Best Social Work Scholarships for 2025

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The demand for more efficient social and human services continues to increase amid the new normal, signaling opportunities for aspiring social work professionals. However, the increasing cost of higher education has been posing financial difficulties for students and their families. Fortunately, social work scholarships are available based on student needs and performance or merit.

The average cost of college in the United States (US) may be obstructing the path to addressing the need for qualified social workers. On the bright side, government student aid, campus-based scholarships, and organization-funded grants are provided to qualified students. In the academic year 2019–2020, students of four-year academic institutions in the US who were awarded federal grants and scholarship aid each received an average amount of $14,080 [National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 2021].

In this guide, the Research.com team discusses the best social work scholarships in the US, their eligibility standards, application requirements, and potential scholarship amount. Moreover, fellowship grants for graduate students are also tackled to help social work professionals aiming to advance their education and careers.

Best Social Work Scholarships 2025 Table of Contents

National Merit Scholarship Program
The Harry S. Truman Scholarship
Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund
Federal Pell Grant
National Institutes of Health Undergraduate Scholarships
National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Foundation Scholarship
CSWE Minority Fellowship Program
CSWE Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund
CSWE Substance Use Disorders Scholars Program
Local Scholarships for Social Work Programs

Scholarships for Social Work Students for 2025

Social work scholarships may be divided into three categories: merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and demographic- or specialty-specific scholarships. Taking these into account, US and international students have many options to be able to pay for higher education and begin their journey toward a meaningful career in social work.

You might also opt for online programs for social work that are usually more affordable. See our list of advanced standing online MSW programs. Once you obtain your social work degree, you can start your journey as a licensed social worker. See how much you can make in our licensed clinical social worker salary and career article.

1. Merit-based scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are financial awards given to students who have exhibited exceptional academic, athletic, or artistic skills and accomplishments, among other areas, instead of being granted mainly due to financial need. These scholarships are provided by academic institutions, private organizations, and other businesses.

The amount of money conferred varies—from a specified amount to full tuition and other fees. The financial grant may also include educational experiences, such as mentorships, internships, and international studies. Popular merit-based scholarships in the US include the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Harry S. Truman Scholarship.

2. Need-based scholarships

Need-based scholarships are given to students from low-income families or to individuals who experience economic challenges that hinder them from being able to afford their postsecondary education. Providers of these scholarships consider various financial factors, including family income, assets, and expenses. The evaluation of these personal details determines the amount of money students may need to cover the cost of attending college.

Examples of need-based scholarships include the Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund and the Federal Pell Grant. In the academic year 2020–2021, an estimated 6.4 million students received the Federal Pell Grant, with the maximum amount awarded at $6,345 (US Department of Education, 2022).

3. Scholarships for specific demographic groups or social work specialties

Demographic-based scholarships are financial awards granted to students based on their personal characteristics or demographic backgrounds. They aim to support individuals from marginalized groups, including ethnic minorities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and students with disabilities. One example of a demographic-based social work scholarship is the Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund of the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Meanwhile, specialty-based scholarships are offered to students based on their educational and professional interests, skills, and goals in a particular field of study, such as science, the arts, and healthcare. Examples of specialty-based social work scholarships include the Substance Use Disorders Scholars Program of the CSWE and the National Association of Social Workers Foundation Scholarship.

Best Social Work Scholarships for 2025

Social work is an honorable profession that may come at a hefty price. Fortunately, scholarships, among other resources, help lessen the financial burden of social work education. Unlike student loans, scholarships do not require repayment. Thus, they help prevent individuals from racking up additional debt. To help you start your scholarship legwork, our research team detailed in this section several of the best social work scholarships available to undergraduate and graduate students from different backgrounds.

Merit-based Scholarships

1. National Merit Scholarship Program

The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the best social work scholarships that recognizes and awards undergraduate scholarships to high-achieving high school students in the US. The program is organized and held by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), an independent, nonprofit organization established in 1955. Throughout the decades, the NMSC has ensured that it acknowledges students with outstanding academic performance, provides financial assistance to further their education, and efficiently manages sponsorships that fund the scholarships.

