Education is the foundation of a strong society. It helps shape future generations and creates opportunities for progress.
In North Carolina, teachers are essential in giving students the knowledge and skills they need to develop academically and personally.
However, North Carolina, like many other states, is facing a teacher shortage. This has been brought about by retirements, an increase in the student population, and fewer people entering the profession.
Schools are struggling to fill teaching positions, and there is an urgent need to attract and keep qualified teachers.
One of the best ways to help both new and current teachers is through scholarships. Financial aid programs allow people to follow their dream of becoming a teacher without taking on a lot of student debt.
North Carolina offers many teacher scholarships that help alleviate the financial burden and encourage more people to join the profession or continue their education.
In this guide, we’ll highlight scholarships available for those who are committed to shaping the future of students in North Carolina.
Let’s get started.
Advantages of Teacher Scholarships
Aspiring teachers often face big financial challenges when trying to get their education and certification. Tuition fees, costs for teacher training programs, and expenses for licensing exams accumulate, making it hard for many to pursue a teaching career.
Teacher scholarships help solve this problem by reducing or even removing these financial burdens.
Once it’s more affordable to become a teacher, more talented people who might not have been able to afford it can pursue teaching. This helps ensure North Carolina has more skilled and passionate educators ready to teach future generations.
Teacher scholarships are especially important in rural and underserved areas of North Carolina. These regions often have a hard time finding and keeping teachers because of limited resources or their remote locations.
Many scholarships offer special incentives for teaching in these high-need areas, helping ensure that all students, no matter where they live, have access to qualified teachers.
Types of Teacher Scholarships in North Carolina
There are many types of scholarships available for aspiring teachers in North Carolina, and each one is designed with a specific goal in mind.
Some scholarships focus on helping students who want to teach in high-need subjects like science, math, or special education, while others encourage teaching in rural or underserved areas where good teachers are needed most.
There are also scholarships for students from low-income families, those with strong academic achievements, or individuals who already work in education and want to further their careers.
In this section, we will discuss the different types of teacher scholarships that are available. We’ll explain who each scholarship is for, what it offers, and the basic requirements to apply. This way, you can easily find the options you are eligible for and choose the ones that best match your goals.
State-Funded Scholarships
State-funded scholarships are financial aid programs provided by the government of North Carolina to help aspiring teachers cover the costs of their education.
These scholarships are often created to address specific needs in the state, such as teacher shortages in certain subjects or areas. The state aims to attract more talented individuals into the teaching profession by offering financial support.
Common requirements include:
- Being a resident of North Carolina.
- Enrolling in an approved teacher preparation program or education degree.
- Maintaining a minimum GPA (usually around 3.0 or higher).
- Agreeing to teach in North Carolina for a certain number of years.
Here are some of the state-funded scholarships in North Carolina:
1. North Carolina Teaching Fellows Program
The North Carolina Teaching Fellows Program is a state-funded scholarship designed to recruit and support future teachers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and special education.
This scholarship provides financial assistance to aspiring educators who commit to teaching in North Carolina after graduation.
The program offers up to $5,000 per semester for a total of up to $10,000 per year. To qualify, you must enroll in an approved educator preparation program at one of the participating universities in the state.
2. The Next NC Scholarship
The Next NC Scholarship is a state-funded financial aid program aimed at helping North Carolina residents afford higher education. While not exclusively for future teachers, aspiring educators who meet the eligibility criteria can benefit.
The Scholarship helps reduce the financial burden of attending college, making higher education more accessible.
Students must be enrolled at least half-time in an undergraduate degree program at a public university in North Carolina or a participating North Carolina Community College.
Eligibility is determined based on financial need, which is assessed through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Community college students get $3,000, while those enrolled at a university get at least $5,000.
University-Based Scholarships
University-funded scholarships for teachers in North Carolina are financial aid programs provided directly by colleges and universities within the state.
These scholarships are designed to support aspiring educators by helping them afford tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses.
Universities establish these scholarships to attract talented students to their teacher preparation programs and to address the need for qualified educators in North Carolina.
Common eligibility criteria across these programs include:
- Applicants must be enrolled or accepted into an education or teacher preparation program at the university offering the scholarship.
- Many scholarships require a minimum GPA, typically ranging from 3.0 to 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Some scholarships are need-based, requiring students to demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Many university-funded scholarships prioritize North Carolina residents, though some may be available to out-of-state students.
Let’s look at some university-funded scholarships in North Carolina.
3. East Carolina UniversityCollege of Education Scholarships
The College of Education at East Carolina University offers $ 200,000 in scholarships to support aspiring teachers pursuing their degrees.
ECU’s scholarships aim to support future educators by rewarding academic achievement, financial need, and commitment to teaching.
To be eligible, students must be admitted to or enrolled in an ECU education program and have a minimum GPA of 2.75.
The amount varies from $250 to $5,000 per year for each beneficiary.
4. North Carolina State University (NCSU) College of Education Scholarships
The North Carolina State University (NCSU) College of Education offers a range of scholarships to help future teachers achieve their educational and professional goals.
