Scholarships are one of the best ways to fund education without taking on student loan debt. Yet, many students believe scholarships are difficult, overly competitive, or reserved only for top academic performers. This belief discourages millions of qualified students from applying every year.
So, what is the easiest scholarship to get?
The truth is: some scholarships are significantly easier to win than others, especially if you know where to look, how they work, and which ones require minimal effort or competition.
This article is designed for students, parents, and scholarship seekers worldwide, including international students.
What Does “Easiest Scholarship to Get” Really Mean?
An “easy scholarship” does not mean free money without effort. Instead, it typically refers to scholarships that meet one or more of these criteria:
- Low competition
- Simple application process
- No essay or short essay
- Automatic consideration
- Minimal academic requirements
- Broad eligibility
- Merit or need-based with clear criteria
These scholarships are easier because fewer people apply or because selection is straightforward, not subjective.
Types of Scholarships That Are Easiest to Get
1. Automatic Scholarships (Top Choice)
Automatic scholarships are awarded without a separate application. If you meet the requirements, you are automatically considered.
Examples:
- GPA-based scholarships
- Entrance scholarships
- SAT/ACT score-based awards
- Departmental scholarships
Why they’re easy:
No essays, no interviews, no competition pool — you either qualify or you don’t.
Best for:
High school graduates, undergraduate applicants, international students.
2. Merit-Based Scholarships With Clear Cutoffs
Merit-based scholarships reward academic achievement, leadership, or talent.
Some are highly competitive, but many smaller merit scholarships have very low applicant numbers.
Examples:
- Scholarships for GPA 2.5–3.5
- Subject-based awards (math, science, arts)
- School-specific merit grants
Why they’re easy:
Clear selection criteria reduce uncertainty.
3. Need-Based Scholarships With Simple Verification
Need-based scholarships consider financial circumstances rather than academic excellence.
Examples:
- Government grants
- Low-income student scholarships
- Community or NGO-sponsored scholarships
Why they’re easy:
Applicants are selected based on financial documentation, not essays or rankings.
4. No-Essay Scholarships (Extremely Popular)
No-essay scholarships require minimal information, often just:
- Name
- Enrollment status
Caution:
They are easy to apply for but very competitive due to high volume.
Pro tip: Apply consistently to multiple no-essay scholarships.
5. Local Scholarships (Highly Underrated)
Local scholarships are offered by:
- Churches
- Rotary clubs
- Local businesses
- Community foundations
Why they’re easy:
Very few applicants compared to national scholarships.
6. Employer-Sponsored Scholarships
Many companies offer scholarships to:
- Employees
- Employees’ children
- Dependents
These are among the least competitive scholarships available.
7. Scholarships With Broad Eligibility Criteria
Some scholarships accept applicants regardless of:
- Country
- Course of study
- GPA
- Background
These often rely on random draws or basic compliance.
The Easiest Scholarships to Get (Real Examples)
1. Entrance Scholarships
Awarded automatically by universities upon admission.
2. Community College Scholarships
Lower competition than universities.
3. Faith-Based Scholarships
Available through religious organizations.
4. Field-Specific Scholarships
For students studying:
- Nursing
- Education
- Agriculture
- Teaching
- Technical trades
5. International Student Scholarships With Automatic Eligibility
Many universities offer tuition discounts to international students.
Are Scholarships With Low GPA Easier to Get?
Yes.
Many scholarships accept students with:
- GPA 2.0
- GPA 2.5
- GPA 3.0
These scholarships focus on:
- Financial need
- Personal circumstances
- Career goals
Key insight:
Most students wrongly assume GPA disqualifies them — it often doesn’t.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting an Easy Scholarship
1. Apply Early
Early applicants face less competition.
2. Apply to Smaller Scholarships
Winning five $1,000 scholarships is easier than one $5,000 award.
3. Target Scholarships You Actually Qualify For
Avoid generic applications.
4. Use Accurate Information
Incorrect data leads to automatic disqualification.
5. Avoid Scholarship Scams
Never pay to apply.
Common Mistakes That Make Scholarships Harder to Get
- Missing deadlines
- Ignoring instructions
- Submitting fake documents
- Copying essays
- Applying for ineligible scholarships
Are Easy Scholarships Legitimate?
Yes — as long as they are offered by:
- Governments
- Accredited universities
- Registered NGOs
- Established organizations
Always verify:
- Official website
- Contact details
- Terms and conditions
Can International Students Get Easy Scholarships?
Absolutely.
Many scholarships are specifically designed for:
- International students
- Developing countries
- Exchange programs
- Fully funded study abroad
Universities often use scholarships to attract global talent.
Best Platforms to Find Easy Scholarships
- University websites
- Government education portals
- Verified scholarship platforms
- Embassies and cultural centers
- Employer HR portals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the easiest scholarship to get overall?
Automatic entrance scholarships are generally the easiest.
Are no-essay scholarships worth it?
Yes, but apply to many due to high competition.
Can I win scholarships without high grades?
Yes. Many scholarships do not consider GPA.
Are scholarships taxable?
In most countries, tuition scholarships are tax-free.
Scholarships Are Easier Than You Think
The idea that scholarships are impossible to get is a myth.
When you target:
- Low-competition awards
- Automatic scholarships
- Local and need-based grants
You significantly increase your chances of success.
The easiest scholarship to get is not the one with the biggest prize — it’s the one you qualify for and actually apply to.