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Explore scholarships for students in accounting programs to help finance your degree.
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Accounting majors can pursue accounting or finance careers in many industries. Accountants earn median annual wages nearly double the national average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, paying for education can be challenging. Thankfully, accounting students can take advantage of many financial aid options , including loans, grants, and scholarships. Unlike loans, grants and scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid.
This page provides information on how to pay for a degree and the types of accounting scholarships available. Continue reading for a list of scholarships for accounting majors in 2022.
Accounting students can apply to a variety of scholarships and grants. Many programs look for applicants who demonstrate financial need, while others offer aid based on factors like location, merit, degree level, or program. Students can combine various types of aid to increase their financial coverage and reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.
Grants, Loans, Work Study, and Employer Assistance for Accounting Majors
Financial aid comes in different forms, including loans and employer assistance programs. Each option features separate eligibility requirements. The following list looks at some of the most common types of financial aid available. For more information, students can view our financial aid guide link below.
Grants
Grants are awards based on financial need, cost of attendance, and other factors. They do not require repayment.
Federal Loans
These loans, provided to students by the U.S. Department of Education, accrue interest and must be paid back after graduation. Students may receive loans based on financial need and degree level.
Private Loans
Private loans come from lenders like banks and credit unions. These loans feature variable or fixed interest rates, and they may require repayment during or after study.
Work Study
A type of federal student aid, work study programs allow undergraduate and graduate students to earn money for educational expenses while in school. Eligible students are paid an hourly rate while working part-time for employers participating in the program.
Employer Assistance
Working professionals can sometimes receive employer assistance to cover education expenses. These programs may require students to pursue particular disciplines or complete their training within certain timeframes.
Scholarships provide accounting students with financial support from a variety of sources. Schools, organizations, governments, associations, and private donors all offer scholarship programs.
Each scholarship has eligibility requirements. Some only accept candidates from a certain program or location, such as undergraduate accounting students from certain states, cities, or counties. Other scholarship awards have broader requirements. Scholarships may require candidates to demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, community involvement, specific career goals, or membership in specific organizations.
Scholarship awards also vary. Dollar amounts range from $100 up to the cost of an entire education. Awards may offer one-time or renewable payments. Students may automatically qualify for some scholarships, while others require intensive application processes. Depending on the program, scholarship funds may automatically subsidize tuition costs, or winners may decide how to apply them.
Tips for Finding and Applying for Accounting Scholarships
Finding and applying for scholarships can seem overwhelming. The following list outlines some tips for students to help simplify the application process
Finding Accounting Scholarships
Where to Start: Scholarship applicants can turn to various resources. The following resources list major scholarships, allowing learners to browse and sort through programs: CareerOneStop, ScholarshipAmerica, ThisWaytoCPA, Cappex, and FinAid.
Where Next: Search scholarships available through your school. Look at state, city, or county websites for location-specific scholarships, as well.
Search by Unique Parameters: Look for scholarships with more narrow requirements. For example, minority students should search for minority-specific scholarships. Students with certain hobbies or community interests might find programs catered to them.
Locate Accounting-specific Programs: Accounting students can find program-specific scholarships by searching through the scholarship sections on accounting association and professional organization websites like AICPA or NABA.
Consider All Award Amounts: Students should never discount a scholarship based on its amount. Smaller awards often garner fewer applicants and less competition, and they can add up.
When in Doubt, Apply: In some cases, candidates may struggle to determine scholarship eligibility. In these situations, students should apply anyway. Scholarship prerequisites serve as guidelines, but they often allow for some flexibility and interpretation.
Your Scholarship Application
Read Carefully: When completing an application, students should read the instructions and details fully. Aim to understand the goals of each scholarship and what it looks to reward.
Academic Excellence: Many scholarship programs reward good grades, dedication, effort, and extracurriculars. In anticipation of scholarship applications, learners should work to bolster their academic resumes.
Community Involvement: Scholarship programs often reward candidates who volunteer in their communities. Applicants with long histories of community service may receive preference.
Set Your Career Goals: Some scholarships reward students who plan to work in specific fields. Organizations may even require career commitments after graduation. Applicants can support their applications by supplementing their career pursuits with related training, courses, and volunteer work.
Letters of Recommendation: Many applications require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from personal and professional contacts. Prepare these in advance.
