Accounting scholarships are those awarded to students pursuing degrees or careers in accounting. These scholarships are available at almost every level of study, from undergraduate to doctoral programs. Some scholarships are only available to minority students or students with specific educational backgrounds. And, financial services and accounting firms as well as professional organizations frequently offer scholarships to attract quality talent to their company.

Eligibility Requirements

Unlike general degree-level scholarships, subject-based scholarships tend to come with specific and relatively consistent eligibility requirements. Most accounting scholarships require candidates to be enrolled or in the process of enrolling in an accounting degree program. Many undergraduate and graduate scholarships in accounting favor minority students, students seeking financial aid, and students pursuing CPA licensure. Other requirements might include:

  • Pursuing an accounting degree at the level relevant to the scholarship
  • Meet specific undergraduate GPA or other academic requirements
  • Are enrolled in an accredited program
  • Considering employment with the scholarship's provider
  • Are a member of the professional organization or agency
  • Be a legal U.S. resident
  • Pursuing CPA licensure
  • Affiliated with a minority culture
  • Applying for financial aid

The above list of eligibility requirements will not apply to every accounting scholarship. It is recommended that you review scholarship requirements closely before submitting your application. Below is a small selection of accounting scholarships, although many more accounting scholarships are available:

Types of Accounting Scholarships

  • KPMG Minority Accounting Doctoral Scholarships: Big Four auditor KPMG awards $10,000 scholarships to minority students enrolled in full-time, on-campus doctoral degrees from AACSB-accredited accounting programs.
  • AICPA John L. Carey Scholarships: The American Institute of CPAs offers $5000 scholarships to students with liberal arts and non-business backgrounds who are pursuing graduate degrees in accounting and CPA licensure.
  • NSA Scholarship Foundation: The National Society of Accountants awards scholarships ranging from $500-2000 as well as a possible stipend to undergraduate students enrolled in an accounting major program.
  • ALPFA National and Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): The Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting partners with the HSF to award scholarship ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 for Latino students pursuing degrees in accounting.
  • Frank L. Greathouse Government Accounting Scholarship: The 2014 Frank L. Greathouse Government Accounting Scholarship of $6,000 (each award) is available for award to two undergraduate
    or graduate students enrolled in full-time study preparing for a career in state and local government finance.