Scholarships

Recognizing Excellence through Scholarships

KDP proudly recognizes and celebrates members through multiple scholarships. Explore the opportunities below to learn more about eligibility and requirements. We welcome you to apply to those relevant to your current level of study, and we offer our sincere gratitude to the generous donors who have invested in educators and their future students through these scholarships!

Scholarships are a benefit for active paid members, except for the Louise Berman Fellow Award, which is also open to nonmembers. Our online scholarship applications consist of short answers, an essay on the scholarship’s prompt, unofficial transcripts, and a letter of reference. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage Policy must be followed for application submission.

Scholarship award money is to be used to advance the recipients’ studies and/or teaching careers. This can include tuition, student loans, curriculum books, technology, certification testing fees, student teaching expenses, and professional development conferences. Scholarship money will be awarded directly to the recipient via ACH. KDP will only issue funds to a US domestic bank account and will not pay to foreign banks. Recipients submit a survey to share the impact of the scholarship funds. Applications for the 2025-2026 cycle are now closed. 

 

2024-2025 Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to our 2024–2025 recipients! Click here to see the full listing.

Teacher Scholarships

Kappa Delta Pi is proud to partner with American College of Education (ACE) to offer a scholarship that covers tuition for a master’s in education program or a certificate in education program for one KDP member.  

Scholarship funds will not be paid directly to the recipient by Kappa Delta Pi or ACE. The scholarship covers program tuition only and may not be applied to a previously completed master’s or certificate program, student loans, or a current program that has already begun. The selected recipient will be responsible for any additional expenses.   

The recipient must be able to begin their program on October 5, 2026, or November 16, 2026. No alternative start dates will be offered.  

American College of Education Master’s Programs

Scholarship awards are subject to program availability at the time of enrollment and institutional discretion.  

 

  • MEd in Adult Education and Training 

  • MEd in Advanced Studies  

  • MEd in Biology Education 

  • MEd in Chemistry Education 

  • MEd in Curriculum and Instruction 

  • MEd in Early Childhood Education 

  • MEd in Educational Business Administration 

  • MEd in Educational Leadership 

  • MEd in Elementary Education 

  • MEd in English Education 

  • MEd in Health and Wellness Education 

  • MEd in Higher Education 

  • MEd in History Education 

  • MEd in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership  

  • MEd in Instructional Design and Educational Technology 

  • MEd in Literacy  

  • MEd in Mathematics Education 

  • MEd in Sociology Education  

  • MEd in Special Education 

  • MEd in STEM Education 

  • MEd in Teaching English Learners

The MA in Elementary Teaching and MA in Secondary Teaching programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved master’s programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Applicants must not already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in education. Some programs may have additional eligibility or admission requirements or may be discontinued at the institution’s discretion. Because each program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship.

Completion of an online master’s degree program does not guarantee licensure, endorsement, or certification in all states. Graduates may be required to meet additional state-specific requirements in the state where they plan to teach or serve in an administrative role. Applicants are responsible for reviewing and understanding licensure requirements in their intended state of employment. State licensing requirements and licensing agency information may be found here.  

 

American College of Education Certificate Programs

An education certificate program is a short, focused sequence of courses centered on a specific topic or skill in education. These programs can typically be completed faster than a degree and are designed to support professional development, endorsements, licensure requirements, or qualifications to teach specific courses. Education certificates can also support career advancement by helping educators meet credentialing requirements, earn salary increases, or strengthen their resumes with specialized expertise.


This scholarship covers tuition for one of the following approved programs: 

 

  • Certificate in Adult Education and Training 

  • Certificate in Advanced Graduate Study 

  • Certificate in Content Area Instruction 

  • Certificate in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership 

  • Certificate in Principal Preparation 

  • Certificate in Teaching English Learners 

  • Certificate in Texas Educational Leadership 

  • Florida Modified for Educational Leadership 

  • Illinois Certificate in English as a Second Language and Bilingual Education 

 

The Transitioning to Teaching (T2T) programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved certificate programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Some certificate programs also require a completed master’s degree and may have additional eligibility or admission requirements. Because each certificate program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship. 