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Scholarship Types for Accounting Students
Because scholarships break down into different categories, students can improve their searches and organize their applications by dividing programs into groups based on their classifications and requirements. Many scholarships may fall into multiple categories. The following sections highlight some major categories, plus some example scholarships of each.
Corporate Scholarships
Many large organizations and corporations set up scholarship programs to help current and aspiring students fund their education. These programs often reward students pursuing degrees in specific fields. The following list explores some examples in this category.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
Striving for Greatness Accounting & Finance Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Full-time students with a minimum 3.0 GPA pursuing accounting degrees and certified public accountant (CPA) licensure can apply.
Amount: $2,500
Deloitte Tax Scholars Program
Who Can Apply: Accounting students from historically Black colleges and universities who demonstrate a 3.0 minimum GPA can apply.
Amount: Up to $20,000
AICPA/Robert Half Student Scholarship Award
Who Can Apply: Full-time accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $10,000
RV Learning Center Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate students with a minimum 2.8 GPA can apply.
Amount: $2,500
Scholarship Program for Accounting Students by AIS Technolabs
Who Can Apply: Accounting students from Australia, the U.S., or Canada can apply.
Amount: Up to $5,000
Scholarships From Professional Organizations
Professional organizations and associations offer many scholarship opportunities to reward promising applicants in their corresponding fields. In many cases, applicants must become association members. The following list reviews some examples of scholarships from professional organizations.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
Frank L. Greathouse Government Accounting Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Full-time graduate accounting students pursuing careers in government can apply.
Amount: $5,000-$20,000
AICPA/AWSCPA Scholarship Award
Who Can Apply: Female students and AICPA student affiliate members pursuing accounting degrees who demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $5,000
TACTYC Transfer Accounting Student Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Accounting students in two-year programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA and plans to pursue four-year degrees can apply.
Amount: $1,000
NSA Stanley H. Stearman Award
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA who are related to active National Speakers Association members can apply.
Amount: $2,000/year
Goldberg-Miller Public Finance Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Graduate students pursuing careers in state and local government finance can apply.
Amount: $20,000
Location-Based Scholarships
Location-based scholarships can come from several sources, such as specific chapters of organizations or professional associations. Private donors can establish these programs for local students, or state and local governments may create their own scholarships. Applicants may need to graduate from schools in the region, currently reside within the location, or attend schools in that place.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
NABA New York Chapter Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Black, full-time accounting students from New York demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,000-5,000
CTCPA Educational Trust Fund Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Accounting students attending school in Connecticut can apply for these awards.
Amount: $5,000
Illinois CPA Society Freshman Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Minority high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA pursuing accounting degrees in Illinois can apply.
Amount: $2,000
Scholarships for Diverse Populations
Many organizations, associations, and governments offer scholarships to support underrepresented populations like minority students and women. These scholarship programs often look for students in specific programs to increase representation in these fields.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
AICPA Scholarship Award for Minority Accounting Students
Who Can Apply: Full-time, ethnic minority students demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA and pursuing accounting degrees can apply.
Amount: $3,000-$10,000
EFWA Women In Transition Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Female caregivers enrolled in accounting bachelor's degrees with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $16,000 over four years
NABA Inc. National Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Black full-time accounting students with a minimum 3.5 overall GPA and 3.3 major GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,500
ALPFA Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Latino accounting, business, or STEM students with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: Varies
EFWA Moss Adams Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Applicants can be minority women, women re-entering junior- or senior-level undergraduate studies, women in their fifth year of general studies, or graduate students in accounting programs.
Most scholarship programs feature requirements based on enrollment status. Some require applicants to attend school full time, while others support part-time and nontraditional students. Online students and distance learners may find scholarship programs created specifically for them. The list below outlines some scholarships in this category.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
Government Finance Professional Development Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Part-time graduate students with two years' professional experience who are pursuing education and careers in government finance can apply.
Amount: $10,000
EFWA Moss Adams Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Applicants can be minority women, women re-entering junior- or senior-level undergraduate studies, women in fifth-year general studies, or graduate students in accounting programs.
Amount: $1,000
AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs
Who Can Apply: Full-time accounting students who plan to pursue CPA licensure after graduation can apply.