These scholarships recognize academic achievement, provide financial assistance, and encourage students to pursue careers in teaching.
Eligibility is as follows:
- Students must be enrolled in the College of Education at NCSU.
- Many scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Applicants may need to demonstrate financial need (FAFSA submission required for need-based awards).
- Some scholarships prioritize students who plan to teach in subjects like STEM, special education, or rural school districts.
Awards vary depending on the scholarship, ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 annually. Some programs may provide additional support for student teaching or research.
Notable scholarships include:
- Ruth L and Herbert E Speece Scholarship
- Clarence POE Endowed Scholarship
- CATO Teacher Education Scholarship
- Transformational scholarships program
- Mavin Bradley Smith Scholarship
5. TEACH Grant
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant is a federal program that provides financial help to students who want to become teachers.
It is aimed at those willing to teach in high-need subjects and low-income schools. The grant offers significant financial support. However, it comes with specific rules that must be followed to avoid turning it into a loan that needs to be paid back.
To apply:
- You must be enrolled in a TEACH Grant-approved program at a participating college or university.
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 or score in the top 25% on a college admissions test.
- Complete TEACH Grant counseling to understand the program rules.
- Sign an Agreement to Serve every year, promising to work full-time as a teacher in a high-need subject for at least four years within eight years of finishing your program.
The grant offers up to $4,000 per year in financial aid for students pursuing a degree in education.
If you don’t meet the teaching requirements, the grant will turn into a Direct Unsubsidized Loan that you must repay, including interest.
The TEACH Grant is a great opportunity for students who are dedicated to teaching critical subjects in schools that need it most. However, you must be sure you can meet all the program’s rules to avoid having to repay the money as a loan.
Private and Nonprofit Scholarships
Private and non-profit scholarships are financial aid programs funded by private organizations, foundations, and charities. These scholarships aim to support future and current educators by helping them cover the costs of their education and training.
Unlike state or university-funded programs, private and non-profit scholarships often have specific goals.
For example, supporting STEM subject areas, helping marginalized groups enter the teaching profession, and supporting career growth for current teachers who want to continue their education or specialize in certain fields.
In this section, we will explore some of the top private and non-profit scholarships available for educators in North Carolina so you can find the opportunities that best fit your goals and needs.
6. Golden LEAF Foundation Scholarships
The Golden LEAF Foundation Scholarships are designed to support students from rural or economically distressed areas in North Carolina who want to pursue higher education, including those aspiring to become teachers.
This scholarship aims to help students who plan to give back to their communities by working and serving in rural areas after graduation.
To be eligible:
- Applicants must reside in a qualifying rural or economically distressed county in North Carolina.
- Must attend a participating North Carolina college, university, or community college.
- Demonstrate financial need through FAFSA or other financial aid forms.
- Show a commitment to returning to rural communities after completing their education.
The scholarship offers up to $3,500 per year for students attending a four-year program and up to $1,500 per year for students at community colleges.
7. Mary Morrow-Edna Richards Scholarship
The Mary Morrow-Edna Richards Scholarship is a program from the North Carolina Foundation for Public School Children (NCFPSC).
It helps students who want to become teachers in North Carolina. This scholarship honors two outstanding educators, Mary Frank Morrow and Edna Cotton Richards, who worked hard to improve education in the state.
Eligibility criteria is as follows:
- Students in their junior year of college or senior year of high school.
- You must be a North Carolina resident and enrolled (or planning to enroll) in a teacher-education program.
- You must agree to teach in North Carolina public schools for at least two years after graduating.
To apply, submit an application on the NCFPSC website by February 15 each year. The selection is based on financial need, diversity, and academic performance.
The number of scholarships and the amount of money awarded change each year, depending on the funds available. If chosen, the scholarship money is sent directly to your college or university.
Local and District-Based Initiatives
Many counties and school districts offer scholarships to encourage local people to become teachers and meet the educational needs in their communities.
These programs often aim to develop local talent and keep teachers in the areas where they are needed.
Let’s look at some examples of these scholarships in North Carolina.
8. Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) Future Teacher Program
The Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) Future Teacher Program is designed to support local students who want to become teachers in Wake County.
This scholarship program helps students by providing financial assistance to pursue teaching degrees, with the goal of encouraging them to stay in the area and teach in local schools.
To qualify applicants must be residents of Wake County and be enrolled in a college or university education program or plan to enroll soon.
The scholarship is open to both high school seniors and current college students who plan to pursue a teaching career.
The exact amount awarded can vary depending on available funding and the number of applicants.
Recipients are encouraged to work in local schools after they graduate, helping to meet the area’s ongoing need for qualified teachers.
9. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Grow Your Own Scholarship
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Grow Your Own Scholarship is focused on helping local residents pursue teaching careers by providing financial support for those who want to become teachers in their community.
The program focuses on attracting and supporting individuals dedicated to teaching in CMS schools, particularly those passionate about working in high-need areas.
Applicants must be residents of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and agree to work as teachers in CMS schools for a set period after completing their degree.
