Best Scholarships in Texas To Launch a Skills-Based Career

Texas prides itself in being big. Scholarships in Texas follow that trend, with an array of options provided by the state government, community groups, businesses and industries.

If you’re just starting your search, read SkillPointe’s how-to guide for finding trade school scholarships. The article covers some important first steps, like applying for a federal Pell grant, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form — a federal form that establishes your eligibility for grants, loans and work-study programs — and finding out if your desired trade school or community college is accredited. The article also includes a frequently updated list of national scholarships and scholarship sites.

The secret to a successful search is finding multiple sources of aid that match your specific situation, including where you live, what kind of degree you want to get and other variables.

Scholarships in Texas you can use for trade school or community college

We've separated our list into state-managed scholarships and grants and scholarships created by community groups or specialty organizations.

Scholarship Programs Run by the State of Texas

Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program (TEOG)

This grant is for students with financial need who are already enrolled at least half time at an eligible public two-year institution, such as a community college, technical college or state college. Students must not have already earned a degree or been convicted of a felony. Learn more about the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program (TEOG).

Texas Public Educational Grant Program (TPEG)

This grant is awarded by in-state, public colleges and universities to help Texas residents with financial need cover school costs. Learn more about the Texas Public Educational Grant Program (TPEG).

Tuition Equalization Grant Program (TEG)

This grant program, created by the nonprofit Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas (ICUT), helps students with financial need pay to attend private, nonprofit institutions. Students must be enrolled at least 3/4 time and be undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in a program leading to their first associate, bachelor's or higher degree. Learn more about the Tuition Equalization Grant Program (TEG).

Scholarship Programs Run by Community Groups in Texas

AlamoPROMISE

This program covers tuition and required fees for students who graduate in the spring from a participating high school and wish to pursue a certificate or associate degree at Northeast Lakeview College, Northwest Vista College, Palo Alto College, San Antonio College or St. Philip's College in the fall. Learn more about the AlamoPROMISE program, including participating high schools.

Alice L. Haltom Educational Fund (ALHEF) Scholarship

This scholarship helps students who want to go into the field of information and records management to earn an associate, bachelor's or postgraduate degree in records management, archivist studies or academic library studies. Students must meet GPA requirements. The fund honors Alice Haltom, CRM, for her three decades of work improving the profession. Learn more about the Alice L. Haltom Educational Fund (ALHEF) Scholarship.

Amarillo Area Foundation Scholarships

These scholarships were created by or in partnership with the Amarillo Area Foundation and provide financial support for students who reside in the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle or in specific cities or counties. The scholarships help students with a specific life situation or interest, such as being affiliated with CareNet or being interested in environmental science. In some cases, funding can be used to attend specific schools or to focus on a specific major, but others are more widely applicable. Learn more about the Amarillo Area Foundation scholarships.

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship

Students who reside in Bowie County, Texas, on the Arkansas border can apply for this scholarship that helps single parents pursue postsecondary education, including degrees or certifications that lead to employment at family-supporting wages. Learn more about the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship.

Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) Scholarship

This scholarship, created in partnership with the Amarillo Area Foundation, provides financial support for students who reside in the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle. Funding can be used to attend Amarillo College, a community college, or West Texas A&M University to major in computer information systems or computer science. Learn more about the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)Scholarship and scroll down to this entry.

Austin Community College Career+ Scholars

The scholarship covers more than just tuition; it's built to help students who want to start a career right after leaving community college. Career scholars, as they're called, receive financial and academic support while working toward a certificate or associate degree in an approved area of study. Learn more about Austin Community College Career+ Scholars program.

BAFTX Women in STEM Scholarship

The British American Foundation of Texas (BAFTX) funds this scholarship aimed at women with financial need who want to attend a two- or four-year college and major in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). Students must reside in Texas and plan to study in Texas. High school seniors and students currently in college can apply. Learn more about the BAFTX Women in STEM Scholarship.

BAFTX Undergraduate Award

Residents of Texas who have financial need and want to attend college in Texas can apply for this scholarship from the British American Foundation of Texas (BAFTX). It can be used to fund education at a two- or four-year college for a student majoring in science, technology, engineering, math or business. Learn more about the BAFTX Undergraduate Award.

Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program

This scholarship, created in partnership with the Asian Pacific Community Fund, provides 20 $1,000 awards to students who live in specific states. Applicants must be high school seniors who plan to attend an accredited community college or four-year college as a first-year student in the fall. GPA and income requirements apply, but the money can be applied to all majors. Learn more about the Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program.

Dairy MAX Scholarship

High school seniors or undergraduate students who live in Texas and other Dairy MAX territories can win one of three $2,500 scholarships. Applicants must be the child of a dairy farmer, the child of a dairy farm employee or a student who is an FFA or 4-H participant in their junior or senior year. High school seniors and college attendees can apply. Learn more about the Dairy MAX Scholarship.

Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship

Students who want to attend trade school or earn an associate or bachelor's degree that relates to the construction industry can apply for this $5,000 scholarship. Students with family connections to the roofing industry are encouraged to apply for this award, which is administered by the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). The scholarship is named after Larry and Mary Davis. Learn more about the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship.

Dennis Henneke Scholarships

Students who live in specific Texas counties can apply for two scholarships named after Dennis Henneke, who spent his life mentoring and helping others. (Texas counties include Aransas, Bee, Goliad, Karnes, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio and Victoria.) Applicants will be assessed on financial need, character and academics. One of the scholarships also considers if the applicant has experienced unusual hardship. The money can be used toward accredited trade or technical schools, community colleges, colleges or universities. Learn more about the Dennis Henneke Scholarships.

Dixie Youth Baseball (DYB) Scholarship

The only requirement for this scholarship is that you must have played in a Dixie Youth Baseball franchise league prior to reaching age 13. Financial need, grades and citizenship will be considered, but this is not an athletic scholarship. Learn more about the DYB Scholarship.

Excellence in Character Scholarship

Oasis Connection Ministries awards scholarships of $500 to three graduating seniors attending a high school in Dallas, Tarrant and Collin counties in Texas. Students must be community service-oriented and plan to attend a two- or four-year college or technical school. Learn more about the Excellence in Character Scholarship.

Executive Women International (EWI) Scholarship Programs

High school students enrolled in a school located within the boundaries of participating EWI chapters (Dallas, San Antonio, Houston and Corpus Christi in Texas) can apply for this group of scholarships. The annual scholarship can be used to pursue an associate, bachelor's or master's degree. Scholastic achievement, leadership qualities, good citizenship and extracurricular activities will be considered. The Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Scholarship focuses on transitional students, including those with physical or economic need, those well-beyond high school who are entering postsecondary education or the workforce for the first time, those seeking reskilling, or non-traditional students already enrolled in trade school, college or university. In addition to the degrees mentioned, this scholarship can be applied toward certificate programs. Learn more about the Executive Women International Scholarship Program and the ASIST Scholarship.

Fort Worth Scottish Rite Foundation Scholarships

Applicants for these two scholarships must reside in one of the 33 counties served by the Fort Worth Scottish Rite, but affiliation with the Freemasons is not required. The funds can be used toward a two- or four-year college education. The Major Thomas A. Spencer Community College Scholarship is specifically for community college students. Learn more about the Fort Worth Scottish Rite Foundation scholarships.

Hendrick Scholarship Program

The Hendrick Scholarship helps high school seniors who attend Plano Independent School District (ISD) in Texas who have financial need, have overcome adversity and want to earn a college degree. The wrap-around program supplies mentoring, tutoring, life skills workshops and other services in addition to financial support. The award can be used for associate degrees, bachelor's degrees and certificate or workforce programs that result in a job that provides a living wage. (A living wage or livable wage is the amount an individual or family would need to make to avoid living in poverty.) Learn more about the Hendrick Scholarship Program.

Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Scholars Program

There are several scholarships in this wrap-around program, which helps motivated students of Hispanic or Latino heritage who reside in Texas and plan to pursue a certificate, associate, bachelor's or higher degree program. The program offers mentorship, networking, leadership training and continued guidance. Learn more about the Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Scholars Program.

