2026 Academic Scholarships

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Academic Scholarships – Graduate & Undergraduate

*Please review the following information carefully*

Eligibility

  • Must be a current SHRM member (professional or student). Membership should be valid through 12/31/2026.
  • Enrolled in a degree-seeking undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral program with at least one full semester remaining before graduation or accepted to begin a program within six months.
  • Institution must be regionally accredited (U.S.) or accredited by a widely recognized national accrediting body or governing ministry (international).
  • Degree program must be HR-related (e.g., business, psychology, human resources, organizational development, I/O Psychology, etc.)

* This scholarship supports the upcoming academic year. Your next semester or academic term must begin after August 1 of the application year. Funds may not be applied to past expenses.

How to Apply

Submit an online application including:

  • Contact information
  • Short-answer questions on academic, volunteer, and work experience, plus career goals
  • Current resume
  • One letter of reference

Named Grants to Be Awarded

Thanks to the generous support of partner organizations and individuals, several academic scholarships are available each year. Applicants are automatically considered; no separate application is required.

Graduate Sponsored Awards

  • National Academy of Human Resources (NAHR)
  • Richard A. Beaumont Memorial Scholarship (NAHR)
  • HR Florida

Undergraduate Sponsored Awards

  • HR Management Association of Greensboro
  • HR Florida
  • Larry Burk
  • Libby Sartain
  • Lisa Burke
  • Ohio SHRM State Council
  • Paula Harvey
  • Schultz Family

Scholarship Distribution

Applications are reviewed and scored by SHRM volunteers and staff. The review process takes 8 weeks after the application closes. All decisions are final.

Award amounts:

  • Undergraduate: $2,500
  • Graduate: $5,000
  • NAHR: $7,500

Payments are made directly to the institution for tuition and required enrollment fees. The scholarship does not cover books, supplies, room/board, or equipment.

Recipients must provide proof of enrollment and institutional payment instructions. To ensure timely processing, recipients should plan to submit documentation no later than July for the Fall term.

Special Considerations

  • Scholarships are one-time awards, but previous applicants and past recipients may reapply.
  • Full-time, part-time, online, and distance-learning programs are acceptable.
  • Scholarships are for degree programs only and cannot be used for professional development seminars.
  • The SHRM Foundation does not reimburse fees or expenses incurred prior to the award.
  • SHRM/SHRM Foundation employees, board members, and their immediate families are not eligible.
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