Eligibility Requirements

Must take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®)
Must be enrolled as a high school student (traditional or homeschooled), advancing as usual toward completion of high school and planning to attend college by fall after high school completion
Must be enrolled in a high school in the US, the District of Columbia, or US commonwealth and territory; or must meet the citizenship qualifications for high school students outside of the US

Application Deadlines

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT®: October 2023
Selecting Your First-choice School: May 2024
Submitting Your Semifinalist Application: October 2024
Taking the SAT: December 2024

Award Amount

National Merit® $2,500 Scholarships
Corporate Sponsorship: Four-year Fixed-amount Stipend Scholarships worth between $1,000 and $10,000 per year; or One-time Fixed-amount Stipend Scholarships worth between $2,500 and $5,000
College and University Sponsorship of Merit Scholarship® Awards: Between $500 and $2,000 per year

2. The Harry S. Truman Scholarship

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship is a prestigious graduate fellowship in the US, awarded yearly to academically talented undergraduate juniors seeking to pursue careers and leadership roles in public service. The scholarship program was established in 1975 by Congress to memorialize Harry S. Truman, the 33rd US president, and the principles of service that guided his time in office. The grant is one of the potential social work scholarships for international students who are working toward achieving US citizenship by the date when the grant is awarded.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be a US citizen, a US National resident of American Samoa, or expecting their citizenship by the awarding date
Must be currently enrolled in a US-based accredited institution
Must be in their penultimate year of undergraduate studies for applicants graduating in a minimum of four years; or in their final year of undergraduate studies for applicants graduating in a maximum of three years
Must be nominated by their current or former academic institutions for transfer or community college candidates
Must be planning to attend graduate school to cultivate a public service career

Application Deadline: First quarter of the yearAward Amount: Up to $30,000

Need-based Scholarships

3. Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund

The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund gives financial aid to students who advocate for liberation, self-determination, and social and economic justice through progressive campaigns. It confers scholarships to individuals enrolled in postsecondary institutions, including colleges, universities, and trade schools.

The Fund was established in 1961 by Steelworker and Labor Journalist Horace B. Davis as a tribute to his wife, Teacher and Political Activist Marian Davis. It was renamed from the Marian Davis Scholarship Fund to the Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund to honor justice and civil rights advocate and supporter of the Fund, Norton S. Putter.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be involved in campaigns for social change
Must be enrolled in a degree, trade, or training program
Must have financial need

Application Deadline: April 1 annuallyAward Amount: Up to $15,000

4. Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant is a major student aid program in the US that provides students with scholarships for a maximum of the equivalent of six academic years. In the academic year 2020–2021, the Pell Grant awarded an estimated $26.5 billion to recipients, with the average grant amount at $4,166 (US Department of Education, 2022).

Eligibility Requirements

Must be an undergraduate student with exceptional financial need (EFN)
Must have not completed a bachelor's, graduate, or professional degree
Must submit a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply

Application Deadline: Deadline varies depending on the institution or state.Award Amount: Up to $7,395 for academic year 2023–2024

5. National Institutes of Health Undergraduate Scholarships

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Undergraduate Scholarships provides scholarships to underprivileged students who are seeking to pursue careers in biomedical, behavioral, and social science health-related research. These grants may cover tuition, additional educational fees, and housing costs. Students are conferred scholarships for a year and may renew for a maximum of four years.

Students who receive this grant are required to fulfill two paid NIH service obligations: (1) spend 10 summer weeks following each year of scholarship support, working in an NIH research laboratory, and (2) work one year for each year of scholarship support as a full-time NIH researcher after graduation. The program is another one of the potential social work scholarships for international students, as long as applicants are already permanent US residents.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be a US citizen or permanent resident
Must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a full-time undergraduate student at an accredited four-year academic institution
Must have a GPA of 3.3 or higher on a 4.0-point scale; or rank among the top 5% of the class
Must display EFN as validated by the student’s academic institution’s financial aid office

Application Deadline: Second quarter of the yearAward Amount: Up to $20,000 per academic year

Demographic- and Specialty-based Scholarships

6. National Association of Social Workers Foundation Scholarship

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Foundation fellowships provide students with financial assistance to pursue their chosen social work specialties. The Foundation funds two social work scholarships: the Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship and the Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship.

The Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship is given to applicants of master’s degrees in social work, who are dedicated to working with American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic populations. Those committed to working with public nonprofit organizations or with local groups in the US may also apply for the scholarship. On the other hand, the Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship is granted to applicants with master’s degrees in social work who are interested or have a background in healthcare services and are committed to working in African American communities.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be an NASW member in good standing
Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a social work degree program
Must complete the application form
Must submit a biographical essay
Must submit a statement of merit and financial need
Must submit two letters of support from professional references
Must submit an official copy of a transcript from the most recent academic work

Application Deadline: First quarter of the yearAward Amount:

Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship: Up to $4,000
Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship: $4,333 for the academic year 2023–2024

7. CSWE Minority Fellowship Program

The CSWE Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) provides scholarships for master’s degree students and doctoral candidates in the field of social work. The primary purpose of the MFP is to alleviate racial inequality in the provision of healthcare services by boosting the number of available qualified behavioral health professionals with graduate degrees.

