Wesley Merit-Scholarships and Awards
Within these major award categories, some awards are designated specifically
based on background or ministry objectives.
All who have applied by February 1 will be considered for all
awards for which they are qualified.
Wesley offers a limited number of scholarships to students of all denominations based on prior academic achievement and demonstrated ability and potential for leadership in the church. These scholarships include the Bishop's, Oxnam, Governor's, Presidential, Dean's and Wesley Merit Awards.
Wesley Merit-scholarships are awarded during the admissions process. To be eligible for these awards, you must apply for admission by February 1 in the preceding academic year you plan to enter seminary.
NEXT PRIORITY DEADLINE FOR CONSIDERATION FOR MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS IS MARCH 15.
Bishop’s Merit Scholarship - Full-tuition coverage for up to 81 credit hours for M.Div., 60 credit hours for M.T.S., and 36 credit hours for M.A
Oxnam Merit Scholarship - 75% tuition coverage for up to 81 credit hours for M.Div., 60 credit hours for M.T.S., and 36 credit hours for M.A
Governor’s Merit Scholarship - 60% tuition coverage for up to 81 credit hours for M.Div., 60 credit hours for M.T.S., and 36 credit hours for M.A
Next Call Merit Scholarship - 50% tuition coverage for up to 81 credit hours for M.Div., 60 credit hours for M.T.S., and 36 credit hours for M.A
President’s Merit Scholarship - 40% tuition coverage for up to 81 credit hours for M.Div., 60 credit hours for M.T.S., and 36 credit hours for M.A
Wesley Merit Scholarship - 25% tuition coverage for up to 81 credit hours for M.Div., 60 credit hours for M.T.S., and 36 credit hours for M.A
Each year, Korean and Korean-American students are selected to receive Korean Endowment Scholarships. Transgenerational Scholarships are available for the 1.5 or second generation Korean-American students who demonstrate strong ability and commitment to the ministry for the next generation of Korean-American English speaking congregations. There is a June 30 deadline for this scholarship.
Tuition coverage for an entering student who exhibits potential for academic excellence and for leadership in The United Methodist Church. This is a first-year award only, but recipients may be considered for additional aid after a successful first year of studies.
These scholarships are awarded during the admissions process. To be eligible for these awards, you must apply for admission by February 1 in the preceding the academic year you plan to enter seminary.
United Methodist Student Scholarships
Students from Conferences of the UMC are considered for special matching scholarships awarded by Wesley and their home conference. Students may also explore available denominational scholarships.
Applications for the following scholarships may be found at www.gbhem.org. Applications typically open in December and are often due by March 13. VIEW THE FULL LIST OF SCHOLARSHIPS HERE.
Applicants must be full active members of The United Methodist Church for at least one year and attending any accredited institution in the U.S.
The HANA Scholarship
Applicants must be Hispanic, Asian or Native American (at least one parent), be member of the UMC for a minimum of 3 years, be a citizen/permanent residents of the US, and have financial need. Awarded to students with plans to prepare for leadership in the UMC and their HANA communities.
The E. Craig Brandenburg Graduate Award
Awarded to graduate students over the age of 35 for whom seminary represents training for a change in career. Applications must be members of the UMC for at least one year.
The Reverend Charles W. Tadlock Scholarship
Applicants must have completed their first year of seminary and be certified candidates for ordination as an elder in the UMC. Students must have a GPA of at least 2.85 and must be citizens or permanent residents of the US.
The Special Seminary Scholarship
Applicants must be M.Div. students under the age of 30, and preparing for ordained ministry in a UM related seminary or theological school.
United Methodist Seminary Award
Awarded to students who have completed their first year of seminary and plan to enter Parish Ministry. Students are nominated by their seminary and must be a member of the UMC for at least three years, and be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. Send a letter requesting nomination to the Director of Financial Aid.
Georgia Harkness Scholarship
Awarded to women over the age of 35 preparing for ordained ministry as an elder in The United Methodist Church and must be a member of the UMC at least one year prior to application. US citizenship or permanent residency required.
John Q. Schiesler Award
Awarded to students preparing for a career as a Christian educator, lay professional or ordained deacon. Applicants must be the members of the UMC at least three years and U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Native American Seminary Award
Awarded to applcants of Native Americans, American Indian, or Alaskan native descent. Students must be a member of the UMC for at least three years. They must also be preparing for ordination as an elder.
Every year, the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation awards more than $2 million in scholarships to Methodist students attending a United Methodist-related school. Applications are typically open January 1 – March 1 for the following academic year. Awards range from $500 to $10,000. Applications are available at www.umhef.org for the following:
Foundation Merit Scholarship Program
Awarded by the UMHEF to one first year student, one second year student and one third year student attending a UM related seminary or theological school. Students are nominated by their school. Deadline for the school to submit nomination is September 1
United Methodist Dollars for Scholars
This program challenges United Methodist churches to provide a $1000 scholarship for a student from their congregation. The scholarship check must accompany the student's application to the UMHEF. If the student's application is selected the student will receive an additional $1000 from the UMHEF Dollars for Scholars program as well as $1000 from Wesley Seminary.
Holly Elliott and Laurel Glass Scholarship Endowment for Seminary Study by Persons who are Deaf, Deafened, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing.
Applicants must be culturally deaf, orally deaf, deafened, late deafened, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing and must be able to provide documentation of disability. Applicants must also be a US citizen or permanent resident, a member of the United Methodist Church (UMC) for at least one year, and be preparing for specialized ministries in the church.
Priscilla R. Morton Scholarship
Applicants must be the members of the UMC for at least one year, be a US citizen or permanent resident, have a minimum GPA of 3.5. Preference will be given to those students enrolled in or planning to enroll in a UM related college, university, seminary or theological school.