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How would the American College of Education scholarship for an ACE Master of Education degree or ACE Education Certificate enhance your life and enable you to impact others?" 

Preview ACE application questions here.

Award 

Tuition for a master’s in education program valued at approximately $10,000 or a certificate in education program valued at $6,500, based on current average program costs. 

 

*This is an estimated value of the cost for tuition and fees. Amounts may vary depending on number of transfer credits applied to the selected program hours, the pace and satisfactory completion of the selected program, receipt of institutional scholarship and/or grant amounts, or adjustments to tuition or fees as described in the Catalog Right to Modify Tuition section. State sales and use tax will apply where required by law. 

 

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing K-12 educators in their first 3 years of teaching.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What is the role of service in becoming a professional educator?” An additional document is required that describes your service to the chapter, community, and profession, and how your service made a difference.

Award

$1,800 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two practicing educators in their first 5 years in the classroom.  

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Describe how this scholarship will advance your evidence-based practices and professional development as a new teacher.”

Award

$1,300 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing educators dedicated to leadership and service in KDP. 

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What are your professional and personal reasons for seeking leadership and service opportunities in KDP? How have your academic program(s) and experiences prepared you for such an endeavor?”

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Undergraduate Scholarships

Kappa Delta Pi is proud to partner with American College of Education (ACE) to offer a scholarship that covers tuition for a master’s in education program or a certificate in education program for one KDP member.  

Scholarship funds will not be paid directly to the recipient by Kappa Delta Pi or ACE. The scholarship covers program tuition only and may not be applied to a previously completed master’s or certificate program, student loans, or a current program that has already begun. The selected recipient will be responsible for any additional expenses.   

The recipient must be able to begin their program on October 5, 2026, or November 16, 2026. No alternative start dates will be offered.  

American College of Education Master’s Programs

Scholarship awards are subject to program availability at the time of enrollment and institutional discretion.  

 

  • MEd in Adult Education and Training 

  • MEd in Advanced Studies  

  • MEd in Biology Education 

  • MEd in Chemistry Education 

  • MEd in Curriculum and Instruction 

  • MEd in Early Childhood Education 

  • MEd in Educational Business Administration 

  • MEd in Educational Leadership 

  • MEd in Elementary Education 

  • MEd in English Education 

  • MEd in Health and Wellness Education 

  • MEd in Higher Education 

  • MEd in History Education 

  • MEd in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership  

  • MEd in Instructional Design and Educational Technology 

  • MEd in Literacy  

  • MEd in Mathematics Education 

  • MEd in Sociology Education  

  • MEd in Special Education 

  • MEd in STEM Education 

  • MEd in Teaching English Learners

The MA in Elementary Teaching and MA in Secondary Teaching programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved master’s programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Applicants must not already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in education. Some programs may have additional eligibility or admission requirements or may be discontinued at the institution’s discretion. Because each program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship.

Completion of an online master’s degree program does not guarantee licensure, endorsement, or certification in all states. Graduates may be required to meet additional state-specific requirements in the state where they plan to teach or serve in an administrative role. Applicants are responsible for reviewing and understanding licensure requirements in their intended state of employment. State licensing requirements and licensing agency information may be found here.  

 

American College of Education Certificate Programs

An education certificate program is a short, focused sequence of courses centered on a specific topic or skill in education. These programs can typically be completed faster than a degree and are designed to support professional development, endorsements, licensure requirements, or qualifications to teach specific courses. Education certificates can also support career advancement by helping educators meet credentialing requirements, earn salary increases, or strengthen their resumes with specialized expertise.

