Scholarships with deadlines in December are a crucial opportunity for students who may have missed earlier application cycles or are still seeking financial support for their academic goals. As the year draws to a close, many foundations and universities open final windows for highly competitive scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost of higher education. These opportunities span undergraduate, graduate, and specialized fields of study, allowing applicants from diverse backgrounds to participate.
Scholarships with deadlines in December also help students strategically plan their academic finances for the upcoming year. Whether you are applying to international programs, national awards, or field-specific grants, December scholarships are known for their accessibility and variety. With clear timelines, structured requirements, and meaningful financial benefits, these scholarships provide last-minute yet powerful pathways to secure educational funding before entering the new year.
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1. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a prestigious international program that supports students pursuing joint master’s or doctoral degrees across multiple European universities. This scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, cross-cultural engagement, and research potential, helping students gain a globally recognized education while reducing financial burdens. Its December deadlines make it an ideal option for students applying to European programs.
Benefits
- Tuition coverage and contribution to living costs
- Travel allowances and insurance support
- Recognition for academic achievement and international collaboration
Eligibility
- Must be accepted into an Erasmus Mundus joint program
- High academic achievement
- Demonstrated motivation and international experience
Deadline
- Varies by program; many rounds close in December 2025
2. Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships (TU Delft, Netherlands)
The Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships at TU Delft are designed to attract top-performing international students to the Netherlands. These scholarships reward outstanding academic records, innovation, and leadership potential, helping students cover tuition and living costs. With its December deadline, this award is perfect for those planning to begin their master’s program in the following academic year.
Benefits
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and development
Eligibility
- International students applying to a master’s program at TU Delft
- Excellent academic track record
- Demonstrated leadership or research potential
Deadline
- December 1, 2025
3. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships support students from developing Commonwealth countries to pursue master’s degrees in the UK. These awards aim to promote global development by funding talented students who can make an impact in their home countries. The December deadline aligns with most UK university applications.
Benefits
- Tuition, airfare, and living allowance covered
- Financial support for study materials
- Networking opportunities with global scholars
Eligibility
- Citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries
- Accepted to a UK university master’s program
- Strong academic and leadership record
Deadline
- December 2025 (varies by country/university)
4. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide international students and researchers with opportunities to study or conduct research in Switzerland. These scholarships promote academic exchange, innovation, and collaboration between Switzerland and other countries. December deadlines make it suitable for applicants planning to start in the next academic year.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel allowance and research funding
Eligibility
- Must have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on program level
- High academic achievement
- Accepted or applying to a Swiss higher education institution
Deadline
- December 2025 (program-specific)
5. Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Graduate Scholarship
The MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship is offered to outstanding students pursuing AI-focused master’s or PhD programs in the United Arab Emirates. This scholarship supports high-achieving students globally and provides comprehensive financial coverage while promoting innovation and research in artificial intelligence. Its December deadline is ideal for applicants planning to join the next intake.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend and housing
- Access to state-of-the-art AI research facilities
Eligibility
- International students accepted to MBZUAI graduate programs
- Strong academic record in relevant fields
- Demonstrated potential for research excellence in AI
Deadline
- December 15, 2025
6. Burger King Scholars Program
The scholarships with deadlines in December include the Burger King Scholars Program, a widely recognized award designed to support hardworking high school students and employees pursuing higher education. This scholarship focuses on academic achievement, community involvement, and personal responsibility, offering financial relief to students planning to attend college, university, or vocational training institutions. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $60,000, it provides substantial assistance for tuition and other academic expenses. Its December deadline makes it an ideal choice for students finalizing their college plans and seeking reliable funding options toward the end of the year.
Benefits
- Financial support ranging from $1,000 to $60,000
- Can be used for tuition, books, fees, and academic expenses
- Recognizes academic merits and community involvement
Eligibility
- High school seniors in the U.S., Canada, or Puerto Rico
- Minimum GPA requirement (varies by award tier)
- Children, spouses, or employees of Burger King may qualify for additional categories
Deadline
- December 15, 2025
7. Niche $26,000 No-Essay Scholarship
The scholarships with deadlines in December also include the Niche $26,000 No-Essay Scholarship, a popular and accessible option for students who prefer a simple application process. This award stands out because it does not require essays, recommendation letters, or lengthy forms. Instead, students only need to create or update a Niche profile to enter. With a substantial award amount of $26,000, it provides meaningful financial support that can significantly reduce the cost of college tuition and related expenses. Its straightforward nature and generous funding make it one of the most appealing December-deadline opportunities for busy students.