National Temperance Society Fund
To be eligable, applicants must be a member of the UMC for atleast one year, be a US citizen or permanent resident, be enrolled in or planning to enroll in a UM related college, university, seminary or theological school and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Lemuel C. Summers Scholarship and Dr. Chester A.McPheeters Scholarships
Both of these named endowed scholarships required to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be preparing for Christian ministry. Students must also have UMC membership for at least one year, and be a US citizen or permanent resident. Additionallly, stuents must be attending a UM related college, university, seminary or theological school.
John C. Wright Scholarship
Applicants must live in Virginia, and be preparing for UM ministry in a UM related seminary or theological school. Students applying must also have a 3.0 GPA or higher and be a US citizen or permanent resident.
Chaplain Samuel Grover Powell Scholarship Fund
Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited seminary and preparing to enter chaplaincy in any branch of the military.
Bishop James K. and Eunice J. Mathews Scholarship
Awarded to a first year student at Wesley Theological Seminary or American University in alternating years. Applicants must be a member of the UMC. Deadline determined by Wesley or AU.
UMC Ministries Educational Funds
United Methodist Students are encouraged ti contact their annual conferences for the availability of the tuition grants and/ or service loans through the Ministerial Educational Funds.
United Methodist students need to contact their Annual Conference to apply for tuition grants or service loans provided by the Ministerial Educational Funds.
For more information, contact the chairperson or register at conference link.
Alabama-West Florida Conference
Alaska United Methodist Conference
Arkansas United Methodist Conference
Baltimore-Washington Conference
California-Nevada Annual Conference Scholarships
California-Pacific Annual Conference Scholarships
Central Texas Annual Conference
Detroit Annual Conference Scholarships
Hope United Methodist Church
Seminary Grants
Deadline: July 15
Amount: $250-$500
Description: Awards available to United Methodist students entering ministerial fields including Christian education, missions, or music ministry. First preference - First District members. Second Preference - Detroit Conference members, then others.
Qualifications: Applicants must be certified candidates in the Detroit Annual Conference
Application:
Hope United Methodist Church
Seminary Grants, Staff-Parish Relations Committee
4467-G Beecher Road
Flint, MI 48532
East Ohio Annual Conference Grant
East Ohio Conference Seminary Scholarships
East Ohio United Methodist Foundation
Eastern Pennsylvania Conference
Palma Ceia United Methodist Women's Scholarship
Deadline: May 31
Amount: Varies depending on availabilty of funds
Description: The Palma Ceia United Methodist Women provide scholarships for full time students who are active members of a Florida United Methodist congregation pursuing graduate work in a church related field at an accredited college or university.
Contact:
Gloria Emerson, gloriaemerson@hotmail.com
Palma Ceia United Methodist Church
3723 Bay to Bay Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33629
Florida Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministry Scholarships
Greater New Jersey Conference Scholarships
Illinois Great Rivers Conference
First United Methodist Church, Kinmundy, Illinois
Deadline: Not specified
Amount: Up to $1,200
Description: Awards available to students from the Great Rivers Conference of the United Methodist Church
Qualifications: Applicants must demonstrate financial need
Application:
First United Methodist Church, Attention: The Rev. Richard Ambrose
308 E. 3rd Street
Kinmundy, IL 62854
Phone: (618) 547-7423
Onarga United Methodist Church
Barber Scholarship
Deadline: May 31
Amount: Up to $500
Description: Grants available to students pursuing ordained ministry, Christian Education, Youth Ministry, or other specialized ministries within the church
Qualifications:
Preference is given to United Methodist students, in particular those from the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference
Application:
Kaskaskia River District of The Illinois Great Rivers Conference
of the United Methodist Church
Onarga United Methodist Church
Attention: The Rev. Jan Miller
109 East Seminary Avenue
Onarga, IL 60955-1240
Phone: (815) 268-4320
Indiana United Methodist Scholarships/Grants
Iowa Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
Louisiana Annual Conference Scholarships
Mississippi Annual Conference Grant
Missouri Annual Conference Scholarships
Nebraska Annual Conference Grants & Scholarships
New Mexico Conference Scholarships and Grants
Urban Ministry Scholarship Program
North Alabama Annual Conference Grant
North Carolina Conference Grant
North Georgia Conference Scholarships
Northern Illinois Annual Conference
Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference
Red Bird Missionary Conference
South Carolina Annual Conference Scholarships
South Georgia Annual Conference
Tennessee Annual Conference Scholarships
James G. Blakemore Fund
Deadline: Varies
Amount: Varies
Description: Various scholarships available to members and non-members of West End United Methodist Church. Contact Bonnie Seay by e-mail for application - baseay@aol.com
Qualifications: Full-time student
Application:
West End United Methodist Church
West End Scholarship Committee
Bonnie Seay - Secretary
2200 West End Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: (615) 321-8500
Virginia Annual Conference Scholarships
Calvary Foundation Scholarship
Deadline: April 15
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships available - preference given to residents of Virginia, DC or Maryland
Qualifications: Applicants must demonstrate good moral character, academic promise, and financial need
Application:
The Calvary Foundation
P.O. Box 2545
Arlington, VA 22202
foundation@calmeth.org
Virginia Annual Conference Ministerial Education Fund
Deadline: July 1 for fall, October 1 for spring
Amount: Not specified
Description: Service loans available to students who are certified candidates for ministry in the Virginia Annual Conference
Application:
Virginia United Methodist Center
P.O. Box 5606
Glen Allen, VA 23058
Western North Carolina Annual Conference Scholarships
Western North Carolina Conference Ministerial Education Fund
Deadline: August 31 - Fall / December 31 - Spring
Amount: $1,400 - $2,400
Description: Service loans available to certified candidates for ministry in the Western North Carolina Conference
Application:
Rev. Veranita Alvord
Hoyle Memorial United Methodist Church
MEF Coordinator
1741 Fallston Rd
Shelby, NC 28150
Phone: (704) 487-9522
Wise Scholarship Fund
Deadline: May 31
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships for residents of the Rio Texas Annual Conference
Qualifications: Recipients must be preparing for the ministry in the United Methodist Church
Application:
