Rustic Pathways believes in the power of global education and is committed to making our transformative travel programs accessible to all students. Since 2025, our Financial Aid Office has awarded over $925,000 in scholarships and financial aid to students around the world.
We offer a range of scholarships, from middle school travel support to gap year and undergraduate financial aid, designed to help students pursue life-changing educational experiences abroad.
Explore Our Scholarships and Funding Resources
Rustic Pathways Scholarships
- Global Perspectives Scholarship
- Teacher Appreciation Program
- High School Summer Travel Service Scholarship and Financial Aid
- Gap Year Financial Aid
Other Scholarship Resources
Global Perspectives Scholarship
The Rustic Pathways Global Perspectives Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship offered by Rustic Pathways to high school and college students attending an accredited college or university in the upcoming fall.
The Global Perspectives Scholarship prompts students to reflect on meaningful experiences and identify a global impact project to earn financial scholarships.
To apply for our merit based scholarships, submit an essay based on the Global Perspectives Scholarship prompt.
Rustic Pathways has committed over $850,000 in scholarships and financial aid to students around the world.
Teacher Appreciation Program
Rustic Pathways offers a 15% off special rate to teachers for students enrolled on eligible summer programs through our Teacher Appreciation Program.
Teachers contribute to the development of our future leaders, and we want to thank you for the work you do. We hope to see your child this summer.
High School Summer Travel Service Scholarship and Financial Aid
Rustic Pathways Service Scholarship enables students enrolled in a Rustic Pathways study abroad program to cover part or all of the program fees. Scholarship opportunities are limited and scholarships range in amount.
Gap Year Financial Aid
Financial Aid for Rustic Pathways Gap Year is awarded to exceptional students who have graduated or fulfilled all graduation requirements and will be at least 17 years old by the time their gap year begins. Available financial aid is based on both merit and financial need.
Unless otherwise noted, the scholarships listed below are not affiliated with Rustic Pathways. We list these as a resource for middle school, high school, undergraduate and graduate students.
Scholarships for Middle School Students
Do Something ScholarshipsAwarded to young people aged 13-25 who lead community development and service projects.
💲Amount: Up to $1,000
📅Deadline: November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2024
L. Ron Hubbard Writers & Illustrators of the FutureEncourages aspiring writers to submit original fantasy works.
💲Amount: Up to $1,000
📅Deadline: December 31, 2024
Rubincam Youth AwardOpen to middle and high school students for a narrative essay on their genealogy.
💲Amount: Up to $250
📅Deadline: December 15, annually
American Legion National High School Oratorical ScholarshipOffers financial help for students in grades 9-12 to explore the U.S. Constitution through speech.
💲Amount: $500
📅Deadline: December 21
Angela AwardFor girls in grades 5-8 who have shown excellence in science, demonstrating sustained accomplishments.
💲Amount: $500
📅Deadline: December 21
Student Cam ScholarshipMiddle and high school students create a 5–6-minute documentary addressing the year’s given theme: In the next 20 years, what is the most important change that you would like to see in America?
💲Amount: Up to $5,000
📅Deadline: January 20, 2025
River of WordsAn international art and poetry contest for students aged 5-19, celebrating creative expression inspired by nature and the environment.
📅Deadline: January 31, 2025
EngineerGirl Writing ContestOpen to middle and high school students for essays addressing climate change through unique perspectives.
💲Amount: Up to $1,000
📅Deadline: February 1, 2025
eCYBERMISSIONA STEM competition sponsored by the U.S. Army, challenging students to solve community problems using science.
💲Amount: Up to $1,000
📅Deadline: February 26, 2025
Disabled American Veterans ScholarshipOpen to volunteers aged 21 or younger who have contributed a minimum of 100 hours credited through the organization.
💲Amount: Up to $30,000
📅Deadline: February 28, 2025
Gloria Barron Prize for Young HeroesIf you are 8-18, then you’re eligible to be a Barron Prize young leader who has made a significant positive impact on their communities and the environment.
💲Amount: Up to $10,000
📅Deadline: April 15, 2025
Team America Rocketry ChallengeAmerica’s largest rocket contest gives middle and high school students the opportunity to design, build and launch model rockets.
💲Amount: Up to $20,000 for your team
📅Deadline: April 6, 2025
Ayn Rand Institute Essay ContestsFor grades 8-12. Read Rand’s works, note the themes of capitalism, liberty, and rationalism, and write an essay.