Amount: $3,000-$10,000
Scholarships by Accounting Concentration
In addition to scholarships rewarding accounting students, some programs support various accounting concentrations. Organizations and private donors establish scholarships to promote specific fields within accounting, such as management accounting, financial accounting, cost accounting, and forensic accounting. These programs, like those listed below, may require applicants to specialize in these disciplines or pursue careers in the respective fields.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Minority governmental accounting students pursuing education and careers in government finance qualify to apply.
Amount: $10,000
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Accounting students with career goals in anti-fraud can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$10,000
Jeffrey L. Esser Career Development Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Part-time governmental accounting students with at least three years of professional experience in government finance can apply.
Amount: $5,000-$15,000
PCAOB Scholars Program
Who Can Apply: Accounting students with a minimum 3.3 GPA and auditing career goals can apply.
Amount: Varies
Scholarships by Degree Level
Students at all levels can access scholarships, but many programs limit applications to learners pursuing specific types of degrees. Whether students pursue accounting certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, or Ph.D. degrees in accounting, they can find degrees for their education level.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
EFWA Institute of Management Accountants Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Female students pursuing bachelor's degrees in accounting and CMA certification can apply.
Amount: $2,000
AICPA Foundation Two-year Transfer Scholarship Award
Who Can Apply: Full-time accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and who are transferring from two-year to four-year programs can apply.
Amount: $5,000
EFWA Women in Need Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Female caregiver accounting bachelor's students in their sophomore year can apply.
Amount: $2,000/year
AICPA John L. Carey Scholarship Award
Who Can Apply: Full-time graduate accounting students with non-business undergraduate degrees can apply.
Amount: $5,000
EFWA Laurels Fund Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Women pursuing doctorates in accounting can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$5,000
Military Scholarships
Military scholarships typically support current and veteran military professionals in their pursuit of higher education. Some of these programs look to recruit future service professionals by providing financial aid to promising students pursuing military-related disciplines. The following list highlights options for accounting students with military experience or career aspirations.
FEATURED SCHOLARSHIPS
Women In Defense HORIZONS Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Women pursuing defense or national security careers who possess a minimum 3.25 GPA can apply.
Amount: Varies
Army Women's Foundation Legacy Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Women soldiers and veterans with a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$2,500
Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund
Who Can Apply: College- or university-bound students related to chief petty officers in the U.S. Navy can apply.
Amount: $2,000-$5,000
Scholarships for Military Children Program
Who Can Apply: Full-time undergraduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA who serve, served, or are related to active service personnel or veterans may apply.
Students can also apply for school-specific scholarships to help fund their education. Similar to the categories above, many school-specific scholarships feature additional requirements to focus on certain groups of candidates. For example, some universities might offer aid specifically for accounting students.
Our scholarship directory does not include school-specific scholarships, but all students should look through the internal awards available at their schools.
Accounting Scholarship Directory
To help students start the process, the directory below contains a list of accounting scholarships for 2022. To access program and application details for each award, readers can click on the scholarship links.
AICPA Scholarship Award for Minority Accounting Students
To increase diversity among CPA professionals, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) introduced this scholarship in 1969. Ethnic minority applicants pursuing degrees in accounting and planning to pursue CPA licensure can apply. Applicants must have completed 30 credits, maintain full-time status, and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA. Candidates must also be AICPA student affiliate members and demonstrate financial need.
Who Can Apply: Full-time ethnic minority students with a minimum 3.0 GPA pursuing accounting degrees can apply.
Amount: $3,000-$10,000
Apply for Scholarship
Striving for Greatness Accounting & Finance Scholarship
Created by the PM Business Advisors, this scholarship recognizes accounting students who demonstrate academic and community excellence. Applicants must be full-time accounting students and plan to sit for the CPA exam within three years. Candidates should also hold a minimum 3.0 GPA.
The award committee looks to reward applicants with sufficient leadership abilities and community involvement, such as volunteer experience and community service.
Who Can Apply: Full-time students with a minimum 3.0 GPA pursuing accounting degrees and CPA licensure can apply.
Amount: $2,500
Apply for Scholarship
Frank L. Greathouse Government Accounting Scholarship
The Government Finance Officers Association created the Frank L. Greathouse Accounting Scholarship in 1987 to encourage promising accounting students to pursue careers in state and local government. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate commitment to the public sector and submit reference letters addressing this commitment.
Candidates must study accounting full time in upper-level undergraduate programs or graduate programs.