Benefits
- Award amount of $26,000
- No essay or complex application requirements
- Can be used for tuition and educational expenses
Eligibility
- High school seniors in the U.S. (Class of 2026)
- Must create or update a Niche profile
- No minimum GPA requirement
Deadline
- December 15, 2025
8. Ted & Holly Rollins Scholarship
Among the scholarships with deadlines in December, the Ted & Holly Rollins Scholarship supports students who demonstrate ambition, personal growth, and academic dedication. This scholarship requires a 500-word essay in which applicants describe their goals, challenges, and future impact on their chosen field. With an award value of $5,000, it is especially useful for students seeking additional support for tuition, books, or living expenses. The program encourages reflective storytelling and rewards applicants who can clearly articulate their academic journey. For students who excel in thoughtful writing, this December scholarship offers both recognition and valuable financial assistance.
Benefits
- Scholarship award of $5,000
- Supports tuition, books, and study-related expenses
- Rewards strong personal storytelling and clarity of goals
Eligibility
- High school seniors or equivalent
- 500-word personal essay required
- Open to students entering any major
Deadline
- December 1, 2025
9. University Scholars – College of Science & Engineering (Texas State University)
The scholarships with deadlines in December also include the University Scholars program offered by Texas State University’s College of Science & Engineering. Created to recognize high-achieving STEM students, this scholarship provides awards ranging from $5,500 to $22,000 over four years. It supports students entering fields such as biology, engineering, physics, and technology. The program targets academically strong applicants who demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to scientific fields. For students seeking a competitive merit-based award in STEM, this December-deadline scholarship offers long-term financial relief and academic prestige as they begin their undergraduate studies.
Benefits
- Awards ranging from $5,500 to $22,000 over four years
- Renewable with satisfactory academic progress
- Recognizes strong STEM achievement and leadership
Eligibility
- High school seniors applying to Texas State University
- Must select a major in the College of Science & Engineering
- Strong academic record required
Deadline
- December 15, 2025
10. Equitable Excellence Scholarship
The scholarships with deadlines in December include the Equitable Excellence Scholarship, a nationally respected program that recognizes students who demonstrate resilience, leadership, and outstanding academic promise. This scholarship provides selected high school seniors with awards of up to $20,000, making it a valuable financial resource for college costs. The program focuses on students who contribute positively to their communities and show determination in overcoming challenges. With its competitive yet inclusive nature, this December scholarship helps students strengthen their academic futures while easing the financial pressure associated with higher education.
Benefits
- Awards up to $20,000
- Recognizes leadership, service, and perseverance
- Supports tuition and major educational expenses
Eligibility
- High school seniors in the U.S.
- Must demonstrate leadership and community involvement
- Requires academic promise and personal character
Deadline
- December 18, 2025
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11. Abel Wolman Fellowship
Among the scholarships with deadlines in December, the Abel Wolman Fellowship is a distinguished opportunity for graduate-level students pursuing advanced studies in water resources, public health, or environmental engineering. With funding up to $30,000, this fellowship supports innovative research that contributes to sustainable solutions in water and environmental systems. It is ideal for students committed to scientific inquiry and public welfare. The program encourages applicants who want to address real-world environmental challenges through research and academic excellence, making it a strong December-deadline option for future researchers and policy leaders.
Benefits
- Fellowship amount up to $30,000
- Supports graduate research in environmental and water-related fields
- Enhances academic and professional development
Eligibility
- Graduate students in water resources, public health, or environmental engineering
- Strong academic and research background
- Commitment to environmental advancement
Deadline
- December 20, 2025
12. AAPI Marine Scholarship
The scholarships with deadlines in December also feature the AAPI Marine Scholarship, designed to support Asian American and Pacific Islander students pursuing academic paths in marine science, maritime studies, or ocean-related fields. This scholarship provides an award of $1,250, making it a meaningful contribution for students passionate about marine ecosystems, ocean conservation, or maritime careers. It aims to increase representation in specialized marine sectors and encourages students committed to environmental stewardship. With a December deadline, it offers an accessible opportunity for AAPI students preparing for careers connected to the world’s oceans.