InspirASIAN Scholarship

This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors who want to pursue postsecondary education in the fall and who reside in specific states, including Texas. The award can be used for any accredited two-year or four-year institution. GPA, citizenship and residency requirements apply, but students of any ethnic background are eligible. Learn more about the InspirASIAN Scholarship Program.

Irma Gesche Scholarship

This $1,000 scholarship is awarded by the Rebekah Assembly of Texas and is sometimes referred to by that group's name. Funds can be used to attend any accredited two- or four-year college or university. High school students will be selected based on financial need, academic ability and community service. There are no GPA or field of study requirements. Learn more about the Irma Gesche Scholarship.

Jamie Bax Memorial Scholarship

The parents of Jamie Bax created this scholarship to support students in financial need who have cystic fibrosis and want to attend college, university or trade school. One $5,000 scholarship, one $3,000 scholarship and one $2,000 scholarship are awarded each year. Learn more about the Jamie Bax Memorial Scholarship.

Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship

The Jimmy Rane Foundation, named after the founder of Great Southern Wood Preserving, is focused on giving back through this scholarship for hard-working students with the hope that winners will one day return the favor to someone else in need. Money is raised for the scholarship through an annual charity golf tournament. The amount of each award depends on the need of the student. Students can pursue any degree at an accredited technical college or a degree leading to a bachelor's degree at an accredited university. (Institutions must be listed by the U.S. Department of Education as accredited.) Learn more about the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship program.

Kappa Zeta Scholarships (Dallas Chapter)

Female high school seniors (and in some cases, female college undergraduate students) who live in the Dallas-Forth Worth area can apply for several scholarships promoted by this sorority in partnership with Stork's Nest Charity Fund. Several scholarships focus on specific career paths, while others are less specific. Funds can be applied to two- and four-year colleges or universities. Learn more about the Kappa Zeta Scholarships of Dallas.

Mark Kilroy Foundation Scholarships

The Mark Kilroy Foundation (MKF) provides scholarships for students to attend trade and technical schools and colleges in Texas. The $4,000 awards are open to eligible high school seniors, graduates and GED holders, with no age limits. Most of the awards have specific county residency requirements. Learn more about the Mark Kilroy Foundation Scholarships.

McFarland Fund Scholarship

Residents of Parker County or Tarrant County in Texas with financial need can apply for this scholarship funded by the Eddleman-McFarland Charitable Trust. Applicants can be high school seniors or full-time college students up to the age of 30 who are planning to enroll in an accredited trade school, college or university in Texas. This is one of two scholarship options listed on St. Andrew's Anglican Church site, and students can only apply to one of them. Learn more about the McFarland Fund Scholarship.

Memo I'm Still Here Scholarship

Legal residents of central or south Texas can apply for this group of awards for those diagnosed with epilepsy or seizure disorder who have proof of acceptance to a postsecondary vocational or educational program. Applicants can be high school seniors or can be enrolled in trade school, college or university in good standing. The scholarship is named in memory of Carmen "Memo" Avalos, who suffered from epilepsy and whose last words were "I'm still here." Learn more about the Memo I'm Still Here Scholarship.

National Federation of the Blind of Texas Scholarships

Legally blind residents of Texas who are pursuing or plan to pursue a postsecondary education can apply for this group of scholarships of varying amounts. The federation focuses on applicants who will be full-time students at trade school, technical school or college, but the federation will also consider students who go to school part-time while working full-time. Learn more about the National Federation of the Blind of Texas Scholarships.

Preferred Bank Scholarship

High school seniors who live in specific areas of Texas can apply for one of eight $1,500 scholarships to be used to attend classes full-time at a community college or four-year school. Texas counties include Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Austin, Waller, Montgomery, Liberty, Chambers and Galveston. GPA and income requirements apply, but the money can be applied to all majors. Learn more about the Preferred Bank Scholarship. 

Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest

High school students in states with Regions full-service branches, including Texas, can win one of 30 scholarships worth $2,500 each by submitting a written essay or a video essay about how a Black American has inspired change in their life. The money can be used toward an education at any accredited two- or four-year college. Learn more about the Regions Riding Forward Scholarship.

