Unique Scholarships in the USA You Didn’t Know Existed

When we think of Unique Scholarships in the USA, we often imagine academic excellence or athletic prowess being rewarded. However, the USA is home to a plethora of unique scholarships that cater to a variety of talents, interests, and backgrounds. These scholarships not only provide financial aid but also celebrate diversity and individuality. Let’s dive into some of the most intriguing and lesser-known scholarships available.

Scholarships for Unusual Talents and Hobbies

Duck Calling Scholarship

Ever thought your duck-calling skills could pay for college? The Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest offers scholarships to students with a knack for duck calling. This competition, held in Stuttgart, Arkansas, rewards the top performers with scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000.

Tall Clubs International Scholarship

If you’re exceptionally tall, you might qualify for the Tall Clubs International Scholarship. This organization offers scholarships to students who meet their height requirements: at least 5’10” for women and 6’2″ for men. The aim is to support tall individuals who often face unique challenges.

National Marbles Tournament Scholarship

The National Marbles Tournament offers scholarships to skilled marble players. Participants in the annual tournament, held in Wildwood, New Jersey, compete for college scholarships. This scholarship recognizes and rewards the dexterity and strategy involved in playing marbles.

Scholarships for Unique Academic Interests

The Klingon Language Institute Scholarship

For Star Trek enthusiasts and language lovers, the Klingon Language Institute offers a scholarship for students pursuing language studies. This scholarship is a nod to the constructed language from the popular sci-fi series and encourages the study of linguistics.

The American Association of Candy Technologists Scholarship

Candy lovers rejoice! The American Association of Candy Technologists provides scholarships to students pursuing a degree in food science with an emphasis on confectionery technology. This sweet scholarship is awarded to students who show a passion for candy-making.

The National Potato Council Scholarship

For those interested in agriculture, the National Potato Council offers a scholarship for students pursuing studies related to potato research or agriculture. This scholarship supports the future leaders of the potato industry and encourages innovation in agricultural practices.

Scholarships for Left-Handed Students

The Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Scholarship

Left-handed students can apply for the Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Scholarship at Juniata College. This scholarship, established in 1979, provides financial aid to left-handed students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership skills.

Juniata College Left-Handed Scholarship

Juniata College also offers another scholarship specifically for left-handed students. This unique scholarship helps offset the costs of higher education for left-handed individuals, acknowledging the challenges they may face in a right-handed world.

Scholarships for Specific Heritage and Backgrounds

The Little People of America Scholarship

The Little People of America organization provides scholarships to individuals with dwarfism. This scholarship supports the educational aspirations of those who are part of the dwarfism community, promoting inclusivity and diversity.

The Scottish Rite Scholarship

Students who are members of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, or who have a family member in the organization, can apply for the Scottish Rite Scholarship. This scholarship supports the educational goals of individuals connected to this fraternal organization.

The Zolp Scholarship

The Zolp Scholarship at Loyola University Chicago is specifically for students with the last name “Zolp.” Applicants must be Catholic and bear the Zolp surname to qualify. This quirky scholarship highlights the uniqueness of individuals and their heritage.

Scholarships for Creative and Artistic Students

The Doodle 4 Google Scholarship

Google’s Doodle 4 Google contest offers scholarships to students who create winning doodles for the Google homepage. This contest encourages creativity and artistic talent, providing substantial scholarships to the winners.

The L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Scholarship

Aspiring illustrators can apply for the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes and rewards artistic talent in the field of illustration, helping students pursue their creative passions.

The Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship

The Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship, sponsored by The Gallery Collection, awards scholarships to students who design winning greeting cards. This contest encourages artistic expression and provides financial support for higher education.

Scholarships for Students with Unique Life Experiences

The David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship

Named after the famous talk show host, the David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a career in telecommunications. This scholarship rewards creativity and innovative thinking in the field of media and communications.

The Starfleet Academy Scholarship

For fans of Star Trek, the Starfleet Academy Scholarship is a dream come true. Offered by the Starfleet International organization, this scholarship supports students who are active members of the Starfleet Academy and are pursuing higher education.

The Parapsychology Foundation Scholarship

Students interested in the study of paranormal phenomena can apply for the Parapsychology Foundation Scholarship. This unique scholarship supports research in parapsychology, encouraging scientific exploration of the unexplained.

Conclusion

Exploring unique scholarships can open doors to unexpected opportunities and provide financial support for your education. These scholarships celebrate individuality, creativity, and diverse backgrounds, making higher education accessible to a broader range of students. So, whether you’re a duck-calling champion or a left-handed artist, there’s likely a scholarship out there just for you. Don’t hesitate to seek out these unique opportunities and make the most of your talents and interests.

FAQs

What is the most unusual scholarship in the USA?

One of the most unusual scholarships in the USA is the Duck Calling Scholarship, which rewards students with exceptional duck-calling skills.

Are these unique scholarships hard to apply for?

While some unique scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria, many are relatively easy to apply for and have less competition than traditional scholarships.

Can international students apply for these scholarships?

Eligibility for international students varies by scholarship. It’s important to check the specific requirements of each scholarship to determine if international students can apply.

How can I find more unique scholarships?

To find more unique scholarships, research online, consult with your school’s financial aid office, and explore scholarship databases that list unusual and niche scholarships.

What are the benefits of applying for unique scholarships?

Applying for unique scholarships can provide financial support, celebrate your unique talents and interests, and often have less competition than more traditional scholarships.