Scholarships for Atheists, Secular Humanists, and Freethinkers
Free Money for Free Thinkers
Simply defined, the term "atheist" refers to a person who does not believe in the existence of any gods at all. Secular humanists absolutely reject any supernatural beliefs and are of the opinion that people must take responsibility for their own lives. Freethinkers are those who have rejected religious dogma. Instead, they form their opinions based on reason. Freethinkers can also be atheists or agnostics (someone who does not know whether or not god exists).
Scholarship Programs
American Atheists, Inc.
American Atheists, Inc. offers a scholarship in the amount of $2,000. This award is available to both high school seniors and those currently attending college. A GPA of at least 2.5 is required. The winner of the scholarship is determined by evaluating the individual's activism with respect to the atheist viewpoint.
A second scholarship in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded to an outstanding gay or lesbian atheist.
Pfund Scholarship
Atheist Minnesota residents, those planning on attending an institution of higher learning in Minnesota and who are either themselves GLBT (gay-lesbian-bisexual-transgender) or have a family member who is can apply for funding under the Pfund Scholarship. Two scholarships for atheist students are offered: the Atheists for Human Rights Award and the Byron Thayer Award given to a gay or lesbian atheist/humanist.
Preference is given to high school seniors when awarding funds, which can be used toward educational expenses at colleges, universities, trade schools, or technical colleges. Applicants will submit written answers to a series of questions about their career and educational goals, the challenges they have overcome in life, leadership abilities, and activism. Official transcripts and two letters of recommendation are also required.
Freedom From Religion Foundation
Over $4,000 in cash scholarships are awarded to the winners of the Freedom from Religion Foundation's annual essay contest. A set topic for the essays is announced each year.
Silverman Secular Humanist Scholarship
The Silverman Secular Humanist Scholarship is available to students who are secular humanists studying at the the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Both academic achievement and financial need are taken into account when considering applications for funding. The scholarship is renewable, provided the recipient remains a full-time student with a GPA of at least 3.0.
The Mark Twain Scholarship Fund, Inc.
This scholarship is open to full-time students or those who have been accepted to a college or university who are freethinkers. The educational institution in question must offer a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science Degree. In order to apply, interested persons must submit an original essay (at least 750 words in length) on a subject chosen by the selection committee. Proof of student status is also required.