Thomas A. Wise, Jr. Scholarship Fund
First United Methodist Church Foundation
Attn: Stacye McCain
900 S. Shoreline Blvd.
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Phone: (361) 884-0391
Virginia Annual Conference Scholarships
External Scholarships
Yellow Ribbon Program
Wesley Theological Seminary participates in the Yellow Ribbon program in partnership with Veterans Affairs under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill (Chapter 33). Through this program, the VA pays a larger portion of the total tuition/fees and Wesley makes up the difference, totaling 100% coverage of tuition/fees even for non-active duty and retired military. A limited number of Yellow Ribbon spaces are available to Wesley students each academic year and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Veterans Educational Assistance
Scholarships available to United States military veterans. Qualifications: Must have served in active duty for more than 180 days. Learn more here: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/
Army Chaplain Corp - Chaplain Candidate Program
You do not need to wait until ordination to join the Army chaplaincy. Through the Chaplain Candidate Program, you can train to become an Army chaplain at the same time you are training for the ministry. Learn more by clicking here.
Chaplain Samuel Grover Powell Scholarship
This scholarship provides financial assistance to students preparing for chaplaincy in any branch of the military. The fund was established in 1980 by the family and friends of Chaplain Powell after his death. The Reverend Samuel Grover Powell served as a chaplain in the United States Air Force for 28 years. He believed that “Military people deserve the best qualified chaplains, for they are not only serving God, but their country.” Available through UMHEF: https://www.umhef.org/scholarships/otherscholarships/#grover-powell
Air Force Chaplaincy Scholarships
The Air Force offers scholarships for individuals who want to become service chaplains. To qualify applicants must: 1) meet Air Force commissioning requirements, 2) receive written permission from a listed DoD ecclesiastical endorser, 3) be in good academic standing, and 4) be younger than 39 years of age upon completion of theological studies. For more information, send a request to chaplains@rs.af.mil. And to get started on your search for scholarships, visit Military.com Scholarship Finder.
Military Chaplain Scholarships
Each year the Military Chaplain Association provides financial assistance to several seminary students who are currently serving as chaplain candidates in the Air Force, Army, or Navy. The MCA Chaplain Candidate Scholarship Program was established in 1992. Funding for this program comes from donations provided through the Emerson Fund. Learn more here: https://mca-usa.org/scholarships/
Chaplain CSIF
To encourage virtuous intention by facilitating pure heart and conscience in the leadership of religious, government, diplomatic, military, and industrial organizations by offering scholarship awards to virtuous seminary students that wish to enter chaplaincy serving those entities. Learn more here: https://chaplaincsif.org
Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty
Deadline: Varies
Amount: $500 to $5,000
Description: Grants and fellowships available to outstanding seminarians and graduate students in religious fields.
Application:
Acton Institute
Awards and Scholarshps
98 East Fulton Street
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: (616) 454-9454
Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation
Financial Need Scholarship
Deadline: August 15
Amount: $750-2,000
Description: Awards to undergraduate and graduate students with good academic standing who have endured great hardship to accomplish their educational goals.
Qualifications: Minimum GPA of 2.5
American Association of University Women
1111 Sixteenth St. NW
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 785-7700
Email: connect@aauw.org
Deadline: various
American Theological Library Association
300 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 2100
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (888) 665-2852
Email: memberrep@atla.com
AmeriCorps
Deadline: Varies
Amount: Varies
Description: Educational award is made in exchange for one or two years of service. Many national, state, and local nonprofit organizations across the nation utilize AmeriCorps members in endeavors such as tutoring, preventing crime, renovating houses, and restoring parks and streams.
Application:
AmeriCorps
1201 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20525
Phone: (800) 942-2677
Association on American Indian Affairs, Inc.
Deadline: March 3-June 1
966 Hungerford Drive, Suite 12-B
Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (240) 314-7155
Email: general.aaia@indian-affairs.org
CM CARES Religious Scholars Program
Deadline: Feb 8 – April 5
Amount: Varies
Description: Be enrolled in a full-time or part-time*, advanced degree (master's or doctorate) religious studies program at an accredited or conditionally accredited United States theological seminary, college or university of higher learning, for the upcoming academic year. Be committed to entering the practice of full-time ministry* in the United States** following completion of studies. Not open to international applicants.
Online
Dora Maclellan Brown Ministry Scholarship
Deadline: February 15
Amount: Up to $5,000
Description: The Foundation provides scholarships to Christians who are theologically and biblically conservative
Qualifications:
M.Div. or M.T.S. degree candidates
Chattanooga-area residents
Candidates for pulpit ministry or the mission field are preferred
NOTE: Candidates must call before submitting an application
Application: The Generosity Trust
736 Market Street, Suite 1402
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Phone: (423) 266-5257
Dan River Foundation Community Foundation (must have a VA connection)
Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership
Deadline: May 1
Amount: Not specified
Description: Awards available to M.Div. students. Letters of recommendation, transcript, and photo required with application. Students need not have a Masonic or Eastern Star affiliation, but must be sponsored by a local chapter, preferably in their hometown. Call (202) 667-4737 to receive contact details for local branches.
Application:
Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership
General Grand Chapter, OES
Attention: Alma Lynn Bane
Right Worthy Grand Secretary
1618 New Hampshire Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20009-2549
Feild Co-operative Association, Inc.
Deadline: Not specified
Amount: Up to $5,000 per calendar year
Description: Loans available to residents of Mississippi.
Application:
Feild Co-operative Association, Inc.
4400 Old Canton Road, Suite 170
Jackson, MS 39211
Phone: (601) 713-2312
First Congregational Church
Post Office Box 355
1171 Main Street
Coventry, CT 06238
Phone: (860) 742-8487
Deadline: May 01
Fund for Theological Education, Inc.
