When it comes to scholarships, the possibilities are endless — from academic and need-based awards to those tailored to specific majors or demographic groups. But there are also weird and unusual scholarships that go beyond the typical criteria, offering opportunities for students who may have unique talents, quirky hobbies, or a sense of humor. These offbeat scholarships not only provide financial support for higher education but also celebrate creativity, individuality, and fun.
If you’re looking for a way to stand out from the crowd or just want to tap into some unconventional sources of funding, this list of unusual scholarships will inspire you to think outside the box and apply for some of the most unique financial aid opportunities out there.
1. The \”Duck Tape\” Scholarship Contest
If you have a flair for crafting, consider applying for the Duck Tape Scholarship. This quirky competition asks students to design prom attire entirely out of Duck Tape (yes, the same brand known for its sticky rolls of colorful tape).
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: $10,000.
- Eligibility: High school students who are planning to attend college and create a prom outfit made entirely of Duck Tape.
- How to Apply: Submit a creative design for a prom dress or tuxedo made from Duck Tape, along with a short essay about the inspiration behind the design.
This scholarship combines creativity, design, and a bit of fun — all while celebrating the versatility of Duck Tape!
Website: Duck Tape Scholarship
2. The \”Zombie Apocalypse\” Scholarship
The Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship is a fun and creative opportunity for students who enjoy thinking outside the box. Applicants must write an essay explaining how they would survive a zombie apocalypse — using practical skills, resources, and even humor.
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: $2,000.
- Eligibility: High school seniors or college students.
- How to Apply: Write a 250-word essay detailing your strategy for surviving a zombie apocalypse, including your escape plan, survival kit, and reasoning for choosing specific strategies.
This scholarship is an excellent way for students to demonstrate their creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to plan under pressure — all while having fun with a pop-culture theme.
Website: Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship
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3. The \”Crying\” Scholarship
The \”Crying\” Scholarship (yes, it’s real!) is a unique opportunity for students to win money simply by showcasing their emotional side. For this scholarship, applicants must create a video or write a brief essay explaining why they believe they are qualified to receive the scholarship, but with the added twist that they must \”cry on demand\” in their submission.
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: $1,500.
- Eligibility: Open to all students who can demonstrate their ability to cry convincingly for a short video.
- How to Apply: Submit a video of yourself crying or explain in an essay why you would make an effective \”cryer\” for the scholarship.
Though unusual, this scholarship highlights the bizarre ways in which emotional intelligence and creativity are valued in unconventional settings.
Website: Crying Scholarship
4. The \”Anti-Dissertation\” Fellowship
Some students are less focused on writing traditional dissertations and more interested in the arts, activism, or social change. The Anti-Dissertation Fellowship supports those pursuing unique academic ventures that challenge traditional norms.
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: Varies (Typically around $10,000).
- Eligibility: Graduate students or early-career scholars interested in producing creative or unconventional academic work that challenges traditional approaches to knowledge.
- How to Apply: Submit a proposal detailing your \”anti-dissertation\” project, such as multimedia art pieces, community-based projects, or social movements.
This fellowship embraces the unconventional by encouraging students to challenge traditional academic structures and express knowledge through alternative methods.
Website: Anti-Dissertation Fellowship
5. The \”Taco Bell\” Live Más Scholarship
If you\’re a fan of Taco Bell and have big dreams for your future, this scholarship could be your ticket to college! The Live Más Scholarship is open to students who want to make a difference in the world and have a passion for creative expression, innovation, and leadership.
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: Up to $25,000.
- Eligibility: High school seniors, college students, or those planning to attend college with a passion for entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership.
- How to Apply: Submit a short video (2 minutes or less) explaining your passion and your dreams for the future. No GPA requirement, and Taco Bell encourages students from all backgrounds to apply.
This scholarship celebrates individuals who want to live life passionately and creatively, and it’s a fun way to tap into your entrepreneurial spirit.
Website: Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship
6. The \”National High Five\” Day Scholarship
If you love giving high fives and want to turn that enthusiasm into a scholarship opportunity, the National High Five Day Scholarship is for you! To apply, you simply need to submit a short essay or video explaining why high fives are important to you and how they’ve helped shape your life.
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: Varies each year.
- Eligibility: Open to high school seniors and college students.
- How to Apply: Submit an essay or a video that explains why you believe high fives are important and share a story about a meaningful high five in your life.
This lighthearted scholarship encourages students to think about how small, positive interactions can have a big impact on the world.
Website: National High Five Day
7. The \”Invention\” Scholarship
Got an idea for the next big invention? The Invention Scholarship rewards students who come up with unique, practical inventions. Whether you’re a budding inventor or just someone who loves solving problems with creative thinking, this scholarship could help fund your education.
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: Varies (typically between $1,000 and $5,000).
- Eligibility: High school seniors, college students, or anyone with a great invention idea.
- How to Apply: Submit a brief proposal or description of your invention, how it works, and why it matters.
This scholarship recognizes creativity and innovation, encouraging students to think big and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Website: Check local foundations or industry organizations that offer invention-related grants.
8. The \”No Essay\” Scholarship
The No Essay Scholarship takes the idea of simplicity to a whole new level. Forget about writing long essays — for this scholarship, all you need to do is submit a brief application form. That’s it!
Key Features:
- Prize Amount: $2,000.
- Eligibility: Open to all U.S. students, including high school seniors and those already enrolled in college.
- How to Apply: Simply fill out an online application, providing basic information such as your name, school, and contact details. No essay or personal statement required.
This scholarship is perfect for students who want to skip the writing part and get straight to the point: winning money for college!
Website: No Essay Scholarship
Final Thoughts
While most scholarships are based on academic performance, need, or field of study, these weird and unusual scholarships prove that there are many ways to tap into financial aid, even if you have a quirky talent, an unusual hobby, or a sense of humor. Whether you\’re crafting prom dresses out of tape, strategizing for a zombie apocalypse, or celebrating the power of high fives, these offbeat opportunities can help fund your education in unexpected ways.
So, why not take a shot at one of these unique scholarships? Who knows — the weirdest one could be your ticket to the college of your dreams!