Hidden scholarships are everywhere, you just have to know where to look.
Every year, thousands of dollars in financial aid sit untouched because students either don’t know about them or think they’re too weird to apply for. But guess what? Those “weird” scholarships could be your golden ticket.
From crafting prom outfits out of duct tape to getting paid for your love of Star Trek, there’s a scholarship for almost everything. If you’re willing to go beyond the usual merit-based and need-based options, you might just find a hidden gem that makes college way more affordable.
Ready to uncover these hidden scholarships? Let’s dive into 10 unique opportunities you probably didn’t know existed.
Scholarships That Reward Creativity and Artistic Talent
Some scholarships aren’t just about grades, they celebrate creativity in ways you wouldn’t expect.
1. Stuck at Prom Scholarship – Up to $10,000
Ever thought duct tape could pay for college? With this scholarship, it absolutely can. High school juniors and seniors who create full prom outfits using Duck brand duct tape can compete for up to $10,000 in scholarship money. Your outfit will be judged based on creativity, craftsmanship, and originality.
If you’ve got an eye for design and don’t mind turning heads at prom, this one’s for you.
2. Doodle 4 Google Scholarship – $30,000
If you’ve ever looked at a Google Doodle and thought, “I could do that,” now’s your chance. Google’s annual doodling contest awards a whopping $30,000 scholarship to the student with the most impressive artwork. The best part? Your doodle gets featured on Google’s homepage for millions to see.
3. Create-a-Greeting-Card Scholarship – $10,000
Got an artistic flair? This scholarship is as simple as designing a greeting card. Submit an original holiday-themed card design, and you could win $10,000 for college. Plus, your school gets an extra $1,000 if you win.
Unusual Scholarships for Sports and Physical Activities
You don’t have to be a varsity athlete to land a sports scholarship. Some awards focus on unique physical skills instead.
4. National Marbles Tournament Scholarship – Varies
Yes, playing marbles can actually get you a scholarship. If you’re between 7 and 14 and have won a local championship, you can compete in the National Marbles Tournament in Wildwood, New Jersey. Winners receive scholarships to help fund their education.
5. Heisman High School Scholarship – $10,000
Not all sports scholarships are about how fast you run or how far you throw. This award recognizes student-athletes who show leadership and make a difference in their community. It’s perfect for those who balance academics, athletics, and community service.
6. Flying Musicians Association Solo Program – Free Flight Training
Are you a musician with dreams of flying? This scholarship covers the cost of your first solo flight training if you’re nominated by your music teacher. If you love both music and aviation, this is a dream opportunity.
Scholarships for Niche Hobbies and Unique Interests
Have a quirky passion? There’s probably a scholarship for that.
7. STARFLEET Scholarship – $1,000
Calling all Trekkies! If you’re a member of STARFLEET (the international Star Trek fan club), you can apply for this $1,000 scholarship. It’s awarded to students who are passionate about Star Trek and academics.
8. The Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship – $2,000
This one’s as fun as it sounds. Students must write a short essay detailing their survival plan if their school were taken over by zombies. Creativity is key here, and the best survival plan wins $2,000.
9. Tall Clubs International Scholarship – Varies
If you’re exceptionally tall (5’10” for women, 6’2″ for men), you may qualify for this unique scholarship. It’s awarded to incoming college freshmen who meet the height requirements and submit an application through a local Tall Club chapter.
Financial Aid for Future Designers and Fashion Enthusiasts
Dream of a career in fashion? These scholarships can help make that happen.
10. Future Designer Scholarship – $2,000
If you have a passion for greeting card design, this scholarship is right up your alley. Submit an original design, and you could win $2,000 to fund your education.
11. Two Ten Higher Education Footwear Design Scholarship – $3,000
Sneakerheads, this one’s for you. If you’re studying footwear design, you can submit your best designs for a chance to win this scholarship. It’s a great opportunity for students looking to break into the fashion industry.
12. Cosmetology Scholarship – $2,500
For students studying cosmetology or beauty-related fields, this scholarship can help fund tuition. Whether you’re interested in hair, makeup, or skincare, there’s financial aid available.
STEM and Technology Scholarships with a Unique Twist
If you love science and tech, check out these offbeat STEM scholarships.
13. Foreclosure.com Scholarship – Up to $4,000
Think you understand the housing market? This scholarship requires an 800-2,000 word essay on the pros and cons of renting versus owning a home. Top winners get up to $4,000.
14. Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship – $1,500
A scholarship for future fitness professionals! If you’re studying health, nutrition, or exercise science, you can apply for this award.
15. Cleveland Browns Foundation Marion Motley Scholarship – $10,000
This scholarship supports students interested in sports management or education. If you love football and want a career in sports, it’s worth checking out.
Final Thoughts
Hidden scholarships are everywhere, you just have to dig a little deeper to find them. Whether you’re an artist, an athlete, or a zombie survival strategist, there’s money out there with your name on it.
So why let these scholarships go unclaimed? If you fit the criteria, apply! The worst that can happen is you don’t get it. But the best that can happen? You land free money for college.
You can also check the scholarships of Northwestern University
Happy scholarship hunting!
