Balancing coursework, extracurriculars, and college applications already feels like a full-time job. Add financial stress into the mix, and it can quickly become overwhelming. The good news? Not all scholarships require you to jump through hoops. In fact, 2025 offers a wide range of easy scholarships that are designed to reduce the burden some even require no essays or academic transcripts at all.
Whether you’re a high school senior preparing for college, a current undergraduate navigating university life, or an international student trying to afford education abroad, there are scholarships out there designed to make your journey smoother without adding extra stress. These scholarships are often overlooked simply because of how simple the application process is but that’s exactly what makes them such hidden gems.
To help you save time and energy, we’ve rounded up 10 of the easiest scholarships to apply for in 2025. These options are open to international students and generally come with minimal requirements, quick applications, and, in some cases, no essays at all. It’s your opportunity to cut down on financial pressure and focus on what truly matters your education and your future.
Top 10 Easy Scholarships to Apply For in 2025
These scholarships stand out for their simple application processes, broad eligibility criteria, and, best of all, ease of access. Some are open to all students regardless of academic background, while others just require a short response or sign-up. If you’re looking to skip the stress and still secure funding, this list is for you.
Whether you’re aiming for a university in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Australia, or elsewhere, these easy-to-win scholarships can help get you one step closer to your dream education without drowning in paperwork.
Ready to save money on tuition and live your dream life at one of the world’s best universities?
Let’s dive into the easiest scholarships of 2025 and start applying smart not harder.
1. Burger King James W. McLamore Whopper Scholarship Award
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Award Amount: Up to $60,000
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Eligibility: High school seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.5
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Deadline: December 15, 2025
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Requirements: Transcript, tax return, work experience, extracurriculars
Created in memory of Burger King’s co-founder, this scholarship offers over $7 million annually to support deserving students and Burger King employees or their family members. Selection is based on your GPA, community involvement, financial need, and part-time work experience. The application is straightforward—you simply list your accomplishments, work history, and submit a few documents. A high reward for minimal effort.
2. “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
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Award Amount: $25,000
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Eligibility: Students at any education level, planning full-time enrollment
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Deadline: March 1, 2025
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Requirements: None
This scholarship is as easy as they come. No essay, no GPA, no test scores. Instead, it rewards bold, determined students with standout profiles. Just create a profile and apply. The earlier you submit, the stronger your chances it’s that simple.
3. Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship
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Award Amount: Up to $25,000
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Eligibility: Students aged 16–26, not Taco Bell employees
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Deadline: January 8, 2025
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Requirements: Two-minute video essay
For students with passion and purpose, this scholarship lets your creativity shine. All you need to do is create a short video expressing your goals and what inspires you. Whether it’s art, activism, or science, Taco Bell is looking for students who want to make a positive impact in their communities.
4. National GEM Consortium Fellowships
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Award Amount: $16,000+ stipend plus full tuition
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Eligibility: Black, Hispanic/Latinx, or Native American students in engineering or computer science graduate programs
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Deadline: November 14, 2025
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Requirements: Resume and academic transcripts
One of the most valuable easy-to-access fellowships, the GEM Consortium helps underrepresented students pursue MS and PhD degrees in STEM. It also connects recipients with top tech firms for paid internships, making it both financially and professionally rewarding. Applications are relatively simple, and the payoff is huge.
5. Amberscholar Scholarship by AmberStudent
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Award Amount: Up to $12,000
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Eligibility: International students applying to universities in the UK, USA, Canada, or Ireland
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Deadline: To Be Announced
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Requirements: Statement of purpose (written, video, or PPT), acceptance letter, academic documents
This is one of the easiest scholarships available for international students. You get to showcase your personality and aspirations through a flexible format: a video, presentation, or SOP. The scholarship is inclusive and encourages diversity, and an insider tip—referring friends increases your chances of being selected.
6. For A Bright Future Global Scholarship Program
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Award Amount: Up to $10,000
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Eligibility: Underserved students from minority backgrounds with a GPA of 3.0+, pursuing a STEAM-related field
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Deadline: Closed (check for 2026 reopening)
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Requirements: Essay (250–300 words), tax return, academic documents
This program supports students with financial need and strong community involvement. Though it requires a short essay, the application is manageable and tailored to students who show initiative and promise in science, technology, arts, or finance.