Advanced Scholarship
Deadline: Varies
Doctoral Scholarships for Students of Color
Ministry Exploration and Mentorship Grants
Gene and Faye Santavicca Scholarship Fund
Oxford Presbyterian Church
Deadline: April 30
Amount: $1,000
Description: Given to a full-time M.Div. student
Contact:
Oxford Presbyterian Church
101 North Main Street
Oxford, OH 45056
Email: office@oxfordpresbychurch.org
Phone: (513) 523-6364
Hawaii Community Foundation
Juliette M. Atherton Scholarship
Deadline: March 1; Amount: $500 to $2,500
Description: Scholarships for seminary students who are residents of Hawaii
Qualifications: Applicants must be pursuing ordination in an established Protestant denomination and must demonstrate financial need and academic promise
Application: Hawaii Community Foundation
827 Fort Street Mall
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (888) 731-3863
Hawaii Community Foundation Application Instructions
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Deadline: March 30
Award: $1,000-5,000
Description: HSF/ General College Scholarships are designed to assist students of Hispanic heritage obtain a college degree.
Qualifications: Hispanic heritage, U.S. Citizen or permanent resident, minimum GPA of 3.0
International Order of the Kings Daughters and Sons Scholarship
Deadline: March 1 (Application forms are only sent to applicants between December 1 and March 1)
Amount: $1000.00
Application:
IOKDS
Student Ministry Department Director
P. O. Box 1040
Chautauqua, NY, 14722
Japanese American Citizens League
Deadline: April 1
Amount: $1,000 to $5,000
Description: Scholarships available to first-year graduate students. Either the applicant or the applicant’s parent(s) must hold membership in the JACL. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to request an application.
Application:
Japanese American Citizens League
Masao Satow Building
1765 Sutter Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: (415) 921-5225
Japanese American United Church
Justin Haruyama Ministerial Scholarship Fund
C/O Japanese American United Church
255 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10001
Phone: (212) 242-9444
Deadline: May 29
Email: ministryjauc@gmail.com
Jean Audrey Powers Leadership for Change Scholarship Fund
Deadline: April 15
Amount: Up to $3000 per year
Description: Any United Methodist seminarian preparing for ordination as an elder and is studying at any one of the thirteen United Methodist seminaries in the United States and is committed to promoting justice for gay and lesbian persons in the life of the UMC are encouraged to apply.
Francis Nathaniel and Kathryn Padgett Kennedy Foundation
219 Sherwood Drive
Laurens, SC 29360
Phone: 864-923-0254
Contact: Bev Kennedy, dbkennedy@prtcnet.com
Deadline: April 1
Description: Scholarships for full-time seminary students (master-level and doctoral) from South Carolina. Residents from Laurens County and upper Piedmont are given first preference. Preference for applicants who wish to serve as an international missionary or as a Christian educator in a local congregation. Contact Bev Kennedy by phone or email to request an application.
Louisville Institute
1044 Alta Vista Road
Louisville, KY 40205-1798
(502) 992-5432
Deadline: Varies
Email: info@louisville-institute.org
Mount Olivet Foundation
1500 North Glebe Road
Arlington, VA, USA
Phone: (703) 527-3934
Email: scutshaw@mtolivet-umc.org
Deadlines: End of March, June, September or December
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
NAACP Special Contribution Fund
Education Department, NAACP
4805 Mount Hope Drive
Baltimore, MD 21215
Phone: (410) 580-5777
Deadline: April 30
Amount: Up to $2,500
Description: Scholarships available to members of the NAACP. Recipients may not be NAACP employees, family members of board of director members, trustees, or close relatives of people holding these positions
National Federation of the Blind
Deadline: March 31
Amount: Up to $12,000
Description: Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, service to the community, and financial need.
Qualifications:
Applicants must be legally blind.
Registered full-time membership in the National Federation of the Blind is not necessary.
Application:
NFB Scholarship Program
National Federation of the Blind at Jernigan Place
200 East Wells Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
Phone: (410) 659-9314
Email : scholarships@nfb.org
National Women’s Studies Association
Deadline: Varies
Amount: Varies
Description: Awards, fellowships, and scholarships intended to expand the boundaries and possibilities of women’s studies, this includes lesbian studies.
Application: National Women’s Studies Association
11 E Mount Royal Ave., Suite 100
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: (410) 528-0355
Email: nwsaoffice@nwsa.org
New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs
Margaret Yardley Fellowship
Deadline: March 1
Amount: $1,000
Description: Fellowship available to female students from New Jersey. The award is based on financial need. Requests for applications should be made prior to February 1 and must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Application:
New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs
55 Labor Center Way
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone: (723) 249-5474
Email: njsfwc@njsfwc.org
P.E.O.
3700 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50312
USA
Phone: (515) 255-3153
Fax: (515) 255-3820
Deadline: Varies
The Philadelphia Foundation
Application:
The Philadelphia Foundation
Margaret and Charles E. Stewart
Scholarship Fund
1234 Market Street, Suite 1800
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: (215) 563-6417
Jennings Randolph Program for International Peace
Deadline: Not specified
Amount: Not specified
Description: Senior and dissertation fellowships available to enable outstanding scholars to conduct research on important issues concerning international conflict and peace. Detailed information is available on the website
Application:
Jennings Randolph Program for International Peace
United States Institute of Peace
2301 Constitution Ave NW
Washington, D.C. 20036-3011
Email: NationalDialogueFellowship@usip.org
Bill Raskob Foundation, Inc.
Deadline: May 15 ( Application accepted between January 1 and May 15)
Amount: Up to $3,000
Description: Interest-free educational loans available to students with unmet need after the receipt of Stafford Student Loans. Loans are not available to first-year students or international students.