This scholarship covers tuition for one of the following approved programs: 

 

  • Certificate in Adult Education and Training 

  • Certificate in Advanced Graduate Study 

  • Certificate in Content Area Instruction 

  • Certificate in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership 

  • Certificate in Principal Preparation 

  • Certificate in Teaching English Learners 

  • Certificate in Texas Educational Leadership 

  • Florida Modified for Educational Leadership 

  • Illinois Certificate in English as a Second Language and Bilingual Education 

 

The Transitioning to Teaching (T2T) programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved certificate programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Some certificate programs also require a completed master’s degree and may have additional eligibility or admission requirements. Because each certificate program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship. 

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How would the American College of Education scholarship for an ACE Master of Education degree or ACE Education Certificate enhance your life and enable you to impact others?

Preview ACE application questions here.

Award 

Tuition for a master’s in education program valued at approximately $10,000 or a certificate in education program valued at $6,500, based on current average program costs. 

 

*This is an estimated value of the cost for tuition and fees. Amounts may vary depending on number of transfer credits applied to the selected program hours, the pace and satisfactory completion of the selected program, receipt of institutional scholarship and/or grant amounts, or adjustments to tuition or fees as described in the Catalog Right to Modify Tuition section. State sales and use tax will apply where required by law. 

 

Available to two undergraduate students at a college or university in Texas, with a preference for the greater Houston area.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Why do you want to be an educator?”

Award

$500 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing K–12 educators in their first 3 years of teaching.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What is the role of service in becoming a professional educator?" An additional document is required that describes your service to the chapter, community, and profession, and how your service made a difference.

Award

$1,800 for two recipients

View Form


Available to two undergraduate students with a focus on Elementary Education and Common Core Standards, with students at a Louisiana college or university given preference; scholarship open to all KDP members.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Briefly describe how you plan to implement the Common Core Standards using best practices and strategies for addressing the learning styles of each student."

Award

$1,200 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students with a major in Elementary Education and/or Early Childhood Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Upon graduation, you have been hired to teach students in a first- or second-grade self-contained classroom. Address your plan to develop your students’ reading abilities as well as their love of reading.” You are encouraged to integrate your philosophy of education into the plan as it relates to the experiences you will create in your classroom to accomplish these goals.

Award

$1,500 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in Elementary or Secondary Education at any college or university.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write a clear, thoughtful essay addressing the importance of coherent content planning to ensure excellent teaching in your particular area(s) of concentration."

Award

$1,900 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students who write a research paper based on issues that affect teachers and learning.

In lieu of an essay, please submit a research paper completed between May 1, 2025, and April 21, 2026, that was part of an undergraduate or graduate program in a recognized school or college of education. Papers will be considered based on the following criteria: significance of topic, adequacy, and appropriateness of methodology (especially those representing various methodologies, e.g., experimental, ethnographic, statistical, historical, survey), as well as writing clarity. There is not a word or character limit.

Award

$1,200 for two recipients

View Form

Available to four undergraduate or graduate students in Elementary Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What life experiences have led you to study education, and how will those experiences influence your role as an elementary educator?" An additional statement is required, demonstrating financial need. A statement could include describing the gap between financial aid and tuition costs and/or family and employment hardships.

Award

$1,300 for four recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in an Education major with PK–12 emphasis and who is a resident of Indiana or Ohio.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an original essay that reflects your reasons for wanting to be a teacher (identify level—elementary, middle, high school, college, etc.) and indicate what professional challenges you expect to face upon the completion of your degree."

Award

$1,200 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students majoring in Special Education. Graduate students must have an emphasis in dyslexia and/or autism.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Discuss your approach to working with students with special needs, particularly dyslexia and autism.” Your response should include your tailored approach to communicating with students with special needs as well as their parents regarding learning progress, social interactions, and environmental adjustments.

Award

 $1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to four undergraduate student teachers.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Write an essay that portrays your personal vision as an educator and how your student teaching experience influenced your future career goals.” An additional statement is required, demonstrating financial need. A statement could include describing the gap between financial aid and tuition costs and/or family and employment hardships.

Award

$700 for four recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in an Elementary Education major with a science, math, or technology focus.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an essay that portrays your personal vision as an educator and how you intend to make a difference in the general education of children and youth through science, math, or technology."