7. Harvard University Presidential Public Service Scholarship
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Award Amount: $8,000
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Eligibility: Enrolled or admitted students at Harvard (undergraduate or postgraduate)
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Deadline: March 21, 2025
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Requirements: Transcript, essay, 30-hour/week project commitment
This scholarship funds socially impactful summer projects. It supports students committed to public service in fields such as education, arts, government, and human rights. Applicants are evaluated on the strength of their project idea and its benefit to the community. Although not open to all universities, it’s an incredible opportunity for Harvard students.
8. The Earnest Scholarship
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Award Amount: $5,000
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Eligibility: High school seniors and college students enrolled or planning to enroll full-time
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Deadline: July 31, 2025
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Requirements: None
This no-essay scholarship is awarded through a random drawing. Anyone can apply, and even parents or guardians can do so on behalf of the student. It’s an excellent option for busy students looking for quick opportunities to help cover tuition, books, or living expenses.
9. Geraldine “Polly” Bednash Scholarship
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Award Amount: $5,000
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Eligibility: Nursing students with a GPA of 3.2+, attending an AACN-member institution
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Deadline: Not available (check for upcoming round)
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Requirements: Essay
Named after a leader in nursing education, this scholarship recognizes future nurses making an impact in healthcare and education. While a short essay is required, the recognition and networking opportunities it offers make it worth your time especially for those pursuing careers in healthcare.
10. Niche $50,000 No-Essay Scholarship
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Award Amount: Up to $50,000
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens or visa holders in high school or college
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Deadline: March 1, 2025
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Requirements: None
Possibly the easiest scholarship out there. You don’t need to submit essays, documents, or references—just a quick entry form. Winners are drawn at random and receive money for tuition, housing, books, and more. It’s the ultimate low-effort, high-reward opportunity.
READ ALSO: 15 Universities Offering Full Scholarships to International Students in the US (2025)
General Eligibility Criteria for Easy Scholarships (Especially for International Students)
Before applying, international students should check for some common eligibility requirements, including:
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Language Proficiency: English proficiency test scores like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
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Academic Performance: Transcripts and a GPA meeting the minimum criteria (usually 2.5–3.0+).
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Enrollment Status: Proof of acceptance into a university or college.
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Documentation: Valid passport, visa (if applicable), resume, and financial proof.
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Age & Study Level: Some scholarships are age-specific or limited to certain degree levels.
Tips for Applying to Easy Scholarships
Applying for easy scholarships still requires strategy. Here are a few tips to help you stand out—even in quick applications:
1. Apply Early and Often
Many easy scholarships operate on rolling deadlines or are awarded monthly. Create a calendar to track them and set reminders to apply early.
2. Sign Up for Email Alerts
Subscribe to newsletters from scholarship platforms and your target universities. Many scholarships are announced through email before appearing on public sites.
3. Prioritize No-Essay Scholarships
Focus on quick wins—no-essay or short-form scholarships. The time you save can be used to apply to more opportunities, increasing your chances of success.
FAQs
What are “easy scholarships”?
Easy scholarships are financial awards for students that require minimal effort to apply. They often have simple application forms, no or short essays, no GPA requirements, and broad eligibility criteria. Some are awarded through random draws (sweepstakes), while others ask for short videos or basic personal information.
Are easy scholarships legitimate?
Yes, many easy scholarships are completely legitimate. Reputable providers include organizations like Niche, Bold.org, Taco Bell Foundation, and AmberStudent. However, always research the scholarship, avoid paying any application fees, and ensure the provider has a trustworthy track record.
Can international students apply for easy scholarships?
Absolutely. While some scholarships are restricted to U.S. citizens or residents, many others, such as the AmberScholar, Be Bold No Essay Scholarship, and Burger King Whopper Scholarship, are open to international applicants. Always check the eligibility criteria for each specific scholarship.