Best Higher Education Grants in Oregon

The Robanna Fund, established in 1992 by Robert and Deanna Levy, supports students pursuing careers in healthcare. Administered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the fund awards scholarships averaging $6,000, depending on various factors such as the number of qualified applicants and donor preferences. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, reside in Hawai‘i, intend to major in a health-related field, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to cultivate future healthcare professionals in the community.

The Schlesinger Family Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Oregon and SW Washington, emphasizing contributions to medical research, higher education, and environmental conservation. Founded in 1981 by Ralph and Bunny Schlesinger, the foundation has a rich legacy of funding reputable organizations and promoting community welfare. To apply, interested parties must submit a letter of inquiry detailing their funding needs. This grant aims to enhance the future prosperity of the region through collaborative efforts.

OCF manages one of the largest scholarship programs of its kind in the country, awarding thousands of scholarships each year.

Our scholarships support a wide variety of majors, interests and passions. We have scholarships for graduates of specific high schools, current college students and graduate students. Other scholarships support students returning to their educations after time away, for workforce retraining or career advancement.

Embark’s Diversity in Leadership Scholarship

For underrepresented and diverse Oregon residents pursuing their first year of enrollment at an institution of higher education in Oregon. 

Award Information

• Award amount of $10,000 for freshman year; $5,000 for following three years (or until completion of degree)
• Renewable for up to four (years if enrolled full-time)
• Recipient may defer award for up to one year
• If recipient is interested in a career in public policy, public finance or a related field, an interview for the Straub Fellowship will be offered during the junior and senior years.

The WE Communications Scholarship, established by Waggener Edstrom Worldwide in partnership with UNCF, aims to support female undergraduate students in STEM fields at UNCF Member Institutions. With a focus on academic excellence, applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need. This initiative reflects UNCF's commitment to fostering minority education and empowering future leaders, contributing to the overall rise in graduation rates among African American students.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Opportunity Grant

The Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG) is Oregon's largest state-funded, need-based grant program for college students. The grant provides funding to more than 30,000 Oregon resident students each year.

OOG is a need-based grant awarded to Oregon residents of all ages who are pursuing their first associates degree or bachelor's degree at an eligible public or private institution. Award amounts vary based on student's financial need and type of institution the student attends. There is not a separate application for the OOG. To be considered for the grant, students must submit their FAFSA or ORSAA as soon as possible each academic year. Awards are first-come, first-served until funds are depleted. 

Conditions of the Award

Oregon Opportunity Grants are available to qualified students for up to four years (12 quarters or 8 semesters) of full-time enrollment, provided they maintain satisfactory academic progress, continue to meet eligibility and award requirements, and file a new FAFSA or ORSAA each year.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Deceased or Disabled Public Safety Officer (DDPSO) Grant

The Deceased or Disabled Public Safety Officer (DDPSO) Grant supports dependents of public safety officers in the state of Oregon who were killed or disabled in the line of duty.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance

The Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance (ONGSTA) program provides funding for current Oregon National Guard Members enrolled in an eligible Oregon postsecondary institutions for undergraduate tuition, certain fees, and a book allowance. The grant can be used for up to 90 credits at Oregon community colleges and up to 180 quarter credits/120 semester credits at eligible Oregon universities and colleges. Award amounts vary depending on the type of institution the student attends and their eligibility for other military tuition assistance. 

Students must apply each year to continue receiving the grant.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Student Child Care Grant

The Oregon Student Child Care Grant Program helps parents enrolled in postsecondary education to obtain safe, dependable care that supports their children's development while allowing completion of the parent's academic programs.

About Samaritan Health Services

We’re a nonprofit network of hospitals, clinics and health services caring for more than 290,000 residents in the mid-Willamette Valley and central Oregon Coast and portions of Marion and Polk counties. We work together to provide highly reliable and innovative medicine with world-class quality in a way that supports the values of the communities we serve. That includes caring for all people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Health Education Scholarships

One of the many keys to maintaining a healthy, prosperous community is ensuring a sustainable supply of excellent health care providers. To achieve this, Samaritan Health Services offers numerous scholarships to local students pursuing careers as doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, as well continuing education or specialty training for current medical providers.

