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National Scholarship Month

It's National Scholarship Month - the perfect time to apply for scholarships and make your academic dreams a reality! Don't miss out on this opportunity.

Sunday

1–30

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of November

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYAcademic

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

November 1 marks the beginning of National Scholarship Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the importance of scholarships in helping students achieve their educational goals. This month-long celebration was first established by the National Scholarship Providers Association in 1998 to raise awareness about scholarship opportunities and promote access to higher education for all. Scholarships have been around for centuries, with some of the earliest recorded ones dating back to ancient Greece. Today, they continue to play a crucial role in helping students from diverse backgrounds pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on society. Get ready to explore all the amazing opportunities available during this special month!

TIMELINE

National Scholarship Month Timeline

First Scholarship Fund

Lady Margaret Beaufort establishes the first known scholarship fund at the University of Cambridge.

Harvard's First Scholarships

Harvard University, the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, awards its first scholarships.

Rhodes Scholarships Creation

Cecil Rhodes establishes Rhodes Scholarships for international study at the University of Oxford, one of the world's most prestigious scholarship programs.

GI Bill Enacted

The Servicemen's Readjustment Act, commonly known as the GI Bill, is signed into law in the United States, providing college or vocational education for returning World War II veterans.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation establishes the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, a billion-dollar grant program aimed at reducing financial barriers for minority students.

National Scholarship Month Established

The National Scholarship Providers Association establishes National Scholarship Month to raise awareness about scholarship opportunities and promote access to higher education.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Scholarship Month

Attend a scholarship fair

Find out if there are any scholarship fairs happening in your area and attend one to learn about different scholarship opportunities.

CREATE

Create a scholarship search plan

Take some time to research and create a plan for finding and applying for scholarships. This will help you stay organized and increase your chances of receiving funding.

ORGANIZE

Organize a scholarship fundraiser

Get creative and organize a fundraiser to raise money for a scholarship fund. This could be a bake sale, car wash, or any other type of event that can bring in donations for students in need.

CELEBRATE

Celebrate with a scholarship party

Gather friends and family to celebrate National Scholarship Month with a scholarship-themed party. Serve up some snacks and drinks and have fun discussing scholarship opportunities and tips.

Share your scholarship success story

If you have received a scholarship in the past, share your success story on social media or with friends and family to inspire others to apply for scholarships as well. You never know who you might be helping by sharing your experience.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Scholarship Month is Important

It promotes diversity and inclusivity

Scholarships often aim to support underrepresented or marginalized groups in higher education. National Scholarship Month highlights the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive academic environment by providing opportunities for all students to pursue their educational goals.

It encourages academic achievement

National Scholarship Month serves as a reminder for students to focus on their studies and work towards achieving academic success. Scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, so this month emphasizes the importance of working hard in school.

It provides financial assistance to students

Scholarships can greatly alleviate the financial burden of higher education for many students. National Scholarship Month brings attention to the opportunities available for students to receive funding for college or other types of post-secondary education.

Related holidays

Financial Aid Awareness Month

Don't miss out on opportunities for financial aid this month! Get informed and take advantage of resources to help with college costs during Financial Aid Awareness Month.

National Higher Education Day

Celebrate National Higher Education Day by recognizing the impact and importance of a college education - invest in your future today!

National Education Day

It's time to honor and celebrate the power of knowledge on National Education Day - let's inspire a love for learning in all!

World Students’ Day

On World Students' Day, show your appreciation for the hard-working students in your life with special gifts and words of encouragement!

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