When it comes to financing your college education, most students know the big-name college scholarships, like the Loran Award or TD Scholarships for Community Leadership. However, there are dozens of lesser-known awards that give out large sums. Many of them are based on unusual criteria, niche interests, or specific heritage. Since they’re overlooked, these scholarships can make a major difference in helping students avoid debt. The best part? They usually have fewer applicants!
Here are 6 surprising scholarships you may have never heard of:
1. The John Kitt Memorial Scholarship – For Candy Lovers
Administered by the American Association of Candy Technologists (AACT), this scholarship is for post-secondary students pursuing food science, chemical engineering, or related fields. If you’re passionate about the confectionery industry, this is your golden ticket.
Amount: $2500 (2025-26)
Eligibility: College students with demonstrated interest in confectionery technology
Deadline: Typically June each year (June 15th for the 2025-26 cycle)
More info: Visit the AACT website.
2. The Chick Evans Scholarship – For Golf Caddies
This full housing and tuition scholarship is awarded to golf caddies who demonstrate a strong caddie record, financial need, and outstanding academics. Notably, it’s a scholarship from a sports foundation that isn’t limited to athletes.
Amount: Full tuition and housing
Eligibility: High school seniors who caddie regularly and have limited financial means
Deadline: October 15th each year
More info: Visit the Western Golf Association Evans Scholarship page.
3. The Davidson Fellows Scholarship – For Young Innovators
If you’ve completed a significant project in science, technology, literature, philosophy, or music before the age of 18, this prestigious award is for you. This scholarship recognizes students who have made meaningful contributions in their field at a young age.
Amount: $10,000 to $50,000
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents under 18
Deadline: February each year
More info: Visit the Davidson Gifted Scholarship page.
4. The Kor Memorial Scholarship – For Fans of Fantasy Languages
Yes, you read that right. The Kor Memorial Scholarship is awarded by the Klingon Language Institute to students who demonstrate an interest in constructed languages. A perfect opportunity for Tolkien fans or linguistics enthusiasts.
Amount: $500
Eligibility: Undergraduate or graduate students in language-related studies
Deadline: June each year
More info: Visit the Klington Language institute website.
5. The Asparagus Club Scholarship – For Grocery Industry Enthusiasts
If you’re pursuing a career in food distribution, retail, or grocery business management, the Asparagus Club might fund your studies. This scholarship supports the next generation of food retail leaders.
Amount: Up to $8,000
Eligibility: Undergraduate students in relevant majors
Deadline: Varies
More info: Visit the National Grocers website.
6. The Tall Clubs International Scholarship – For Tall Students
This quirky award is for students who meet a minimum height requirement (5’10” for women, 6’2” for men) and plan to attend university in the coming year. Sponsored by Tall Clubs International, the scholarship offers support to vertically gifted students.
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: Incoming freshmen meeting height criteria
Deadline: Spring each year
More info: Visit the Tall Club Foundation.
Final Tips: How to Find More Hidden College Scholarships
Many of these unique scholarships aren’t advertised widely. If you want to check out some more of them, here’s what you can try:
- Check bulletin boards and student awards pages at your university
- Ask guidance counselors or academic advisors about niche opportunities
- Use scholarship databases like ScholarTree.ca, Yconic.com, or ScholarshipsCanada.com
- Explore organizations that relate to your heritage, hobbies, or intended career path
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References:
American Association of Candy Technologists (2024) AACT Scholarship. Available at: https://www.aactcandy.org/ (Accessed: 30 July 2025).
Davidson Institute for Talent Development (2024) Davidson Fellows Scholarship. Available at: https://www.davidsongifted.org/fellow-scholarship/ (Accessed: 30 July 2025).
Evans Scholars Foundation (2024) Chick Evans Scholarship Program. Available at: https://wgaesf.org/ (Accessed: 30 July 2025).
Klingon Language Institute (2024) Kor Memorial Scholarship. Available at: https://www.kli.org/ (Accessed: 30 July 2025).
National Grocers Association Foundation (2024) Asparagus Club Scholarship. Available at: https://www.nationalgrocers.org/programs/nga-foundation/ (Accessed: 30 July 2025).
Tall Clubs International (2024) TCI Scholarship. Available at: https://tall.org/tci-foundation-2/ (Accessed: 30 July 2025).
