Can Transfer or Graduate Students Get Scholarships?

 Posted on May 14,2025 in Uncategorized

When most people think of scholarships, they think of awards given to high school seniors who are heading straight to college. But what about students who are transferring to a new university or pursuing graduate degrees? The good news is that scholarships are not just for first-time freshmen. Many opportunities exist for those who are continuing or resuming their education at a new stage of life. If you are a transfer or graduate student looking for aid opportunities, the OVC Scholarship Network can help connect you with the right scholarships for your academic journey.

Can Transfer Students Qualify for Scholarships?

Many colleges, universities, and private organizations offer scholarships specifically for transfer students. These awards typically recognize academic achievement, financial need, or participation in community service or leadership. Some types of transfer student scholarships may include:

• Merit-based awards based on GPA, test scores, or academic performance at a previous institution

• Many four-year universities with institution-specific aid for incoming transfer students

• Local businesses or nonprofits may offer scholarships to students transferring from local community colleges

Transfer students should contact the financial aid office when applying to a new school to learn about application deadlines and eligibility criteria.

Are Graduate Students Eligible for Scholarships?

While funding for graduate school can be different from undergraduate aid, scholarships still play a significant role in reducing costs. Graduate student funding options include:

• Departmental Scholarships: Many graduate programs offer internal scholarships for students based on academic performance or research focus.

• Professional Association Awards: Industry-specific organizations often provide scholarships to students pursuing advanced degrees.

• Research and Teaching Assistantships: Though technically not scholarships, these provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for work in the department.

• Diversity Scholarships: Programs aimed at increasing representation in certain academic or professional areas may offer financial support for qualifying students.

Graduate students should also consider fellowships, which are prestigious awards that provide full or partial funding, frequently with no service requirement.

Where Can Students Find These Scholarships?

Finding scholarships takes time and research, but many tools and resources are available. Helpful scholarship search methods include:

• University Websites: Opportunities may be listed on a school’s financial aid and departmental pages.

• Scholarship Search Engines: Sites like the OVC Scholarship Network can help during the search for scholarships.

• Community Foundations and Local Organizations: These may offer smaller, more accessible awards for students in the area.

• Employer or Union Programs: Some companies or unions offer scholarships to employees or their family members.

What Tips Can Help with Scholarship Applications?

Do not get discouraged if you do not win every award. Persistence, along with the following tips, is key to increasing your chances of winning scholarships:

• Customize your essays and applications to fit each scholarship’s focus and values 

• Share your academic journey, including why you are transferring or pursuing graduate studies

• Keep an organized spreadsheet of deadlines, requirements, and submissions

• Give your references plenty of time to write strong, personalized letters

Find Opportunities Through the OVC Scholarship Network

Scholarships are available at every stage of the academic journey, including for transfer and graduate students. Students can find funding that fits their goals with the right strategy and support. For personalized guidance, contact the OVC Scholarship Network for help with navigating our scholarship options and maximizing your educational investment.