Since its inception in 1995, more than $1.3 million has been awarded to 800+ college students of art and design. Our primary aims are to increase diversity in the creative professions, and to foster social and environmental responsibility in the artists, designers, studios, and companies of tomorrow. Scholarship recipients are selected not only for their talent and their need, but also for their demonstrated commitment to giving back to the larger community through their work.

Scholarships are awarded in amounts of $2,000–$3,000. One or two top awards may be given in an amount up to $5,000 at the jury’s discretion. Honorable mention prizes in the amount of $500 cash are also awarded. Each scholarship is paid directly to the recipient’s school and applied toward tuition. A one-year AIGA membership is also awarded to recipients.

Each year, the application cycle opens in February and closes in April.

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Students must have at least a 2.0 GPA.

Applicants must be pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in one of the following disciplines:

• Graphic design
• Illustration
• Photography

AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships do not support: industrial design, interior design, film, architecture, landscape design, theater design, fashion design, costume design, fine art, etc.

Please keep in mind that decisions are made based on how your work compares to students in your category (graphic design, illustration, photography). If your major/area of study can be clearly considered within one of these three categories, you may proceed with the application.

Applicants must be citizens of the United States or be in possession of a Green Card (formally known as a Permanent Resident Card or Form I-551).

Applicants must be matriculated (or planning to matriculate) at accredited colleges and universities in the United States for the Fall 2022/Spring 2023 academic year and must maintain full-time status for the entire year.

Please read the Application Guide and FAQs for more information.

Financial need and talent are primary factors in the review and selection process. Applicants must also provide:

• Complete financial aid information with confirmation from the school’s financial aid officer. Get ready now! Free Application for Federal Student Aid: FAFSA
• Official transcript, including current GPA from most recently attended college or high school transcript
• A Portfolio of work samples and a written statement of purpose is required to demonstrate talent and commitment to giving back to the community.
• Two letters of recommendation from individuals who know the applicant and the applicant's work—teachers, employers, counselors, etc.
• Though not a requirement, diversity is a significant factor considered in jury decisions. AIGA considers race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability and disability, age, and other factors (e.g., military service) that shape creative perspective and professional experience when reviewing applications.