Arts and humanities majors are the backbone of creative expression, culture, and critical thinking. However, funding for these fields can sometimes be more limited compared to STEM programs.

If you’re passionate about literature, history, fine arts, philosophy, or any other humanities discipline, there are scholarships available to help you pursue your academic and creative dreams. Here are the top 7 scholarships for arts and humanities majors, along with all the essential details you need to apply.

1. The Beinecke Scholarship Program

• Overview: The Beinecke Scholarship Program is designed to support students pursuing graduate studies in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
• Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens planning to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in the arts, humanities, or social sciences.
• Scholarship Amount: $34,000 (up to $4,000 before graduate school and $30,000 during graduate study).
• Deadline: February 2025.
• Application Requirements: A nomination from your undergraduate institution, academic transcripts, a personal statement, and evidence of financial need.
• Documents Needed: Transcripts, a detailed research proposal, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
• Usage: The scholarship funds can be used for tuition, living expenses, research materials, or travel for academic purposes.

2. The National YoungArts Foundation Scholarship

• Overview: The YoungArts Foundation provides scholarships for young artists in various disciplines, including visual arts, writing, design, and performing arts.
• Eligibility: Open to U.S. high school students (grades 10-12) and recent graduates (ages 15-18) pursuing the visual, literary, or performing arts.
• Scholarship Amount: Scholarships range from $1,000 to $10,000.
• Deadline: October 13, 2024.
• Application Requirements: Submission of a portfolio or performance video, along with an artist statement.
• Documents Needed: A portfolio of work (varies by discipline), personal essays, and recommendations from teachers or mentors.
• Usage: The scholarship funds can be applied to tuition for college, art programs, workshops, and other creative development opportunities.

3. The Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship

• Overview: The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation provides one of the largest scholarships for community college students transferring to a four-year university to study the arts or humanities.
• Eligibility: Open to students at community colleges in the U.S. with a strong academic record and a desire to pursue a bachelor’s degree in arts, humanities, or related fields.
• Scholarship Amount: Up to $55,000 per year.
• Deadline: January 2025.
• Application Requirements: A minimum GPA of 3.5, leadership experience, and a commitment to community service.
• Documents Needed: Transcripts, personal essays, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need (FAFSA).
• Usage: The funds can be used for tuition, books, housing, and other academic expenses.

4. The Levin-Goffe Scholarship for LGBTQI Immigrants

• Overview: This scholarship supports LGBTQI immigrants in New York City who are pursuing an education in the arts or humanities.
• Eligibility: Open to undocumented LGBTQI immigrants (with or without DACA) living in New York City, who are enrolled or plan to enroll in an undergraduate arts or humanities program.
• Scholarship Amount: $25,000 per year.
• Deadline: March 2025.
• Application Requirements: Proof of LGBTQI identity, immigrant status, and enrollment in an arts or humanities program.
• Documents Needed: Personal statement, transcripts, proof of enrollment, and a recommendation letter.
• Usage: Funds are applied to tuition, art supplies, and other educational costs, as well as living expenses.

5. The J. Walter Thompson Scholarship for Creative Students

• Overview: This scholarship is specifically for students pursuing creative careers in advertising, communications, and the visual arts.
• Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in communications, media, advertising, or related creative fields.
• Scholarship Amount: Varies; typically around $10,000.
• Deadline: February 2025.
• Application Requirements: A creative portfolio showcasing work in advertising, design, or other media, as well as academic performance.
• Documents Needed: Portfolio, transcripts, personal statement, and recommendation letters.
• Usage: Funds can be applied to tuition, art supplies, software, and other creative materials necessary for academic success.

6. The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant

• Overview: One of the world’s most prestigious grants for young artists, this award is designed for students pursuing careers in painting, drawing, printmaking, or sculpture.
• Eligibility: Open to emerging artists (students or early-career professionals) who demonstrate a commitment to realistic or figurative art.
• Scholarship Amount: $17,000 for first-time recipients, with the potential for renewal grants of $20,000.
• Deadline: Rolling deadlines throughout the year.
• Application Requirements: A portfolio of artistic work, an artist’s statement, and proof of commitment to a career in the arts.
• Documents Needed: Portfolio, transcripts or proof of enrollment, and letters of recommendation.
• Usage: The grant can be used for tuition, studio rent, art supplies, travel for exhibitions, or living expenses.

7. The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program

• Overview: This fellowship is designed for undergraduate and graduate students who want to conduct research in the arts and humanities at the Smithsonian Institution’s museums and research centers.
• Eligibility: Open to students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs in the U.S., with a strong interest in the arts, history, or cultural studies.
• Scholarship Amount: Awards vary based on the length and scope of the fellowship, ranging from $6,000 to $50,000.
• Deadline: November 1, 2024.
• Application Requirements: A research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation from faculty members.
• Documents Needed: Research proposal, transcripts, CV, and references.
• Usage: The fellowship can be used to cover research expenses, travel to the Smithsonian Institution, and living costs during the research period.

How to Stand Out as an Arts and Humanities Major

To win a scholarship in the arts and humanities, you need to showcase both your creative work and your academic strengths. Here are a few tips to help you make your application stand out:

1. Build a Strong Portfolio: Whether you’re in visual arts, literature, or performing arts, your portfolio is crucial. Select your best work that demonstrates your creativity, technical skills, and innovation.
2. Highlight Your Passion for the Humanities: Scholarships for humanities students often look for applicants who can explain why their discipline matters. Be clear about why studying the humanities is essential to you and how it contributes to society.
3. Showcase Leadership and Community Involvement: Many scholarships value applicants who give back to their communities or demonstrate leadership. Whether you’ve organized an art exhibit or led a community theater project, these experiences add depth to your application.
4. Personalize Your Essay: Many scholarship applications include a personal statement or essay. Use this opportunity to tell your story, your passion for the arts or humanities, and how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
5. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation: Ask mentors, professors, or supervisors who know your work and can speak to your talent and dedication in the arts or humanities. Their recommendations can help distinguish you from other applicants.

Conclusion

Pursuing a degree in the arts and humanities is a deeply rewarding journey, but it often comes with financial challenges. Fortunately, there are scholarships available to support your creative and academic goals. By applying for these top scholarships, you can focus on honing your craft, expanding your knowledge, and shaping your future in the arts or humanities. Don’t wait—start applying today to secure the funding you need to fuel your creative future.