Interest in Buddhism has been growing steadily around the world, with an increasing number of people worldwide embracing the ideologies of this ancient religion. If you plan on studying Buddhism in college, you should look into applying for scholarships that will help fund your education. In addition to exploring scholarships that are earmarked for Buddhist students, in particular, you should also look into general religious scholarships that students of any religious studies program can apply to.
We’ve put together information about a few scholarships dedicated specifically to Buddhist students.
Khyentse Foundation Buddhist Studies Scholarships
Amount: $500 — $3,000
Deadline: January 15; July 15
Khyentse Foundation, a non-profit organization, promotes Buddhism by offering scholarships to support students who wish to study this religion. Students, as well as teachers and scholars, may apply. The award amount ranges from $500 to $3,000.
Khyentse Foundation accepts scholarship applications twice a year. A hand-picked international selection committee evaluates all applications. All applications must include a 400-word essay. The committee gives preference to applicants who submit a clear budget.
Frederick P. Lenz Foundation Merit Scholarship
Amount: $10,000 — $15,000
Deadline: March 1
The Frederick P. Lenz Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship is administered by the Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. The aim of this scholarship is to support Buddhist students so that they can use their advanced knowledge of Dharma to make significant contributions to the development of American Buddhism.
The Frederick P. Lenz Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship offers eligible students $10,000 to $15,000 for every academic year while meeting the academic requirements of the program. Recipients can renew the scholarship every year provided that they remain full-time students and maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA.
The scholarship awards US citizens and legal permanent residents who can demonstrate their commitment to promoting and contributing to the growth of American Buddhism. You will have to submit a cover letter outlining how you aim to do this.
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| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
5.50%-16.12%* Variable
3.99%-15.61%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
5.54% - 15.70% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
4.63% - 17.99% Variable
3.49% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
5.66% - 14.72% Variable
3.69% - 14.56% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 16.85% Variable
3.69% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
5.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