Each year, Samaritan awards more than $25,000 in scholarships for health care education to ensure the communities we serve receive the best care possible well into the future.

John & Carol Dinges Medical Scholarship

The John and Carol Dinges Medical Scholarship is intended to provide financial support for the education of an individual who desires to enter a medical field for the first time. The funds will be sent directly to the college for the student’s tuition. 

The scholarship is to be used for one of the following programs of study, which are listed in order of preference:

1. Nursing

2. Nursing Assistant

3. Diagnostic Imaging

4. Pharmacy Tech

5. EMT

6. Medical Assistant

7. Medical Office Specialist

8. Other LBCC medical field classes

About Samaritan Health Services

We’re a nonprofit network of hospitals, clinics and health services caring for more than 290,000 residents in the mid-Willamette Valley and central Oregon Coast and portions of Marion and Polk counties. We work together to provide highly reliable and innovative medicine with world-class quality in a way that supports the values of the communities we serve. That includes caring for all people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Health Education Scholarships

One of the many keys to maintaining a healthy, prosperous community is ensuring a sustainable supply of excellent health care providers. To achieve this, Samaritan Health Services offers numerous scholarships to local students pursuing careers as doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, as well continuing education or specialty training for current medical providers.

Each year, Samaritan awards more than $25,000 in scholarships for health care education to ensure the communities we serve receive the best care possible well into the future.

Julietta A. Pape Scholarship

The Julietta A. Pape Scholarship Fund was designed to help residents of Brownsville, Cascadia, Crabtree, Crawfordsville, Foster, Halsey, Lacomb, Lebanon, Scio, Shedd, Sweet Home, Tangent and Waterloo who are attending medical school. Applicants must be attending College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest in Lebanon or Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland.  

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Teacher Scholars Program Grant

The Oregon Teacher Scholars Program (OTSP) Grant provides funding for eligible candidates who have experience with diverse populations who are pursuing their preliminary licensure program for teaching, school counseling, social work, and school psychology. The OTSP Grant is offered in partnership with the Educator Advancement Council and the Oregon Department of Education.

Eligible students must complete the Oregon Teacher Scholars Program (OTSP) Grant application and the FAFSA or ORSAA by the designated deadline for full consideration.

Continuing Scholars: Renewal applicants (those who have received the grant in a prior year) must login to their OSAC Student Portal account and re-apply for the next academic year in addition to submitting their FAFSA or ORSAA for the corresponding academic year.

Eligible students can attend any institution that has an approved educator preparation program and receive the Oregon Teacher Scholars Program Grant. View the full Public and Private Colleges/University list to determine if your college is eligible.

The Evelyn Kaser Nursing Scholarship, established by Adventist Health Columbia Gorge, supports local students pursuing nursing education in the Columbia River area. This scholarship honors Evelyn Kaser, a dedicated nurse and community member, and aims to strengthen the local healthcare workforce. By assisting students committed to serving their community, the scholarship enhances access to quality healthcare in rural and underserved regions, aligning with the mission of Adventist Health to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Tribal Student Grants

The Oregon Tribal Student Grant provides funding for eligible Oregon tribal students to offset the average cost of attendance at eligible Oregon colleges and universities. Current, new, and continuing students are encouraged to apply for this grant for each academic year. The grant is intended to cover the average cost of attendance after all federal and state grants and scholarships have been applied.

Awarding is prioritized for undergraduate and master's degree students. If funding is available after eligible undergraduate and master's degree students have been awarded, full or partial awards may be made to students in either professional or doctoral programs of study, and/or graduate certificates. Graduate students are not required to have participated in the grant as undergraduate students.

The Singer Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Oregon Jewish Community Foundation, empowers Jewish public high school graduates in Oregon to pursue full-time post-secondary education. This renewable scholarship supports students for up to four years, promoting academic success with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The foundation aims to foster philanthropy and strengthen Jewish community values, providing vital financial assistance to ensure that deserving individuals can continue their educational journeys.

