Top Scholarships for Online College Students in the U.S. in 2024

In 2024, online education continues to grow as a flexible and accessible option for students across the United States. With advancements in technology, pursuing a degree online has become more mainstream, offering students the opportunity to earn a quality education from the comfort of their homes. However, one of the biggest challenges for online college students is financing their education. Fortunately, there are many scholarships available specifically for students enrolled in online programs. Whether you’re a current student or about to begin your online college journey, these scholarships can help reduce the financial burden.

In this article, we will explore some of the top scholarships available for online college students in the U.S. in 2024.

1. The Distance Learning Scholarship by the University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers a scholarship to students pursuing a degree through its online platform. This scholarship is specifically designed for undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in accredited online programs. The Distance Learning Scholarship helps cover tuition costs and is awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, and career goals.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in an online degree program at the University of Phoenix
• Must demonstrate financial need
• Must maintain satisfactory academic progress

Award Amount: Varies

Application Deadline: Varies

2. The Scholarship for Online Learning by The Online Learning Consortium (OLC)

The Online Learning Consortium (OLC) is a well-established organization that focuses on advancing the quality of online education. In 2024, they are offering a scholarship for students who are pursuing a degree through online learning programs. This scholarship is open to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and have a passion for furthering their education.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in an accredited online learning program
• Must maintain a high GPA (usually 3.5 or higher)
• Must demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence in an online environment

Award Amount: $500 – $1,000

Application Deadline: Varies

3. The Fastweb Scholarship for Online Students

Fastweb is a popular scholarship search engine that connects students with scholarships based on their unique profiles. They offer a wide range of scholarships for online students, making it easy for you to find opportunities tailored to your specific needs. The Fastweb scholarship database is updated regularly, ensuring that students have access to the most current opportunities available.

Eligibility:

• Varies based on the scholarship
• Online students can filter for opportunities that specifically cater to their needs

Award Amount: Varies

Application Deadline: Varies

4. The Study.com $5000 Scholarship

Study.com, a popular online platform for educational resources, offers an annual scholarship for students enrolled in accredited online programs. The Study.com scholarship is available to undergraduate and graduate students in any field of study. To apply, students must submit an essay that addresses a relevant topic related to education or their field of interest.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in an accredited online degree program
• Must submit a 500-1,000 word essay on the given topic
• Must demonstrate a strong interest in continuing education

Award Amount: $5,000

Application Deadline: February 1, 2024

5. The Unigo Scholarship for Online Students

Unigo, a popular scholarship database, offers a variety of opportunities for students pursuing an online education. The Unigo Scholarship for Online Students awards a $10,000 scholarship to a deserving individual who demonstrates the potential for academic success and future professional achievement.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in an online undergraduate or graduate program
• Must submit a short essay (about 250 words) on a given topic

Award Amount: $10,000

Application Deadline: Varies

6. The Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund

Talbots, a retail company, offers an annual scholarship to female students who are returning to school to complete their degree. The Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund focuses on women who have been out of high school for a few years and are now pursuing higher education, particularly through online learning programs.

Eligibility:

• Must be a woman aged 25 or older
• Must be pursuing a degree through an accredited online program
• Must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement

Award Amount: Up to $10,000

Application Deadline: April 2024

7. The Niche $2,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

Niche, an online platform that helps students find scholarships, colleges, and reviews, offers a straightforward scholarship for online students. The Niche $2,000 “No Essay” Scholarship requires no essays, making it easy for students to apply. This scholarship is designed for those who are currently enrolled in any accredited online program and meet basic eligibility requirements.

Eligibility:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Must be enrolled in an online degree program
• Must be 18 years or older

Award Amount: $2,000

Application Deadline: Monthly

8. The Cappex Scholarship

Cappex is another scholarship search engine that offers a variety of scholarships, including those specifically for online students. The Cappex Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a degree in any field through an online program. Students need to create a profile on Cappex and apply through their system to be considered for this scholarship.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in an accredited online degree program
• Must submit an online application form through Cappex

Award Amount: Varies

Application Deadline: Varies

9. The Washington State Opportunity Scholarship

While originally designed for students in Washington State, the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship has expanded its eligibility to include online students pursuing a degree in STEM fields. If you’re pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, this scholarship could be a great opportunity to help fund your online education.

Eligibility:

• Must be a Washington state resident
• Must be pursuing a degree in a STEM field (either online or in person)
• Must meet academic and financial need requirements

Award Amount: Up to $22,000

Application Deadline: January 2024

10. The College Scholarship by The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)

The NACE offers scholarships to students pursuing careers in business, technology, or related fields. This scholarship is available to online students and helps support the academic journey of students who are preparing to enter the workforce upon graduation.

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in an online program in business or a related field
• Must demonstrate a commitment to future career goals

Award Amount: $1,000

Application Deadline: May 2024

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Final Thoughts

These top scholarships for online college students in 2024 provide a range of opportunities to help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education. Whether you’re looking for scholarships based on need, academic merit, or specific areas of study, these options can provide the financial assistance you need to complete your online degree. Be sure to carefully review the eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship to maximize your chances of receiving an award.