💲Amount: $500
📅Deadline: April 25, 2024
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars ProgramA selective, five-year, pre-college scholarship for high-performing 7th-grade students with financial need, providing support for academic and career goals.
💲Amount: Varies
📅Deadline: April 30, 2025
The Paradigm ChallengeThis challenge is for students aged 4 to 18 who use kindness, creativity, and collaboration to help solve real-life problems and make a difference.
💲Amount: Multiple awards worth up to $100,000
📅Deadline: May 1, 2025
Ocean Awareness Art ContestOpen to middle and high school students who use an unconventional art/think piece addressing climate change. Tell your climate story.
💲Amount: Up to $1,000
📅Deadline: June 9, 2025
Patriot’s Pen Essay ContestThe Patriot’s Pen Writing Contest from VFW (grades 6-8) challenges middle school students to express their thoughts on democracy in an essay.
💲Amount: $500 to $5,000
📅Deadline: October 31, 2025
Voice of DemocracyFor high school students in grades 9-12, challenging them to write and record audio essays on patriotic themes. Winners receive scholarships and prizes.
💲Amount: Up to $5,000
📅Deadline: October 31, 2025
Nicholas A. Virgilio Memorial Haiku and Senryu CompetitionEncourages students in grades 7-12 to explore the art of haiku and senryu poetry.
💲Amount: Up to $100
📅Deadline: —-
Doodle 4 GoogleSee your original artwork on the Google Homepage.
💲Amount: Up to $50,000 and Google merch
📅Deadline: —-
American Legion National High School Oratorical ScholarshipOffers financial help for students in grades 9-12. The Legion encourages students to explore the U.S. Constitution through speech.
AMVETS National Americanism ProgramAMVETS offers poster and short essay competitions open to students from kindergarten through grade 12.
New York Times Student Contest CalendarThe New York Times offers various contests throughout the year. Please take a look at the scholarship opportunities available.
Prudential Emerging VisionariesRecognizes young people 14-18 who have made contributions to their communities through volunteer service.
💲Amount: Up to $15,000
Scholastic Art & Writing AwardsStudents in grades 7-12 can earn a Scholastic grant of up to $12,500 for art and writing. Submit your 100 to 500-word personal statement and your portfolio online.
💲Amount: Up to $12,500
📅Deadline: Varies based on region
Young Scientist ChallengeThe 3M Young Scientist Challenge invites students in grades 5–8 to present ideas to solve problems, with a grand prize of $25,000.
💲Amount: Up to $25,000
Courage in Student Journalism AwardRecognizes students in grades 7-12 who demonstrate courage in pursuing journalistic endeavors, often in the face of adversity.
💲Amount: $1,000
Thermofisher Junior Innovators ChallengeEncourages young scientists to present solutions to community challenges. The Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge is for middle school students in grades 6-8 who present science or engineering projects at the Broadcom MASTERS science fair.
💲Amount: Prizes vary
📅Deadline: —
Tips for middle school students & their parents:
Plan Early for College:
This proactive approach sets a solid foundation for your or your child’s college education. Remember, there are various ways to prepare for college besides scholarships. Financial assistance, federal Pell grant funding, and grant programs open their applications early.
Start Saving Early:
Consider opening a 529 plan to save for college, travel and living expenses. Starting early allows your earnings to compound over time, providing a financial cushion for university students. The US federal government has a slew of programs for students with demonstrated financial need. But, funding opportunities do run out, so move quickly.
Explore Educational Opportunities Beyond the Classroom:
Education extends beyond the academic year. Investigate educational summer semester programs that can enhance your child’s learning and prepare them for high school. Some programs cater to middle school students and offer valuable experiences. Participating in travel abroad programs not only enrich learning but also aid in transition to high school.
Frequently asked questions about middle school scholarships
Are there any scholarships for middle school students?
There are at 29 scholarships for middle school students. The majority of scholarships are for high school and college seniors, community college students, college students, and graduate students.
What is the youngest age you can qualify for scholarships?
There is no age limit for applicable scholarships.
Why should I apply to scholarships in middle school?
It’s important to get a head start on the college funding process. Earning some scholarships will beget earning others.
Are there scholarships for international students?
Scholarships for High School Students and Undergraduate Students
Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student CompetitionAwarded based on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
💲Amount: Up to $7,500
📅Deadline: November 12, 2024
Dell Scholars ProgramRecognizes academic potential and determination in highly motivated, low-income scholars.