Award

$900 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in Instrumental Music Education (band and/or orchestra).

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an essay that portrays your personal vision as an educator and how you intend to make a difference in the musical and general education of children and youth."

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in Elementary or Secondary Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an original essay that reflects your reasons for wanting to be a teacher and indicate what professional challenges you expect to face upon the completion of your degree."

Award

$1,000 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students in Special Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What are the challenges facing teachers working with students with special needs?"

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in Education residing in Marion County, Indiana, and attending a college or university in Indiana.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an original essay that reflects your reasons for wanting to be a teacher (identify level—elementary, middle, high school, college, etc.) and indicate what professional challenges you expect to face upon the completion of your degree."

Award

$1,000 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing educators dedicated to leadership and service in KDP.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What are your professional and personal reasons for seeking leadership and service opportunities in KDP? How have your academic program(s) and experiences prepared you for such an endeavor?"

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an original essay that reflects your reasons for wanting to be a teacher (identify level—elementary, middle, high school, college, etc.) and indicate what professional challenges you expect to face upon the completion of your degree."

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students in Education at Kent State University.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an original essay that reflects your reasons for wanting to be a teacher (identify level—elementary, middle, high school, college, etc.) and indicate what professional challenges you expect to face upon the completion of your degree."

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate students at East Carolina University in Special Education or Middle Grades Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "Write an original essay that reflects your reasons for wanting to be a special education or middle grades teacher and indicate what professional challenges you expect to face upon the completion of your degree."

Award

$1,500 for two recipients

View Form

Master's Scholarships

Kappa Delta Pi is proud to partner with American College of Education (ACE) to offer a scholarship that covers tuition for a master’s in education program or a certificate in education program for one KDP member.  

Scholarship funds will not be paid directly to the recipient by Kappa Delta Pi or ACE. The scholarship covers program tuition only and may not be applied to a previously completed master’s or certificate program, student loans, or a current program that has already begun. The selected recipient will be responsible for any additional expenses.   

The recipient must be able to begin their program on October 5, 2026, or November 16, 2026. No alternative start dates will be offered.  

American College of Education Master’s Programs

Scholarship awards are subject to program availability at the time of enrollment and institutional discretion.  

 

  • MEd in Adult Education and Training 

  • MEd in Advanced Studies  

  • MEd in Biology Education 

  • MEd in Chemistry Education 

  • MEd in Curriculum and Instruction 

  • MEd in Early Childhood Education 

  • MEd in Educational Business Administration 

  • MEd in Educational Leadership 

  • MEd in Elementary Education 

  • MEd in English Education 

  • MEd in Health and Wellness Education 

  • MEd in Higher Education 

  • MEd in History Education 

  • MEd in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership  

  • MEd in Instructional Design and Educational Technology 

  • MEd in Literacy  

  • MEd in Mathematics Education 

  • MEd in Sociology Education  

  • MEd in Special Education 

  • MEd in STEM Education 

  • MEd in Teaching English Learners

The MA in Elementary Teaching and MA in Secondary Teaching programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved master’s programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Applicants must not already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in education. Some programs may have additional eligibility or admission requirements or may be discontinued at the institution’s discretion. Because each program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship.

Completion of an online master’s degree program does not guarantee licensure, endorsement, or certification in all states. Graduates may be required to meet additional state-specific requirements in the state where they plan to teach or serve in an administrative role. Applicants are responsible for reviewing and understanding licensure requirements in their intended state of employment. State licensing requirements and licensing agency information may be found here.  

 

American College of Education Certificate Programs

An education certificate program is a short, focused sequence of courses centered on a specific topic or skill in education. These programs can typically be completed faster than a degree and are designed to support professional development, endorsements, licensure requirements, or qualifications to teach specific courses. Education certificates can also support career advancement by helping educators meet credentialing requirements, earn salary increases, or strengthen their resumes with specialized expertise.

