Good news! Your addiction to video games might get you into college. You probably know someone who ended up studying in their dream college because of an athletic, artistic, or music scholarship. But did you know that, out there, there are scholarships also for those who play video games? Keep reading to find out all about video games scholarships.
How to apply for a video games scholarship
To enter the gaming industry, you do not necessarily need to have a college degree, but recruiters will consider it an advantage if you have one. The gaming industry covers different areas since it goes from graphic design and game programming to visual effects and animation. And just like that, every scholarship is different. So, if you want your career path to be in the gaming industry, first, you should think about a series of variables starting from the budget. How much can you afford to pay for your degree? If the answer is not much, then you should first consider those scholarships that award a greater amount of money. Another important element to take into account is the distance. If you are ready to move away from home, then your choice is not going to be limited, otherwise, you will have to make compromises with yourself. To help you with your choice, we have prepared a list of the best scholarships for video gamers and given you all the information you need to make up your mind.
The best scholarships for video gamers
If you are wondering what are the best scholarships for video gamers, here you can find a list of the best ones.
AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships
The AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship is a scholarship awarded to students who are studying or want to study photography, illustration, and graphic design disciplines. Since 1995, when it was given for the first time, more than 800 college students have received a scholarship.
Usually, scholarship awards are $2,000 or $3,000. In some cases, however, students can receive top awards of the total value of $5,000. To receive this scholarship, students have to be citizens of the United States or have a Green Card. Moreover, students who are awarded one of these scholarships have to study full-time.
The application period for the AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship goes from February until April. To apply for this scholarship, students have to provide an official transcript that includes GPA, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a portfolio to show the candidate’s abilities and talent.
Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences Foundation Scholarships
If you want to pursue a degree in game development or in the business of interactive entertainment, you should check out the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences Foundation Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded both at undergraduate and graduate levels to full-time students who have a minimum GPA of 3.3. Each scholarship will amount to $2,500.
Students wishing to apply for this scholarship have to do so online. To apply, participants have to upload a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, proof of enrollment, and a transcript. Usually, the deadline is in May, so make sure to check all the requirements and upload the necessary documents before May.
Dr. Edward de Bono Scholarship
If you want to be the best in your field, make sure to apply for Dr. Edward de Bono Scholarship. Students awarded this scholarship will receive $2,500 each semester for up to four years of college to students who excel in their game studies. Receiving this award will mean studying at the University of Advancing Technology in Tempe, Arizona.
First and foremost, students interested in this scholarship have to demonstrate their involvement in the community and a passion for technology. Needless to say that creativity is a must to obtain the Dr. Edward de Bono Scholarship
Evo College Scholarship for Gamers
The Evo College Scholarship for Gamers is awarded at undergraduate and graduate levels to two students who show great potential in the gaming field, especially in competitive games. This scholarship is offered annually in collaboration with the NYU Game Center, and it amounts to $10,000.
To be awarded this scholarship, students have to demonstrate their financial need. After that, they have to submit an application that includes transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a creative portfolio.
Esports Scholarships
The Esports Scholarships are reserved for the most talented gamers. To understand how this scholarship works, you have to compare it to sport scholarships. Some people get awarded a scholarship because they play volleyball or basketball, but you can be awarded one to play League of Legends, Fortnite, or Mortal Kombat against teams of other universities or colleges.
Students wishing to apply for this scholarship can choose between different universities and colleges, such as Arcadia University, Indiana Tech, Hawaii Pacific University, and the University of California. You can find a complete list of eligible institutions on the website for this scholarship.
Since it was first awarded, scholarships ranged from $500 to $8,000. However, during the last few years, colleges have started offering scholarships that cover the tuition completely. And now, also professional players and game developers are getting involved. Contrary to other colleges and scholarships, your GPA is not essential to receive the Esports Scholarship. Candidates are accepted with GPAs starting from 2.5. A good way to start working towards this scholarship is streaming on Twitch to impress the jury.
Are you ready?
As you can see, there are plenty of options to follow your dream. Here, we have listed just a few of the scholarships for students interested in the gaming field, but there are many others to choose from. By many, the gaming industry is not considered as worthy as other fields, but the truth is that whatever you do with passion is always worth your time and passion.