Not every student has a perfect academic record, and that’s okay. Many people think scholarships are only for those with top grades, but that’s no longer the case. If you’re looking for scholarships without a GPA requirement, you’re in luck. There are several opportunities available for students who shine in other areas—like leadership, community service, sports, or creativity.
This guide will help you discover scholarships you can apply for without stressing over your grades.
Why Some Scholarships Don’t Ask for GPA
GPA-free scholarships are designed to support students from all walks of life. The aim is to make education accessible to those who may not have excelled in school but show promise in other ways. Some organizations prefer to reward real-world experience, talent, or personal stories rather than academic scores.
These scholarships often focus on:
- Financial need
- Volunteer or community work
- Creative submissions (essays, videos, artworks)
- Special interests or personal goals
Top Scholarships That Don’t Require a GPA
Here are some popular and reliable scholarships you can apply for even if your grades are not high.
1. Niche “No Essay” Scholarship
This is a simple, monthly scholarship that doesn’t require a GPA, essay, or lengthy form. Just create a free account on the Niche website and apply.
Award: $2,000
Open to: All students (high school and college)
2. Bold.org No-Essay Scholarships
Bold.org offers several scholarships without GPA requirements. Some are for specific interests (like mental health, entrepreneurship, or music), while others are open to all.
Award: Varies ($500–$5,000)
Open to: High school, college, and graduate students
3. Cappex Easy College Money Scholarship
Cappex runs a monthly scholarship draw for students who register on their platform. No GPA or essay is needed.
Award: $1,000
Open to: High school and college students in the U.S.
4. Scholarship Points Monthly Giveaways
By creating a free account and earning points (through activities like answering surveys or reading blog posts), you can enter to win scholarship drawings.
Award: Up to $2,500
Open to: Students aged 13 and above
5. Course Hero Scholarships
Course Hero offers several scholarships that focus more on creativity and less on grades. Some require short essays, while others are just entry forms.
Award: $1,000–$5,000
Open to: U.S. students enrolled in a college or university
6. Unigo “Shout It Out” Scholarship
This scholarship requires a short, creative response to a fun prompt. No GPA is needed, just your imagination.
Award: $1,500
Deadline: September each year
Open to: Students aged 13 and older
Tips for Winning a Scholarship Without GPA Requirements
Even though your academic scores may not matter, your application still needs to stand out. Here’s how:
- Be honest and personal. Many of these scholarships look for students with real-life stories.
- Stick to the word limit and answer the prompt directly if it’s essay-based.
- Double-check your application before submitting to avoid errors.
- Apply early and often. Don’t wait for the last day.
- Watch out for scams. Never pay to apply.
What to Avoid
While hunting for these scholarships, avoid sites or people that ask for:
- Application fees
- Your bank account information
- Promises that “you’re guaranteed to win”
Legitimate scholarships won’t ask for money up front. If something feels off, it probably is.
Final Thoughts
Getting a scholarship doesn’t always depend on having a high GPA. Whether you’re a creative thinker, a hardworking student, or someone with a powerful story to tell, there’s likely a scholarship out there just for you. Take advantage of the many options available and don’t let your academic record hold you back.