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.

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.