The MFP for the master’s level aims to strengthen the training of full-time students who are committed to delivering mental health services to Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities. Grantees—who must declare that their focus is on mental health and/or substance-use-disorder service delivery to racial or ethnic minorities—receive their financial awards during their last year of study in a CSWE-accredited academic institution. They must also obtain employment for a minimum of two years in one or both of these focus areas immediately after graduation.

The MFP for the doctoral level gives scholarships mainly to doctoral students in social work who are members of racial or ethnic minority groups. If you are on the lookout for affordable graduate degrees, you may want to consider online social work graduate programs.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be enrolled in a CSWE-accredited academic institution, for master’s degree students
Must have a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, for doctoral candidates
Must be professionally committed to become a leader in practice, research, education, and policy promulgation in government or private organizations serving vulnerable or marginalized individuals with or at risk for mental health and/or substance abuse disorders

Application Deadline:

Master’s Degree Students: Second quarter of the year
Doctoral Degree Students: First quarter of the year

Award Amount:

MFP Master’s Fellowship: Up to $10,000 per academic year, for a maximum of two academic years
MFP Doctoral Fellowship: Up to $20,000 per academic year, for a maximum of three academic years

8. CSWE Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund

The Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund is a scholarship fund that was founded by the CSWE in honor of Carl A. Scott, a social work pioneer and leader who devoted his professional career to social justice and racial equity. The Fund awards grants to students and organizations that are working to advance social justice and diversity in social work education. It supports a variety of initiatives, such as research studies, training programs, and conferences in the field.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be graduating with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
Must graduate before the period specified by the CSWE
Must be enrolled full time within the grant-awarding period
Must exhibit a commitment to promoting equity and social justice

Application Deadline: Deadline has yet to be announced.Award Amount: Book Scholarships: $500 each

9. CSWE Substance Use Disorders Scholars Program

The Substance Use Disorders Scholars Program is one of the specialty-based social work scholarships that provide financial support for doctoral students in the discipline. These candidates must be dedicated to cultivating careers in the areas of substance-use-disorder prevention and treatment. The program may cover stipends, transportation funds for conference attendance, and research backing. Scholars may also receive mentoring for career development from leading researchers and practitioners in the specialization of substance use disorders.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be enrolled as bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work students
Must be interested in the area of substance use practice

Application Deadline: Deadline varies each year.Award Amount: Scholarship amount varies each year.

The Importance of Social Work Scholarships

1. Scholarships reduce financial costs for social work students and their families.

The tuition costs in US colleges and universities during the academic year 2020–2021 fell between $9,400 and $37,600 (NCES, 2022), which may be a substantial out-of-pocket expense, especially for low- and middle-income families. Social work scholarships help significantly lower the cost of college attendance by covering a student’s tuition and other academic fees partly or entirely as well as housing expenses. Students may reduce costs further by pairing scholarships with the cheapest online social work degree programs.

2. Scholarships help alleviate financial stress and anxiety for social work students.

The average American debt is worth about $59,580 (Federal Reserve Bank of New York, 2023). This figure includes mortgages, credit card debt, and student loans. Undoubtedly, these liabilities may affect the decisions that students and their families make when it comes to higher education. In the study titled “A Narrative Literature Review Addressing the Relationship between Students Enrollment and Campus-Based Financial Aid in United State of America” published in the Journal of Education and Practice in 2021, Akinbobola stated that his review of related literature emphasized that tuition expenses are an indicator for students and parents in the next steps that they take regarding college.

Akinbobola concluded: “...many of the researchers’ findings indicate that colleges and universities can use campus-based financial aid to help them achieve their enrollment goals…It was also observed from the numerous reviews…that financial aid awards, along with tuition costs, may exert a strong influence on the number and types of prospective students that consider attending individual colleges and universities. Above all, the cumulative results of these studies…indicate that colleges and universities should continue to emphasize that campus-based aid, even modest awards, may have a positive impact on the matriculation decisions of prospective students.”

With social work scholarships, students may avoid taking out loans to complete their degrees. Moreover, they or their families might not need to work more than necessary to pay for their college fees. Thus, students may have more time to concentrate on their studies and have less or no student debt to worry about after graduation.

3. Scholarships support deserving social work students who may be best equipped to help vulnerable communities through their services in the long run.

Social work scholarships support students who are intensely committed to providing quality social and healthcare services to underrepresented and underserved individuals and communities. By offering financial aid to these dedicated students, the field of social work has a greater chance to advance in research and practice. Marginalized communities may also be better served by passionate, expertly trained social work professionals.