The Lester & Annette Goldschmidt Hillel Scholarship, administered by the Oregon Jewish Community Foundation, offers financial support to Jewish students from Oregon attending the University of Oregon. Established by the Goldschmidts' children, this scholarship aims to assist two students each year in pursuing higher education. The foundation promotes philanthropy and community engagement, ensuring that Jewish students have access to resources that empower their educational journeys and foster a thriving Jewish community.

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.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Lillian S. Edelstein Scholarships

Up to two students receiving these scholarships hail from or will be attending college in Washington, Idaho, or Oregon.

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 First Interstate BancSystem Foundation focuses on strengthening communities by providing grants primarily to nonprofits assisting low- and moderate-income individuals. In 2023, they awarded $9.2 million across their footprint, emphasizing projects with significant community impact. Grants are recommended by local First Interstate Bank branches and are evaluated based on the nonprofit's leadership, financial stability, and community benefit. Areas of ineligibility include individual projects and those that do not demonstrate a substantial community impact.

The Gus and Lola Rosenblatt Memorial Scholarship, provided by the Oregon Jewish Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to Jewish male-identifying students from Oregon attending accredited colleges within the state. Established through Lola Rosenblatt's estate, this scholarship supports students pursuing higher education while emphasizing the values of philanthropy and community support. Eligible recipients can renew the scholarship for up to three additional years, ensuring continued educational opportunities for those who maintain a 3.0 GPA and meet residency criteria.

The J.R. Simplot Company Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on art, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture. Established in 1929, the foundation is committed to enhancing community welfare through creative cultural endeavors, educational initiatives, health services, and youth programs. Applications are reviewed quarterly, ensuring a timely response to organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.

The Arthur P. Krichevsky Memorial Scholarship, provided by the Oregon Jewish Community Foundation, supports Jewish education through funding for programs like Jewish day schools and post-high school educational pursuits. Established through a bequest from Mr. Krichevsky, it primarily allocates funds to Jewish day schools, enhancing access to educational opportunities within the Jewish community. This scholarship aims to empower recipients while promoting a culture of philanthropy and educational excellence.

Awarded to a student to encourage their continuation post high school. Can be used to continue their education at a two or four year public institution or complete vocational training. Financial need or other factors that might make a student at risk of not continuing their education are taken into consideration.

Marys River Lodge No 221 William E. McCoy III Scholarship

In 2021, Marys River Lodge No. 221 created another scholarship in honor of longtime lodge member William E. McCoy III. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors of Benton County high schools, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. It is meant to help them attend a public community college or four-year college or university. They must intend to major in hard or physical science.

For graduating high school seniors from Benton County pursuing careers in physical sciences or engineering. Students must enroll no later than fall term in a public community college, college, or university in Oregon.

Elda Washer Scholarship Fund

The Elda Washer Scholarship Fund is providing scholarships for deserving students. The Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc. (CSA), a non-profit, independent organization is the facilitator of the scholarship fund.

The institution must be an educational organization that normally maintains a regular faculty and curriculum and normally has a regularly enrolled body of pupils or students in attendance at the place where its educational activities are regularly conducted.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Promise Grant

The Oregon Promise is a state grant that helps cover tuition costs at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED® test graduates. Students must apply during their senior year or immediately after GED® test completion. 

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Promise Grant

The Oregon Promise is a state grant that helps cover tuition costs at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED® test graduates. Students must apply during their senior year or immediately after GED® test completion. 

The LTC David & Dorothy Blasen Memorial Scholarship supports ROTC students at Oregon State University and its extension campuses. Established in 1997 by Lieutenant Colonel David Blasen and his wife, Dorothy, this endowed fund aims to enhance educational opportunities for future military leaders. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, academic performance, and leadership. Priority is given to upperclassmen and those who have completed ROTC classes. This scholarship fosters a commitment to military service and community leadership.