Pursuing an undergraduate degree in business opens doors to dynamic careers in finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. However, rising tuition costs can pose a significant barrier. In 2026, scholarships remain a vital resource for easing this burden, offering financial support based on merit, need, leadership, or demographic factors. These awards not only cover expenses like tuition and books but also provide networking opportunities and mentorship to build a strong foundation for future success.
This guide highlights some of the top business scholarships available for the 2026 academic year. Selections are drawn from reputable programs emphasizing undergraduate students in business-related fields such as accounting, supply chain, finance, and general administration. Eligibility often requires full-time enrollment at an accredited U.S. institution, a minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher), and additional criteria like essays or community involvement. Applications for 2026 cycles generally open in fall 2025, so start preparing early with strong personal statements and recommendation letters.
Best Business Scholarships for Undergraduates in 2026
1. Greehey Scholars Program
Administered by the University of St. Thomas, this prestigious program targets incoming freshmen committed to academic excellence and ethical leadership. It provides full-tuition coverage, renewable for four years, plus stipends for housing and professional development. Recipients participate in cohort-based experiences, including service projects and seminars, fostering well-rounded business professionals.
Eligibility focuses on high school seniors with outstanding GPAs, leadership roles, and a passion for business ethics. The program prioritizes students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing holistic growth over pure academics. In 2026, expect around 10 awards, making it highly competitive. The deadline is typically January 9, so align your application with university admissions.
2. John Galt Solutions Scholarship for Future Supply Chain Leaders
This initiative supports students eyeing careers in supply chain management or business forecasting, awarding two $10,000 scholarships annually. Funded by a logistics firm, it recognizes innovation and resilience in global operations, ideal for undergraduates tackling real-world challenges like sustainable sourcing.
Applicants must be full-time undergraduates with at least a 3.0 GPA and submit a 500-word essay on supply chain innovations. Financial need is considered, broadening access for deserving candidates. For 2026, applications open in early fall, with selections based on essay quality and career alignment. Past winners have leveraged the award for internships, highlighting its practical value.
3. GHR Fellows Scholarship Program
Offered by the University of St. Thomas, this transformational award covers full tuition for 10 business-focused undergraduates, paired with customized leadership programming. It emphasizes global humanitarian roles, blending business acumen with social impact, such as ethical trade or nonprofit management.
Open to incoming freshmen or sophomores with strong academics and community service records, it requires a GPA of 3.5 and interviews. The 2026 cycle prioritizes diverse cohorts, with deadlines around December. Fellows gain mentorship from industry pros, enhancing resumes for roles in corporate social responsibility.
4. Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship
A national merit-based powerhouse, this program selects 150 high school seniors annually for $20,000 awards, many pursuing business majors. It celebrates leadership, service, and resilience, with business students often highlighting entrepreneurial ventures in applications.
Eligibility includes U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a 3.0 GPA and involvement in extracurriculars. No specific business major is required, but essays on community impact resonate strongly. For 2026, applications open in September 2025, closing in October. Recipients join a lifelong alumni network, amplifying career prospects.
5. PIMCO Future Leaders Scholarship
Targeting underrepresented groups, PIMCO awards up to $20,000 to Black and Hispanic/Latino sophomores or first-year graduates interested in investment management. It addresses diversity gaps in finance, providing funds plus professional development.
Applicants need a 3.0 GPA and must demonstrate interest through essays or projects. The 2026 deadline is March, with selections emphasizing potential over experience. This scholarship has pledged millions, empowering recipients to break barriers in high-finance roles.
6. MaxHome Scholarship Program
Geared toward business, finance, marketing, or management majors, this $2,500 first-place award (plus $500 runners-up) challenges undergraduates to write a 1,000-1,500-word essay on timely topics like digital marketing trends. Sponsored by a home improvement company, it rewards creative thinking.
Open to current full-time students with a 3.0 GPA, applications for 2026 open in January. Essays are judged on insight and relevance, offering a low-barrier entry for essay-savvy applicants. Winners often use funds for study abroad, tying into global business perspectives.
7. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Future Entrepreneur Scholarship
This renewable award starts at $12,000 in the first year, tapering to $4,000 annually, for undergraduates fostering entrepreneurial mindsets. It supports innovative business ideas, from startups to social enterprises.
Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship, full-time enrollment, and a business-related proposal. A 3.0 GPA is standard, with 2026 applications due in February. The program includes webinars, building skills for self-starters eyeing CEO paths.
8. American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Scholarships
For minority accounting majors, these $5,000 awards go to undergraduates with a 3.3 GPA, promoting diversity in public accounting. Funds cover tuition, with mentorship from CPAs.
Open to full-time students committed to the CPA exam, the 2026 cycle opens December. Applications include transcripts and intent statements, prioritizing need-based candidates for equitable access.
9. Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Memorial Education Fund Scholarship
Awarding $1,000-$2,500 to management accounting students, this supports undergraduates with six credits per semester and a 3.0 GPA. It focuses on financial management and IT integration in business.
Members of IMA receive priority, with 2026 deadlines in April. Essays on career goals are key, preparing winners for roles in corporate finance.
10. Zonta International Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship
Empowering women globally, this offers $2,000 district awards (up to $8,000 internationally) for business undergraduates. It tackles gender disparities, funding studies in administration or entrepreneurship.
Eligibility includes female students with 2+ years completed and a 3.0 GPA. For 2026, apply by November via local clubs, with essays on women’s business challenges. Recipients gain international networks.
11. ASUS ROG Makers Scholarship
For children of U.S. military members studying business management, this $10,000 award honors service and innovation. It supports supply chain or operations tracks.
Applicants need a 3.0 GPA and military affiliation verification. The 2026 deadline is May, with project submissions showcasing leadership.
12. Soliant Sunrise Scholarship
This $1,000 essay contest welcomes business undergraduates responding to prompts on ethics or current events. It’s accessible, requiring no specific major beyond business interest.
Open to full-time students, 2026 entries close in July. Strong narratives win, ideal for honing communication skills vital in business.
13. Pacific Collections Group Annual Scholarship
Awarding $1,000 for 600-word essays on personal finance, it’s for business, law, or economics undergrads. It promotes financial literacy.
Eligibility: 2.5 GPA minimum, with 2026 apps in March. Focus on practical insights appeals to judges.
14. Kinsey Determination Scholarship
At the University of Toledo, this aids business students raised by single mothers, covering $5,000 based on resilience and academics.
GPA 3.0 required; 2026 deadline January. It celebrates overcoming adversity.
15. Nelson Cabinetry Essay Scholarship
Multiple $1,500 awards for 500-word essays on industry improvements in business fields. Funds tuition broadly.
Open to undergrads; 2026 apps open October. Creativity in applications stands out.
These scholarships collectively offer over $500,000 in 2026 funding, reducing average net costs from $14,700 at public schools to near-zero for winners. Success tips: Tailor essays to show passion, secure strong references, and apply to 10+ opportunities. Many prioritize diversity, so highlight unique stories.
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FAQs
What GPA is typically required for business scholarships?
Most demand a 3.0 minimum, but top programs like Greehey seek 3.5+. Focus on consistent performance.
Can international students apply?
Many are U.S.-focused, but Zonta and some university awards accept globals. Check citizenship rules per program.
Are essays always required?
Yes for most, ranging 500-1,500 words. Practice storytelling to connect personal goals to business impact.
How do need-based vs. merit-based differ?
Merit rewards academics/leadership (e.g., Coca-Cola); need uses FAFSA data (e.g., AICPA). Apply for both.
Do scholarships cover only tuition?
Varies; some include housing/books (Greehey), others flexible for any expenses.