholarships."

Won $10,000 in scholarships

Those who earn scholarships aren’t just lucky

They use tools and strategies that give them an edge.

Optimize your application strategy

Scholarship searches can be messy, but not with ScholarshipOwl. Sort and filter your matches. Favorite the scholarships you like best, and hide the ones you don’t.

Track the status of your applications

You can monitor your applications in real-time. Be in control of your own financial future to ensure you can afford the college of your choice.

Automatically apply for recurring scholarships

You’ll be automatically reapplied to scholarships that select multiple winners year-round so that you can focus on scholarships that truly require your attention.

Game the system with ScholarshipOwl

Earn scholarships with the only platform that truly boosts your chances. Focus your efforts, save time and get money for college.

9 million students can’t be wrong

So many students earn scholarships with scholarshipowl. you can too.

“Using ScholarshipOwl compared to just searching for myself, saved me weeks of time, for sure.”

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Here is a link to the video instead.

"ScholarshipOwl does the searching for you, they do the eligibility match, they bring everything right to the table, so it's just going to save you hours of time. I applied to a few other scholarships before I had found ScholarshipOwl, but none of it ever came back to me. But by using ScholarshipOwl, I earned $6,000 within three months."

Won $6,000 in scholarships

• Step 1 Create an account
• Step 2 Get matched to scholarships
• Step 3 Earn scholarships

Increase your odds of earning scholarships

"I was so excited to start the journey of my college career, but every semester was a struggle to meet the funds as I hastily applied for scholarships. The FELDCO Windows, Sliding and Doors Scholarship finally allowed me to get through this semester, without being overly stressed about money."

Earned $1,000 in scholarships

ScholarshipOwl is the most powerful next-gen scholarship platform.

Phone support: 800 494 4908

Students, Parents & Counselors

• Scholarship Winners
• Information for Parents
• Information for Counselors
• ScholarshipOwl for Business
• List Your Scholarship

ScholarshipOwl.com

Operated by Scholarship Services Inc.

831 N Tatnall Street Suite M #224

Wilmington, Delaware

Copyright ScholarshipOwl © 2024. All Rights Reserved

ScholarshipOwl is a personalized scholarship matching service and management tool. It does not guarantee the receipt of any scholarship. Upgrading to premium membership does not increase your chances of winning a specific scholarship.

Privacy policy CA Privacy notice Terms of use

Do not sell or share my personal information

Limit use of my sensitive personal information

Publications — Over 100 years of publishing excellence

• Book Author Resources
• Submit a Book Proposal
• AMS Rights, Licensing, and Permissions
• Open Math Notes
• Frequently asked questions
• Member Journals
• Research Journals
• Translation Journals
• Distributed Journals
• Open Access Journals
• Guidelines and Policies
• Journal Author Resources

Librarian Resources

• eBook Collections
• COUNTER Usage Statistics
• My Subscriptions
• Subscription Information
• Licensing Information

Mathematical Reviews/MathSciNet®

• MathSciNet ®
• Reviewer Home
• MathSciNet ® Subscriptions

Membership — Welcome to your membership center

Join the ams, renew your membership, give a membership, individual membership.

• Member Benefits
• Member Directory
• Reciprocating Societies
• Members in Developing Countries

Institutional Membership

• Domestic Institutions
• International Institutions
• Two-Year Institutions
• Graduate Student Chapter Program

Other Member Types

• Corporate Memberships
• Associate Memberships

Meetings & Conferences — Engage with colleagues and the latest research

National meetings.

• Joint Mathematics Meetings
• Upcoming JMMs
• Previous JMMs
• Special Lectures
• Professional Enhancement Programs (PEPs)

Sectional Meetings

• Upcoming Sectionals
• Previous Sectionals
• Presenting Papers
• Hosting Sectionals

Other Meetings, Conferences & Workshops

• Mathematics Research Communities
• Education Mini-conference
• International Meetings
• Mathematics Calendar
• Short Courses
• Workshop for Department Chairs and Leaders

Meetings Resources

• Suggest a Speaker
• AMS Meetings Grants
• Submitting Abstracts
• Welcoming Environment Policy
• MathSafe – supporting safe meetings

News & Outreach — Explore news, images, posters, and mathematical essays

News from the ams.

• AMS News Releases
• Feature Stories
• Information for Journalists
• In Memory Of

Math Voices

• Feature Column
• Math in the Media
• Column on Teaching and Learning

Explorations

• Recognizing Diverse Mathematicians
• AMS Posters
• Mathematics & Music
• Mathematical Imagery
• Mathematical Moments

Professional Programs — Resources and opportunities to further your mathematical pursuits

Professional development.

