Best Higher Education Grants in Connecticut

The Connecticut GI Charitable Foundation Scholarship Program offers two $2000 scholarships for students diagnosed with chronic gastrointestinal illnesses, including inflammatory bowel disease and chronic liver disease. Aimed at supporting higher education, this initiative recognizes the challenges faced by these students and encourages their academic pursuits. Eligible applicants must be Connecticut residents or enrolled in Connecticut post-secondary programs and must provide documentation and recommendations as part of the application process.

The William J. McCarthy Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from Mystic or Groton pursuing bachelor's degrees. Applicants must be in the top 10% of their high school class and demonstrate financial need. With over $11.9 million awarded since 1983, this scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering education and rewarding careers in the region.

The William and Gladys Murdock Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports Pomfret residents pursuing higher education. Since 1983, the Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to empower local students in their educational and career aspirations. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors and current college students, including those seeking graduate degrees, fostering academic success in the region.

The Waterford Scholars program, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, has been supporting local students since 1983. With over $11.9 million awarded through various funds, this initiative aims to help Waterford residents in financial need pursue higher education. By offering scholarships, the foundation addresses educational disparities and fosters the development of future leaders in the community. Students seeking assistance for college can apply and benefit from this generous program.

Full-time undergraduates in higher education fields at 4-year Connecticut Space Grant Consortium member institutions can receive $3,000 scholarships for STEM and space-related studies. NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium prioritizes new applicants, requires at least one completed semester, and funds the semester following the award for eligible Connecticut students.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

Community College Scholarship

Student applicants must be full-time students at the time of application at one of the 2-year Community College Consortium Member Institutions with a strong academic record. First-semester students are not eligible to apply as a transcript showing at least one completed semester is required with your application.  

New applicants will be given priority over recent awardees. Students in their final semester are not eligible to apply for scholarships, as awards must be applied to the semester following award. Scholarships may not be applied retroactively.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

Community College Transfer Scholarship

Students must demonstrate that they began their postsecondary education at a community college where they enrolled for a minimum of two terms and are currently enrolled full-time at a 4-year Consortium Member postsecondary education institution. First-semester students are not eligible to apply, as a transcript showing at least one completed semester at the 4-year affiliate is required with your application. Students may only be awarded the Community College Transfer Scholarship once in their academic careers.

The Union School Association Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, is designed for Union residents who have lived in the town for at least five consecutive years. Eligible applicants must be graduating from any town-approved high school and plan to pursue further education at an accredited two- or four-year institution, trade school, or other recognized programs. This scholarship supports local students in achieving their educational and career goals.

The Tuneski/Sheflott Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students of Irish or Polish heritage from Southeastern Connecticut who exhibit strong academic and extracurricular performance. With an approximate award of $1,500 per year for four years, this scholarship aims to assist deserving individuals in pursuing a four-year degree, fostering educational advancement and community development.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Dorothea B. Shaw Scholarship

The Dorothea B. Shaw Scholarship will provide $8,000 ($2,000 per year for 4 years) to support tuition, books, fees, room & board, and degree-related expenses for a student graduating from a Duval County public or private school and attending an accredited post-secondary institution in the Northeastern United States. Northeastern states are identified as: CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, and VT. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider academic achievements, leadership experience, desire for personal growth and financial need. 

The Tim West Memorial Scholarship, offering $1,000 annually for four years, supports graduating high school students from New London, with preference given to those from New London High School or St. Bernard High School. Established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, this scholarship aims to empower local students in pursuing higher education and achieving their career aspirations.

The Thomas P. Quinn Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports New London County students seeking to pursue higher education at four-year colleges or universities. With a total award of $4,000 distributed over four years, this scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to deserving students, helping them achieve their academic and career goals. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded significant funds to empower local youth.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

Meland Foundation Nursing Scholarship

The Meland Foundation grants funding for scholarships to nurses in the NJ-NY-CT-PA area with BSN degrees wishing to pursue Nurse Practitioner, MSN, and DNP degrees with a pediatric specialty and who share the vision of the Foundation.

The Meland Foundation — founded by a beloved pediatrician who built a successful family medical practice in Northern New Jersey — provides and supports inspirational and informational programs to enhance the ability of families to care for loved ones and to provide hope to patients and their caregivers.

The amount of each nursing scholarship is between $2,000 and $5,000.

Scholarships are granted annually.

The Stonington 350th Anniversary Scholarship, established by the Stonington Historical Society, aims to support residents of Stonington pursuing unique educational opportunities. This scholarship is part of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut's commitment to fostering education and community development, having awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships since 1983. It encourages local students to achieve their academic and career goals, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable community.