Benefits
- Scholarship award of $1,250
- Supports students entering marine or maritime fields
- Encourages diversity in ocean-related careers
Eligibility
- Must identify as Asian American or Pacific Islander
- Interest in marine science, maritime studies, or ocean-related programs
- Open to high school or college students depending on specific criteria
Deadline
- December 11, 2025
13. Charles “Chick” Roberts Scholarship
The scholarships with deadlines in December include the Charles “Chick” Roberts Scholarship, an award established to support students pursuing studies in accounting, finance, or business-related fields. With a $5,000 award, this scholarship helps reduce the financial burden of tuition, textbooks, and academic fees. It is ideal for students who demonstrate strong analytical ability, academic discipline, and career interest in the financial sector. The scholarship’s December deadline gives students a valuable chance to secure funding before entering competitive business programs, ensuring they receive financial support as they advance toward their professional goals.
Benefits
- Scholarship award of $5,000
- Supports accounting, finance, or business majors
- Helps cover tuition and academic expenses
Eligibility
- Students pursuing business or finance-related fields
- Must demonstrate academic merit
- Open to high school seniors or college students depending on the year’s criteria
Deadline
- December 20, 2025
14. Catalyst Scholarship
Within the scholarships with deadlines in December, the Catalyst Scholarship stands out for supporting students who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and a commitment to driving positive change. With an award of $10,000, this scholarship assists students pursuing higher education while encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to their communities. It is often geared toward applicants who show promise in fields related to business, innovation, or community development. By targeting forward-thinking students, the Catalyst Scholarship makes December an important month for those seeking financial aid aligned with leadership and social impact.
Benefits
- Scholarship award of $10,000
- Supports leadership-focused students
- Can be used toward tuition and educational needs
Eligibility
- Requirements vary by year and sponsoring organization
- Typically for students demonstrating leadership ability
- Open to various academic fields
Deadline
- December 20, 2025
15. ARRL Foundation Scholarship Programs
The scholarships with deadlines in December also include the ARRL Foundation Scholarship Programs, a major funding opportunity for students passionate about amateur radio, telecommunications, engineering, or STEM fields. With awards reaching up to $25,000, these scholarships support technical education and innovation. The foundation offers multiple scholarships under one application, making it efficient for eligible students to apply. Ideal for those with experience or interest in radio technology, electronics, or communication systems, this December scholarship helps students strengthen their academic pathways in technical sciences.
Benefits
- Awards up to $25,000
- Multiple scholarships under a single application
- Supports STEM, electronics, and telecommunications fields
Eligibility
- Students interested in amateur radio or STEM programs
- Must meet academic and field-related criteria
- Open to high school seniors and enrolled college students
Deadline
- December 30, 2025
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The scholarships with deadlines in December offer students a final and valuable opportunity to secure funding before entering the new academic year. From large national awards to specialized programs supporting STEM, business, environmental studies, and community leadership, These scholarships serve as an important financial bridge for students at every academic level. By preparing early, meeting eligibility criteria, and submitting strong applications, students can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. These December opportunities are proof that even at the end of the year, meaningful academic support is still within reach for dedicated applicants.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are scholarships with deadlines in December only for high school seniors?
No. Many December scholarships are open to undergraduates, graduate students, and even vocational students.
Why are scholarships with deadlines in December important?
They help students who missed earlier cycles or want to apply for additional financial support before the new academic year begins.
Do scholarships with deadlines in December require essays?
Some do require essays, while others offer no-essay or minimal-requirement options like the Niche $26,000 Scholarship.
Can international students apply for December deadline scholarships?
Yes, several scholarships with deadlines in December depending on the program are open to international students.
Are December scholarships competitive?
Yes, because they attract last-minute applicants, but strong academic records, leadership, and well-prepared applications improve your chances.
What documents are typically required?
Most require transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and proof of eligibility depending on the scholarship.
Do December scholarships focus on specific fields of study?
Some do, such as STEM, marine science, or public health, while others are general and open to all fields.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships with deadlines in December at once?
Yes, students are encouraged to apply to as many eligible scholarships as possible to increase their chances of securing funding.
How early should I start preparing for scholarships with December deadlines?
It’s best to begin gathering documents and drafting essays in October or November to avoid last-minute stress and ensure strong submissions.