Application:
Bill Raskob Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 507
Crownsville, MD 21032-0507
Roothbert Fund
Deadline: February 1, Applications available between November 1 and January 31
Amount: $2,000 - $3,000
Description: Preference will be given to those who are considering teaching as a vocation. Candidates are required to go to an interview in New York City, New Haven, CT or Washington, DC, for which the Fund does not reimburse travel expenses. Must satisfy high scholastic requirements. Applicants must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Application:
Roothbert Fund
475 Riverside Drive
Room 1622
New York, NY 10115
(212) 870-3116
Email: mail@roothbertfund.org
Scudder Association, Inc.
Deadline: June 15
Amount: $1,000 to $2,000
Description: Grants available to full-time students in medicine, nursing, and theology. Applications are accepted only from members of the Scudder Association and those recommended by Scudder.
Application:
Scudder Association, Inc.
Attn: Educational Grants Committee
8780 SW 64th Court
Miami, FL 33143
Email: bets5564@gmail.com or phone: (215) 704-0862
W.B. Small Trust Scholarship
Deadline: May 15
Amount: Up to $2,500
Description: Seminary students who have lived or currently lived in IOWA
The Horace Smith Fund
Walter S. Barr Fellowships
Deadline: February 1
Amount: None specified
Description: Financial assistance to ministry students who are residents of Hampden County, Massachusetts
Application:
Executive Director
The Horace Smith Fund
1441 Main Street
Springfield, MA 01103
Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
Deadline: November 1
Amount: Half tuition plus $2,000
Description: Fellowship program designed to provide opportunities for new Americans to achieve leadership positions in their chosen fields. For the purposes of this program, a "new American" is an individual who (1) is a resident alien, i.e., holds a Green Card; or (2) has been naturalized as a U.S. citizen; or (3) is the child of two parents who are both naturalized citizens. The fellowships provide grants for up to two years of graduate study in the United States. Thirty fellowships will be awarded each year.
The applicant must be under 30 and have a bachelor’s degree.
Spencer Foundation
625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1600
Chicago, IL 60611
USA
Phone: (312) 337-7000 x 7110
Email: abrinkman@spencer.org
Lawrence and Donna Taylor Foundation
Deadline: April 15
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships are provided for full-time students preparing for the ordained ministry or certification in Christian Education.
Application Requests:
Boone First United Methodist Church
Seventh and Arden Streets
Boone, IA 50036
Phone: (515) 432-4660
Email: bnfumc@mchsi.com
Veda Sweeney Memorial Scholarship
Description: Must be a resident of Wisconsin and preparing for Christian ministry leading to ordination.
Application:
Veda Sweeney Scholarship Committee
School District of Reedsburg
501 K Street Reedsburg, WI 53959-1825
Phone: (608) 524-2401
Deadline: July 15
The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation
Chaplain Samuel Grover Powell Scholarship
Deadline: July 1
Amount: $900
Description: Support for students planning to serve in the United States Military Chaplaincy. No denominational affiliation is required. The recipient must be in his/her senior or middler year and be involved in the Chaplain Candidate (Seminary) Program or serving in the reserves after having completed an active tour of military duty. Preference will be given to senior students who plan to serve with the U.S. Air Force, though students preparing to serve in other branches of the military will be considered.
Application:
Chaplain Samuel Grover Powell Scholarship
The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation
Chaplain Powell Fund
P.O. Box 340005
Nashville, TN 37203-0005
Phone: (800) 810-8110
United States Army Reserve Chaplain Candidate Program
USA Funds
PO Box 6028
Indianapolis, IN 46206-6028
Veterans Educational Assistance
Deadline: Not specified
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships available to United States military veterans
Qualifications: Must have served in active duty for more than 180 days
Application: Contact your local VA office
Richard M. Weaver Fellowship
Deadline: Jan. 23
Amount: Tuition plus $5,000.
Description: Grants available to graduate students of conservative orientation who plan to teach at the college level in the liberal arts or social sciences.
Application:
Richard M. Weaver Fellowship
Intercollegiate Studies Institute
3901 Centerville Road
Wilmington, DE 19807
email awards@isi.org or call (800) 526–7022
BAPTIST
American Baptist Church, USA Scholarships
Deadline: May 31
Amount: Varies
Description: Financial assistance for American Baptist students enrolled in seminary.
Application:
American Baptist Church, USA
National Ministries
Financial Aid Office
P.O. Box 851
Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851
Phone: 1(800) ABC-3USA ext. 2067
American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin Grants
Deadline: July 1
Amount: $2,000
Description: Grants provided to American Baptist MDiv students enrolled full-time
Qualifications: Membership in an ABC in Wisconsin
Application:
American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin
15330 Watertown Plank Road
Elm Grove, WI 53122-2391
Phone: (800) 311-3140
American Baptist Women of New Jersey
Degenring Scholarship Fund
Deadline: March 1
Amount: Varies based on need and on the recipient’s career goals in Christian work
Description: The Degenring Scholarship Fund provides assistance to American Baptist women pursuing a career in Christian service.
Qualifications: Membership in an ABC in New Jersey for at least five years
Application:
American Baptist Women of New Jersey
36-10 Garden View Terrace
East Windsor, NJ 08520
American Baptist Women’s Scholarship Fund
Deadline: January 31
Amount: $500
Description: Scholarship awards to women who preparing for full-time Christian service in the American Baptist Church, USA
Qualifications: Preference will be given to residents of the Pacific Northwest who are attending an American Baptist institution, but others may apply.
Application:
American Baptist Women’s Ministries of the Pacific Northwest
409 Third Avenue S., Suite A
Kent, WA 98032-5843
Phone: (360) 636-4716
Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund
Deadline: April 1 (M.Div.); May 1 (D.Min.)
Amount: Varies (normally between $1,000 and $8,000)
Description: Financial assistance for Baptists from Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia planning to serve Baptist churches
Application:
Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund, Inc.