💲Amount: Up to $20,000
📅Deadline: December 1, 2024
Rubincam Youth AwardOpen to middle and high school students for a narrative essay on their genealogy.
💲Amount: Up to $250
📅Deadline: December 15, annually
Rotary International ScholarshipsOffers scholarships for undergraduate studies, often used for study or volunteer work abroad.
💲Amount: Varies
📅Deadline: May 15, annually
ABPA Harrington-Arthur Memorial Scholarship Essay CompetitionScholarship opportunity for high school students with an essay component.
💲Amount: Varies
📅Deadline: January 3, 2025
Reagan Foundation ScholarshipsProvides scholarship opportunities for outstanding student leaders, continuing President Ronald Reagan’s legacy.
💲Amount: $10,000
📅Deadline: January 3, 2025
Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship FundThe largest non-profit for college scholarships for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI).
💲Amount: Up to $20,000
📅Deadline: January 15, 2025
McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship ProgramAwards scholarships to Hispanic minority students to support college-bound goals.
💲Amount: Up to $100,000
📅Deadline: February 6, 2025
National Geographic SlingshotStudents in grades 8-12 create a 1-minute video describing ideas for environmental solutions.
💲Amount: Up to $10,000
📅Deadline: February 7, 2025
McConnell ScholarshipSupports students likely to create positive community changes.
💲Amount: Up to $30,000
📅Deadline: February 10, 2025
Davidson Fellows ScholarshipFor exceptional young people under 18, supporting achievements in STEM, literature, music, or philosophy.
💲Amount: Up to $50,000
📅Deadline: February 12, 2025
Voice of Democracy Scholarship CompetitionProvides high school students with a unique opportunity to express themselves in a patriotic-themed recorded essay.
💲Amount: Up to $35,000
📅Deadline: October 31
AFA’s Teen Alzheimer’s Awareness ScholarshipProvides funding to high school seniors impacted by Alzheimer’s. Applicants write an essay or submit a video on the illness’s impact.
💲Amount: Up to $5,000
📅Deadline: March 1, 2025
USAC Study Abroad ScholarshipsRegional scholarships for students from underrepresented backgrounds to study abroad, increasing financial accessibility.
💲Amount: Up to $30,000
📅Deadline: March 1, 2025
American Legion National High School Oratorical ContestStudents give a speech on aspects of the Constitution, emphasizing a citizen’s duties and obligations to government.
💲Amount: Up to $25,000
📅Deadline: Varies by state
American Indian College FundProvides Native American students with scholarships and financial support for tribal colleges and universities.
💲Amount: Up to $3,000
📅Deadline: May 31, 2025
Ayn Rand Institute Essay ContestsFor students to read and write essays on Ayn Rand’s works, exploring themes of capitalism, liberty, and rationalism.
💲Amount: $500
📅Deadline: May 31, 2025
Global Perspectives ScholarshipAwarded based on need, merit, and global stewardship.
💲Amount: $1,000
📅Deadline: August 24, 2025
Vinson & Elkins Diversity ScholarshipsFor students with a strong high school record and an interest in law, emphasizing financial need and academic excellence.
💲Amount: $15,000
U.S. Stockholm Junior Water PrizeAwarded for water-related research projects, with winners presenting their work internationally in Stockholm, Sweden.
💲Amount: $15,000
National Merit Scholarship CorporationAwarded based on PSAT scores, providing scholarships for high school students heading to college.
Burger King Scholars ProgramAwarded to students based on academic achievement, participation in school and community activities, and work experience.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program ScholarshipProvides scholarships for achievement in academics and community service with rolling deadlines.
💲Amount: Up to $1,500
Project Bridge Youth Ambassador ProgramGrants specific scholarships and grants to high school student in the 11th or 12th who attend a NYC public school and reside in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens or Staten Island. The high point of the program is a 10 day studying abroad tour which enables students to experience Korea as a host country socially and culturally. There is a deep educational or service component as students experience multiple elements of Korean culture.
UNCF (United Negro College Fund)Awards scholarships to students from low- and moderate-income families through various scholarship programs.
💲Amount: Varies
📅Deadline: Not specified
Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
Golden Key International Honor SocietyOffers scholarships to high-achieving students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to community service.
💲Amount: Up to $1,500
📅Deadline: December 15, 2024
Diverse International Women of Color (DIWC) ScholarshipAssists women of color who are exceptional in their studies and need financial support to study abroad.
