PsyD Scholarships 2025: Complete List by State and Specialty
Finding the right scholarship can mean the difference between pursuing your dream of becoming a psychologist and putting it on hold indefinitely. With PsyD programs averaging $120,000 to $200,000 in total costs, every scholarship dollar counts toward making your education affordable.
We’ve spent months compiling this comprehensive database of PsyD scholarships for 2025, organizing them by state and specialty to help you quickly find opportunities you’re eligible for. Unlike generic scholarship lists, this guide focuses specifically on funding available to doctoral psychology students, with direct links to applications and insider tips on improving your chances.
“Students often miss out on thousands in scholarship money simply because they don’t know where to look. I’ve seen students discover they were eligible for 5-10 different scholarships they’d never heard of just by doing systematic research.”
— Dr. Amanda Chen, Director of Student Financial Services, Chicago School of Professional Psychology
National PsyD Scholarships
These scholarships are available to PsyD students regardless of their state or school location. They typically offer the largest award amounts and have the most competitive application processes.
American Psychological Foundation (APF) Graduate Student Scholarships
The APF offers multiple scholarships specifically for doctoral psychology students, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $25,000.
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Eligibility | Deadline | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APF Visionary Grant | $10,000-$20,000 | Graduate students with innovative research | November 1 | Apply Here |
| Benton-Meier Scholarships | $2,000 | Neuropsychology focus | June 1 | Apply Here |
| Roy Scrivner Memorial | $25,000 | LGBT family/couples therapy | November 15 | Apply Here |
National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program
While traditionally associated with PhD programs, PsyD students conducting significant research are eligible for this prestigious fellowship.
- Award: $37,000 annual stipend + $12,000 education allowance
- Duration: 3 years of support
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents in research-focused programs
- Deadline: October (varies by field)
- Application: NSF GRFP Portal
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Scholarships
HRSA offers several programs for psychology doctoral students committed to serving underserved populations.
| Program | Award | Service Commitment | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Health Workforce Program | Up to $75,000 | 2 years in HPSA | Apply Here |
| NURSE Corps Scholarship | Full tuition + stipend | 2-4 years | Apply Here |
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Fellowships
- Minority Fellowship Program: Up to $22,000/year
- Clinical Training: $10,000-$15,000 stipends
- Dissertation Grants: Up to $30,000
- Application: SAMHSA Fellowship Portal
State-Specific Scholarships
State-funded scholarships often have residency requirements but typically face less competition than national awards. We’ve organized these by states with the most APA-accredited PsyD programs.
California PsyD Scholarships
California offers extensive funding opportunities for psychology doctoral students, especially those committed to serving diverse populations. Students in California psychology doctorate programs have access to both state and regional funding.
| Scholarship | Amount | Eligibility | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| California State Loan Repayment | Up to $50,000 | Work in HPSA for 2 years | Apply |
| Mental Health Loan Assumption | Up to $10,000/year | Work in public mental health | Apply |
| Song-Brown Healthcare Training | $18,000/year | Primary care psychology focus | Apply |
| CalAIM Behavioral Health | $25,000 | Integrated care training | Apply |
Regional California Scholarships
- San Diego Foundation: $2,000-$5,000 for local residents
- Silicon Valley Community Foundation: Up to $20,000 for Bay Area students
- LA Care Health Plan: $5,000 for students serving LA County
Texas PsyD Scholarships
Texas provides robust support for psychology students, particularly those interested in rural mental health. Students in Texas psychology doctorate programs can access unique state-funded opportunities.
| Program | Award | Requirements | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Mental Health Loan Repayment | Up to $160,000 | 4 years state facility | Apply |
| TEXAS Grant Graduate | $5,000/semester | Texas resident, financial need | Apply |
| Hazlewood Act | 150 credit hours free | Texas veterans | Apply |
New York PsyD Scholarships
New York offers some of the most generous mental health professional incentives in the nation. Students in New York psychology doctorate programs have access to substantial loan forgiveness.
- Doctors Across New York: Up to $150,000 loan repayment
- 3-year service commitment
- Underserved areas only
- Application Portal
- NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor Loan Forgiveness: Up to $26,000
- Work in designated facilities
- Apply Here
- Empire State Excellence Scholarship: Full tuition at SUNY schools
- Top 10% of class
- 5-year NY residency commitment
Florida PsyD Scholarships
Florida emphasizes supporting students who will serve its aging population and diverse communities. Florida psychology doctorate programs offer unique funding for geropsychology and bilingual services.
| Scholarship | Annual Award | Focus Area | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Behavioral Health | $8,000 | Substance abuse treatment | Apply |
| Minority Teacher Education | $4,000 | School psychology | Apply |
| Florida Bright Futures Graduate | $5,000 | General psychology | Apply |
Illinois PsyD Scholarships
Illinois provides strong support for psychology students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Golden Apple Scholars: $5,000 + job placement
- School psychology focus
- 4-year teaching commitment
- Illinois Veterans Grant: Full tuition at state schools
- Illinois veterans only
- IVG Portal
“State scholarships are hidden gems. I had a student receive $40,000 from a California program she didn’t even know existed until her second year. Always check your state’s health department and education department websites—that’s where the money is.”