Who Can Apply: Full-time graduate accounting students pursuing careers in government can apply.
Amount: $5,000-$20,000
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Women In Transition Scholarship
The Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting created the Women In Transition Scholarship to support female students pursuing bachelor's degrees in accounting. Applicants must be the primary earner for their families, demonstrate financial need, and show commitment to the accounting field.
Winners who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA can renew this award annually for four years.
Who Can Apply: Female caregivers enrolled in accounting bachelor's degrees with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $16,000 over four years
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Women in Need Scholarship
Developed by the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting, this scholarship rewards female accounting students who are their families' primary source of support. Applicants should be in their sophomore year of an accounting bachelor's degree and show commitment to the field through education and work experience. Candidates must also demonstrate financial need.
Winners can renew this award for a second year by maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Who Can Apply: Female caregiver bachelor's accounting students in their sophomore year can apply.
Amount: $2,000/year
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Institute of Management Accountants Scholarship
Funded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), this joint scholarship with the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting recognizes women pursuing bachelor's degrees in accounting and certified management accounting (CMA) certification. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to the accounting field.
In addition to the award amount below, winners receive a one-year student IMA membership.
Who Can Apply: Female students pursuing bachelor's degrees in accounting and CMA certification can apply.
Amount: $2,000
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Rhonda J.B. O'Leary Memorial Scholarship
Developed by the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting and the Seattle chapter of the Accounting and Financial Women's Alliance, the Rhonda J. B. O'Leary Scholarship recognizes female students pursuing accounting degrees in Washington state.
Applicants can attend graduate or undergraduate programs. Candidates must demonstrate commitment to the study and profession of accounting.
Who Can Apply: Female students attending accounting programs in Washington state can apply.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Michele L. McDonald Memorial Scholarship
Created by the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting, this program rewards students pursuing accounting degrees. Female candidates restarting their studies after raising families or returning from the workforce may receive preference.
Candidates must show a commitment to their accounting studies and careers. They should also demonstrate financial need.
Who Can Apply: Applicants returning to accounting degrees after working or raising families receive preference.
Amount: $1,000
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Moss Adams Foundation Scholarship
The Moss Adams Foundation Scholarship from the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting supports women pursuing accounting bachelor's degrees and careers. The award serves minority women, women in their fifth year of general studies or graduate programs, and women returning or re-entering their studies at the junior or senior levels in undergraduate programs.
Who Can Apply: Applicants can be minority women, women re-entering junior- or senior-level undergraduate studies, women in their fifth-year general studies, or graduate students in accounting programs.
Amount: $1,000
Apply for Scholarship
EFWA Laurels Fund Scholarships
Established in 1978, the Laurels Fund supports female students pursuing advanced accounting degrees. Applicants pursuing Ph.D. degrees can qualify for awards based on several factors, including financial need, scholarship, and service. Applicants may include academic achievements in their current and previous coursework and research. Service commitment may include volunteer work or professional experience.
Winners may receive opportunities to attend and present at regional or national conferences.
Who Can Apply: Women pursuing doctorates in accounting can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$5,000
Apply for Scholarship
AICPA/Robert Half Student Scholarship Award
Created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Robert Half International, this scholarship supports future leaders in the CPA profession. Applicants must pursue full-time accounting degrees and CPA licensure. They also need at least 30 completed credits and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Candidates must demonstrate financial need and stay engaged with the AICPA.
Who Can Apply: Full-time accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $10,000
Apply for Scholarship
AICPA/AWSCPA Scholarship Award
Sponsored by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the American Woman's Society of Certified Public Accountants (AWSCPA), this scholarship supports women in accounting. Applicants must pursue accounting degrees and CPA licensure. They also need 30 completed credits, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and AICPA student affiliate membership.
Who Can Apply: Female students and AICPA student affiliate members pursuing accounting degrees with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $5,000
Apply for Scholarship
AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Foundation scholarship rewards accounting students who plan to seek CPA licensure after graduation. Applicants must be full-time accounting students and demonstrate some financial need.
Eligible applicants also need an AICPA student affiliate membership and should stay engaged in current and future AICPA events.
Who Can Apply: Full-time accounting students who plan on pursuing CPA licensure after graduation can apply.
