Pay Less for College: Scholarships for St. Louis Students

November 18, 2025

Posted by STLCC in Paying for College 

College costs can add up quickly. Tuition, books, supplies, transportation and everyday expenses can make paying for school feel overwhelming.

Scholarships can help lower those costs. Some are based on financial need, while others support students who are involved on campus, play sports, transfer to a four-year school or are close to finishing their degree.

This guide highlights scholarship options for STLCC students and simple steps that can help you apply with more confidence.

Step 1: Start With STLCC Foundation Scholarships

STLCC Foundation scholarships are a strong place to begin because one application connects you to dozens of donor-funded awards. Scholarship amounts and requirements vary. Some may ask for an essay, recommendation or additional information.

If you’re not sure which scholarship fits, start here. The application can help match you with opportunities based on your information, program, goals or financial need.

Step 2: Check State and Need-Based Aid

Some scholarships and grants are based on financial need, which means your income and college costs may be considered. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is often an important first step because it helps determine what types of aid you may qualify for.

Need-based options may include:

• Access Missouri Grant: A state grant for eligible Missouri residents with financial need. Funds can help cover tuition.
• PepsiCo Foundation Uplift Scholarship: An award that supports underrepresented students in fields such as business, technology, manufacturing, hospitality and accounting. It may provide up to $2,000 per year for tuition, books or other expenses.
• A+ Scholarship Program: Tuition support for students who completed the A+ program at a Missouri high school and meet eligibility requirements.

Step 3: Look for Scholarships Based on Involvement

Some scholarships recognize students who take part in campus life, help others or serve in leadership roles. These awards can be a good fit if you’re involved in student clubs and organizations, student activities or peer support.

• Board of Trustees Scholarship: Covers full tuition for eligible students who stay involved in campus clubs or organizations and maintain strong grades. Students who qualify are automatically considered.
• Student Leadership Scholarship: Supports students who take on leadership roles such as planning events, mentoring students or helping with student organizations. Campus staff nominate students for this award.

Step 4: Review Athletic Scholarships

If you’re a student athlete, scholarship options may help with tuition while you balance classes, practices and competitions.

• STLCC Athletic Scholarship: Available for students participating in intercollegiate sports.
• Curt Smith Sporting Goods Scholarship: Available for students from the St. Louis region who participated in high school sports and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship may be renewed each year.

Step 5: Look Ahead to Graduation or Transfer

Some scholarships are designed for students who are close to finishing a degree or planning to continue at a four-year school.

• Last Chance Grant: Designed for students who are close to finishing their degree but need help paying for final courses.
• Hites Foundation Community College Transfer Scholarship: A national scholarship for top community college students planning to transfer to a four-year school.

If transfer is part of your plan, STLCC’s transfer advising resources can help you understand next steps.

Step 6: Complete the FAFSA

The FAFSA helps determine whether you qualify for grants, scholarships, work-study or loans. Even if you’re not sure you qualify, completing the FAFSA can open the door to more funding options.

You can also review STLCC’s financial aid resources to learn more about grants, loans, work-study and other ways to pay for college.

Step 7: Get Organized Before You Apply

A little planning can make the scholarship process less stressful. Before you start applying, gather the information you may need.

• Check scholarship deadlines and add them to a calendar.
• Save your essays, recommendation letters and application materials in one place.
• Ask teachers, coaches, employers or community leaders for recommendations early.
• Check your STLCC email regularly for updates, requests and award notices.
• Keep applying, even if you don’t receive every award.

Common Questions About Scholarships

Can I apply for more than one scholarship at a time?
Yes. Many students apply for multiple scholarships. Even small awards can add up and help cover tuition, books or supplies.

Do I need perfect grades to qualify?
No. Some scholarships consider grade point average, but many also look at leadership, involvement, financial need or other requirements.

Can part-time or returning students apply?
Yes. STLCC offers scholarship options for part-time students, adult learners and students returning to school after time away. Review each scholarship’s eligibility requirements before applying.

How much can scholarships cover?
It depends on the scholarship. Some awards provide a few hundred dollars, while others may cover full tuition or specific costs like books and fees.

Where will I find scholarship updates?
Most updates come through your STLCC email. Check it often so you don’t miss deadlines or requests for more information.

Find Scholarships That Fit You

Scholarships can make college more affordable, but you may need to take the first step. Start with the STLCC Foundation scholarship application, complete the FAFSA and review awards that match your goals, background or program.

If you need help, STLCC’s enrollment services team can answer questions and guide you through the process.