Christianity is the most popular religion in the world with over 2 billion followers that adhere to the practices of several major and minor sects. The United States is a predominantly Christian country with a large Protestant and Catholic base. Because of the widespread popularity of Christianity in the United States, scholarships that award students for their faith are limited. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t any faith based awards, however, and students interested in attending a religious college may have lots of funding options.

Students from any Christian sect can find financial assistance through a variety of scholarship programs. Each will come with its own requirements, but the vast majority rely on the student’s GPA and statements of financial need to make a decision on who should get the award. Some will also require students to write an essay on a topic that varies and is chosen by the donors of the award. Additionally, many will require students to participate actively in their communities and their church.

Some scholarships are given out through Christian-focused universities and students enrolled in these academic institutions and who meet the requirements may be provided with some financial support. There are numerous private foundations which provide support for Christian students as well. Many focus on students who are entering a specific field of study. The Cannon Endowment Scholarship focuses on students who are entering seminary school. Not all awards are for students pursuing Christian careers, some like the Bolton Family Endowed Scholarship for Business Students reward students at Christian colleges entering the business field.

Students will also find that many awards are limited to students who are often a particular denomination of Christianity. This includes Methodists, Baptists, Lutherans, Protestants, Catholics and more. Students who are members of any of these churches may enjoy additional scholarship opportunities.

Christian Scholarships

• Kaneta Foundation Scholarship: Amount and number of recipients vary but students must be residents of Hawaii, members of a Christian church and have been accepted to an accredited institution.
• Star Supporter Scholarship: Varying amounts given to African-American students attending seminary school who are members of the Disciples of Christ Church.
• International Order of the King’s Daughters and Sons Student Ministry Scholarship: $500 to $1,000 awarded each year to 30-36 Christian undergraduate or graduate students majoring in theology.
• Norman Vincent Peale Scholarships: Varying amounts awarded to undergraduate students at Northwestern University with excellent grades and commitment to their faith.