A journalism degree is more than just a step toward a career—it’s a chance to amplify your voice, uncover stories that matter, and begin to make a difference. But let’s be honest: the rising cost of higher education can be a significant obstacle. For aspiring journalists, scholarships are more than financial relief; they’re a launchpad for growth, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and real-world experience in the fast-paced media landscape.
From building connections with industry leaders to engaging in hands-on projects, journalism scholarships open doors that tuition bills alone can’t. These opportunities help students focus on the art of storytelling without the stress of financial burdens, empowering them to shape the future of media with confidence and clarity.
Ready to find the perfect fit? Let’s explore the top journalism scholarships and how they can help you achieve your goals.
Your Scholarship Strategy
Before we begin looking at individual scholarships, let’s discuss your scholarship strategy. Applying to scholarships can be daunting, but a few key techniques and reminders can increase your chances of success:
Tailor Your Application:
Highlight your unique perspective, skills, and experiences relevant to the scholarship. For example, if applying for a photojournalism scholarship, include a portfolio that showcases your storytelling ability through visuals.
Seek Strong Recommendations:
Request letters from mentors or professors familiar with your work in journalism or media. Their insights can validate your skills and passion.
Perfect Your Essay:
Many scholarships require essays. Be sure to tell a compelling story about your journey in journalism and future goals. Personalize your essay to reflect how the scholarship aligns with your aspirations.
Meet Deadlines:
Scholarship committees often reject late applications outright. Mark deadlines clearly and plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress.
Top Journalism Scholarships for College Students
Next, let’s explore our curated list of scholarships for college journalism students. Each one offers financial support, and many include hands-on experience to advance your career in media and storytelling.
1. James Alan Cox Foundation for Student Photojournalists
- Award: $2,500
- Eligibility: High school and college photojournalism students
This scholarship memorializes one of the most legendary photojournalists of all time by encouraging young eyes and minds into the field of visual storytelling. Images can be submitted in still photography or video. It should be displayed how images tell powerful stories. Funding will be provided by the foundation, which students may use to purchase equipment or attend workshops and classes.
2. ACES Bill Walsh Scholarship
- Award: $3,500
- Eligibility: Juniors, Seniors, and graduate students; applicants must have concentrated their studies on copy editing
For those who delight in precision, clarity, and the rhythm of language, this scholarship is a perfect fit. Named after the late editor Bill Walsh, it supports students who excel in the art of copy editing. Beyond financial aid, the scholarship nurtures a passion for enhancing meaning and coherence in journalism, providing a strong foundation for a career built on linguistic excellence.
3. Overseas Press Club Foundation Awards
- Award: $4,000
- Eligibility: Students in the U.S. who have an interest in doing international reporting
For aspiring foreign correspondents, these awards are a stepping stone into global journalism. Grants support overseas reporting experiences, giving students firsthand exposure to international issues. Recipients also gain access to exclusive events and networking opportunities that can propel them toward a dynamic career on the world stage.
4. L. Ron Hubbard Writers of The Future Contest
- Award: $5,000
- Eligibility: Amateur science fiction and fantasy writers in high school or college
This unique contest invites creative writers to submit original work in science fiction or fantasy. Winners receive cash prizes, mentorship from established authors, and a platform to showcase their talent. It’s an excellent opportunity for journalism students with a flair for storytelling to broaden their portfolios and make their mark in niche markets.
5. Judy Corman Memorial Scholarship and Internship
- Award: Varies
- Eligibility: Students who will be rising college juniors/seniors with an interest in media relations
This prestigious opportunity, funded by Scholastic, pairs a summer internship in New York City with financial assistance. Scholars gain real-world experience in public relations, receive mentorship from seasoned professionals, and build connections in the publishing industry, setting the stage for a successful career in media and communications.
6. RTDNA Foundation Ed Bradley Scholarship
- Award: $10,000
- Eligibility: Students studying journalism with an interest in broadcast journalism
Named for legendary journalist Ed Bradley, this scholarship supports those committed to the principles of journalism and the First Amendment. Besides substantial funding, the recipients keep a special association with Bradley’s legacy to motivate them toward high standards in broadcast journalism.