This scholarship covers tuition for one of the following approved programs: 

 

  • Certificate in Adult Education and Training 

  • Certificate in Advanced Graduate Study 

  • Certificate in Content Area Instruction 

  • Certificate in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership 

  • Certificate in Principal Preparation 

  • Certificate in Teaching English Learners 

  • Certificate in Texas Educational Leadership 

  • Florida Modified for Educational Leadership 

  • Illinois Certificate in English as a Second Language and Bilingual Education 

 

The Transitioning to Teaching (T2T) programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved certificate programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Some certificate programs also require a completed master’s degree and may have additional eligibility or admission requirements. Because each certificate program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship. 

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How would the American College of Education scholarship for an ACE Master of Education degree or ACE Education Certificate enhance your life and enable you to impact others?"

Preview ACE application questions here.

Award 

Tuition for a master’s in education program valued at approximately $10,000 or a certificate in education program valued at $6,500, based on current average program costs. 

 

*This is an estimated value of the cost for tuition and fees. Amounts may vary depending on number of transfer credits applied to the selected program hours, the pace and satisfactory completion of the selected program, receipt of institutional scholarship and/or grant amounts, or adjustments to tuition or fees as described in the Catalog Right to Modify Tuition section. State sales and use tax will apply where required by law. 

 

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing K–12 educators in their first 3 years of teaching.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What is the role of service in becoming a professional educator?" An additional document is required that describes your service to the chapter, community, and profession, and how your service made a difference.

Award

$1,800 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students who write a research paper based on issues that affect teachers and learning.

In lieu of an essay, please submit a research paper completed between May 1, 2025, and April 21, 2026, that was part of an undergraduate or graduate program in a recognized school or college of education. Papers will be considered based on the following criteria: significance of topic, adequacy, and appropriateness of methodology (especially those representing various methodologies, e.g., experimental, ethnographic, statistical, historical, survey.), as well as writing clarity. There is not a word or character limit.

Award

$1,200 for two recipients

View Form

Available to four undergraduate or graduate students in Elementary Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What life experiences have led you to study education, and how will those experiences influence your role as an elementary educator?” An additional statement is required, demonstrating financial need. A statement could include describing the gap between financial aid and tuition costs and/or family and employment hardships.

Award

$1,300 for four recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students majoring in Special Education. Graduate students must have an emphasis in dyslexia and/or autism.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Discuss your approach to working with students with special needs, particularly dyslexia and autism.” Your response should include your tailored approach to communicating with students with special needs as well as their parents regarding learning progress, social interactions, and environmental adjustments.

Award

 $1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two graduate students in Curriculum and Instruction.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What challenging demands and opportunities of the 21st century make a graduate degree program in the practices and policies of curriculum and teaching desirable?”

Award

$800 for two recipients

View Form

KDP is honored to serve as the endowment manager for the legacy of the Louise M. Berman Fellows Fund. Dr. Berman was a longtime member of KDP and an honored Laureate. Available to two graduate students at the master’s or doctoral level. Unlike the other scholarships, this award does not require KDP membership.

The purpose of this award is to advance curriculum, drive creative inquiry into the human condition, collaborate on cross-national education projects, and encourage personal growth. 

Preview Berman questions here.

Award

$2,400 for two recipients

 

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students in Special Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What are the challenges facing teachers working with students with special needs?"

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing educators dedicated to leadership and service in KDP.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What are your professional and personal reasons for seeking leadership and service opportunities in KDP? How have your academic program(s) and experiences prepared you for such an endeavor?"

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Doctoral Scholarships

Kappa Delta Pi is proud to partner with American College of Education (ACE) to offer a scholarship that covers tuition for a master’s in education program or a certificate in education program for one KDP member.  

Scholarship funds will not be paid directly to the recipient by Kappa Delta Pi or ACE. The scholarship covers program tuition only and may not be applied to a previously completed master’s or certificate program, student loans, or a current program that has already begun. The selected recipient will be responsible for any additional expenses.   

