That’s a fact: despite multiple initiatives, members of the LGBTQ+ community still face
endless challenges. Those challenges affect every sphere of their lives and disadvantage
such individuals in their careers. But what can increase chances of worthy employment more
than proper education? Which, to be honest, is not the most affordable thing in the world.
Fortunately, there are loads of initiatives designed particularly to help you graduate. Let’s
discuss the expectations you should set, the strategy you may choose, and the LGBTQ+
scholarships that are waiting just for you!

Are you ready to fight?

Ask yourself this question, because nothing will be easy. Any scholarship is a brilliant
opportunity to receive financial aid. Since there is no need to pay back, numerous
candidates thoughtfully craft their applications to become the chosen ones. You should do
the same. Slow down despite the urge to use the same essay for different applications. It’s
hard to come up with something new when filling out such applications becomes a repetitive
process. Nevertheless, carefully examine the requirements for each chosen scholarship and
explain why you perfectly fit. Remember, your essay should remain personal, simultaneously
following the standards of academic writing. An academic ghostwriting service may provide
you with an example and help you focus on what matters. You are an individual with unique
experiences and circumstances, so use them to your favor!

Here are some tips for you to feel like you already have a plan:

● Don’t limit yourself to a single application! It’s easier to decline one of the offers later
than regret not getting any.
● Simultaneously, don’t chaotically rush to every opportunity. Take your time to
examine the requirements and what each scholarship offers.
● Make your application personal. Be proud of yourself! Many candidates would write
something general, but you can’t choose the same strategy. Your essay should
reflect your mission and values, convincing others of your enthusiasm.
● Make sure that you have reliable examples at hand. Consider who would gladly help
you and ask for advice.
● Some scholarships require an interview. Practice answering common questions
about yourself and your background.

Well, we are ready to move to particular offers you should consider! No exaggerations:
indeed numerous initiatives are developed to encourage members of the LGBTQ+
community to join various academic settings. Institutions are interested in diversity and
welcoming students with all backgrounds and identities. Remarkably, while some
scholarships are regional or state-specific, others focus on a particular degree or school. Are
you interested in becoming an international student, by the way?

WiseGeek LGBTQ+ Awareness Scholarship

That’s the first scholarship highlighted in the Forbes article which explains how such
initiatives work. This one awarded the winner with $1,000 last summer. The founders explain
that they are devoted to supporting the dreams and aspirations of LGBTQ+ youth in the US.
Too many people still face violations of their human rights, so building awareness is a critical
step. Award amounts are designed by the donor and may vary further.

Pride Foundation Scholarships

“Since awarding our first scholarship in 1993, we’ve awarded more than $8.5 million to more
than 2,400 students in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.” Pretty
impressive, right? Pride Foundation does not award any students. Those must be leaders
ready to make change. Is this about you? Pride Foundation does not check citizenship
status and you can use the scholarship however you see fit. For example, you can apply to
study abroad programs, buy books, or solve your on-campus housing issue.

Leroy F. Aarons Scholarship Award

The founder of this scholarship was a journalist himself, so the program rewards students
who plan their careers in media. They can receive up to $5,000 for their tuition needs on
several conditions. They must provide five sample clips and write a story highlighting an
LGBTQ+ issue. Those who are already undergraduate or graduate students or those who
are only choosing their major can compete. Applicants must be aware of the issues that the
LGBTQ+ community faces and realize the critical role of the media in solving those issues.

Dream Out Loud Scholarship

This one is for those dedicated to the arts. The program provides up to $1000 to LGBTQ+
students whose major is film, theater, dance, or music. A year-long mentorship opportunity
makes this program truly stand out. An experienced artist helps winners foster their creativity
and achieve career goals. You must already study in college or university to apply. Another
requirement is a GPA which must be at least 3.0.

Asian Pacific Islander Queer Women and Transgender
Community Scholarship

APIQWTC focuses on providing networking opportunities, strengthening the community, and
increasing its visibility. Three applicants can receive up to $3,500 if they view themselves as
current or future community leaders. They must also pursue technical, professional, or trade
certification. Those who received this scholarship in the last five years are better off
refraining from applying. Candidates should submit a one-page cover letter, resume,
portfolio, and responses to additional questions.

What about the pitfalls?

Remarkably, most scholarships consider an option that a student has not come out to their
family. Such programs promise full confidentiality which means students can receive funds
without sharing their personal information with those they are not ready to. Some offers are
relevant for LGBTQ+ allies who do not identify as LGBTQ+ themselves. While some
programs provide information about winners, others promise not to post about you on their
website if you don’t want them to do so. Finally, you can look for scholarships that don’t
require recommendation letters and additional information from community members.

Wrapping up

We’ve listed only several promising scholarships, but you can find much more by simply
googling! Surely, one is a perfect fit if your goal is to make this world a better place. Most
scholarships highlight that you must be an active and dedicated community member. Do you
know why? Because no one is meant to fight alone. Ask for help and help others and you’ll
see that such an approach truly works!