In today’s fast-paced world, many students are not only juggling academic responsibilities but also working full-time jobs to support themselves or their families. While working full-time can build strong time management and organizational skills, it often leaves little room for traditional scholarship routes that demand high GPAs, extensive extracurriculars, or hours of unpaid community service. Fortunately, there are scholarships specifically designed for students who are working hard both in the classroom and in the workforce.
This article explores the best scholarships for full-time working students, offering insight into programs that recognize effort, determination, and perseverance—not just grades or accolades.
The Unique Challenges of Full-Time Working Students
Students who work 30–40 hours a week often face unique challenges. Balancing demanding work schedules with homework, exams, and class attendance can lead to burnout and decreased academic performance. These students may also lack time to participate in campus activities or community service—traditional resume-builders for scholarship applications.
However, working full-time demonstrates resilience, commitment, and responsibility, which many modern scholarship committees increasingly value. Several scholarships now aim to support students who work out of necessity, recognizing their dedication to achieving educational goals under pressure.
Top Scholarships for Full-Time Working Students
1. Working Parent College Scholarship Award
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Award: $1,000
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Deadline: Varies (typically twice annually)
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Eligibility: Students who are also parents and working while attending school
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Application: Essay on how you balance school, work, and parenting
This scholarship honors students who manage family life alongside work and school. The essay allows you to share your story and demonstrate your dedication to personal growth and education.
2. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship
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Award: Up to $5,000
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Deadline: Typically in Spring
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Eligibility: Low-income women with children, pursuing higher education while working
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Application: Personal information, proof of income, and short essays
This foundation supports women who are heads of households, providing much-needed financial relief to those balancing work and education.
3. Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Scholarship
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Award: $2,500–$10,000
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Deadline: Varies by local Executive Women International (EWI) chapters
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Eligibility: Non-traditional students, often working full-time and returning to school
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Application: Application through local EWI chapters
The ASIST scholarship is specifically designed for adults who are facing economic, social, or physical challenges while striving for a better future through education.
4. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
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Award: $2,000+
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Deadline: Spring annually
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Eligibility: Low-income women aged 35 or older working toward a degree
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Application: Financial documentation, references, and personal statement
This program focuses on older women, many of whom are working full-time to support their households while returning to school later in life.
5. Imagine America Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP)
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Award: $1,000
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Deadline: Rolling
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Eligibility: Adult students attending participating career colleges and trade schools
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Application: Online application and eligibility verification
ASEP is tailored to adult learners, many of whom are employed full-time while seeking technical or vocational education.
6. Get Schooled No-Essay Scholarships
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Award: $1,000–$2,500
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Deadline: Monthly
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Eligibility: Open to U.S. students, including part-time and full-time workers
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Application: Quick registration—no essay or GPA required
Get Schooled hosts frequent, easy-application scholarships ideal for students with limited time due to full-time jobs. The process is fast, making it suitable for busy schedules.
7. Live Más Scholarship by Taco Bell Foundation
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Award: $5,000–$25,000
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Deadline: Typically in January
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Eligibility: Students aged 16–24, including part-time and full-time workers
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Application: Submit a two-minute video about your passion
This scholarship values passion over grades and encourages applicants to express themselves through storytelling. It’s ideal for working students who are pursuing their dreams against the odds.
8. Unigo “Make Me Laugh” Scholarship
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Award: $1,500
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Deadline: August annually
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Eligibility: U.S. students aged 14 and up
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Application: Write a short humorous essay (250 words)
While not specifically for working students, Unigo’s fun and fast scholarships are perfect for those with time constraints who still want to apply for funding.
Tips for Working Students Applying for Scholarships
1. Tell Your Story
Many scholarships for working students rely heavily on personal essays. Share your experiences—how working full-time has impacted your education, what you've learned, and why you're pursuing a degree. Authenticity and resilience resonate strongly with review committees.
2. Apply for Non-Traditional Scholarships
Look beyond GPA-based awards. Seek scholarships for adult learners, trade students, part-time attendees, or those pursuing education while supporting families. These are often under-applied and more tailored to your circumstances.
3. Utilize Employer Tuition Programs
Some full-time employers offer tuition reimbursement or educational assistance. Check with your HR department—companies like Starbucks, Amazon, Walmart, and Target have programs that subsidize or fully fund college tuition for employees.
4. Use Scholarship Search Engines with Filters
Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Bold.org allow you to filter scholarships based on work status, age, school type, and more. Set up alerts to get notified when new scholarships that fit your situation open up.
5. Manage Your Time Wisely
Balancing work, school, and scholarship applications can be overwhelming. Dedicate just 1–2 hours weekly to researching and applying. Use pre-written content where possible to save time, and keep a folder of frequently used materials like transcripts and recommendation letters.