The recipient must be able to begin their program on October 5, 2026, or November 16, 2026. No alternative start dates will be offered.  

American College of Education Master’s Programs

Scholarship awards are subject to program availability at the time of enrollment and institutional discretion.  

 

  • MEd in Adult Education and Training 

  • MEd in Advanced Studies  

  • MEd in Biology Education 

  • MEd in Chemistry Education 

  • MEd in Curriculum and Instruction 

  • MEd in Early Childhood Education 

  • MEd in Educational Business Administration 

  • MEd in Educational Leadership 

  • MEd in Elementary Education 

  • MEd in English Education 

  • MEd in Health and Wellness Education 

  • MEd in Higher Education 

  • MEd in History Education 

  • MEd in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership  

  • MEd in Instructional Design and Educational Technology 

  • MEd in Literacy  

  • MEd in Mathematics Education 

  • MEd in Sociology Education  

  • MEd in Special Education 

  • MEd in STEM Education 

  • MEd in Teaching English Learners

The MA in Elementary Teaching and MA in Secondary Teaching programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved master’s programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Applicants must not already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in education. Some programs may have additional eligibility or admission requirements or may be discontinued at the institution’s discretion. Because each program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship.

Completion of an online master’s degree program does not guarantee licensure, endorsement, or certification in all states. Graduates may be required to meet additional state-specific requirements in the state where they plan to teach or serve in an administrative role. Applicants are responsible for reviewing and understanding licensure requirements in their intended state of employment. State licensing requirements and licensing agency information may be found here.  

 

American College of Education Certificate Programs

An education certificate program is a short, focused sequence of courses centered on a specific topic or skill in education. These programs can typically be completed faster than a degree and are designed to support professional development, endorsements, licensure requirements, or qualifications to teach specific courses. Education certificates can also support career advancement by helping educators meet credentialing requirements, earn salary increases, or strengthen their resumes with specialized expertise.

This scholarship covers tuition for one of the following approved programs: 

 

  • Certificate in Adult Education and Training 

  • Certificate in Advanced Graduate Study 

  • Certificate in Content Area Instruction 

  • Certificate in Instructional Coaching and Teacher Leadership 

  • Certificate in Principal Preparation 

  • Certificate in Teaching English Learners 

  • Certificate in Texas Educational Leadership 

  • Florida Modified for Educational Leadership 

  • Illinois Certificate in English as a Second Language and Bilingual Education 

 

The Transitioning to Teaching (T2T) programs are not included in this scholarship. Learn more about the approved certificate programs here.

Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree or be in the final stages of completing their bachelor’s degree, with graduation no later than July 1, 2026. Some certificate programs also require a completed master’s degree and may have additional eligibility or admission requirements. Because each certificate program is unique, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the list of approved programs and carefully read the details and admission requirements to ensure they meet the qualifications for the specific program they plan to pursue before applying for this scholarship. 

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How would the American College of Education scholarship for an ACE Master of Education degree or ACE Education Certificate enhance your life and enable you to impact others?"

Preview ACE application questions here.

Award 

Tuition for a master’s in education program valued at approximately $10,000 or a certificate in education program valued at $6,500, based on current average program costs. 

 

*This is an estimated value of the cost for tuition and fees. Amounts may vary depending on number of transfer credits applied to the selected program hours, the pace and satisfactory completion of the selected program, receipt of institutional scholarship and/or grant amounts, or adjustments to tuition or fees as described in the Catalog Right to Modify Tuition section. State sales and use tax will apply where required by law. 

 

Available to two doctoral students in Curriculum and Instruction.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development and implementation of curriculum in schools and the scholarly extension of curriculum as a field of study?”

Award

$1,300 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in Instructional Leadership at the University of Florida only.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development of instructional leadership and the scholarly extension of curriculum as a field of study?"

Award

$1,300 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in Multicultural Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How do you believe your doctoral program will enable you to impact the practical and theoretical development of more appropriate and responsible educational programs for students in multicultural settings and with multicultural content, as well as to contribute to the scholarly development of multicultural education as a field of study?"