Amount: $3,000-$10,000
Apply for Scholarship
AICPA John L. Carey Scholarship Award
Developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, this award honors former AICPA administrative vice president John L. Carey. The scholarship supports students from non-business backgrounds wishing to pursue full-time accounting degrees at the graduate level.
Applicants need non-business or liberal arts bachelor's degrees and AICPA student affiliate memberships. They should also demonstrate some financial need and plan to pursue a CPA license.
Who Can Apply: Full-time graduate accounting students with non-business undergraduate degrees can apply.
Amount: $5,000
Apply for Scholarship
AICPA Foundation Two-year Transfer Scholarship Award
Established in 2013 by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, this scholarship encourages and supports students transferring from two-year programs into four-year programs. Applicants must enroll in accounting programs full time and demonstrate some financial need. They should also possess a minimum 3.0 GPA from previous studies.
Candidates need AICPA student affiliate memberships, and they must plan to pursue CPA licensure after graduation.
Who Can Apply: Full-time accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA transferring from two-year programs into four-year programs can apply.
Amount: $5,000
Apply for Scholarship
NABA Inc. National Scholarship Program
Created by the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), this scholarship recognizes promising Black students in the accounting field. Applicants must attend school full time and possess a minimum 3.5 overall GPA and 3.3 major GPA.
Candidates also need active NABA student memberships.
Who Can Apply: Black, full-time accounting students with a minimum 3.5 overall GPA and 3.3 major GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,500
Apply for Scholarship
NABA New York Chapter Scholarship
Developed by the National Association of Black Accountants New York chapter, this scholarship aims to provide aspiring Black accountants with support and encouragement. Applicants need to be Black or of African descent, and they must attend New York accounting programs full time, having completed at least six credits. They must also possess a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Candidates need active NABA student memberships or student affiliate memberships.
Who Can Apply: Full-time, Black accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$5,000
Apply for Scholarship
CTCPA Educational Trust Fund Scholarships
The Connecticut Society of CPAs offers scholarships to undergraduate accounting students pursuing CPA licenses. Awards require applicants to have a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Who Can Apply: Current accounting students attending schools in Connecticut can apply for these awards.
Amount: $5,000
Illinois CPA Society Freshman Scholarships
To increase awareness of the accounting profession among underrepresented racial minority students, the Illinois CPA Society rewards promising high school seniors pursuing accounting degrees. Applicants must be racial or ethnic minorities demonstrating a minimum 3.0 high school GPA. They must also possess an interest in the accounting field.
Candidates should also demonstrate financial need and the leadership qualities valued by the Illinois CPA Society.
Who Can Apply: Minority high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA who are pursuing accounting degrees at a college or university in Illinois can apply.
Amount: $2,000
Apply for Scholarship
Illinois CPA Society Accounting Scholarship Program
The Illinois CPA Society developed several scholarships to support aspiring accountants in their education. These awards vary in their requirements, but all applicants must attend accounting programs in Illinois, demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA, and plan to pursue CPA licensure within three years of applying.
Some awards recognize minority and female students, and some focus on specific degree levels.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students enrolled in an Illinois college or university with a minimum 3.0 GPA who plan to pursue CPA licensure within three years can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$4,000
Apply for Scholarship
TACTYC Transfer Accounting Student Scholarship
The Teachers of Accounting at Two Year Colleges developed this scholarship for students attending two-year accounting programs with plans to transfer into four-year programs. Applicants must complete 20 college credit hours and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Candidates must also submit letters of reference and respond to the scholarship essay question.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students in two-year programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA and plans to pursue four-year degrees can apply.
Amount: $1,000
Apply for Scholarship
TACTYC 2-Year Accounting Student Scholarships
Developed by the Teachers of Accounting at Two Year Colleges, these scholarships aim to support accounting students currently enrolled in two-year degrees at community or technical colleges. Applicants must have completed 20 college credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Candidates also need to submit letters of recommendation, self-descriptions of their academic and professional goals, and business letters answering the posted application question.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students in two-year programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,000
Apply for Scholarship
William (Bill) Ezzell Scholarship
Created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants in honor of Bill Ezzell, this scholarship helps more CPAs pursue doctoral degrees. Applicants must possess CPA licensure, bachelor's or master's degrees, and three years of professional accounting experience.
Candidates must also enroll or gain admission into Ph.D. programs in accounting and plan to teach at accredited U.S. schools.
