Scholarships
If you are currently enrolled, or will soon enroll, in a welding program or a related field, then consider applying for our scholarships. Scholarships are available for students attending trade schools, community colleges, and four-year universities. An AWS Foundation scholarship can be the extra push that helps you fulfill your goals!
Applications for 2023-24 National, District, and Section Scholarships are closed.
Individuals in short-term welder training programs can apply for the Welder Training Scholarship year-round at scholarship.aws.org.
Check back December 1st to apply for National, District, and Section Scholarships.
AWS Foundation Scholarships are for tuition, fees, books, supplies, or equipment required for the course of instruction. Scholarship awards will be payable and mailed directly to the academic or training institution.
National, District, and Section Scholarships
| Important Dates | |
|---|---|
December 1st | Applications open for 2023-24 Scholarships |
March 1st | Deadline to apply for National, District, and Section Scholarships |
May-June | Selections made for National and District Scholarships |
May-July | Selections made for Section Scholarships |
National Scholarships
More than 130 donor-funded scholarships, totaling over $600,000, are available for students pursuing a bachelor’s or associate degree in welding or a related discipline. Scholarships range from $3,000-$6,000+. Applicants are required to submit two references and official transcripts.
View additional information about individual National Scholarships offered
District Scholarships
A minimum of $15,000 is available in each of AWS's 22 Districts for students pursuing a degree or certificate in a welding or welding-related program. Scholarships typically range from $1,000 to $2,500+.
Additional information about District Scholarships including application deadlines
Section and District Named Scholarships
Many AWS Sections have scholarships funded by local members, companies, and donors, designated for students in the Section. Scholarships range from $1,000-$3,000+.
Eligibility, application process, and deadlines vary for some Section Scholarships. Please check your local AWS Section website for additional information related to local scholarships. To find your section, visit www.aws.org/sections.
Learn more about AWS Section Scholarships.
Welder Training Scholarships
| Important Dates | |
|---|---|
December 1st - November 30th | Applications accepted for 2023-24 Welder Training Scholarships |
January 15th - December 15th | Selections made on a rolling basis |
The AWS Welder Training Scholarship is for students seeking training to become a welder in a certificate program less than two years in length at a trade school, community college, or other facility providing welder training.
In 2023, up to 800 - $1,000 scholarships will be awarded.
Applications are accepted year-round and selections are made on a rolling basis until the District awards the designated funds for the year. The current application cycle is open to students attending school or training prior to September 2024.
View additional information about the Welder Training Scholarship, along with the application
Educator Professional Development Scholarships
Welding Educator Professional Development Scholarships are for current welding educators to pursue continuing education or professional development.
Deadline to apply is April 1.
View additional information about the National and District Educator Scholarships
International Scholarship
International Scholarships are awarded to full-time international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in joining sciences. Applicants can be matriculating in accredited joining science programs at an institution located anywhere in the world.