Thus, you must ensure that you effectively convey your genuine interest in participating in the development of the field of social work. You may start by writing a compelling cover letter to be eligible for a scholarship.

How can students find local scholarships for social work programs?

While national and international scholarships are widely known, local scholarships often go unnoticed, yet they can provide substantial financial aid with less competition. Many communities, organizations, and businesses offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing social work degrees within their regions.

Here are some tips for finding local scholarships:

Community Foundations: Local community foundations often provide scholarships to students pursuing various degrees, including social work. Check with your city or region’s community foundation for available funds.
Local Businesses and Organizations: Many local businesses and civic organizations, such as Rotary Clubs or Lions Clubs, offer scholarships to students in the community. These scholarships often have fewer applicants, increasing your chances of receiving aid.
State-Specific Scholarships: Many states offer scholarships or grants to residents pursuing degrees in fields that benefit the community, such as social work. These scholarships may prioritize students attending in-state schools.
University Alumni Networks: Some universities and their alumni associations offer scholarships to students pursuing social work degrees, particularly those with a strong connection to the local community or the institution’s alumni network.
Social Work Professional Associations: Local chapters of social work organizations, such as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), may offer scholarships to students within their state or region.

What is the return on investment of a social work degree?

Social work professionals may begin with modest salaries that can grow substantially with advanced credentials and specialized roles. Evaluating the return on investment involves considering long‐term career satisfaction, opportunities for advancement, and potential earnings growth relative to educational expenses. Data-driven assessments and industry trends can help prospective students determine whether their commitment to further education and scholarships aligns with their professional and financial goals. For a detailed analysis on the broader returns and challenges associated with the career, review is being a social worker worth it.

How does a social work degree compare to a psychology degree?

Evaluating academic paths reveals that a social work degree emphasizes community engagement, policy advocacy, and systemic intervention, while a psychology degree typically focuses on research methodologies, diagnostic processes, and clinical applications. Prospective professionals should assess how these distinct educational frameworks align with their career goals, particularly in terms of practicum experiences, mentorship opportunities, and long-term career trajectories. For a detailed analysis of these differences, consider exploring the degree in social work vs psychology to gain insights into curriculum design and resultant professional roles.

What are macro-level career options in social work?

Social work professionals can expand their influence beyond direct client services by engaging in roles that address systemic challenges. Graduates may pursue positions that focus on policy development, community program management, or organizational leadership. Such roles facilitate large-scale impact through advocacy, research, and strategic planning. Gaining expertise in these areas enables professionals to work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions, ultimately transforming community welfare on a broad scale. For more detailed insights into these career trajectories, explore macro social work.

How can I build a winning scholarship application?

To create a compelling scholarship application, focus on clarifying your academic interests, demonstrating commitment to community service, and showcasing leadership skills through concrete examples. Tailor your personal statement to address how your professional goals align with the mission of social work, and provide evidence of impactful volunteer work or internships that highlight your capabilities. Organize your documentation with clear, concise narratives, and consider seeking feedback from academic mentors or professionals in the field. Aligning your long-term career vision—such as pursuing opportunities in macro social work—can further distinguish your application from others.

Can social work degrees be accelerated for quicker career entry?

Accelerated social work programs offer a streamlined pathway for students determined to enter the field sooner without compromising academic rigor. Institutions now provide intensive curricula that compress traditional learning timelines and focus on critical competencies. For instance, programs such as 1-year MSW programs are designed for individuals who can leverage prior experience or accelerated coursework to complete their degree efficiently. These options not only reduce overall educational costs but also enable graduates to address pressing community needs earlier in their careers.

Does clinical specialization enhance long-term career prospects in social work?

Clinical specialization can significantly influence career trajectories by equipping professionals with focused expertise and advanced patient care skills. Those who pursue concentrated clinical paths, such as an online LCSW degree, benefit from curricula designed to transition theory into effective real-world practice. Advanced clinical training not only meets the growing demand for specialized mental health and behavioral services but also increases eligibility for leadership roles, boosts earning potential, and enhances professional credibility.

What is the salary outlook for social work professionals?

Social work salaries are shaped by several factors such as geographic location, level of education, and the chosen area of specialization. Professionals who pursue advanced credentials or leadership roles often witness a significant boost in their earnings. Market trends indicate that roles requiring specialized clinical expertise or involvement in macro-level decision-making yield higher long-term income potential. For detailed insights into salary benchmarks and career trajectories, review how much do MSW make.

Should I pursue a doctoral degree in social work?