• Employment Services
• Mathjobs.org
• BEGIN Career Initiative
• Mathprograms.org
• Mathematical Opportunities Database
• Research Seminars

Institutional Information and Data

• Annual Survey of the Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
• CBMS Survey
• Other Sources of Data
• Directory of Institutions in the Mathematical Sciences
• Professional Directory

Grants & Support

• AMS-Simons Grants for PUI Faculty
• Travel Grants
• Fellowships & Scholarships
• Epsilon Fund
• Child Care Grants

Awards & Recognition

• AMS Prizes & Awards
• Fellows of the AMS

Education — Resources to support advanced mathematics teaching and learning

For students.

• Information for Undergraduate and High School Students
• Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs)
• Considering Grad School
• Find Grad Programs
• Applying to Grad School
• What do Mathematicians Do?

For Teachers

• Teaching Online
• Teaching Resources
• Inclusive Classrooms
• Assessing Student Learning
• Education Webinars

For Department Leaders & Mentors

• Information for Department Leaders
• paraDIGMS (Diversity in Graduate Mathematical Sciences)

Government Relations — Advocating for the mathematical sciences

Elevating mathematics in congress.

• Our Mission
• Letters, Statements, & Legislation
• Congressional Briefings

Legislative Priorities

• Federal Issues of Concern
• Federal Budget Process

Get Involved

• Advocacy Resources
• Take Action

DC-Based Fellowships

• Congressional Fellowship
• Mass Media Fellowship
• Catalyzing Advocacy in Science & Engineering (CASE) Fellowship

Giving to the AMS — Your gifts make great things happen for mathematics   Make a Gift

What you can support.

• The 2020 Fund
• Next Generation Fund
• Birman Fellowship for Women Scholars
• JMM Child Care Grants
• MathSciNet for Developing Countries

Create a Legacy

• Make a Tribute Gift
• Create a Permanent Fund
• Establish a Prize, Award or Fellowship
• Bequests and Charitable Estate Planning

Honoring Your Gift

• Donor Stories
• Donor Wall of Honor
• Thomas S. Fiske Society
• AMS Contributors Society
• AMS Gardens

Giving Resources

• AMS Development Committee
• AMS Gift Acceptance Policy

About the AMS — Advancing research. Connecting the mathematics community.

Our organization.

• Executive Staff
• Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion
• Jobs at AMS
• Customer Service

Our Governance

• Board of Trustees
• Executive Committee

Governance Operations

• Calendar of Meetings
• Policy Statements & Guidelines

Disappointment

In high school I took part in many math competitions; the hardest (and therefore to my teenage mind the only ones that counted) were the competitions relating to the international mathematical olympiad (IMO). In Melbourne there was a program of competition and training that culminated in a nine hour exam spread over two days to determine the makeup of the Australian IMO team. I remember very well the first time I took the exam. It was 1987, and the IMO was to be held that year in Cuba. As I sat at my carrel in the Morris library, I took the February sunlight for fortune smiling on me, inspiration spilled liberally from my Pelikano steel nib fountain pen, and I went home at the end of the second day in a blur of fatigue and self-congratulation. Six weeks later a pregnant manila envelope arrived in the mail. From its girth alone I knew I had aced the exam and won my rightful spot on the team. Before even opening the envelope I could see myself in the green woolen team blazer with the Australian coat of arms embroidered on the breast pocket, and by the time I found a letter opener I was shaking hands with Fidel Castro.

The envelope contained…sixty-odd sheets of loose-leaf paper, no invitation, no cover letter: my exam papers, bloodstained with question marks, lines through paragraphs, squiggles of uncomprehension, Xs and Os. My stomach fell. I blushed. In a fraction of a second I rewrote or recolored dozens of memories and fantasies from the recent past and future, and became intensely conscious of and embarassed by my vanity and foolishness. What I now find remarkable was the speed and scope of my transformation; the analogy that comes to mind is being struck by a speeding car.

So how does one deal with disappointment? Freud, in Civilization and Its Discontents identifies three typical measures:

powerful deflections, which cause us to make light of our misery; substitutive satisfactions, which diminish it; and intoxicating substances, which make us insensible to it.

