Pay Less for College: Scholarships for St. Louis Students
November 18, 2025
Posted by STLCC in Paying for College
College can get expensive fast, and paying for classes, books and supplies can feel overwhelming. You might be working while going to school, raising a family or returning after time away. Maybe you’re just out of high school or starting a new career. No matter your situation, you deserve support that helps you keep moving forward.
The good news is that St. Louis students have access to a variety of scholarships to help cover tuition and ease financial stress. Some scholarships reward leadership or campus involvement. Others focus on financial need. There are even awards for student athletes, students finishing their degree or students preparing for high-demand careers in Missouri. With the right scholarships, you can focus on learning and reaching your goals instead of worrying about how to pay for school.
This guide highlights key scholarships for students at STLCC and provides tips to help you apply with confidence.
Funding Options to Make College More Affordable
If you’re looking for ways to lower your college expenses, these scholarships can provide meaningful support.
Scholarships for Students with Financial Need
STLCC Foundation Scholarships
A single application connects you to dozens of donor-funded scholarships. Awards vary
in amount and may require an essay or recommendation. Great option if you want to
explore multiple opportunities at once.
Access Missouri Grant
A state grant for eligible Missouri residents with financial need. Funds go straight toward tuition, helping make community college
more affordable.
PepsiCo Foundation Uplift Scholarship
Supports underrepresented students in fields like business, tech, manufacturing, hospitality,
accounting and more. Offers up to $2,000 per year to help cover tuition, books or
other expenses.
A+ Scholarship Program
If you completed the A+ program at a Missouri high school, you may qualify for tuition
coverage at STLCC. A strong option for students starting their degree close to home.
Scholarships for Campus Involvement and Leadership
Board of Trustees Scholarship
Covers full tuition for students who stay involved in campus clubs or organizations
and keep up good grades. If you qualify, you’re automatically considered, no extra
application required.
Student Leadership Scholarship
For students who take on visible leadership roles like planning events, mentoring
other students or helping run student organizations. Campus staff nominate students
based on their contributions.
Scholarships for Student Athletes
STLCC Athletic Scholarship
For students participating in intercollegiate sports. Helps student-athletes balance
tuition costs with their academic and athletic schedules.
Curt Smith Sporting Goods Scholarship
For students from the St. Louis region who participated in high school sports and
demonstrate financial need. Can be renewed each year.
Scholarships for Students Close to Graduating or Transferring
Last Chance Grant
Designed for students who are close to finishing their degree but need help paying
for their final courses.
Hites Foundation Community College Transfer Scholarship
A national scholarship for top community college students planning to transfer to
a four-year school. Offers financial support as you continue toward a bachelor’s degree.
How to Apply for Scholarships
- Fill out the FAFSA – The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) shows schools and scholarship programs how much financial help you need. Even if you don’t think you qualify for federal aid, completing the FAFSA can unlock state grants, STLCC Foundation scholarships and other awards.
- Apply early – Many scholarships have deadlines months before the semester starts. Don’t wait until the last minute. Use a calendar or set reminders so you don’t miss anything.
- Write a clear essay – Some scholarships ask for an essay about your goals, experiences or why you need help. Be honest, tell your story and explain what makes you unique. Scholarship committees want to know you, not just your grades.
- Ask for recommendations – Teachers, coaches or community leaders can write letters that support your application. Give them enough time and share details about the scholarship so their letters are strong and relevant.
- Check your STLCC email – Scholarship updates, requests and award letters often come by email. Check your inbox a few times a week and respond quickly to requests for additional information.
- Stay organized – Keep all your applications, essays and recommendation letters in one place. Tracking what you’ve submitted and what’s still due will make the process much easier.
- Keep applying – You won’t win every scholarship, and that’s okay. The more you apply for, the better your chances of getting help with tuition.
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 add up and can
cover tuition, book or supplies.
Do I need perfect grades to qualify?
No. While some scholarships consider grade point average (GPA), many also reward leadership,
involvement or financial need. There are options for a wide range of students.
Can part-time or returning students apply for scholarships?
Yes. STLCC offers scholarships for part-time students, adult learners and those returning
to school after a break. Check each scholarship’s eligibility requirements.
How much can scholarships cover?
It depends. Some scholarships provide a few hundred dollars, while others may cover
full tuition or specific costs like books and fees.
Where will I find scholarship notifications?
Most updates come through your STLCC email. Check it regularly so you don’t miss deadlines
or requests for additional information.
Have more questions?
If you need help or want to learn about scholarships that fit your situation, reach
out to STLCC's enrollment services team. They can answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Find Scholarships That Fit You
Paying for college can feel like a lot, but scholarships can help. Check out the awards you qualify for, apply to the ones that match your goals and start saving money for tuition, books and more. Every scholarship you go after is a step toward making college easier on your wallet.
