National Scholarships

Purpose

The National Scholarships are the most prestigious, high-dollar scholarships offered by the AWS Foundation. More than 130 donor-funded scholarships, totaling over $700,000, are available for students pursuing a bachelor’s or associate degree in welding or a related discipline. Scholarships range from $2,500-$10,000+. Applicants are required to submit two references and official transcripts.

Eligibility Requirements

For National Scholarships:

• Two letters of recommendations are required.
• Applicant must have an official transcript sent by email or mail directly from the school or third-party transcript provider.
• Some National Scholarships require demonstrated financial need, which means the cost of attendance exceeds the Student Aid Index (SAI) as found on the FAFSA Submission Summary. The FAFSA Submission Summary must be submitted in addition to cost of attendance documentation to be eligible for these scholarships.
• Some scholarships require, or have a preference for, applicants to be a member of AWS. To apply for an AWS student membership, please visit the Student Membership page.

Submission Deadline

The deadline to apply for all National Scholarships is March 1st for funds to be used in the fall term.

Application

The Online Scholarship Application includes the following components:

• Personal Statement Questions

  Essay questions include:

  • General Background Statement
  • Welding and/or Work Experience
  • Career Objectives and Goals
• Cost of Attendance
  You must upload a summary of your school costs, which may include tuition, fees, books, or supplies required for the course of instruction.
• Transcript
  You must submit an official transcript from the school you most recently attended, which may be your high school, trade school, college or university.
• Letters of Recommendation (Required for National Scholarships)
  You must request two letters of recommendation from teachers, work supervisors, mentors, coaches, youth group, troop leaders, or other individuals that can attest to your work ethic and past accomplishments. An automated email will be sent, and your recommender will be asked to submit a letter of reference through the online system.
• FAFSA Submission Summary (Optional)
  If you have completed the FAFSA, and your school’s Cost of Attendance exceeds your Student Aid Index (SAI), then you may submit the FAFSA Submission Summary to be considered for Need-based National Scholarships.
• Headshot Photo
  You must submit a headshot photo.The photo will only be used for promotional purposes if selected for a scholarship.

Important Note Regarding the Use of AI
We understand that artificial intelligence (AI) tools are becoming increasingly common. While the use of AI to assist in drafting your personal essay statements is not prohibited, please keep in mind that our reviewers are looking for authenticity and originality. We encourage applicants to share real-life experiences, personal anecdotes, and genuine reflections that highlight your unique journey, goals, and character.  Our reviewers will be looking for who you truly are beyond AI-generated content. Authentic stories and personal background will carry more weight in the evaluation process.

Selection

The recipient will be chosen by the AWS Foundation Education Scholarship Committee.

Awards

Each of the national scholarships are worth a minimum of $2,500 annually. No awards will be paid to the recipient. AWS Scholarships can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the course of instruction. Scholarship funds will be made payable and sent directly to the educational institution. Scholarships may be redeemed for one year from the date awarded.

AWS Foundation National Scholarships

Questions

If you have any questions, please contact foundation@aws.org.