Scholarships are a fantastic way to help fund your education, but the search for them can sometimes feel overwhelming. The more conventional options, like merit-based scholarships, athletic scholarships, and need-based financial aid, are well known, but there’s an entire world of unique and unconventional scholarships that many students are unaware of. These scholarships are often tailored to specific hobbies, interests, or quirky traits, making them accessible to a diverse range of students. If you think all scholarships are the same, it’s time to discover the unusual and unique funding sources that could help you finance your college education.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most unique scholarships that you might not have heard of but could be the perfect fit for you. From scholarships for video game enthusiasts to those for lovers of certain animals, these unconventional scholarships show that there’s financial aid for just about everyone.
1. The Doodle for Google Scholarship
If you’ve ever admired Google’s homepage doodles, this scholarship might be for you. Google hosts an annual competition for K-12 students in the United States to create a doodle for their homepage. The winner receives a scholarship, and the winning artwork is featured on the Google homepage. Not only is this a great way to showcase your artistic talents, but it also comes with a substantial scholarship prize. The competition is open to students of all age groups, from kindergarten through 12th grade, making it a fantastic opportunity for young artists.
2. The Tall Clubs International Scholarship
For students who are particularly tall, this scholarship is an interesting and somewhat unconventional option. Tall Clubs International (TCI) offers a scholarship for young men and women who meet certain height requirements—at least 5’10” for women and 6’2″ for men. The award is based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement. The scholarship is designed to celebrate height, which often doesn’t get the same level of recognition as other personal attributes. If you meet the height requirements and want to leverage your stature for education funding, this scholarship is one you shouldn’t overlook.
3. The Veggie and Fruit Scholarship
If you’re a passionate advocate for healthy living, you might be interested in the Veggie and Fruit Scholarship. Sponsored by the Produce for Better Health Foundation, this scholarship is for students who are enthusiastic about promoting the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. Students are asked to submit an essay or a video discussing how they have promoted healthy eating habits in their community. The scholarship encourages students to think about nutrition and how they can contribute to a healthier world. It’s an ideal opportunity for students studying nutrition, health, or related fields but is also open to anyone passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles.
4. The Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship
This scholarship is exactly what it sounds like—a funding opportunity for students who can imagine themselves surviving a zombie apocalypse. Sponsored by Unigo, the Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship asks students to submit a creative response to a question about what they would do if the world were overrun by zombies. The scholarship is a fun and unconventional way to engage with students’ creativity while offering a chance to win a scholarship prize. With such an out-of-the-box approach, it encourages students to think outside the norm and get a little imaginative.
5. The Chicken Chicken Scholarship
Yes, you read that right—this scholarship is for chicken lovers. The Chicken Chicken Scholarship is offered by the American Chicken Association and is open to students who can prove their devotion to chickens and poultry. Applicants are required to write an essay or submit a video that highlights their passion for chickens and how they have contributed to the world of poultry, whether through research, farming, or community education. If you’re a fan of these feathery creatures, this quirky scholarship could be the perfect fit for you.
6. The Star Trek Scholarship
Are you a Star Trek fan? The Star Trek Scholarship is a unique opportunity for students who are passionate about the iconic science fiction franchise. Sponsored by the Starfleet Academy, the scholarship is awarded to students who exhibit exceptional leadership skills, academic achievement, and community service—qualities that align with the values promoted in the Star Trek universe. In addition to a scholarship, winners also get the chance to attend Star Trek-related events and meet other fans. If you’re someone who grew up watching Captain Kirk and Spock or who’s fascinated by space exploration, this scholarship could be an excellent way to fund your education while embracing your passion for the Star Trek universe.
7. The L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest
For students pursuing careers in illustration, the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest offers a unique scholarship opportunity. This international competition encourages young artists to submit their science fiction or fantasy artwork, with winners receiving cash prizes and a chance to work with experienced industry professionals. The contest is ideal for budding illustrators who are looking to hone their craft and gain exposure. If you’re an aspiring artist with a passion for speculative fiction, this scholarship could help you take your creative career to the next level.
8. The Bednar Scholarship for Travelers
For students with a strong desire to travel the world and explore different cultures, the Bednar Scholarship for Travelers is an excellent opportunity. This unique scholarship awards funding to students who are planning to study or volunteer abroad. The application requires students to submit an essay outlining their travel plans, how they will contribute to the communities they visit, and the potential impact on their personal and professional development. This scholarship is perfect for students in international studies, language programs, or those with a passion for global travel and cultural exchange.
9. The Scholarship for Left-Handed People
This scholarship is dedicated to a surprisingly specific demographic—left-handed students. The Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates leadership and academic achievement and who is left-handed. The scholarship aims to support a student who may not have been considered for more traditional funding sources. While it may seem quirky, it’s a reminder that there’s financial aid for everyone, even those with the most unique characteristics.
10. The “Duct Tape” Scholarship
If you’ve ever used duct tape to fix something or create a DIY project, this scholarship will likely appeal to your creative side. Sponsored by the Duck Brand company, the Duct Tape Scholarship challenges students to create a prom or formal outfit made entirely out of duct tape. Students are required to submit a photo of their creation along with an essay explaining their design process and how they made the outfit. The winning student receives a scholarship to help fund their education, along with recognition for their inventive use of a household item. If you have a knack for DIY projects and a love for duct tape, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity to showcase your creativity.
11. The Harry Potter Scholarshipl
For all the Harry Potter enthusiasts out there, this is the scholarship you’ve been waiting for. The Harry Potter Scholarship is available to students who can demonstrate a deep knowledge of the books and films in the series. Applicants must submit an essay or a creative project that analyzes themes in the Harry Potter universe, such as friendship, bravery, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. With a fun and intellectual approach to the magical world of Hogwarts, this scholarship is perfect for those who’ve grown up reading J.K. Rowling’s beloved series and want to turn that passion into funding for their education.
12. The “Anti-Social Media” Scholarship
As the name suggests, this scholarship is a unique opportunity for students who are willing to take a break from social media for a period of time. Sponsored by the Digital Responsibility Organization, the Anti-Social Media Scholarship requires applicants to disconnect from all social media for a set amount of time (usually a month) and write about the experience. The scholarship aims to promote digital detoxing and encourage students to reflect on how social media impacts their mental health, relationships, and daily lives. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the constant buzz of social media and want to take a step back, this scholarship could not only help you recharge but also fund your education.
Conclusion: Embrace the Unconventional
As you can see, there’s a wide array of unconventional and unique scholarships that could be the key to helping you finance your education. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, a lover of animals, or have an out-of-the-box talent, there are scholarships available that align with your passions and interests. Don’t be afraid to explore unconventional options, as they might be easier to apply for and offer less competition than traditional scholarships. Keep your eyes open for opportunities, think creatively, and you may just discover a scholarship that fits you perfectly.
The most important takeaway here is that financial aid is not only limited to the traditional routes. From zombies to Star Trek, chickens to left-handed people, there’s a scholarship out there for everyone. So, don’t limit yourself—explore, apply, and let your unique interests help you achieve your academic dreams.
