This updated article directs African American students to current, reliable scholarship sources - national funds like UNCF and TMCF, STEM and professional associations such as NSBE, local foundations, and scholarship search services. It emphasizes practical steps: search broadly, target awards that match your profile, apply early, and file the FAFSA. Readers should verify program details and deadlines on official sites.

Scholarships still matter - and so do sources

Many organizations continue to reduce financial barriers for African American students. National groups, HBCUs, local foundations and corporations offer scholarships targeted at race, major, need, or community service. Two long-standing national sources are the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), both of which award scholarships and partner with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

Where to start searching

Start with these reliable places:
  • UNCF (uncf.org) and TMCF (tmcf.org) for institution- and donor-funded awards.
  • Federal Student Aid (studentaid.gov) to complete the FAFSA and access federal grants and loans.
  • Scholarship search platforms such as Fastweb and Scholarship America, plus your college's financial aid office.
Also check community foundations, your high school counselor, employer tuition benefits, and local civic groups. Corporate scholarships often target specific majors or career paths, so research companies and trade groups in your field.

Examples of organizations and targeted awards

  • UNCF: awards hundreds of scholarships annually and supports HBCUs. Their programs change year to year; check their site for current deadlines.
  • Thurgood Marshall College Fund: supports public HBCUs and offers scholarships and leadership programs.
  • National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE): provides scholarships for students pursuing engineering and STEM degrees; eligibility typically includes academic standards and membership or demonstrated interest in the field.
  • Local foundations (for example, the Coleman A. Young Foundation in Detroit) and professional associations (for example, the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs) maintain scholarship programs for regional or demographic groups.
Some named scholarships referenced in older guides (for example, funds associated with public figures or short-term programs) may have changed or closed. Verify current eligibility, award size, and deadlines on the organization's website before applying.

Three practical rules for applicants

  1. Cast a wide net - collect many opportunities, including smaller, local awards. Smaller awards have less competition.
  1. Target strategically - prioritize scholarships that match your background, major, school, or community ties.
  1. Apply early and carefully - meet deadlines, tailor essays, and submit complete supporting documents. Also file the FAFSA and any state aid forms on time.

Final tips

Track deadlines in a spreadsheet, ask recommenders well ahead of time, and renew awards when required. Scholarship landscapes change, so verify each program's current details before relying on it. 1
  1. Confirm the current number of HBCUs and the list of member institutions supported by UNCF and TMCF. [[CHECK]]
  2. Verify the current scholarship programs and award totals for the Coleman A. Young Foundation and similar local foundations mentioned. [[CHECK]]
  3. Confirm existence and current status of specific named scholarships (for example, any 'Julianne Malveaux' scholarship referenced in older guides) and update program links. [[CHECK]]
  4. Double-check that any program names referenced (for example, 'Development for Black Students in Science and Technology') correspond to active, correctly named initiatives; replace or correct as needed. [[CHECK]]

FAQs about African American Scholarships

Do HBCUs only accept African American students?
No. HBCUs admit students of all races. They were founded to serve African American communities historically, but their scholarships and programs often benefit a diverse student body.
Is the FAFSA required to get scholarships?
Not always. Many private scholarships do not require the FAFSA, but filing it is necessary for federal aid, many state grants, and some institutional scholarships - so complete it to maximize aid options.
Where can I find reputable scholarship listings?
Use institutional sources (your college's financial aid office), national organizations (UNCF, TMCF), federal sites (studentaid.gov), and established search platforms such as Fastweb or Scholarship America.
How can I improve my scholarship applications?
Customize each essay to the sponsor's goals, get strong recommendations, meet requirements exactly, and apply early. Smaller awards often favor well-prepared local applicants.

News about African American Scholarships

Scholarships for Black and African American Students - Bestcolleges.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Scholarships Supporting Black Students from Low-Income Backgrounds - National College Attainment Network [Visit Site | Read More]

Two Universities Hit With Civil Rights Complaints Regarding Scholarships for Underserved Students - The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education [Visit Site | Read More]

Blank Foundation commits $50 million for HBCU student scholarships - Philanthropy News Digest [Visit Site | Read More]

Celebrating Black History Month: Scholarships for Black Students - Enloe Eagle's Eye [Visit Site | Read More]

Fearing Reprisals, UAB Cancels Scholarship for Black Medical Students - Equal Justice Initiative [Visit Site | Read More]

A Forgotten Migration: Crystal Sanders Chronicles the History of Segregation Scholarships - Vanderbilt Law School [Visit Site | Read More]

IUSB scholarship for minority arts students being modified after Trump's anti-DEI orders - South Bend Tribune [Visit Site | Read More]