P. O. Box 431
Martinsville, VA 24114
Phone: 276-632-2229
Durward V. Cason Jr. Memorial Fund
Deadline: September 15, February 1
Amount: Not specified
Description: Scholarship awards to African American students who are residents of Georgia, members of Georgia Baptist Churches, and enrolled in full-time study leading to a Christian vocation; Recipients must serve in a church-related vocation or Christian ministry for at least three years following graduation
Application:
Georgia Baptist Convention
Durward V. Cason Jr. Memorial Fund
2930 Flowers Road South
Atlanta, GA 30341
Adora S. Jones Ministerial Trust Scholarship Fund
Application will be available : Mid July - early August
Deadline: November 1
Amount: $700 to $1,500 depending on availability of funds
Description: Scholarship funds for seminary students from the State of Iowa
Qualifications:
Recipients must have been Iowa residents prior to college entry
Enrollment in seminary and actively pursuing studies toward preaching the Gospel in the United Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist or Congregational Churches
Application:
Adora S. Jones Ministerial Trust
Selection Administrator
Robert D. Thompson
6411 Russell Dr. N.W.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52405-7006
Email: robertdtia@gmail.com
Phone: (319) 396-5479
The Northern Baptist Education Society Award
Deadlines: Fall – October 12; Spring – March 1
Amount: Up to $4,000
Description: Awards to students preparing for Christian ministry
Qualifications:
Must be a member of an American Baptist Church
Must be from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, or Vermont
Application:
The Northern Baptist Education Society
Rev. Dr. Roger Spinney, Executive Secretary
P.O. Box 2787
Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Email: rspin677@aol.com
Florida CBF Scholarship
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Florida has scholarship money available to theological students who meet the following criteria: participating members of the Florida CBF, financial need, and a letter of request submitted to the Florida CBF Education Ministry. The deadline is June 1. For more information and to download an application form go to its website.
South Carolina CBF Scholarship
Awarded to theological students from South Carolina enrolled in one of the CBF partner schools (Duke Divinity School is a CBF partner school.) Students must apply. For more information and to download an application form go to its website.
Tennessee CBF Scholarship
The Tennessee Cooperative Baptist Fellowship awards a $1,000 scholarship to a divinity school student each academic year. For more information on how to apply go to its website and click on the “Developing Leaders” tab.
The Tom & Ethel Logue Seminary Student Scholarship Fund
With the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Arkansas annually provides up to three $1,000 scholarships for Arkansas seminarians. Applications are received by the Scholarship Advisory Committee of the CBFAR Coordinating Council due March 15th, and the scholarship recipients are announced by April 22nd to be awarded for the following Fall semester. The process is inclusive of the diversity of Baptist students with connections to Arkansas.
Virginia Baptist Mission Board Ministerial Scholarship Funds
The Baptist General Association of Virginia offers financial assistance to theological students who meet the following criteria: college graduate, membership in a BGVA affiliated church, residency in the state of Virginia at least a year prior to receiving financial aid, and endorsement by a BGVA affiliated church. For more information and to download an application form go to its website.
Mary Louise Old Andrews Trust Scholarship Fund
Available for ministerial students from Virginia. For more information write to: Bank of America/Private Bank/P.O. Box 26688/Richmond, VA 23261-6688.
CATHOLIC
Women’s Ordination Conference
Bishop Frank Murphy Scholarship for Women in Ministry
Deadline: TBA
Amount: $1,000
Description: Members of the Women’s Ordination Conference enrolled or accepted in a graduate theological program of study or diocesan certificate program and preparing for Catholic ministry
Application:
Women's Ordination Conference
Scholarship Committee
P.O. Box 15058
Washington, DC 20003
Phone: (202) 675-1006
Email: woc@womensordination.org
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST & DISCIPLES OF CHRIST
Cannon Endowment Scholarship
Deadline: None specified
Amount: Approximately $2,500
Description: The Cannon Endowment provides scholarship assistance to seminarians planning to become military chaplains. Seminarians who are of the following faith communities may apply: United Church of Christ, Christian Church Disciples of Christ, Presbyterian USA, United Methodist, and Church of the Brethren. Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis and typically will be in the $2,500 range.
Application:
Parish Life and Leadership Ministry Team
Grants, Scholarship and Resources
United Church of Christ
700 Prospect Avenue East
Cleveland, OH 44115-1100
Phone: (216) 736-3839
Email: jeffersv@ucc.org
Disciples Home Missions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Scholarships
Deadline: March 15
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships and loans for members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Qualifications:
Membership in a DOC congregation for at least one year
Vocational plan of ordained ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Maintenance of a minimum C+ grade point average
Demonstrated financial need
Full-time enrollment in an accredited school of seminary
Application:
Disciples Home Missions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
P.O. Box 1986
Indianapolis, IN 46206
CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL
Women's Missionary Council Scholarship Helena B. Cobb Grant Higher Education Scholarships
EPISCOPAL SCHOLARSHIPS
The Church Training and Deaconess House Scholarship
Deadline: Prior to March 21
Amount: $2,000 to $3,000
Description: Scholarships to assist women in training for religious and benevolent work pertaining to the Episcopal Church
Application:
The Church Training and Deaconess House
Diocese of Pennsylvania
3717 Chestnut Street, Suite 300
Philadelphia, PA -19104
E-mail: The Rev. Claire Nevin-Field at nevin-field@stpetersphila.org
Dubose Scholarship Fund
Deadline: April 30
Amount: Varies
Description: Awards available to deserving Episcopal seminary students
Qualifications: Must be a postulant or candidate for Holy Orders in the Protestant Episcopal Church USA; Applicants must be over 32 years of age
Application:
Dubose Scholarship Fund
University of the South, School of Theology
335 Tennessee Avenue
Sewanee, TN 37383-0001
Email: dubosefd@sewanee.edu
Episcopal Church Center
Deadline: Varies
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships for Episcopal seminary students
Application:
Episcopal Church Center
815 Second Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Phone: (800) 334-7626
Episcopal Evangelical Education Society Grants
Deadline: February 2
Amount: $500 to $5,000
Description: Grants available to Episcopal students for projects that foster fresh initiatives and methodologies in evangelism and education and help believers understand and articulate the Christian faith
Application:
Episcopal Evangelical Education Society
Box 7297
Arlington, VA 22207
Phone: (703) 807-1862
The Order of the Daughters of the King
Master’s Fund
Deadline: Fall: March 15; Spring and Summer: Oct. 1
Amount: $500 to $700
Description: Grants to Episcopal women preparing for missionary and other church-related work
Qualifications:
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age
Must be a member of the Episcopal Church, an autonomous church of the Anglican Communion, or Churches in Communion with the Episcopal Church.
