Top 5 Idaho Scholarships in 2026

Don’t Miss Out! Discover the top Idaho Scholarships that could pay your way to college! Every year, thousands of dollars in scholarship money go unclaimed in Idaho, and you might be missing out. Whether you’re a high school senior, a future tech innovator, or the child of a public servant, the state offers more than just scenic beauty; it offers serious financial support. Keep reading to uncover the top Idaho Scholarships that can make your degree more affordable and your dreams more attainable. You won’t believe #3 on the list!

Even at public schools and universities, tuition costs are soaring nationwide, making it difficult for students from rural, agricultural regions to afford their tuition. In addition to having a large number of these students, Idaho is home to numerous organizations that offer the financial aid that Idaho students require in order to thrive. In Idaho, students looking for college scholarships have access to a wealth of resources.

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Why Apply for Scholarships in Idaho?

1. Idaho Governor’s Cup Scholarship

There are two types of the Idaho Governor’s Cup Scholarship: professional/technical and academic. Idaho residents who are seniors in high school or homeschooling are eligible to apply. Additional prerequisites include having a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher, having ACT or SAT results, having a documented commitment to public service, intending to enroll full-time in one of the approved colleges and universities for higher education, and attending the semester immediately after graduation.

In an effort to inspire high school students to pursue further education, these scholarships were created to honor the importance of public service. Each year, $3,000 is awarded. The academic has a deadline of February 15 and is renewable for up to four years. The professional/technical program is renewable for up to three years, and applications must be submitted by March 15th.

Lewis-Clark State College, Boise State University, North Idaho College, College of Southern Idaho, College of Western Idaho, Idaho State University, University of Idaho, North Idaho College, Northwest Nazarene University, BYU Idaho, and The College of Idaho are among the institutions that qualify. It is one of the Idaho scholarships designed to help students who would not be able to afford to go to college or university.

2. Presidential Scholarship – Boise State University

The Boise State University Presidential Scholarship is one of the college scholarships available in Idaho to high school students who want to enroll at Boise State University. A cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.90 or 4.0, an ACT score of 28 or higher, or a SAT score of 1300 or higher are requirements for applicants. Students must fill out the FAFSA and be enrolled full-time in a two-year program at the very least. The fall and spring application deadlines are February 15 and October 1, respectively. Each semester, $5,000 is awarded. Scholarships can be renewed.

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3. Idaho Opportunity Scholarship

The Idaho Opportunity Scholarship is another one of the need-based Idaho scholarships available to Idaho residents who have a cumulative unweighted GPA of at least 2.7. The student must have completed homeschooling or a high school program in Idaho. By March 1st, applicants must finish their FAFSA and scholarship application, and if granted, they must continue to make sufficient academic progress.

The student must enroll in one of the following colleges or universities to receive the award: Lewis-Clark State College, North Idaho College, Northwest Nazarene University, University of Idaho, Boise State University, College of Southern Idaho, College of Western Idaho, College of Eastern Idaho, and Idaho State University.

The scholarship can be renewed for a maximum of four years and provides up to $3,500 every academic year. Annual renewals are required. The Opportunity Scholarship was established by the Idaho Legislature and Governor C.L. Butch in an effort to reduce the expense of higher education for college and university students so they can get ready for the workforce.

4. Gear Up Scholarship

High school graduates in Idaho who took part in Gear Up between the fall of 2011 and the spring of 2018 are eligible to apply for the Gear Up Idaho Scholarship. To be qualified, students must meet a number of prerequisites. They must have graduated from one of the following school districts and be under 22 at the time of the award. Boundary County, Buhi, Clark County, Aberdeen, American Falls, Cottonwood, Culdesac, Emmett, Gooding, Homedale, Kellogg, Lake Pend Oreille, Lapwai, Marsing, Meadows Valley, Minidoka SD, Notus, Plummer-Worley, Ririe, Salmon, Sugar-Salem, Twin Falls, Stuart/Canyon Ridge High School, Vallivue, Weiser, West Bonner County, or West Side.

After being accepted, applicants must enroll at a public, regionally accredited, and suitable higher education institution in the state of Idaho. It is mandatory for students to complete the FAFSA. Scholarships are given out based on the number of applicants and the available funds. It is possible to prolong the scholarship for an additional four years.

5. Marsden Scholarship

The Marsden Scholarship is given to up to two high school seniors. Applicants must meet the following requirements: provide the official transcript of any for-credit courses; provide SAT or ACT scores; write a college application essay; Have a permanent legal residence with the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane; present the EFC from the FAFSA; and describe how you plan to pay for your college education, including any added scholarships. It is required that three references be given. Students don’t need to be Episcopal church members.

The George and Dorothy Marsden Scholarship was created by Mrs. Dorothy Marsden will assist Inland Northwest kids who show academic promise in realizing their greatest potential. We devote special attention to students who exhibit the potential for success and leadership, as well as the promise of academic brilliance. Submissions are accepted from February 1 through March 31. Awards of up to $7,500 are given out each year.

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Inside the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship: Your Gateway to Affordable College in 2026

One of the most significant Idaho scholarships available in the state is the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship. Idaho residents are eligible to receive the needs-based Idaho Opportunity Scholarship. The fund was established by the Idaho government to give low-income students access to Idaho scholarships. Students get an annual reward of $3,500 over four years. The scholarship is renewable; therefore, in order to continue receiving support, students must continue to make sufficient academic progress for each of the four years.

To be eligible, the student must live in Idaho and have a GPA of at least 2.7. The student must also plan to enroll in a public college or school. The qualifying universities include Boise State University, College of Idaho, Idaho State University, University of Idaho, College of Southern Idaho, and College of Western Idaho. Other public state universities are acceptable, but they have to be four-year institutions. Before dropping out, the student must have completed at least 24 postsecondary credits toward their bachelor’s degree.