Who Can Apply: Current and future Ph.D. students with CPA licensure, three years of professional experience, and plans to teach can apply.
Amount: $10,000
Apply for Scholarship
NSA Stanley H. Stearman Award
Created by the National Society of Accountants (NSA), the Stanley H. Stearman Award honors the former NSA executive vice president. Applicants must attend undergraduate accounting programs and be related to active NSA members. Recipients may renew their award for up to three years, and they can apply it to graduate programs if they maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Selection committees use academic achievements, community involvement, work experience, and personal statements to judge applicants.
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate accounting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA who are related to active NSA members can apply.
Amount: $2,000/year
Apply for Scholarship
NSA Educational Tree Scholarship
The National Society of Accountants created the Educational Tree Scholarship in 1999 to further the association's commitment to education. To qualify, applicants must be children or grandchildren of current NSA members. Applicants should also attend accounting programs full time, maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.
The NSA issues awards to students in their second year or later. NSA members must hold membership for at least five consecutive years.
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate students with a minimum 3.0 GPA who are children or grandchildren of current NSA members can apply.
Amount: $500-$1,000
Apply for Scholarship
Deloitte Tax Scholars Program
Deloitte Tax created the tax scholars program to help increase diversity among candidates in the field. This program recognizes accounting undergraduates at historically Black colleges or universities (HBCUs) who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and wish to pursue master's degrees in accounting.
Winners must also participate in internships, accept full-time Deloitte Tax positions, and complete their master's programs within 18 months of their undergraduate degrees.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students from HBCUs with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: Up to $20,000
Apply for Scholarship
ALPFA Scholarship Program
Established by the Association of Latino Professionals For America this scholarship offers financial support to Latino/a students. Applicants need to attend an accounting, business, or STEM program and possess a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also demonstrate financial need.
ALPFA selects winners based on their essay responses to the question, "Why are you deserving of an ALPFA Scholarship?"
Who Can Apply: Latino/a accounting, business, or STEM students with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply.
Amount: Varies
Apply for Scholarship
Women In Defense HORIZONS Scholarship
Part of the HORIZONS program, this scholarship aims to encourage more women to pursue national security careers. Applicants may attend a variety of programs, including those in accounting, as long as their career goals include defense and national security. They must also demonstrate financial need and hold a minimum 3.25 GPA.
HORIZONS judges applicants against a variety of factors, including their experience and participation in activities related to defense and national security.
Who Can Apply: Women pursuing defense or national security careers who possess a minimum 3.25 GPA can apply.
Amount: Varies
Apply for Scholarship
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
Created to support students pursuing education and careers in fraud examination, this scholarship rewards promising students in the accounting field. Applicants should demonstrate their anti-fraud career goals through completed courses and reference letters. They should also attend school full time and have at least one year remaining in their studies.
Winners also receive a one-year ACFE student associate membership.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students with career goals in anti-fraud can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$10,000
Apply for Scholarship
Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship
Developed by the Government Finance Officers Association in 1993, this scholarship seeks to encourage minority students to pursue careers in government finance positions at the state or local levels. Applicants can come from graduate or upper-level undergraduate programs in disciplines related to government finance. Accounting applicants specializing in fields like governmental accounting qualify. The application requires letters of recommendation addressing the applicant's commitment to the public sector.
Who Can Apply: Minority governmental accounting students pursuing careers and education in government finance can apply.
Amount: $10,000
Apply for Scholarship
Government Finance Professional Development Scholarship
Created by the Government Finance Officers Association in 2010, this scholarship aims to promote finance careers in state and local governments. Eligible applicants include part-time graduate students pursuing degrees related to government finance, such as governmental accounting. Applicants must possess at least two years of professional experience in this field. The application should include a letter of recommendation addressing the applicant's commitment to this field.
Who Can Apply: Part-time graduate students with two years of professional experience who are pursuing an education and career in government finance can apply.
Amount: $10,000
Apply for Scholarship
Jeffrey L. Esser Career Development Scholarship
The Government Finance Officers Association developed the Jeffrey L. Esser Development Scholarship in 2017. This program recognizes part-time undergraduate students pursuing degrees related to government finance, such as governmental accounting.
Applicants need at least three years of professional experience with state or local governments. They must also submit professional recommendations from employers.