Preference will be given to a member of “Daughters of the King.”
Recipients must give two years of service to the church after training.
Application:
Order of the Daughters of the King
Master’s Fund Committee
101 Weatherstone Dr. Suite 870
Woodstock, GA 30188
Email: mastersfund@doknational.org
LUTHERAN SCHOLARSHIPS
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Educational Grant Program
Deadline: April 25
Amount: Up to $3,000
Description: Educational grants available to members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America enrolled in a doctoral program for advanced theological study
Application:
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Educational Grant Program
Director for Theological Education
Division for Ministry
8765 West Higgins Road
Chicago, IL 60631
Phone: (773) 380-2874
Abdel Ross Wentz Prize in American Lutheran History
Deadline: varies
Amount: $1,000
Description: Awards are presented annually to the author of an outstanding essay or research paper dealing with American Lutheran history
Qualifications: All Lutheran students in a first-degree program at a theological seminary in North America are eligible
Application:
Abdel Ross Wentz Prize in American Lutheran History
Lutheran Historical Society, Gettysburg
61 Seminary Ridge
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Siebert Lutheran Foundation Grants
Deadline: June 1
Amount: Up to $3,000
Description: Scholarship assistance provided to full-time MDiv students from Wisconsin. Students may not apply directly; interested students should have their home pastor request application forms
Application:
Siebert Lutheran Foundation, Inc.
300 N. Corporate Drive, Suite 200
Brookfield, WI 53045
Email: contactus@siebertfoundation.org
PRESBYTERIAN SCHOLARSHIPS
Cannon Endowment Scholarship for Seminarians
Deadline: March 1
Amount: Approximately $2,500
Description: The Cannon Endowment provides scholarship assistance to seminarians planning to become military chaplains. Seminarians who are of the following faith communities may apply: United Church of Christ, Christian Church Disciples of Christ, Presbyterian USA, United Methodist, and Church of the Brethren. Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis and typically will be in the $2,500 range.
Daisy and Eugene Hale Memorial Scholarship
Deadline: April 1
Amount: $500 to $2,000
Description: Scholarships for Presbyterian (USA) seminary students
Qualifications:
Florida residency, under the care of a Florida Presbytery
Intent to become a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the PC-USA
Application:
Riverside Presbyterian Church
849 Park Street
Jacksonville, FL 32204-3394
Phone: (904) 355-4585
Hotson Trust
Deadline: June 1
Amount: $500
Description: Grants to Presbyterian students at theological schools
Application: Hotson Trust
900 Jordan Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
Phone: (318) 222-0604
Higgins Scholarship
Deadline: March 31
Amount: Not specified
Description: Scholarships for full-time degree students preparing for church occupations. Preference given to students under the care of the Presbytery of Chicago
Application:
Higgins Scholarship
The Presbytery of Chicago
100 South Morgan
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: (312) 243-8300
Lydia Scholarship Fund
Deadline: March 1
Amount: up to $2,500
Description: A scholarship for women who feel called to the Presbyterian Church (USA) ordained pastoral ministry and who have a vision of spiritual renewal within the denomination
Application:
Lydia Scholarship Coordinator
Network of Presbyterian Women in Leadership
8134 New LaGrange Rd #227
Louisville, KY 4022-4679
National Korean Presbyterian Women
Deadline: June 1
Amount: $1,000
Description: Scholarships available to female, second-generation Korean Americans. Applicants should possess outstanding academic ability and leadership skills
Application:
National Korean Presbyterian Women
Mrs. Hae Sook Nam, Moderator
10505 Water Point Way
Mitchellville, MD 20721
Gene & Faye Santavicca Scholarship
Deadline: April 30
Amount: Up to $1,000
Description: Grants available to full-time seminary students; Preference is given to members of the Oxford Presbyterian Church
Application:
Oxford Presbyterian Church
101 North Main Street
Oxford, OH 45056
Phone: (513) 523-6364
Email: office@oxfordpresbychurch.org
Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder Scholarship
Deadline: March 15
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarship and loan assistance is available to students who are studying for the Presbyterian or Reformed ministry and who are under the care of a Presbytery; Preference is given to residents of New Jersey
Application:
Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder Foundation
P. O. Box 671
Moorestown, NJ 08057-0671
Speer Education Grant
Deadline: April 20
Amount: Not specified
Description: Scholarships for Presbyterian students
Qualifications:
Second or third year students
Under the care of a Presbytery
Preparing for ordination in the Presbyterian Church
Preference will be given to members of Westminster Church and the New Castle Presbytery
Recipients who do not receive ordination will be expected to repay the funds
Application:
Westminster Presbyterian Church
1504 West 13th Street
Wilmington, DE 19806
Synod of the Northeast
Wurffel/Sills Loans
Deadline: April 1
Amount: $500 to $5,000
Description: Interest-free educational loans are available to full-time students who are members of PC-USA congregations in the Synod of the Northeast. Loan amounts are determined on the basis of individual needs
Application:
Presbyterian Church (USA),
Synod of the Northeast
5811 Heritage Landing Drive
East Syracuse, NY 13057-9360
Contact: Stacey Galloway Phone: (800) 585-5881
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST SCHOLARSHIPS
Hale Donation Scholarship
Deadline: May 1
Amount: Varies
Description: Grants available to students with financial need who are preparing for ministry in the United Church of Christ.