Rose Lafferty and Flora Foust Educational Funds

Residents of Tarrant and Erath counties in Texas with financial need and good character can apply for this scholarship to pursue vocational training or education in Texas. Applicants can be high school seniors or up to the age of 40. This is one of two scholarship options listed on St. Andrew's Anglican Church site, and students can only apply to one of them. Learn more about the Rose Lafferty and Flora Foust Educational Funds.

Simon Youth Foundation Greg Saunders Legacy and Shari Simon Greenberg Community scholarship programs

These scholarships are for students with financial need who are the children of full-time or part-time Simon Property Group employees and who plan to enroll full-time at an accredited two- or four-year institution, including vocational and technical schools. Learn more about the Simon Youth Foundation scholarships.

Southern Automotive Women's Forum (SAWF) Scholarship

This scholarship helps women who plan to enroll, or are already enrolled, in a STEM-related field, such as science, technology, engineering or math at an accredited two-year technical program, four-year undergraduate program or a graduate program. The degree or program must be applicable to a career in the automotive industry, and the institution must be located in a Southern state. Learn more about the SAWF Scholarship.

Spark for the Future Scholarship

This $1,000 annual scholarship for students in the Alvin, Texas, area was created by Woven Metal Products, a local, family owned company. The scholarship supports students who are pursuing higher education and instruction in welding and related metal-working specializations. The award can be used for vocational programs and two- and four-year undergraduate programs. Learn more about the Spark for the Future Scholarship and the application process.

Stars Scholarship

Students who live in a 30-county area around Houston can apply for this scholarship that can be used for community college, university and higher education. Applicants must have earned at least 12 undergraduate credit hours, including dual and advanced placement, before applying. Learn more about the Stars Scholarship.

Stephen Rice Memorial Scholarship for GLBTQ Media

Students who self-identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer (GLBTQ) who are graduating high school seniors or currently enrolled college students who want to pursue a career in radio, television, journalism, public relations, electronic media, film or a similar activity can apply for this scholarship. The scholarship is named after Stephen Rice, a longtime AIDS and LGBTQ rights activist and Austin, Texas, radio personality who died in 2017. Learn more about the Stephen Rice Memorial Scholarship.

TheDream.US Scholarship Program

Offered in 24 states, this scholarship helps low-income, undocumented students who are eligible for in-state tuition at specific schools. The scholarship team partners with more than 80 institutions that have a good track record of helping first-generation students. Types of partner schools vary by state and include two- and four-year institutions and some online colleges. Learn more about TheDream.US Scholarship program.

Warrick Dunn Charities' Hearts for Community Service Scholarship

This $5,000 scholarship is intended to create better access to higher-paying jobs and economic stability for those who need financial help to attend a postsecondary institution. Students can use the award toward trade school, an associate degree or a bachelor's degree. Learn more about the Warrick Dunn Charities' Hearts for Community Service Scholarship.

You First Foundation Scholarship

Students of all ages who live in Texas and have been affected by a traumatic medical event can apply for this scholarship of up to $6,000 that can be used to attend an accredited two- or four-year college or vocational school anywhere in the United States. GPA requirements apply. The foundation was created by employees of First Service Credit Union after the loss of a coworker and friend from a brain aneurysm. Learn more about the You First Foundation Scholarship.

Zakat Foundation Community Service Scholarship

This scholarship supports students who live in specific states and want to pursue a two- or four-year college degree. Students must have proof of their dedication to community service. (Zakat or charity is the foundation's focus.) Learn more about the Zakat Foundation Community Service Scholarship.

Additional tools to help in your search for scholarships in Texas

As you continue your financial aid search, don’t forget to utilize these resources:

• Your school counselor: If you are in high school, don’t overlook this valuable resource. Your counselor will know how to navigate the local financial aid landscape better than anyone else.
• The Texas Comptroller site contains a long list of scholarships and other financial aid options for Texas residents.
• Visit College for All Texans, a website with good information about how to find the best postsecondary school for you and how to fund your education.

Finding money to pay for your skills-based education is possible, as this long list of options makes clear. Get started early and you may end up with little to no debt!

Please help us improve this page. If we have left off a scholarship or grant that could help students who want to attend community college, technical school or trade school, send an email to contactus@skillpointe.com.