💲Amount: $500
📅Deadline: November 18, 2024
Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate ScholarshipProvides academic assistance for two years and a 10-week paid internship at a NOAA facility, supporting students pursuing NOAA mission-related fields.
💲Amount: $9,500
📅Deadline: January 31, 2025
Gilman-McCain ScholarshipProvides awards for undergraduate children of active-duty military members to study or intern abroad, honoring Senator John McCain’s legacy of public service.
💲Amount: Up to $5,000
📅Deadline: January 2025
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF)Awards scholarships to Italian American students with a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 to promote cultural heritage and educational pursuits.
💲Amount: $2,500 to $12,000
📅Deadline: March 1, 2025
Hostelling International USA Travel ScholarshipsProvides travel stipends for students with financial needs, enabling them to explore and learn abroad.
💲Amount: Up to $1,500
📅Deadline: March 1, 2025
Gilman International Scholarship ProgramSupports students with financial needs, enabling them to study or intern abroad and gain skills critical to American national security and prosperity.
💲Amount: Up to $35,000
📅Deadline: March 2025
The Going Abroad ScholarshipHelps individuals travel, study, or volunteer abroad, providing a chance to explore different cultures and gain new perspectives.
💲Amount: $1,500
📅Deadline: March 15
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa PhiAwards study abroad grants to undergraduates seeking international experience in their academic fields.
💲Amount: $1,000
📅Deadline: March 15, 2025
Native Forward Scholars FundSupports Native students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in any field of study at accredited institutions.
💲Amount: Varies
📅Deadline: Multiple
American Indian Science and Engineering Society ScholarshipsHelps AISES member students acquire skills and training to meet the unique STEM needs of American Indian communities.
💲Amount: $5,000
📅Deadline: April 30, 2025
American Association of Teaching GermanOffers study and volunteer abroad scholarships to recognize high-achieving undergraduate students who plan to study or volunteer abroad in Germany.
Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship & Excellence in Education ProgramSupports outstanding college students studying natural sciences, engineering, and mathematics, aiming to foster research careers in these fields.
Bridging Scholarships for Study Abroad in JapanOffers 100 study abroad scholarships to American undergraduate students in Japan.
💲Amount: $2,500
Education New Zealand ScholarshipsManages several scholarships for students who wish to study abroad in New Zealand, covering a range of study-related expenses.
Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay ContestEncourages students to write on ethical issues they have encountered in their lives, awarded for thought-provoking and insightful essays.
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Undergraduate ScholarshipSupports American students wishing to study abroad in Germany and learn German as a foreign language at German universities.
💲Amount: $5,000
Go Overseas Study Scholarship Offers program-specific scholarships for recent college graduates to travel abroad or study critical foreign languages.
JASSO Scholarships Available to qualified international students studying in Japan. Contact your home school’s study abroad office for eligibility.
The Language FlagshipSupports undergraduate students in any major to achieve professional-level proficiency in a designated Flagship language, enhancing global competencies.
Mann Lake Beekeeping ScholarshipAwards students enrolled in apiology, agriculture, environmental sciences, or related studies to support their interest in beekeeping.
Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship (MMUF) ProgramProvides funding and mentorship to undergraduates who demonstrate an interest in academic careers, focusing on underrepresented fields and communities.
The MEXT ScholarshipFor students wishing to study abroad in Japan to build competency in a critical language, sponsored by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT).
The NSHSS FoundationEncourages growth among students interested in STEAM, business, economics, public policy, environmental science, and sustainability, helping young professionals build their careers.
Thurgood Marshall College FundProvides academic and diversity scholarships to students attending the 47 public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The U.S.-Japan Council Toshizo Watanabe Endowed ScholarshipSupports Japanese students studying in the U.S. and American students studying in Japan, fostering international understanding and exchange.
Scholarships for Graduate Students
Boren ScholarshipsBoren Scholarships provide funding for undergraduate and graduate students to study in world regions critical to the national security of the United States, which may be underrepresented in study abroad.
Davies-Jackson Scholarship
Fulbright U.S. Student ProgramThe Fulbright grant funds American citizens’ education abroad.
Golden Key International Honor Society
Knight-Hennessy ScholarsThe program builds a community of graduate students from across Stanford University to tackle tough challenges.
Fundraising
Fundraising is a key part of making any Rustic Pathways experience happen. Check out our Fundraising Guide and create your own fundraising page!