Qualifications: Preference is given to applicants from Tolland County, Connecticut, but applications will be accepted from other parts of the country.
Application:
Hale Donation Scholarship
The First Congregational Church
P.O. Box 355
Coventry, CT 06238
Phone: (860) 742-5689
United Church of Christ
Deadline: Not specified
Amount: Varies
Description: Scholarships for United Church of Christ students. Full descriptions of scholarships.
Requirements:
Membership in a UCC Congregation for at least one year
Enrolled in a course of study leading to ordination
In-care of an Association or Conference
Minimum “B” grade point average
Plan for service in the UCC or partner church upon completion of seminary
Demonstrated leadership ability
Contact Information:
United Church of Christ
700 Prospect Avenue East
Cleveland, OH 44115-1100
Phone: (216) 736-2166
Email: scholarships@ucc.org
United Church of Christ Historical Council
Deadline: May 1
Amount: $200
Description: Award and publication of an essay on the history of the United Church of Christ; Applicants must be M.Div. degree candidates
Application:
United Church of Christ Historical Council
United Church of Christ
Schaff Library
Lancaster Theological Seminary
555 West James Street
Lancaster, PA 17603
Edwin Whitney Fund
Deadline: May 3
Amount: Up to $2,000
Description: Scholarships Connecticut residents preparing for ministry in the United Church of Christ
Qualifications: Preference is given to residents of Mansfield, Connecticut, though others may apply
Application:
Edwin Whitney Fund
Storrs Congregational Church
2 N. Eagleville Road
Storrs, CT 06268
U.S. Department of Education FAFSA- Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply for financial aid.
Sallie Mae Scholarships List - "Free money for college that you don't pay back."
FastWeb Scholarship Site- A scholarship site for both undergraduate and graduate students.
U.S. Department of Education Discretionary Grant Application Packages - A source of grants, loans and funding in the U.S.
United Negro College Fund (UNCF) - A source of minority education funding in the U.S.
Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) - A source of scholarships, knowledge, and resources for Hispanic students.
American Indian College Fund - A resource for scholarships and programs for Native-American students.
Eastern Star Religious Training Award - A resource for masons in the General Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star®
CSA Scholars - A list of scholarships from the The Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA), "established as a separate organization designed solely for administering scholarships".
Korean American Scholarship Foundation - Scholarships, resources and programming for Korean students.
The Philadelphia Foundation's Margaret and Charles E. Stewart Scholarship Fund
Up to $500 available to full-time Master of Divinity students intending to serve in the black church of any Protestant denomination. Deadline: April 30
The Fund for Theological Education (FTE) - www.thefund.org
Ministry Fellows Program - FTE
Awarded to second-year MDiv students. Applicants must be nominated by the seminary dean or president. Deadline: March 1.
Congregational Fellows - FTE
Awarded to entering first-year seminarians in the Master of Divinity program in a school accredited by the ATS. Congregational Fellows receive a $1000-$5000 award from FTE to match, dollar for dollar, support provided by their nominating congregation. Recipients must be preparing to enter parish ministry, be 30 years of age or younger and have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Deadine is April 1.
International Order of The King's Daughters and Sons Scholarship Programs -http://www.iokds.org/scholarship.html
DC Baptist Convention Foundation
To qualify for a scholarship through the DCBC Foundaiton, students must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled as a full-time student. Applicants must also be completing a first graduate degree in theology and preparing for full-time ministry. Application information and a list of participating DCBC churches are available online at https://www.dcbaptist.org/scholarships. Deadline is May 1.
American Baptist Individual Seminarian Grants
Applicants attending a non-ABC related seminary or theological school may apply for up to $750. Students must be in the MDiv program and be a member of the American Baptist Church for at least one year prior to applying for assistance. Please contace the Office of Financial Aid for Studies, National Ministries, American Baptist Churches, USA, P.O Box 851 Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851. Visitwww.nationalministries.org/education or 1-800-ABC-3USA. Deadline is May 31.
Unitarian Universalist - ww.uua.org/giving/awardsscholarships/
United Church of Christ - Scholarships for Seminarians at www.ucc.org/ministers/
Presbyterian
Presbyterian Church (USA)
Scholarships and loans for full-time Presbyterian (USA) students. Amounts range from $200-$2000. To qualify students must be enrolled full-time in the Master of Divinity program, and be inquirers or candidates in a PC (USA) presbytery. Award is limited to students for whom this is their first professional degree and recommendation by the student's financial aid administrator is required.
Hotson Trust
Grants to Presbyterian students at theological schools
Deadline: June 1
Amount: $500
Application:
Hotson Trust
900 Jordan Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 222-0604
Lutheran
Abdel Ross Wentz Prize in American Lutheran History
Deadline: June 1
Amount: $1000
Awards are presented annually to the author of an outstanding essay or research paper dealing with American Lutheran history.
Qualifications: All Lutheran students in a first-degree program at a theological seminary in North America are eligible.
For an application:
Abdel Ross Wentz Prize in American Lutheran History
Lutheran Historical Society, Gettysburg
61 Seminary Ridge
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Air Force Chaplaincy Scholarships
The Air Force offers scholarships for individuals who want to become service chaplains. To qualify applicants must: 1) meet Air Force commissioning requirements, 2) receive written permission from a listed DoD ecclesiastical endorser, 3) be in good academic standing, and 4) be younger than 39 years of age upon completion of theological studies. For more information, send a request tochaplains@rs.af.mil. And to get started on your search for scholarships, visit Military.com Scholarship Finder.
Yellow Ribbon Program
Wesley Theological Seminary participates in the Yellow Ribbon program in partnership with Veterans Affairs under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill (Chapter 33). Through this program, the VA pays a larger portion of the total tuition/fees and Wesley makes up the difference, totaling 100% coverage of tuition/fees even for non-active duty and retired military. A limited number of Yellow Ribbon spaces are available to Wesley students each academic year and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
