Are you passionate about animal welfare, pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine, or simply an animal lover? Whether you’re helping rescue animals, volunteering at shelters, or planning a future in animal advocacy or health care, there are college scholarships and grants designed specifically for you! This list of opportunities for animal lovers will help you turn your passion into a career while supporting your educational journey.
American Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarships
Veterinary students enrolled at accredited schools in the US are eligible for multiple scholarships from the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF). Opportunities vary based on location, degree type, career goals, and more. Scholarships are also awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. Awards: Up to $10,000; Deadline: Varies
Morris Animal Foundation Veterinary Student Scholar Program
The Morris Animal Foundation sponsors a competitive Veterinary Student Scholar Program for students committed to advancing the health and well-being of animals, particularly through research projects on topics such as animal health, conservation, and care. Grant applications are first selected by the applicant’s higher education institution and then reviewed by the Foundation. Students must be currently enrolled in an accredited Veterinary Medicine program (though AVMA accreditation is not required). Please note that combined DVM/PhD programs are not eligible. Awards: $5,500; Deadline: Varies by proposal type
American Kennel Club Scholarships
Students who are involved in dog-related activities, events, clubs, and academic programs are eligible for a variety of scholarships from the American Kennel Club (AKC). The AKC Canine Health Foundation offers fellowships, residency programs, and research awards for students pursuing careers in canine health. The Junior Showmanship Scholarship is awarded to junior club members and volunteers who write an essay on their interest in and experiences with purebred dogs. And the AKC Humane Fund sponsors two scholarship opportunities: the George Ward Scholarship for apprentice handlers pursuing academic and professional enrichment, and the John D. Spurling Scholarship, which is awarded to five students who are pursuing Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Technology, Physical Therapy, Animal Care, Animal Behavior, or Grooming and Training. Awards: Amounts vary; Deadline: Varies by award program
Future Without Speciesism Award
Sponsored by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the Future Without Speciesism Award is open to all students ages 18 and older. Applicants must submit an idea for a unique alternative to an animal product, including a description of the theoretical invention and blueprints or photos that illustrate how the idea would be brought to life. This contest runs year-round, and winning does not convey ownership rights to PETA or prevent recipients from patenting their inventions. Awards: Up to $10,000; Deadline: None; applications accepted on a rolling basis
Related: Vegan College Report Card: Schools Receiving an "A"!
Waggle Human-Pet Bond Scholarship
Sponsored by a pet-focused crowdfunding platform for essential veterinary treatment, the Human-Pet Bond Scholarship from Waggle was created to help college students have more money to care for pets that offer emotional support throughout their studies. Applicants must be pet guardians who are enrolled in college full-time and live in the United States or Canada. An essay of 400–600 words outlining steps you can take to prepare for a veterinary emergency is also required. Winners are selected based on response relevancy, writing quality, and academic standing. Award: $1,000; Deadline: November 1
Jane Goodall Institute Roots & Shoots Project Grants
Looking for funding for an animal advocacy project that can go on your résumé? The Jane Goodall Institute offers Roots & Shoots Project Grants for children, teens, educators, and groups/leaders who are passionate about conservation, animal welfare, and environmental activism. The grants can be used to fund community-action projects that positively impact people, other animals, and/or the environment. Applicants must reside and plan a project in the United States, plus be registered members of Roots & Shoots (it’s free to join). Grants are awarded twice a year in the spring and fall, and a grant report is required for all recipients. Awards: $250; Deadline: Late November and early April
Related: 5 Examples of Real Passion Projects That Admission Officers Love
Vegetarian Resource Group College Scholarships
This is a great opportunity for high school seniors who promote vegetarianism and animal welfare through activism. The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship asks applicants to submit an essay that highlights their involvement in promoting a vegetarian lifestyle for animal welfare. A total of five scholarships are administered annually. Awards: Up to $10,000; Deadline: February 20
P.L.A.Y. Scholars Helping Collars Scholarship
Sponsored by Pet Lifestyle and You (P.L.A.Y.), Scholars Helping Collars is an annual scholarship opportunity for high school seniors in the US who are involved in animal welfare, animal shelters, or rescue groups. Applicants must submit a 500–1,000-word essay about their volunteer work helping animals and how their involvement has changed their life and community or shaped their perceptions of the importance of animal welfare. First-, second-, and third-place prizes are offered. Award: Up to $1,500; Deadline: February 24
Animal Welfare Institute Scholarship
High school seniors pursuing degrees related to animal welfare, animal behavior, or related fields should apply for the Animal Welfare Institute Scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to protecting animals from cruelty and advocating for their welfare. This includes providing two letters of recommendation from people who can speak to their commitment and track record of working to reduce animal suffering. Up to 12 applicants will be chosen. Awards: $3,000; Deadline: Mid-March each year
HSVMA Compassionate Care Scholarship
Each year, the Human Society Veterinary Medical Alliance (HSVMA) awards multiple Compassionate Care Scholarships to Veterinary students who are committed to advancing the health and well-being of animals, with a demonstrated interest in animal welfare, animal rights, or animal protection issues. Applicants must be in their first, second, or third year at an AVMA-accredited veterinary school in the US, Canada, the Caribbean, or the UK. Two letters of recommendation and a statement of intent on your interest in animal welfare and service or experience caring for underserved communities are required. Awards: $10,000; Deadline: June 30
Related: How to Become a Veterinarian
No matter your involvement with or interest in animals, there are numerous scholarships and grants to help fund your education. Explore these opportunities, apply, and continue making a difference in the lives of Earth’s creatures while securing financial support for your academic goals.
This list is a great start, but we know there are a lot more scholarships out there! Feel free to contact us if you know about another great opportunity for animal lovers, and keep looking for college funds using our Scholarship Search tool.
