Economically times have been tough. Current education funding cuts have affected the grant and scholarship sector. The goal of higher education may seem out of reach. But there are still University grants and scholarships available both here and abroad. As this requires a little digging, I have included sites and scholarships with 2026 open applications as well as future options.
2026 Applications for Scholarships STILL open:
1. V Dolores Alberola Poetry Prize: DEADLINE FEB 15
The Editorial DAYLA has created an international competition looking at unpublished poetry collections aiming to promote poetry reading for around the world. Though this is not a financial scholarship the poetry is published and winner will receive royalty’s and subsidiary rights.
APPLY HERE: https://edalya.com/index.php/en/daipc-upload?view=form&layout=edit
2. CME Group Foundations Scholar Program: DEADLINE March 2
CME Group Foundation established a shcolarship program for 1st generation college students from low economic backgrounds. This is for the field of finance or computer science.
MORE INFO https://scholarshipamerica.org/scholarship/cawater/
3. GCSP Prize for Transformative for Futures in Peace and Security: DEADLINE March 20 2026
The CSP and its Geopolitics and Global Futures Department established a prize to recognise deserving individuals or organisations that have developed an innovative approach to addressing international security challenges.
4. California Water Service Group Scholarship Program: DEADLINE March 26
This Scholarship Program assists students residing in its service areas who plan to continue on into vocational careers.
MORE INFO:https://scholarshipamerica.org/scholarship/cawater/
5.Roots and Routes Scholarship: DEADLINE MARCH 30
The Law Office of Eric M. Mark announces that applications are now open for the 2026 Roots and Routes $1,000 Scholarship. This advocates for the immigrant community, recognizing and celebrating the meaningful contributions immigrants make to the United States.
6. The Fulbright Program
The illustrious Fulbright Program is a prestigious initiative designed to promote mutual understanding between the United States and other nations through educational exchanges. The program offers scholarships for graduate students, young professionals, and artists who wish to study, conduct research, or teach abroad. As of January 30, 2026, applications for the 2027-2028 academic year are open.
7. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
The Erasmus Mundus program offers scholarships for various Master’s degrees across Europe, bringing together students from all around the globe. As of January 30, 2026, applications are open for numerous interdisciplinary programs focused on areas such as environmental sustainability, public health, and international relations. This unique opportunity not only covers tuition fees but also provides a monthly stipend, travel allowance, and insurance, ensuring that students can focus fully on their studies while immersing themselves in diverse cultural experiences.
8. Chevening Scholarships
Open for applications through January 30, 2026, these fully-funded scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their home countries. Recipients have the privilege of studying at top UK universities, gaining invaluable international experience that can catalyze their professional journeys.
9. UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships
For researchers driven by a passion for addressing contemporary global issues, the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships provide a remarkable platform. As of January 30, 2026, the applications for this fellowship are open, encouraging candidates whose research aligns with UNESCO’s objectives in fields such as education, culture, social and humanitarian sciences, and communication and information. This prestigious fellowship not only offers financial support but also enhances visibility within the international research community.
Online resources with current grant and shcolarship open applications:
There are currently around 96 scholarships available on the non-profit site Scholarship America. This is a great resource that works with multiple sponsors across the States.
Another source for small private funded grants in the USA. This site includes mostly smaller grants but a wide range of types from military to arts.
Other Options to Research
When looking for more grant and scholarship funding be sure to research merit based scholarships from Universities of your choice. Some Universities will cover full tuition as well as living expense. There are also State specific grants and assistance programs, for example The California Dream Act. Be sure to research Pell Grants and finally look towards The Federal Work-Study Program.
Finding funding may take a little time but it is still out there! Whether your aspirations lie in the realms of arts, sciences, public policy, or leadership, seizing the opportunity to apply for these funding programs can be the stepping stone to achieving your career goals.