— Dr. Michael Torres, Financial Aid Director, Alliant International University
Specialty-Based Scholarships
Specializing in a specific area of psychology can open doors to targeted funding opportunities. These scholarships reward students committed to particular practice areas or populations.
Child and Adolescent Psychology
| Organization | Award | Requirements | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| AACAP Pilot Research Award | $15,000 | Child psychiatry research | Apply |
| Children’s Hospital Scholarships | $5,000-$25,000 | Pediatric psychology focus | Various hospitals |
| SRCD Dissertation Funding | $25,000 | Developmental research | Apply |
Forensic Psychology
- American Psychology-Law Society: $500-$5,000 grants
- AP-LS Student Grants
- Application
- Department of Justice Fellowship: $35,000 + tuition
- Work with federal law enforcement
- DOJ Fellowship
Health Psychology
- NIH F31 Diversity Fellowship: Full funding for 3-5 years
- APA Division 38 Student Research: $5,000
- Society of Behavioral Medicine: $500-$2,000
Neuropsychology
| Award | Amount | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| INS Student Liaison Award | $1,500 | October 31 |
| Brain & Behavior Research | $30,000 | November 15 |
| APA Div 40 Dissertation | $5,000 | June 1 |
School Psychology
School psychology students have unique funding opportunities through education departments:
- NASP Minority Scholarship: $5,000
- NASP-ERT Scholarship: $1,000
- State Department of Education Grants: Varies by state ($2,000-$20,000)
- Application Hub: NASP Scholarships
Diversity & Minority Scholarships
Psychology actively seeks to increase diversity in the field, resulting in numerous scholarships for underrepresented students.
Ethnicity and Race-Based Scholarships
| Organization | Award | Eligibility | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| APA Minority Fellowship | $24,000/year | Ethnic minorities | Apply |
| NBCC Minority Fellowship | $20,000 | Minority counselors | Apply |
| Indian Health Service | Full funding | Native Americans | Apply |
| AAUW Fellowships | $20,000 | Women | Apply |
| AAPA Scholarship | $5,000 | Asian Americans | Apply |
LGBTQ+ Scholarships
- Point Foundation: Up to $30,000/year
- LGBTQ+ students with leadership potential
- Application
- PFLAG National Scholarships: $1,000-$5,000
- National Gay & Lesbian Medical Association: $5,000
First-Generation College Students
- First Generation Foundation: $5,000
- NASPA First Forward: $2,500-$5,000
- Coca-Cola First Generation: $5,000
Students with Disabilities
| Scholarship | Amount | Disability Type |
|---|---|---|
| AAIDD Fellowship | $15,000 | Any disability |
| Google Lime Scholarship | $10,000 | Any disability |
| NBD Foundation | $5,000 | Blind/visually impaired |
Institution-Specific Scholarships
Many universities offer substantial scholarships specifically for their PsyD students. Here are notable examples from top APA-accredited programs:
Private Universities
| Institution | Scholarship | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperdine University | Dean’s Scholarship | $10,000-$25,000 | 3.7+ GPA |
| University of Denver | Chancellor’s Award | 50% tuition | Merit-based |
| Widener University | Institute Scholarship | $15,000 | Leadership |
| Yeshiva University | Ferkauf Scholarship | $20,000 | Academic excellence |
Public Universities
State universities often provide better funding packages for in-state residents:
- Rutgers University: Excellence Fellowship (full tuition + $25,000 stipend)
- Indiana State: Graduate Assistantships ($18,000 + tuition)
- James Madison: Commonwealth Scholars ($15,000)
For more information on specific programs, explore our guides to combined master’s and PsyD programs and accelerated 3-year programs which can reduce overall costs.
Need-Based Scholarships
Financial need can qualify you for substantial scholarships beyond federal aid.
Foundation Scholarships
- Jack Kent Cooke Graduate Scholarship: Up to $50,000/year
- High achievement + financial need
- Application
- PEO International Peace Scholarship: $12,500
- Women only
- Demonstrate need
- AAUW Career Development Grant: $2,000-$12,000
- Women returning to school
Emergency Financial Aid
For unexpected financial hardships during your program:
| Organization | Maximum Grant | Response Time |
|---|---|---|
| APA Emergency Fund | $2,500 | 48 hours |
| Graduate Assistance Fund | $1,000 | 1 week |
| Student Emergency Fund | $500 | 24 hours |
Merit-Based Scholarships
Academic excellence, research achievements, and leadership can qualify you for merit scholarships regardless of financial need.
Academic Achievement Scholarships
- Phi Kappa Phi Graduate Fellowship: $5,000-$15,000
- PKP members only
- 3.75+ GPA required
- Golden Key Graduate Scholar: $10,000
- Golden Key members
- Top 15% of class
- P.E.O. Scholar Awards: $20,000
- Women only
- Exceptional academic record
Research Excellence Awards
| Award | Amount | Research Area | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psi Chi Graduate Research | $3,000 | Any psychology | Apply |
| APAGS Research Grant | $1,000 | Dissertation | Apply |
| SSCP Dissertation Award | $1,500 | Clinical science | Apply |
“The biggest mistake students make is only applying for the ‘big name’ scholarships. I encourage students to apply for everything they’re eligible for—even $500 scholarships add up. One of my students funded her entire first year through fifteen different small scholarships.”