If these are the typical responses, are there any others? Before trying to answer this it might be helpful first to articulate what disappointment actually is , and then to ask what it’s for . Evidently, disappointment is a form of mental suffering. It is so unpleasant that we can experience it in a host of physiological dimensions. Profound mental suffering involves a complex array of interactions between any number of processes and subsystems, both conscious and unconscious, involving both the brain and the limbic system. The suffering that arises from disappointment is that that accompanies disruption: disappointment causes a certain kind of shake-up or realignment of our worldview and self-image and consequently of our priorities; this disruption can be so great that we sometimes emerge from it a very different person.

According to certain schools of cognitive science (e.g., Minsky’s Society of Mind model) the idea of a “self” as a unified, indivisible entity is an oversimplification; rather (they suggest) a self is an uneasy federation of simpler subsystems (sometimes termed “agents”) with their own local goals and interests, which are frequently in competition with one another. Under ordinary circumstances stability is achieved by a complicated system of temporary alliances, detentes, three-way standoffs, and so forth. Our subjective sense of the unified self is—in itself!—also a source of stability. Sometimes a dramatic change in (real or perceived) external circumstances—an unforseen event, an unpleasant discovery—can lead to a cascade of disruptions to this order. This is the mechanism of disappointment, and why it is so painful; it is both a crisis and an opportunity—in Homer Simpson’s inspired terminology, a crisitunity.

Disappointment measures in pain the gap between reality and what we want the world to be. Disappointment matters. It matters because we don’t actually live in the real world. We live in our heads, in a mental world of assumptions, recollections, anticipations, desires and conjectures. And even when we do meet reality, it’s a mistake to think that what our senses feed us is objective, unfiltered, unsorted. Rather we operate according to an interrogative protocol—we ask the world questions to confirm what we already “know” (or, more accurately: hope), and only when we get an unpleasant surprise do we take a closer look. As Proust says,

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes. Happiness is beneficial for the body, but it is grief that develops the powers of the mind.

In his famous paper, “How not to prove the Poincaré Conjecture,” John Stallings writes about an adventure in his mathematical life, how he discovered a proof of the Poincaré Conjecture but later found it to be mistaken. He goes so far as to describe this episode as a “sin;” but the sin was not in the mistake per se, rather it was his resistance to recognizing it as such. He writes,

There are two points about this incorrect proof worthy of note …(t)he second…is that I was unable to find flaws in my ‘proof’ for quite a while, even though the error is very obvious. It was a psychological problem, a blindness, an excitement, an inhibition of reasoning by an underlying fear of being wrong. Techniques leading to the abandonment of such inhibitions should be cultivated by every honest mathematician.

Few mathematicians are as honest or as generous as Stallings in sharing their own stories of disappointment. This is because disappointment often comes wrapped in shame, because our goals are inextricable from our personal and social attachments and relationships. Convention and social norms dictate that any display of human weakness or failing is “unprofessional.” We’re not supposed to admit it when we feel stupid, or underappreciated, or jealous, or that we cared so much about something that when it didn’t go our way we felt shattered. Techniques leading to the abandonment of such inhibitions should be cultivated by every honest mathematician.

Disappointment takes many forms; a partial list from my personal history includes:

being un- or under-acknowledged in a colleague’s paper or talk;

being scooped;

missing out on a job/prize/conference invitation;

having a prospective student work with someone else;

having a potential advisor turn me down as a student;

having a promising line of attack on a problem fail to pan out;

discovering an error in an amazing proof;

having a paper go unread or a book go unreviewed;

seeing an admired senior colleague behave badly;

realizing that I haven’t lived up to my own standards of behavior;

discovering that success, when it came, was not all I hoped it would be.

The last one, perhaps, deserves elaboration. Some acute disappointments in my career were the result of getting what I thought I wanted: a paper in a fancy journal; a job offer; tenure; an invitation to talk at a fancy conference. I don’t mean to diminish the value of such things at all, or the challenges (personal or structural) many people must overcome to achieve them; much about the way such “rewards” are distributed in academic culture is unfair, often in systematic ways, and it should be the goal of all of us to point this out and work to change it wherever we can. I also don’t mean to suggest that success has been joyless; the opposite is true. Nevertheless it is the case that sometimes when we get what we think we want, we discover that these things weren’t what we thought they were, and (more importantly) that we are not who we though we were. When disappointment accompanies success it is worth paying special attention to. If we get what we want but it doesn’t bring us fulfillment, then what’s really going on? In my experience, it has only been at the point of my posing this question that I have acquired insight, and the agency to really change things or come to terms with them.