7. Ithaca College Park Scholar Award
- Award: $278,928
- Eligibility: US students majoring in communications at Ithaca College
This life-changing scholarship is designed for students with a strong commitment to community service and communications. Awardees at Ithaca’s Roy H. Park School of Communications not only receive full tuition but also engage in leadership opportunities that prepare them to make meaningful contributions to society through their work.
8. William B. Ruggles Journalist Scholarship
- Award: $2,000
- Eligibility: Students with a focus on labor journalism
This scholarship, funded by the National Institute for Labor Relations Research, supports students reporting on labor issues and workers’ rights. It’s ideal for those passionate about labor relations and offers financial assistance while emphasizing the importance of informed journalism in this field.
9. National Press Photographers Foundation Scholarships
- Award: $2,000
- Eligibility: Students with a focus on photojournalism
These scholarships support visual journalists in telling stories through photographs. Students have the chance to be awarded financially and recognized for their work in furthering their skills, thus making them competitive in their careers as visual journalists. Recipients gain recognition for their work, helping them stand out in the competitive field of photojournalism.
10. Davidson Fellows Scholarship
- Award: $50,000
- Eligibility: Young achievers under 18 in fields that include literature
The Davidson Fellows scholarship is a high-prestige award that undergirds highly talented youth demonstrating exceptional performance in various fields of activity, including literature. To young writers, such a scholarship boosts their careers and highlights their achievements to offer them opportunities to showcase their work on a national platform. Journalism students with a focus on writing can use the scholarship to amplify their craft, gaining national recognition and opportunities to showcase their work.
11. Emma Bowen Foundation Fellowship
- Award: Varies
- Eligibility: Students of color pursuing careers in media, journalism, or technology.
The Emma Bowen Foundation Fellowship supports aspiring media professionals from underrepresented backgrounds by pairing them with leading media, technology, and entertainment companies for multi-year paid internships. The program not only provides financial support but also offers career-building mentorship, networking opportunities, and real-world industry experience. Fellows graduate with an extensive professional network, a solid resume, and skills tailored to succeed in competitive industries.
12. The Washington Post Media Fellowship
- Award: Paid internship
- Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing journalism with an interest in digital storytelling.
This highly sought-after fellowship gives students the opportunity to work in one of the nation’s top newsrooms. Fellows gain hands-on experience in investigative journalism, digital content production, and multimedia storytelling while working alongside seasoned Washington Post professionals. The program emphasizes innovation and provides participants with a platform to contribute meaningfully to major projects, shaping them into future leaders in journalism.
Your Next Steps
Winning a scholarship is just the first step. To make the most of these opportunities:
Build Your Network:
Many scholarships include access to mentors or networking events. Use these opportunities to connect with industry professionals.
Enhance Your Skills:
Allocate funds to attend workshops, conferences, or courses that hone your journalism skills, such as investigative reporting or multimedia storytelling.
Gain Real-World Experience:
Some scholarships offer internships or reporting opportunities. Treat these as gateways to build a strong portfolio and gain exposure in the industry.
Looking for where to start?
Check out these resources:
- Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Scholarships – https://www.spj.org/
- National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Scholarships – https://www.nabj.org/
- Journalism Education Association – https://jea.org/
Final Thoughts
The field of journalism scholarships is teeming with diverse opportunities that seek to empower students both financially and professionally. These scholarships offer hands-on experience and media industry connections to ensure academic excellence for the students in their careers. Each scholarship offers an entrance into exposure to the industry, mentorship, and financial support in the grooming of the next generation of storytellers and media professionals.
Journalism scholarships are more than financial aid; they are pathways to mentorship, professional connections, and unforgettable experiences that set the stage for a thriving career.
At Empowerly, our team is here to guide you through the scholarship application process, from crafting compelling essays to planning your college journey. Let’s work together to secure these opportunities and create a roadmap to your success. Begin with Empowerly to create a foundation that you will need for a bright and successful future in journalism. Book a consultation today!
Sophia Minhas
Madeleine Karydes