— Dr. Jennifer Liu, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Pacific University
Application Tips & Strategy
Successfully securing PsyD scholarships requires more than just meeting eligibility requirements. Here’s how to maximize your chances:
Timeline for Success
| Month | Action Items |
|---|---|
| September-October | Research scholarships, create spreadsheet, gather transcripts |
| November-December | Apply for national scholarships with fall deadlines |
| January-February | Submit FAFSA, apply for institutional aid |
| March-April | Apply for spring deadline scholarships |
| May-June | Apply for specialty and state scholarships |
| July-August | Follow up on pending applications, prepare for next cycle |
Essential Application Components
1. Personal Statement Tips:
- Lead with your unique story and motivation
- Connect your goals to the scholarship’s mission
- Provide specific examples of impact you’ve made
- Address how funding will enable your career goals
2. Letters of Recommendation:
- Choose recommenders who know your clinical work
- Provide them with scholarship criteria and your draft statement
- Give at least 4 weeks notice
- Send thank you notes regardless of outcome
3. Financial Documentation:
- Keep tax returns easily accessible
- Document any special circumstances
- Calculate your total cost of attendance accurately
- Be prepared to explain any gaps in employment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing deadlines: Set reminders 2 weeks before each deadline
- Generic essays: Tailor each application to the specific scholarship
- Incomplete applications: Use a checklist for each scholarship
- Not following up: Send thank you notes and status inquiries
- Limiting yourself: Apply broadly—small scholarships add up
Scholarship Stacking Strategy
Combine multiple funding sources for maximum coverage:
- Foundation: Federal aid (loans/work-study)
- Layer 1: Institutional scholarships
- Layer 2: State/regional funding
- Layer 3: Specialty scholarships
- Layer 4: Small private scholarships
Many students successfully combine 5-10 different funding sources to cover their entire education.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PsyD scholarships should I apply for?
Apply for as many as you’re eligible for. Successful students typically apply for 15-30 scholarships, with a mix of large national awards and smaller local opportunities. Even small $500-$1,000 scholarships add up significantly over the course of your program.
Can I get scholarships if I’m attending an online PsyD program?
Yes, most scholarships are available to students in accredited online PsyD programs. However, some institutional and state-specific scholarships may require on-campus enrollment. Always verify eligibility requirements before applying.
Do PsyD programs offer as many scholarships as PhD programs?
While PhD programs traditionally offer more assistantships and research funding, PsyD programs are increasingly competitive with scholarship offerings. Many PsyD programs now offer merit scholarships ranging from $5,000 to full tuition, and external scholarships don’t distinguish between degree types.
When should I start applying for PsyD scholarships?
Start researching scholarships at least one year before you plan to begin your program. Many scholarships have deadlines 6-12 months before the academic year starts. For maximum opportunity, begin identifying potential scholarships during your application process to PsyD programs.
Can international students get PsyD scholarships?
International students have limited options as they’re not eligible for federal or state funding. However, many universities offer institutional scholarships to international students, and some private foundations don’t have citizenship requirements. Focus on merit-based institutional aid and private foundation scholarships.
Are there scholarships specifically for older or non-traditional students?
Yes! Many scholarships target career-changers and non-traditional students. The P.E.O. Scholar Awards, AAUW Career Development Grants, and many institutional scholarships specifically value the life experience that older students bring. Some scholarships even prefer candidates who are returning to education after time in the workforce.
What GPA do I need to qualify for most PsyD scholarships?
Requirements vary widely. While some competitive national scholarships require a 3.7+ GPA, many scholarships consider factors beyond grades. Scholarships focused on diversity, financial need, or specific specialties may have GPA requirements as low as 3.0. Don’t let a lower GPA discourage you from applying.
Can I keep my scholarships if I switch PsyD programs?
It depends on the scholarship. Institutional scholarships are tied to specific schools and won’t transfer. However, many external scholarships (like those from professional organizations or private foundations) can move with you if you remain in an accredited PsyD program. Always check the terms before making any program changes.
How do scholarship committees view gaps in education or employment?
Most scholarship committees understand that life happens. What matters is how you explain the gap and what you learned from the experience. Address gaps honestly in your personal statement, focusing on growth, resilience, and how the experience strengthened your commitment to psychology.
Should I mention other scholarships I’ve received in my applications?
Generally, yes. Listing other scholarships you’ve won demonstrates that other organizations have recognized your potential. However, for need-based scholarships, be prepared to explain how additional funding affects your financial situation. Some scholarships may reduce their award if you’ve received substantial funding elsewhere.
Remember that scholarship applications are competitive, but persistence pays off. Every application you submit increases your chances of reducing your educational costs. The time invested in applications now can save you tens of thousands in loan repayments later.
For additional funding strategies, explore our guide to fully funded PsyD programs and learn about hybrid programs that allow you to work while studying.
