The high costs of college in Oregon, and throughout the country, have led many students to rely on debt to fund their education. With financial aid and federal student aid often falling short as college costs continue to rise, loans may seem like the only option.
As a result, Americans are now burdened by over $1.7 trillion in student debt, owed by 45 million borrowers across the country. Though not the most debt-laden state in the U.S., Oregon contributes to this high national debt and is home to many students struggling to figure out how to pay for school.
Fortunately, scholarships offer a solution. As a form of gift aid, scholarships can help students with financial need fund their college degrees. While some scholarships require applicants to demonstrate financial struggles, there are also plenty of merit scholarships that are open to students regardless of financial status.
Top 10 Scholarships for Oregon Students
- Noah Jon Markstrom Foundation Scholarship
- This $3,000 scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in pediatric medicine in the Pacific Northwest. Apply by writing about your inspiration to pursue pediatric medicine.
- Noah Jon Markstrom Student Debt Paydown Grant
- This $500 award is open to those who have graduated and now work in pediatric medicine. Individuals who live in the Pacific Northwest are preferred. Apply by writing about your career’s impact on your life.
- Larry Darnell Green Scholarship
- This scholarship supports single parents in Oregon pursuing a college degree. Applicants should demonstrate financial need and commitment to their education.
- Latinas in STEM Scholarship
- This scholarship supports Hispanic women in Oregon pursuing STEM degrees. Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for their chosen field.
- REVIVAL Scholarship
- This scholarship helps single mothers in Oregon complete their education. Applicants should demonstrate financial need and perseverance in overcoming challenges.
- “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
- Open to all students in Oregon, this no-essay scholarship awards students based on their boldness and determination in pursuing their goals.
- Forget Your Student Debt. No-Essay Grant
- This $500 grant helps recent graduates in Oregon pay off their student loan debt. Applicants should demonstrate financial need.
- Paybotic Women in Finance and Technology Scholarship
- This scholarship supports women in Oregon pursuing degrees in finance and technology. Applicants should demonstrate leadership and innovation in their field.
- Surya Education Assistance Scholarship
- This scholarship provides financial support to students in Oregon pursuing higher education. Applicants should demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.
- Women’s History Scholarship
- This scholarship celebrates women’s contributions to history and supports female students in Oregon pursuing their educational goals. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to women’s rights and equality.
Oregon Students and Student Debt
Oregon students face significant challenges in financing their education. With the high costs of college and financial aid often insufficient, many students turn to loans. As a result, the average student loan debt in Oregon is $26,504, with 53% of graduates carrying student loans. Scholarships are essential to help reduce this debt burden.
Colleges in Oregon
Oregon offers a variety of higher education options, including seven public universities. The University of Oregon and Oregon State University are the largest institutions, while smaller colleges like George Fox University and Linfield University offer more intimate learning environments.
Costs of Higher Education in Oregon
In-state undergraduate students in Oregon pay an average of $7,596 for tuition and fees, while out-of-state students pay $16,289. Graduate students face even higher rates, with in-state tuition at $18,001 and out-of-state tuition at $26,531. Additionally, room and board, books, and supplies add to the overall cost, making scholarships crucial for many students.
Student Loans in Oregon
Due to the high costs, 53% of Oregon graduates have student loans, and 8% have private student loans. The average borrower in Oregon owes $26,504. Scholarships are vital to help students avoid or reduce this debt.
Additional Scholarships for Oregon Students
Oregon students should also consider general scholarships that are open to all students regardless of location. Here are some additional options:
- Jameela Jamil x I Weigh Scholarship
- Bold Relaxation Scholarship
- Youssef University’s College Life Scholarship
- Amelia Boynton and S.W. Boynton Scholarship
- Slater Miller Memorial Fund
Scholarships for High School Students in Oregon
High school students should start applying for scholarships early to prepare for college costs. Some options include:
- CollegeXpress No-Essay Scholarship
- Bold Make Your Mark Scholarship
Scholarships in Oregon for High School Seniors
High school seniors can take advantage of many scholarships specifically for graduating students. Some opportunities include:
- Eleven Scholarship
- Kenyada Me’Chon Thomas Legacy Scholarship
Scholarships for Current College Students in Oregon
It’s never too late to apply for scholarships. Current college students can find many opportunities to support their education:
- Youssef University’s College Life Scholarship
- Amelia Boynton and S.W. Boynton Scholarship
- Slater Miller Memorial Fund
Scholarships in Oregon for Women
There are many scholarships aimed at encouraging women to pursue higher education, especially in underrepresented fields:
- Paybotic Women in Finance and Technology Scholarship
- Shoot Less, Throw More- Girls Wrestling Scholarship
- Linda Hicks Memorial Scholarship
- Surya Education Assistance Scholarship
Scholarships for Moms in Oregon
Scholarships for moms are excellent options due to the smaller applicant pool. Some scholarships for single mothers include:
- Larry Darnell Green Scholarship
- REVIVAL Scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships in Oregon
Are there Hispanic scholarships for Oregon students?
- Yes, there are many scholarships specifically for Hispanic or Latino students, such as the Latinas in STEM Scholarship. You can find more opportunities in the “Diversity and Inclusion” category.
Are there scholarships in Oregon for single mothers?
- Yes, scholarships like the Law Family Single Parent Scholarship and Saroya Byrd Legacy Scholarship are available for single mothers. Single mothers can also look into scholarships for women and moms.
Are there Oregon scholarships for out-of-state students?
- Yes, many scholarships are open to all Oregon residents, including out-of-state students who study in Oregon. Always check the eligibility requirements.
How can I apply for scholarships in Oregon?
- Applying for scholarships is simple. Create a free account on scholarship platforms, browse through the opportunities, and submit your applications. Make sure to read the eligibility requirements before applying.
By exploring these scholarships and applying early, Oregon students can significantly reduce the financial burden of college and focus on their academic and career goals.