Scholarships are a lifeline for students aiming to reduce the financial burden of higher education. While most scholarships have strict annual deadlines, some offer rolling deadlines, meaning applications are accepted and reviewed throughout the year until funds are exhausted. This flexibility allows students to apply at different times, increasing their chances of securing funding.
Rolling deadline scholarships are especially beneficial for students who miss traditional cut-off dates, transfer students, or those starting their studies mid-year. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of such scholarships, top programs offering them, and tips for applying successfully.
Why Rolling Deadline Scholarships Are Important
Unlike scholarships with fixed dates, rolling deadline scholarships give you more control over your application timing. They:
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Offer flexibility – Apply when you are ready and have your documents prepared.
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Increase opportunities – You’re not limited to a once-a-year application window.
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Support mid-year admissions – Ideal for students starting their studies in non-traditional semesters.
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Allow multiple attempts – If unsuccessful, you may be able to reapply sooner rather than waiting a full year.
However, because these scholarships remain open until funds run out, applying early is still crucial.
Top Scholarships with Rolling Deadlines
Here are some well-regarded scholarships that accept applications year-round or on a rolling basis.
1. Fulbright Program (Selected Countries)
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Eligibility: Varies by country; generally open to graduates, professionals, and researchers.
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Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, travel, and health insurance.
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Why It’s Unique: While some Fulbright awards have fixed deadlines, others operate on a rolling basis depending on country programs and funding cycles.
2. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Scholarships (Some Categories)
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Eligibility: High school seniors and certain community college students in the U.S.
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Coverage: Up to $20,000 for tuition and related expenses.
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Why It’s Unique: While the main Coca-Cola scholarship has set deadlines, many partner or affiliated awards offer rolling applications throughout the year.
3. Golden Key International Honour Society Scholarships
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Eligibility: Members of the Golden Key Honour Society, including undergraduate and graduate students.
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Coverage: $1,000–$10,000 depending on the program.
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Why It’s Unique: Multiple awards run on a rolling basis with several review dates each year.
4. Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG)
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Eligibility: Women from developing countries enrolled in U.S., Canadian, or South African universities.
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Coverage: Educational grants up to $15,000.
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Why It’s Unique: While specific regions may have deadlines, others accept rolling applications until funds are allocated.
5. P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS) – Supplemental Funding
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Eligibility: Women from outside the U.S. and Canada studying at accredited institutions in those countries.
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Coverage: Up to $12,500.
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Why It’s Unique: Certain supplemental or emergency funds are available on a rolling basis for urgent student needs.
6. Google Career Certificate Scholarships
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Eligibility: Open to learners interested in Google’s professional certificate programs.
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Coverage: Full cost of certification courses.
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Why It’s Unique: Applications for scholarships are often accepted year-round as spots become available.
7. UNESCO Fellowships
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Eligibility: Students, researchers, and professionals seeking training in specific fields.
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Coverage: Tuition, living costs, and travel.
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Why It’s Unique: Many UNESCO fellowships review applications on a rolling basis depending on available projects.
How to Approach Rolling Deadline Scholarships
Even though these scholarships are more flexible, a strategic approach can significantly improve your chances.
1. Apply Early
Rolling deadlines do not mean unlimited time. Many programs close applications once funding runs out for the year. Applying early increases your chances before resources are exhausted.
2. Have Documents Ready Year-Round
Prepare the following in advance so you can apply quickly when opportunities open:
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Updated resume or CV
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Academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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Proof of enrollment or admission
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Personal statement
3. Track Multiple Scholarships at Once
Maintain a spreadsheet of rolling deadline scholarships with details like eligibility, award amount, and status. This helps you prioritize and avoid missing opportunities.
4. Customize Applications
Even with rolling deadlines, avoid sending generic applications. Tailor each submission to align with the funder’s goals and values.
5. Follow Up
If you don’t hear back, follow up politely to confirm your application status. Some rolling scholarships provide feedback, which can help you improve future applications.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Rolling Deadline Scholarships
Advantages:
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Greater flexibility and accessibility
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Increased opportunities for mid-year or late applicants
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Potential for multiple submission attempts within a year
Disadvantages:
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Funds may be depleted before you apply
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Less predictable review and notification timelines
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Higher competition as applications arrive year-round
Where to Find Rolling Deadline Scholarships
Finding scholarships with rolling deadlines requires consistent research. Good sources include:
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University Financial Aid Offices – Some internal scholarships operate on a rolling basis.
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Scholarship Search Engines – Websites like ScholarshipPortal, Fastweb, and ProFellow filter by rolling deadlines.
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Professional Associations – Many industry groups have year-round funding for members.
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Nonprofit and Government Programs – Certain grants and aid packages remain open as funds allow.
Final Thoughts
Rolling deadline scholarships are a golden opportunity for students who value flexibility and quick application responses. They can be a lifeline for those who miss traditional deadlines, begin studies mid-year, or need immediate funding.
The key is to treat these scholarships with the same urgency as fixed-deadline opportunities. Apply early, prepare your documents in advance, and actively track available programs. With the right approach, rolling deadline scholarships can provide the support you need to pursue your academic goals without financial strain.