It took a month of pain after the manila envelope arrived before curiosity got the better of me and I opened it again. And a remarkable thing happened. The exam pages: my answers, the blots, the corrections, the red ink, the comments, were exactly as before. But time and some strange alchemy of which disappointment itself was the catalyst had altered their meaning. An actual human being had taken the time to read my work and share valuable feedback with me. My annotated exam was no longer a certificate of failure, it was a how-to manual: it was about how to prove an inequality by leveraging the convexity of a cleverly chosen auxiliary function, or how to recast a geometric figure in terms of complex numbers and understand it with algebra. These math problems weren’t “problems” at all: they were windows into mathematics itself. And the manila envelope wasn’t a slap in the face, it was a gift; but to see it as a gift I had to see it with new eyes. I never got to Cuba, but I’d taken my first steps on a longer and far more interesting and rewarding journey that continues to this day.

Acknowledgment

I would like to thank Kathryn Kruse for her extensive feedback on and advice about an early draft of this essay.

Danny Calegari is a professor of mathematics at the University of Chicago. His email address is [email protected] .

Article DOI: 10.1090/noti2782

The Early Career Section offers information and suggestions for graduate students, job seekers, early career academics of all types, and those who mentor them. Krystal Taylor and Ben Jaye serve as the editors of this section. Next month’s theme will be Math and the Real World.

Photo of Danny Calegari is courtesy of Danny Calegari.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

The Victims of U.S. Nuclear Testing Deserve More Than This

By W.J. Hennigan

Mr. Hennigan writes about national security issues for Times Opinion.

The men and women came to Capitol Hill last week bearing surgical scars, long medical histories and fading photographs of loved ones long dead. They came from across the country to walk the halls of Congress and show lawmakers the human cost of the U.S. nuclear weapons program.

They call themselves downwinders — a global community of people who lived near nuclear testing sites. In America, more than 100 nuclear devices were exploded in aboveground tests in New Mexico and Nevada from 1945 to 1962. For decades, members of the communities near those sites, as well as others involved in weapons production, have endured rare cancers, autoimmune disorders and other illnesses. But only some have been compensated by the federal government for what they’ve gone through.

The downwinders who visited Washington last week are not currently eligible for federal assistance because they don’t live in the designated areas in Utah, Nevada and Arizona covered under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, known as RECA. The 1990 legislation has provided billions of dollars to people exposed to harmful radiation during U.S. nuclear tests or while mining uranium. But many affected communities, including those in southern New Mexico where J. Robert Oppenheimer’s team conducted the first atomic blast in 1945, were left off the list.

They have been fighting to be included under the law. Now RECA is to expire on June 7, bringing an end to the program. A bill stalled in Congress would extend the law and expand compensation to nearly all Americans whose documented health struggles are linked to the nuclear weapons program. The White House supports it. The Senate passed it in a rare bipartisan vote, 69 to 30, in March.

But for the past two months, Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to allow a House vote on the Senate bill. As of Wednesday, there will be just seven working days left in Congress before RECA runs out, cutting off compensation and health screenings to all affected communities.

The federal government is responsible for protecting its citizens. Washington betrayed that obligation when it exposed people to dangerous radiation for decades during the Cold War and then downplayed, denied and ignored the health risks , according to declassified documentation. American downwinders have paid for this neglect; now they’re simply asking their government for restitution.

This article is part of the Opinion series At the Brink , about the threat of nuclear weapons in an unstable world. Read the opening piece here .

Consider the costs borne by people like Bernice Gutierrez , 78, who was 8 days old when the world’s first atomic bomb exploded in July 1945 at the Trinity site, about 35 miles west of her hometown, Carrizozo, N.M.

None of the nearly 500,000 people who resided within a 150-mile radius of the blast were warned. The explosive yield of the Trinity test was 21 kilotons — almost 1.5 times as large as the Hiroshima bomb — sending a mushroom cloud more than 35,000 feet into the sky. Witnesses said ash rained down in New Mexico for days. Like snow, it tumbled into water cisterns, open windows, crop fields and grazing pastures.

In the years since, 29 members of Ms. Gutierrez’s family have been diagnosed with various types of cancer. Several have died, including her son Toby Jr., who died of leukemia when he was 56. Her daughter, Jeanne, is being treated for thyroid cancer. Ms. Gutierrez had her thyroid removed on the advice of her physician because, the doctor told her, a positive cancer diagnosis was all but certain. “We don’t ever ask if we’re going to get it,” she said. “We wonder when.”