Pursuing a doctoral degree in social work can open opportunities for academic leadership, advanced clinical research, and policy-making roles. This advanced credential equips professionals with specialized skills that are increasingly demanded in both community practice and higher education. For those evaluating long-term career growth and the impact of research on social systems, a doctorate may provide a competitive edge in addressing complex societal challenges. Explore affordable doctorate of social work programs online to find cost-effective options that align with your professional objectives.

Graduate with a Social Work Degree, Debt-free

The appropriate financial support among the numerous social work scholarships may help you overcome economic challenges and become a social work professional with little to no student debt. You may also explore other related disciplines and professions that may similarly direct you to the path of making a positive impact on communities in need.

For instance, you may want to consider becoming a counselor if you want to zero in on providing counseling services. With scholarships, you may be a few leaps closer to your dream career in social work.

Continue reading about the social work profession in our post on careers related to social work. If you're curious about what other career paths social workers can take, read our article on alternative careers for social workers.

Key Insights

Rising Demand for Social Workers: The need for efficient social and human services continues to grow, particularly in the wake of the new normal, presenting ample opportunities for aspiring social work professionals.
Financial Challenges: The increasing cost of higher education poses significant financial challenges for students and their families, making it crucial to find financial support.
Availability of Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available for social work students based on merit, financial need, and specific demographics or specialties, helping to alleviate the financial burden of higher education.
Types of Scholarships: Scholarships for social work students can be categorized into merit-based, need-based, and demographic- or specialty-specific scholarships, providing a variety of options for financial aid.
Impact of Scholarships: Scholarships help reduce the cost of education, alleviate financial stress, and support students who are committed to serving vulnerable communities through their social work careers.
Application Requirements: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements, which students need to carefully follow to increase their chances of receiving financial aid.

FAQ

What are merit-based scholarships? Merit-based scholarships are financial awards given to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic, athletic, or artistic skills and accomplishments. These scholarships are provided by academic institutions, private organizations, and businesses.
What is the difference between merit-based and need-based scholarships? Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on a student's achievements and talents, while need-based scholarships are given to students from low-income families or those experiencing financial challenges that hinder their ability to afford higher education.
Can international students apply for social work scholarships in the US? Yes, some social work scholarships are available to international students, especially those working toward achieving US citizenship. Specific eligibility criteria will vary depending on the scholarship.
What is the Federal Pell Grant? The Federal Pell Grant is a major student aid program in the US that provides need-based scholarships to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. It does not require repayment and can be awarded for a maximum of six academic years.
What are demographic- and specialty-based scholarships? Demographic-based scholarships are financial awards granted to students based on their personal characteristics or demographic backgrounds, such as ethnicity, gender, or disabilities. Specialty-based scholarships are given to students based on their educational and professional interests in specific fields, such as social work, healthcare, or the arts.
How can social work scholarships reduce financial stress for students? Social work scholarships can significantly lower the cost of education by covering tuition and other academic fees, thereby reducing the need for students to take out loans or work excessively. This allows them to focus more on their studies and graduate with less or no student debt.
What are some examples of merit-based social work scholarships? Examples of merit-based social work scholarships include the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Harry S. Truman Scholarship. These scholarships recognize high-achieving students and provide financial assistance to further their education.
What is the CSWE Minority Fellowship Program? The CSWE Minority Fellowship Program provides scholarships for master's degree students and doctoral candidates in social work who are committed to delivering mental health services to racial and ethnic minority communities. The program aims to reduce racial inequality in healthcare services.
What should students include in their scholarship applications? Students should include a completed application form, biographical essays, statements of merit and financial need, letters of support from professional references, and official transcripts from their most recent academic work. Specific requirements may vary for each scholarship.
How can scholarships support the development of the social work field? By providing financial aid to dedicated social work students, scholarships help advance research and practice in social work. This ensures that marginalized communities are served by passionate, expertly trained professionals, ultimately improving the quality of social and healthcare services.

References

Akinbobola, B. A. (2021). A Narrative Literature Review Addressing the Relationship between Students Enrollment and Campus-Based Financial Aid in the United States of America. Journal of Education and Practice 12(34).
Federal Reserve Bank of New York. (2023). QUARTERLY REPORT ON HOUSEHOLD DEBT AND CREDIT.
National Center for Education Statistics. (2021). Table 331.30. Average amount of grant and scholarship aid and average net price for first-time, full-time degree/certificate-seeking students awarded Title IV aid, by control and level of institution and income level: Selected years, 2009-10 through 2019-20. Digest of Education Statistics.
National Center for Education Statistics. (2022). Tuition costs off colleges and universities.
National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Why become a Sponsor?
U.S. Department of Education. (2022). Department of Education Budget Tables. Congressional Action tables for FY2018-FY2022.