Glad you came across this updated list of Scholarships for Students Who Lost a Parent.
Losing a parent is one of life’s most challenging experiences, especially for students pursuing their education.
I know how massive the emotional toll can be, and the financial strain can be overwhelming.
Did you know that approximately 3.5% of children under 18 in the United States have experienced the death of a parent? That’s over 2.5 million children facing this heartbreaking reality.
As someone who lost my father during my college years, I understand the struggle firsthand. But there’s hope.
Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for students who have lost a parent.
They provide not just financial support but also a sense of community and understanding.
In this post, we’ll expose you to five of the best scholarships available in 2024 for students who have experienced this profound loss.
These scholarships for students who lost a parent opportunities can help ease the financial burden and honor the memory of your loved one as you pursue your educational dreams.
Let’s get into it.
5 Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Students Who Lost a Parent
1. The Life Lessons Scholarship Program
This scholarship was introduced by the non-profit organization Life Happens in 2005.
It was born as a result of the desire to support students who have lost a parent or guardian.
Who can Apply?
You must
- Be between 17 to 24 years old
- Have experienced the death of a parent or guardian
- Be U.S. citizens or legal residents
- Be currently enrolled in, or plan to enroll in undergraduate or graduate study
Requirements
- Essay (500 words) or video (3 minutes) sharing your experience
- Transcript
- Proof of parent/guardian’s death
How to Apply
To apply, visit the Life Happens website.
Click the 3 lines at the upper right-hand corner of the website, choose “our scholarship” and complete the online application.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the submission of application is March 1, 2024.
2. The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund
These scholarships for students who lost a parent were established following the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States by al-Qaeda, an extremist group.
It aims to support dependents of those killed or permanently disabled in the 9/11 attacks and subsequent rescue and recovery efforts.
Who can Apply?
You must
- Be children of those killed or permanently disabled in the 9/11 attacks or rescue efforts
- Be under 24 years old
Requirements
To be qualified for this scholarship, you need
- Proof of relationship to 9/11 victim or first responder
- Excellent Academic records
- Financial need documentation
How to Apply
To apply, register on the Families of Freedom website and complete the application process.
Application Deadline
Application is open throughout the year but early application is usually considered.
3. The Kids’ Chance Scholarship
The Kids’ Chance Scholarship was founded in 1988 to assist students whose parents have been seriously or fatally injured in work-related accidents.
Who can apply?
To be eligible, you must
- Be between 16 to 25 years old
- Have a parent who has been seriously injured or killed in a work-related accident
- Demonstrate financial need
What you need to Apply
- Proof of parent’s work-related injury or death
- Academic transcripts
- Essay on how the accident has affected your life
How to Apply
Applicants are encouraged to apply through their state’s Kids’ Chance organization website.
Application Deadline
The application deadline varies by state, and it’s usually between March and May 2024
4. The LIFE Scholarship
As one of the scholarships for students who lost a parent, it was launched by the LIFE Foundation in 2010 to support students who have lost a parent who didn’t have life insurance.
Who can Apply?
To be eligible, you must
- Be a high school senior or college student under 24
- Have lost a parent who didn’t have life insurance
- Be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident
What You Need to Apply
You need
- 500-word essay on the financial impact of your parent’s death
- School transcripts
- Death certificate of deceased parent
How to Apply
Applicants should submit an online application on the LIFE Foundation website.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the submission of application is February 28, 2024
5. Foster Care to Success (Formerly Known as The Orphan Foundation of America) Scholarship
The Foster Care to Success Scholarship was established in 1981 to provide support to foster youth and orphans pursuing higher education.
Who can Apply?
To be considered for this scholarship, you must
- Have been in foster care or lost both parents
- Be under 25 years old
- Be enrolled in postsecondary education
What You Need to Apply
You need
- Proof of orphan status or foster care experience
- Academic records
- Personal statement
How to Apply
Eligible applicants should complete the online application on the Foster Care to Success website.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the submission of application is March 31, 2024
Key Takeaway
Losing a parent is a great loss, but it doesn’t have to derail your educational aspirations.
These scholarships for students who lost a parent offer more than just financial support
They also provide recognition of your resilience and determination.
We have explained above how to apply for each scholarship and what you need to apply.
You can also apply to more than one scholarship at a time to increase your chances of getting financial aid.
Don’t forget to apply early. Early applicants are usually considered for scholarship opportunities.
We hope this guide is helpful to you.
Stay motivated and chase your educational goals.
FAQs
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, I recommend applying to as many as you’re eligible for to increase your chances of receiving support.
What if I lost a parent after starting college?
Many of these scholarships are still available to current college students. You can check the specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship.
Are these scholarships renewable?
It varies. Some are one-time awards, while others may be renewable based on academic performance and continued eligibility.
What if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Some scholarships are open to legal residents, but requirements vary.
You should always check the eligibility criteria carefully to increase your chances of being considered.