Around the world, thyroid disorders are among the most widespread health impacts of nuclear fallout and contamination. The thyroid absorbs a radioactive form of iodine called I-131, a byproduct of nuclear fission used in a nuclear test, which concentrates inside the gland and can lead to increased risk of thyroid disease. While it’s impossible to connect any one person’s cancer diagnosis directly to radiation exposure from the test, the National Cancer Institute estimates that 11,000 to 212,000 cases of thyroid cancer across the country are linked to exposure to radioactive fallout from aboveground nuclear tests in Nevada.

In New Mexico a 2010 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study noted that radiation levels near some homes in the area of the Trinity test site reached almost 10,000 times what is currently allowed in public areas. It also pointed out that radioactive debris from the test had drifted across a region about 100 miles long and 30 miles wide. More recent studies have shown that the fallout from the test was carried on the wind much farther — to 46 states, Canada and Mexico. “Our government took advantage of the fact that we knew nothing about radiation,” Ms. Gutierrez said. “We knew nothing about the cause and effect of it.”

To qualify for downwinder benefits under RECA, you must prove you lived in one of roughly 20 counties for at least two years from Jan. 21, 1951, to Oct. 31, 1958, when aboveground testing at the Nevada site was most active, or during July 1962, when a 104-kiloton explosion there displaced 12 million tons of sand and rock, hurling much of it into the atmosphere before it returned to earth as dust and in rain.

Additionally, you must have been diagnosed with one of 19 types of cancer that the government has determined are related to the nuclear program. If you check all the boxes, you can receive $50,000. In the three decades since the law took effect, only 41,200 claims have been approved , paying out some $2.6 billion. In comparison, more than 65,000 claimants have received around $20 billion under the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund .

The new bill would expand eligibility for compensation to certain uranium miners and widen the current list of recognized affected areas, to include Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Missouri, Guam and other communities. It would also increase compensation to up to $100,000 per person, both retroactively and for new claimants.

In the fall, the Congressional Budget Office put the expected cost of RECA’s expansion at more than $140 billion over 10 years, but sponsors have since revised the bill, bringing the cost down, they say, closer to $50 billion. Utah’s senators, Mike Lee and Mitt Romney, both Republicans, objected to that lower price tag and some other aspects of the bill, according to statements from their offices. Last month they introduced competing legislation that would simply extend the existing RECA law for two years — without expanding coverage to include people like Ms. Gutierrez.

Their fiscal objections are surprising, given that both lawmakers are boosters of the U.S. military’s plan to build hundreds of nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles, one of the most expensive weapons projects in Air Force history, which also promises some 4,000 new jobs in the senators’ home state. The Air Force recently notified Congress that the missile-building program has exceeded its initial cost projections by at least 37 percent, to more than $130 billion .

Downwinders say it’s duplicitous to fund a nuclear weapon program that’s part of the emerging global arms race while refusing to treat the victims of the first one. We know nuclear weapons work because of the Cold War testing, said Mary Dickson, who was raised in Salt Lake City, about 350 miles from the Nevada test site, where the United States conducted tests until 1992. Those communities played a vital role in building the United States into the world’s sole superpower, only to be neglected later.

Ms. Dickson and her family lived north of the current RECA boundaries during the testing years. But at 29, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Years later, her sister Ann Dickson DeBirk died at age 46 after a long struggle with an autoimmune disease. A second sister was also diagnosed with stomach cancer, and a third has autoimmune disorders.

In Washington last week, a small group met with Mr. Johnson to make a last-ditch effort to persuade him and the rest of Congress to repay their sacrifice. Some went for the first time, selling personal items to pay for the trip. Others, like Ms. Dickson, make regular pilgrimages to Congress to raise awareness about what the U.S. government did — and didn’t do.

For 30 years, she’s been urging voters to pressure their congressional representatives to pay attention to the downwinders’ plight. “I was lucky I got better,” Ms. Dickson told a small crowd gathered outside the Capitol. “My cousin, who lost her husband to colon cancer, always says to me, ‘Your story didn’t end tragically, so you can carry that tragic story forward.’ I have felt an intense obligation to seek justice for all of them.”

It’s time for Congress to correct this mistake. It should not be an option to leave thousands of Americans without lifesaving health screenings and compensation. Mr. Johnson should let the House vote on extending and expanding RECA — and our lawmakers should vote yes. These Americans have waited for too long.

This Times Opinion series is funded through philanthropic grants from the Carnegie Corporation of New York , the Outrider Foundation and the Prospect Hill Foundation . Funders have no control over the selection or focus of articles or the editing process and do not review articles before publication. The Times retains full editorial control.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , X and Threads .

Source photograph by Google Maps.

W.J. Hennigan writes about national security, foreign policy and conflict for the Opinion section.