The Southeast Unrestricted Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports local students who demonstrate financial need and maintain good academic standing. Established to promote educational opportunities, this scholarship has contributed over $11.9 million since 1983, benefiting those engaged in extracurricular activities. It aims to empower students to pursue rewarding careers while fostering community growth and sustainability in Eastern Connecticut.

The NCC Foundation offers the Spring Semester Scholarship to support Fairfield County residents enrolled in degree or credit certificate programs at CT State Norwalk. This scholarship provides tuition assistance for the Spring semester, and eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.80 and complete at least 12 credits by the end of the fall semester. This initiative aims to enhance access to quality higher education and foster student success.

Connecticut nursing graduates pursuing higher education can receive tuition assistance for RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN programs through the Norwalk Community College Foundation. U.S. citizens or permanent residents who completed their RN at CT State Norwalk and passed or plan to take the NCLEX may be eligible, with renewable support based on unmet financial need.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Jake T. Watson Memorial Scholarship, established by friends and family, honors a young man who lived life passionately until his untimely passing at 25. Offering approximately $500, this scholarship supports students pursuing post-secondary education in tree work, forestry, or environmental fields, with a preference for graduates from Robert E. Fitch Senior High School. The fund reflects a commitment to nurturing future generations in sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

The American Savings Foundation offers Graduate School Scholarships to past ASF Scholars pursuing degrees in education, social work, or related fields, with a preference for those studying in Connecticut. This initiative underscores the Foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare through educational support, fostering academic advancement among local students, and contributing to the overall improvement of the region's quality of life.

The American Savings Foundation offers scholarships primarily to Connecticut students based on financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement. With nearly 400 scholarships awarded annually, this program supports high school seniors, current college students, and nontraditional adult learners pursuing higher education or vocational training. Applicants must reside in Connecticut and demonstrate a commitment to their educational goals. Awards are renewable for up to five years, fostering long-term educational growth and success.

The Dr. Lorraine G. Spranzo Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, is designed for graduate nursing students pursuing advanced degrees at Connecticut universities or residents attending schools outside the state. Applicants must have completed 12 credits, possess an active Connecticut nursing license, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship supports dedicated nursing professionals in enhancing their education and leadership roles in healthcare.

Connecticut students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees who have faced a life-threatening illness can receive higher education support through the Spencer’s Hero Academia Memorial Scholarship. Grants from the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain provide US $500 - US $30,000 to graduating seniors, past graduates, or current college students meeting residency and GPA requirements.

Summary

The Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (DMHAS) is the primary funding entity for Supported Education (SEd) services for adults with mental health disorders, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. DMHAS seeks to continue providing a highquality statewide network of SEd services. The goals of SEd are to increase integrated educational support for the target population described above.

Purpose

To continue to provide a statewide network of SEd services to assist adults with mental health disorders or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders to pursue educational goals

Promoting Academically Successful Students (PASS)

What is the PASS grant?

Promoting Academically Successful Students (PASS) is a competitive grant available through the Minority Advancement Program (MAP). It helps institutions of higher education (IHEs) fund programs that support undergraduate minority students on academic warning or probation. The programs are available to students during the fall and spring semesters.

PASS addresses low enrollment and graduation rates for minority students (mainly Black, Hispanic, and Latino). In Connecticut, about 12 percent of Black and 16 percent of Hispanic or Latino students enroll in an IHE compared to 52 percent of white students. Similarly, 54 percent of Black and 62 percent of Hispanic or Latino students graduate compared to 75 percent of white students.

Students are given an academic warning or placed on probation when they don’t meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) standards. Students who don’t meet SAP standards2 may lose their financial aid and be dismissed from school. The SAP standards are:

Students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA

Students must complete two-thirds of all attempted courses

Students must complete their program of study without attempting more than 150% of the credits required to complete the degree

OHE oversees all PASS grantees.

CT Collegiate Awareness and Preparation (ConnCAP)

What is the ConnCAP grant?

Connecticut Collegiate Awareness and Preparation (ConnCAP) is a competitive grant program available through the Minority Advancement Program (MAP). It helps fund pre-college programs offered by Connecticut colleges and universities. These programs help disadvantaged students at public middle and high schools:

• Improve their academic skills and graduate from high school
• Enroll in college and succeed in a degree program

An academically high-achieving disadvantaged student is unlikely to achieve their academic potential without programmatic intervention due to circumstances outside their control.

ConnCAP programs are delivered year-round (fall, spring, and summer). They support students for at least:

• 30 weeks across the fall and spring semesters
• One week of intensive programming in the summer

OHE oversees ConnCAP grantees. ConnCAP programs must maintain student records and file periodic reports in response to accountability procedures established by OHE. OHE staff also periodically visit ConnCAP programs to gauge their quality and compliance with program guidelines.