The Idaho State Board of Education’s website is where you can apply for the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship. In order to assess financial need, applicants must submit the FAFSA in addition to the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship application. In order to verify income, the applications ask for a Social Security number and ask about financial condition. The Idaho Governor’s Cup Scholarship, Gear Up Scholarship, and Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners are just a few of the Idaho scholarship possibilities that can be applied for via the Idaho State Board of Education website. Each Idaho scholarship has different requirements, but eligibility is determined using similar student data.

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Can I Still Get an Idaho Scholarship Without Perfect Grades?

While high school students who thrive academically will be more eligible, good grades are not always necessary for Idaho scholarships. Some scholarship programs use different models to award money, such as the Cappex Scholarship, which uses a sweepstakes model to award $1,000 monthly to college students. Duck sponsored a contest called “Stuck at Prom,” which gives $10,000 to the winner who creates the finest prom dress or best prom tux using Duck brand tape. Many companies also create contests to provide students with scholarship money.

Additionally, certain essay scholarship programs might not require that a student’s GPA be reviewed. Only a significant essay might be reviewed by the board members in order to award funds. Scholarship committees in Idaho may need letters of recommendation in addition to the essay. In order to showcase their strengths beyond their grades, students should carefully consider who they ask for letters from.

High school students may potentially be eligible for Idaho scholarships based on financial need. In these situations, a copy of the student’s FAFSA will be requested by the scholarship boards. The FAFSA is used to gather financial information about parents and students. An estimated family contribution amount is generated based on the responses provided on the FAFSA. Despite having a poor GPA, the student may still receive financial aid via scholarships. For example, a GPA of 2.7 is all that is needed to be considered for an Idaho Scholarship Fund award. The student’s chances of obtaining the largest possible grant and loan amounts will also be increased if they can demonstrate their financial necessity.

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Are there Scholarships for Minority and At-Risk Students in Idaho?

All state students who fulfill the eligibility conditions are eligible to apply for the Idaho Minority and At-Risk Student Scholarship. Students must have completed high school in Idaho and have a GPA of at least 2.5. The maximum award value is $3,000, and the award may be renewed for a maximum of four years. For a student to be deemed at risk by the scholarship board, they must satisfy at least three requirements. Those who are disabled, show financial need, work as migrant farm laborers, are first-generation college students, or belong to a minority group are eligible for the Idaho Minority and At-Risk Student Scholarship.

Idaho students who identify as LGBT or have LGBT family members are eligible to apply for the Pride Foundation Scholarships. Students who identify as minorities or transgender are also given preference. After graduating from high school, students must either be enrolled in college or intend to do so. A commitment to social justice activities is another requirement.

There are Hispanic scholarships in Idaho offered by groups such as the Idaho Latino Scholarship Foundation. Scholarship applications from Idaho-based students of Hispanic heritage are being accepted through December 31. A completed FAFSA, two letters of recommendation, a résumé, an essay response, and a personal statement are required for the application. In order to determine the winners, the foundation members interview the scholarship finalists.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I still apply for Idaho scholarships if I plan to attend college out of state?

Most Idaho scholarships require enrollment at an in-state institution. However, some scholarships, such as private foundation or career-specific awards, may allow flexibility for students attending out-of-state schools. If your field of study isn’t offered in Idaho or you have a compelling reason, you may qualify for exceptions through alternative funding programs or reciprocal agreements with regional states.

2. What happens if I switch majors after receiving a scholarship?

Changing your major won’t necessarily disqualify you, but it depends on the scholarship. Scholarships tied to specific programs (e.g., STEM, CTE) may require you to stay within that field to continue receiving funds. Others, like the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship, are more flexible as long as you remain enrolled full-time and maintain your GPA. To prevent unintentional forfeiture, always tell your financial aid office.

3. Are Idaho scholarships available to students who are undocumented or under DACA?

This is complex but important question. While federal aid is generally restricted, some privately funded Idaho scholarships and certain institutional grants may be accessible to DACA recipients. Some Idaho colleges have also launched equity-based funds to support students regardless of immigration status. Eligibility depends on the scholarship’s source, so check each program’s specific guidelines or contact the Idaho State Board of Education for clarification.

4. Can I lose my Idaho scholarship after receiving it?

Yes, and it’s more common than you think. Scholarships often come with renewal conditions like maintaining a specific GPA, staying in a full-time course load, or completing community service. Missing deadlines, switching to part-time, or failing to file FAFSA on time can result in funding loss. Always read the fine print and stay in contact with your scholarship advisor to maintain eligibility.

5. How can volunteering or leadership roles improve my chances of winning an Idaho scholarship?

Many Idaho scholarships, such as the Governor’s Cup Scholarship, highly value leadership, civic involvement, and volunteer work. These experiences showcase your commitment to community and personal growth, making your application more compelling. Even if a scholarship is merit-based, strong extracurriculars can give you the edge in competitive pools. Including documented service hours, leadership awards, or impact stories in your application can elevate your candidacy beyond just academics.

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In conclusion, the top Idaho Scholarships in 2026 demonstrate that higher education doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. These scholarships offer more than just tuition assistance, they empower students to pursue their goals without the overwhelming burden of debt. Whether you’re applying for the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship, the prestigious Governor’s Cup, or a need-specific award like the HERO Scholarship, each program provides a meaningful step toward academic and professional success.

With support from state initiatives, local donors, and community partners, Idaho continues to invest in its students. Now is the time to take advantage of these resources. Prepare early, stay organized, and don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted application. Your educational journey could be fully funded, and it all starts with applying. Let 2026 be the year you unlock your full potential through Idaho’s generous scholarship landscape.