Award

$2,000 for two recipients

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Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing K–12 educators in their first 3 years of teaching.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What is the role of service in becoming a professional educator?” An additional document is required, describing your service to the chapter, community, and profession, and how your service made a difference.

Award

$1,800 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students who write a research paper based on issues that affect teachers and learning.

In lieu of an essay, please submit a research paper completed between May 1, 2024, and April 25, 2025, that was part of an undergraduate or graduate program in a recognized school or college of education. Papers will be considered based on the following criteria: significance of topic, adequacy, and appropriateness of methodology (especially those representing various methodologies, e.g., experimental, ethnographic, statistical, historical, survey.), as well as writing clarity.

Award

$1,200 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in International and Comparative Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What impact do you see yourself having in the area of international and/or comparative education upon the completion of your doctoral degree?"

Award

$2,000 for two recipients

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Available to four undergraduate or graduate students in Elementary Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What life experiences have led you to study education, and how will those experiences influence your role as an elementary educator?” An additional statement is required, demonstrating financial need. A statement could include describing the gap between financial aid and tuition costs and/or family and employment hardships.

Award

$1,300 for four recipients

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Available to two doctoral students in Educational Administration.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development of substantively improved programs in schools, as well as extend the scholarly attention of this field to educational administration and policy analysis and development?"

Award

$1,200 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in Curriculum and Instruction.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development and implementation of curriculum in schools and the scholarly extension of curriculum as a field of study?”

Award

$3,100 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students majoring in Special Education. Graduate students must have an emphasis in dyslexia and/or autism.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “Discuss your approach to working with students with special needs, particularly dyslexia and autism.” Your response should include your tailored approach to communicating with students with special needs as well as their parents regarding learning progress, social interactions, and environmental adjustments.

Award

 $1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two graduate students in Curriculum and Instruction.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: “What challenging demands and opportunities of the 21st century make a graduate degree program in the practices and policies of curriculum and teaching desirable?”

Award

$800 for two recipients

View Form

KDP is honored to serve as the endowment manager for the legacy of the Louise M. Berman Fellows Fund. Dr. Berman was a longtime member of KDP and an honored Laureate. Available to two graduate students at the master’s or doctoral level. Unlike the other scholarships, this award does not require KDP membership.

The purpose of this award is to advance curriculum, drive creative inquiry into the human condition, collaborate on cross-national education projects, and encourage personal growth.

Preview Berman questions here.

Award

$2,400 for two recipients

 

Apply for Berman Award

 

Available to two doctoral students in Curriculum Studies or Educational Psychology.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What is the relationship between the fields of Curriculum Studies and Educational Psychology?" An additional requirement of teaching experience, preferably at the secondary level, is needed.

Award

$2,600 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate or graduate students in Special Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What are the challenges facing teachers working with students with special needs?"

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in Curriculum and Instruction.

Please choose one of the following prompts (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) on which to focus your essay:

  • If the focus is on Curriculum Development, the general essay topic is, "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development and implementation of curriculum in schools and the scholarly extension of curriculum as a field of study?"
  • If the focus is Social Studies Education, the question is, "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practice and theoretical development and implementation of social studies programs in schools and the scholarly extension of social studies education as a field of study?"
  • If the focus is on Curriculum History, the essay question is, "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree advance understanding of the historical development of the American school curriculum (in general or in a special curricular field) within a particular chronology and context?"

Award

$2,600 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in Childhood Education.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development of childhood education and the scholarly extension of curriculum as a field of study?"

Award

$1,300 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students, or practicing educators dedicated to leadership and service in KDP.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "What are your professional and personal reasons for seeking leadership and service opportunities in KDP? How have your academic program(s) and experiences prepared you for such an endeavor?"

Award

$1,400 for two recipients

View Form

Available to two doctoral students in Educational Evaluation and Technology.