The Grow Your Own Scholarship is part of CMS’s effort to develop local talent and address the district’s teacher shortages.
Requirements for Teacher Scholarships In North Carolina
Each scholarship has its own criteria, such as academic achievements or a commitment to teaching in specific areas.
Understanding these requirements is important so you can determine which scholarships you may qualify for and how to apply for them successfully.
In this section, we will go over the different requirements for eligibility and the application process for the various teacher scholarships in North Carolina.
1. Academic Requirements
To be eligible for many teacher scholarships in North Carolina, you need to meet certain academic standards, including your GPA and test scores.
Many state-funded scholarships require a minimum GPA of around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. University-funded scholarships may have a slightly higher GPA requirement, typically between 3.0 and 3.5.
The TEACH Grant, a federal scholarship, has its own GPA requirement. You must maintain a GPA of at least 3.25 to stay eligible for the grant.
In addition to GPA, some scholarships may also require standardized test scores. These tests help measure your academic readiness for the teaching profession.
Be sure to check the specific test scores required for each scholarship because they vary depending on the program.
2. Commitment to Teaching in Specific Areas/Subjects
A common requirement for many teacher scholarships is a commitment to teaching in specific subject areas or underserved regions.
Many scholarships prioritize applicants who plan to teach in critical fields, including:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Special Education
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Advanced Placement (AP) or dual enrollment courses
Applicants may also be required to commit to teaching in rural or underserved communities within North Carolina to address local teacher shortages.
3. Residency Requirements for State or District Scholarships
Residency requirements are in place to ensure that scholarship funds are given to individuals who are from the local area and are more likely to return and contribute to local schools after completing their education.
Residency means the place where you live and consider your home. There are two types of residency to be aware of:
- State residency refers to living in the state of North Carolina.
- District residency refers to living in a specific school district, such as Wake County or Guilford County.
You’ll need proof of your residency to apply for many state or district scholarships.
Here are some common ways to prove where you live:
- A valid state-issued ID or driver’s license
- Voter registration
- Utility bills or lease agreements
How to Apply for a Teacher Scholarship in North Carolina
The process of applying for scholarships may seem complicated, but by staying organized and following the right steps, you can make sure your application is complete and on time.
We’ll cover what you need to do so you can apply with confidence and increase your chances of receiving the scholarship.
1. Research Available Scholarships
The first step in applying for a teacher scholarship is to research the scholarships available to you.
Start by looking at the different options we’ve discussed, such as state-funded, university-funded, and private scholarships.
Each scholarship has its own requirements. Take your time to read through the eligibility criteria for each one and make a list of scholarships that you qualify for. T
For information about available scholarships, you can check scholarship websites, talk to your school counselor, or visit university and local government websites.
2. Prepare Application Materials
The next step is to prepare all the materials you’ll need for your scholarship application. This includes documents like your transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of eligibility.
Start by gathering your most recent academic transcript. If the scholarship requires recommendation letters, ask teachers, counselors, or employers well in advance so they have time to write thoughtful letters.
You may also need to write an essay or personal statement explaining why you want to become a teacher, what your career goals are, and why you’re a good fit for the scholarship.
Follow any instructions carefully and double-check for any specific requirements, such as a particular format or word count. Being thorough will help ensure your application is complete and stands out.
3. Meet the Deadlines and Ensure a Complete Submission
It’s very important to meet the deadlines for each scholarship you apply for. Missing a deadline could mean missing out on the opportunity, no matter how great your application is.
Make a checklist of all the deadlines and plan ahead so you have enough time to gather your materials, complete your application, and review everything before submitting.
Before submitting, take the time to review your application to ensure it’s accurate and complete.
Benefits of Teacher Scholarships
Teacher scholarships offer many benefits for future educators. Here are the main advantages:
- Reducing student debt: Scholarships help lower the cost of earning a teaching degree. This allows aspiring teachers to focus on their studies without worrying about taking on too much debt.
- Helping you grow your career: Many scholarships offer more than just money. They can also provide mentoring, networking opportunities, and other resources to help you succeed and advance in your teaching career.
- Encouraging careers in high-need areas: Some scholarships focus on important subjects like STEM, special education, or ESL. These programs help fill teacher shortages in these areas while offering extra support to those who choose to teach in these fields.
Aspiring educators can reach their career goals while saving money by taking advantage of scholarship opportunities.
Apply for a Teacher Scholarship in North Carolina
There is a growing teacher shortage in North Carolina, which means schools need more educators to fill classrooms.
This creates a great opportunity for anyone considering a career in teaching. Not only is there a high demand for teachers, but the profession also offers job security and chances to grow in your career.
The cost of becoming a teacher can be a big challenge. Tuition, fees, and other expenses can hinder aspiring educators from following their dreams of teaching.
Scholarships are designed to help with these costs. They provide financial support so you can focus on your education without the stress of paying for it.
Are you aspiring to become a teacher in North Carolina? You can qualify for the Teachers of Tomorrow scholarships. Visit our scholarship page now and check your eligibility.
