Top 10 Fully Funded Community College Transfer Scholarships in USA 2025/2026. In the USA, attending a 4 year university can be expensive especially for those transferring from a community college.
The cost of tuition, books, housing, and other fees can be too much for many students who want to earn a bachelor’s degree. The good news is that some scholarships cover everything. Students who want to transfer from a 2 year community college to a 4 year university can benefit from these so-called fully funded scholarships.
These scholarships are for intelligent and deserving students who need financial assistance. You just need to be focused and determined; you don’t need to be rich or perfect. Every scholarship we list can help you achieve your college dreams without debt.
The Top 10 Fully Funded Community College Transfer Scholarships in USA 2025-2026 will be discussed in this article. Learn which ones work for you and how to apply them by reading on.
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Top 10 Fully Funded Community College Transfer Scholarships in USA 2025/2026
1. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship
Founded in 2002, this scholarship helps students transfer from 2 year to 4 year colleges.
- Covers full tuition, living expenses, books and more — up to $55,000 per year.
- For high-achieving students with financial need.
- You must transfer from a U.S. community college to a U.S. bachelor’s degree program.
Why it’s special: Open to all majors and includes mentoring. Students get help until graduation.
2. Phi Theta Kappa Academic Transfer Scholarships
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is an honor society for community college students.
- Many universities offer scholarships to PTK members.
- Funds vary by school, often covering full tuition.
- To qualify: join PTK and apply to partner universities.
Why it’s valuable: No single national award, but many schools offer packages if you belong to PTK.
3. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) College Scholarships
Hispanic students benefit from HSF by attending college and transferring smoothly.
- Some awards are given to community college students who transfer to 4 year institutions.
- covers books, tuition, fees, and sometimes living expenses.
- requires evidence of Hispanic ancestry and a minimum GPA, typically 3.0+.
4. SMART Scholarship for Service Program
Funded by the U.S. government, this is for science and engineering students.
- Full tuition and stipend.
- Summer internships with pay.
- In return, you work for the Department of Defense after graduation.
Why it’s great: Scholarship and job after graduation.
5. Gates Scholarship
By the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, for top minority students.
- Pays for bachelor’s degree costs (tuition, fees, books, and living expenses).
- For high school seniors or community college students.
- Strong leadership, academic performance, and community service required.
Why it’s great: Covers everything and comes with mentorship.
6. Coca‑Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship
This is for community college students through Phi Theta Kappa.
- Covers books and tuition up to $1,000 per semester.
- 3.5 GPA and PTK membership are required.
Why it’s great: Easy to get and a good stepping stone, even if not fully funded.
7. The Dreamers Scholarship (for DACA/Undocumented Students)
Some state universities offer scholarships for DACA and undocumented students.
- Scholarships may cover full in-state tuition and fees.
- Requirements vary by state—like California, Texas or New York.
- Must prove DACA status or undocumented status and meet GPA requirements.
Why it’s important: For students who can’t get federal aid.
8. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarships (specific schools)
Many universities offer transfer scholarships for PTK students. Examples:
- University of Tennessee, University of South Florida, Rutgers
- Some are full scholarships; others cover most tuition.
- Check each university’s PTK scholarship page for details.
Why it’s useful: If you’re a PTK member, check each target school—you might qualify for full aid.
9. Gilman-McCain Scholarship
for veterans and their families.
- Veterans who transfer from community colleges to four-year institutions are fully funded.
- covers books, travel, housing and tuition.
- Awards range from $5,000 to $20,000.
Why it’s valuable: Real financial aid for your military service.
10. School-Specific Transfer Scholarships
Many schools offer big scholarships to attract strong transfer students, often full ride.
- Arizona State University (Barrett Honors)
- University of Central Florida (Burnett Honors College)
- University of Minnesota, University of Houston, etc.
These awards require strong GPA, essays and good community involvement.
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How to Apply for Fully Funded Community College Transfer Scholarships in USA
1. Get started early because scholarships open in the fall or spring. Check the deadlines!
2. If you are eligible, join Phi Theta Kappa, which is well-known among many schools.
3. Get solid recommendation letters from supervisors or instructors who know your work.
4. Write good essays about yourself. Use plain language.
5. Show need and merit by outlining your financial situation and keeping a high GPA.
6. Apply widely; try to get scholarships from states, the federal government, and individual schools.
7. Follow up to make sure your applications are complete and on time.
FAQ
1. Can a transfer student like me get high school scholarships?
Community college students are not eligible for most high school scholarships. But some, like the Gates Scholarship, accept community college transfer students.
2. Are only science and engineering students eligible for these scholarships?
No. Some scholarships, like the Gates and Jack Kent Cooke Scholarships, are open to any major. Others, like the SMART Scholarship, are only for math, science, technology and engineering (STEM) students.
3. Can international students apply?
U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible for most scholarships. However, some schools may offer international students scholarships. Always check the eligibility requirements.
4. Do I have to get all A’s?
No. Most scholarships look at your leadership, community service, and financial need, besides your GPA.
5. When do I need to apply?
Get started early! Many scholarships become available in the fall or early spring. Check each deadline and get all the paperwork ready ahead of time.
6. Are DACA or undocumented students eligible to apply?
Yes. DACA and undocumented students are supported by some programs, especially state-based programs, and TheDream.US.
What to Do
- Make a list and pick the scholarships that fit you (PTK, Jack Kent Cooke, etc.).
- Check the details: major requirements, citizenship rules, and GPA.
- Get the following ready: recommendation letters, essays, and transcripts.
- Keep track of dates: send reminders and finish applications ahead of time.
- Celebrate every time you submit or get accepted!
Why These Scholarships Matter
A smart and affordable way to get a 4-year degree is to transfer from a community college. But money is important. Fully funded scholarships take the financial burden off. This means more time to study and less stress about bills.
Apply now by using this guide. The right scholarship can change your life and open doors!
Conclusion
For many students, getting a college degree in the US is a dream come true but the cost can be a nightmare. That’s why fully funded scholarships are a must for community college transfer students. These scholarships cover housing, books and even personal expenses besides tuition.
If you’re transferring from a community college, make the most of this opportunity. Apply to as many scholarships as you can, start early and stay organized. Don’t let money or fear hold you back. Scholarships for students like you are offered by organizations like PTK Partner Awards, Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship and others mentioned in this article.
Believe in yourself, follow this guide, and never give up. With the right scholarship, you can reach your debt-free future.
Good luck with your transfer!
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