The essay prompt (no more than 750 words, 3,800 characters) is: "How will your pursuit of a doctoral degree impact the practical and theoretical development of the policies and techniques of (a) educational evaluation or (b) educational technology, as well as the scholarly extension of this area as a field of study?"

Award

$900 for two recipients

View Form

Scholarship FAQs

Do I need to be an active paid member to apply?

Yes. Scholarships are a benefit for active paid members.  Membership must be active at the time of application and  when funds are awarded. The only exception is for recipients of the Louise M. Berman Fellows Award.

When are scholarships offered?

Applications for the 2025-2026 cycle are now closed. 

Which scholarships do I qualify for?

You may apply for scholarships under your current level of study and/or practice. For example, a senior undergraduate student graduating in May is eligible for undergraduate opportunities. A P-12 teacher who is also earning a master’s degree may apply for both practicing teacher opportunities and master's opportunities. 

Students pursuing Alternative Certification or Education Specialist degrees are eligible for master’s scholarship opportunities. Students in an accelerated or 5th year bachelor’s plus master’s program are eligible for undergraduate awards through their 4th year and master’s awards in their 5th year.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships?

Yes, you may apply for as many scholarships for which you qualify. Only one application per individual may be submitted for each scholarship opportunity, and a member may only receive one scholarship per cycle. If an individual is the top candidate in multiple opportunities, they will be awarded the scholarship with the largest financial award.

Can I see the application questions in advance?

You may download a copy of the scholarship questions here to prepare and save a copy of your answers. Download a copy of the Louise M. Berman Fellows Award questions here. Download a copy of the American College of Education questions here. It is highly recommended that you prepare all your materials ahead of time so you can successfully submit your online applications without the website timing out or any other technical difficulties.

Do you require official transcripts?

No, unofficial transcripts are accepted. Undergraduate and graduate student applications should include a current transcript(s) of all college work completed to date. Doctoral-level applications should include an approved program prospectus or course of study. Please note that a delay may occur in requesting this information from your institution, which you need to plan for when completing your online application.

Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation, what should it include, and how is it submitted? 

All scholarship applications require one letter of recommendation. You should use someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and experiences like a KDP chapter counselor, education professor, professional mentor, program advisor, dissertation supervisor, or employer. Letters of recommendation should not be written by family members. 

 

The letter should address your academic achievements and potential for success in your current program or stage of your career, leadership and contributions to the field of education, and any specific qualities or experiences that make you a strong candidate for a scholarship. 

 

Letters of recommendation do not need to be addressed to a specific individual, as all applications are reviewed by a team of randomly assigned reviewers. You may use your letter to apply for multiple scholarships. The letter should be sent directly to the applicant, who is responsible for uploading it as part of the application. Recommenders do not need to send letters directly to KDP. 

 

You should allow adequate time for your recommender to write the letter and to provide a clear deadline to ensure your application is fully completed and submitted on time. Please note that documents cannot be accepted after the application deadline. 

What are acceptable formats for my documents to upload?

Documents must be PDF or Word doc file types. Other file formats may not be accessible to application reviewers and could negatively impact your scores.

Are KDP Scholarships open to students who are not US citizens?

Yes. Current student members enrolled in a US college or university are eligible regardless of citizenship status. KDP will only issue funds to a US domestic bank account and will not pay to foreign banks.

Where can I find the application I want to apply to?

After logging into your KDP account, navigate to the "Scholarships" section on the menu. Click “Apply or Revise a Scholarship.” The scholarships are in categories of 1. Undergraduate Scholarships, 2. Graduate Scholarships, 3. Doctoral Scholarships, 4. Practicing Educator Scholarships, 5. Drummond Scholarship, 6. Hostetler Scholarship, 7. Marsh Scholarship, and 8. Shaw Scholarship. To apply for the Louise M. Berman Fellows Award, click "Apply for Berman Fellows Fund Award." To apply for the American College of Education Scholarship, click "Apply or Revise an ACE Scholarship."

Who do I contact if I have further questions about applying?

Please reach out to Marissa Shelburn at mshelburn@kdp.org.