Who Can Apply: Part-time governmental accounting students with at least three years of professional experience in government finance can apply.
Amount: $5,000-$15,000
Apply for Scholarship
Goldberg-Miller Public Finance Scholarship
Created in 1985 by the Government Finance Officers Association, this scholarship rewards students pursuing graduate programs that prepare them for finance careers in state or local government. Applicants should be studying in programs that can lead to this field, such as accounting or finance.
As part of the application, applicants must submit letters of recommendation from mentors who can address their commitment to the public sector.
Who Can Apply: Graduate students pursuing careers in state and local government finance can apply.
Amount: $20,000
Apply for Scholarship
Army Women's Foundation Legacy Scholarship Program
Designed to support women soldiers and veterans, this scholarship offers financial rewards to high-achieving applicants pursuing higher education. Applicants need high school diplomas demonstrating a minimum 2.5 GPA, plus a minimum 3.0 GPA in at least 30 credit hours of undergraduate coursework.
The foundation selects winners based on academic merit, community service, letters of recommendation, and academic and professional potential.
Who Can Apply: Women soldiers and veterans with a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA can apply.
Amount: $1,000-$2,500
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Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund
Developed to support the family of U.S. Navy service members, this scholarship offers financial aid to students pursuing degrees at accredited colleges or universities. Eligible applicants must be immediate family members or chief petty officers of the U.S. Navy, either active or veteran.
Candidates also need high school diplomas or GED credentials to qualify.
Who Can Apply: College or university-bound students related to chief petty officers of the U.S. Navy can apply.
Amount: $2,000-$5,000
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RV Learning Center Scholarship Program
In hopes of developing the next generation of RV Learning Center leaders, this scholarship provides financial assistance to promising students interested in working in the field. Applicants must study accounting, business, or a related discipline at the undergraduate level and possess a minimum 2.8 GPA.
Candidates also need to demonstrate financial need and score at least 1050 on the SAT or a 22 on the ACT.
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate students with a minimum 2.8 GPA can apply.
Amount: $2,500
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PCAOB Scholars Program
Funded by monetary penalties collected by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, this scholarship program supports students pursuing auditing careers. Applicants must enroll in accounting programs with an auditing focus, maintain an overall minimum 3.3 GPA, and demonstrate financial need.
Candidates from underrepresented populations in the accounting and auditing profession may receive preference.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students with a minimum 3.3 GPA and auditing career goals can apply.
Amount: Varies
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Scholarships for Military Children Program
Created in recognition and support of military personnel and their families, the Scholarships for Military Children Program provides financial aid to active uniformed service people and family members of serving or served professionals. Applicants must enroll full time in a four-year undergraduate program and possess a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Applicants receive preference based on location and academic merit.
Who Can Apply: Full-time undergraduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA who serve, served, or are related to active service personnel or veterans may apply.
Amount: $2,000
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Scholarship Program for Accounting Students by AIS Technolabs
Sponsored by AIS Technolabs, this scholarship program aims to promote and encourage the study of accounting. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of Australia, the U.S., or Canada to qualify. They must also hold high school diplomas and have completed at least one college-level accounting course.
AIS Technolabs selects winners based on their submitted projects on an online fundraising software of their choice.
Who Can Apply: Accounting students from Australia, the U.S., or Canada can apply.
Amount: Up to $5,000
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FAQ About Accounting Scholarships
What types of scholarships can accounting majors get?
Accounting majors can access scholarships at all degree levels from corporations, schools, professional associations, and governments.
When should I start applying for scholarships?
Scholarships feature various application requirements and deadlines, so application times run year-round. High school students can begin preparing application information during their senior year. Current undergraduate and graduate students should pay close attention to October and March, which tend to feature the most deadlines.
How many scholarships should I apply for?
Students should apply to as many scholarships as they can. Candidates who send out more applications have better chances at securing funding. Applicants should invest the proper amount of time and care into each individual application.
How do I apply for scholarships?
Each scholarship features its own application requirements and submission format. Students should visit programs' webpages, carefully read the application instructions, and follow the submission details as closely as possible. Most awards require applicants to send in packages of materials, either by mail or online.
How do you start a scholarship essay?
The best way to start a scholarship essay is from a place of understanding. Know which qualities the scholarship program looks to reward. Address the points highlighted in the essay guidelines, and ensure the essay follows the appropriate format.
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