The percentage of students who receive scholarships or grants for college varies in reported estimates but generally falls in the range of about 7% to 13% of college students individually receiving scholarships. However, when considering broader financial aid including grants and participation by families, the number is much higher, with around 58% of American families relying on scholarships to help cover college costs and approximately 33-39% of students receiving state or local grants or scholarships. Some high estimates suggest up to 80% of all undergraduates receive at least one form of grant or scholarship including various aid sources. Key points:
- About 7% to 13% of college students receive scholarships alone.
- Around 58% of families use scholarships to cover tuition costs.
- Around 33% to 39% of students receive state or local financial aid.
- Pell Grants alone support about 33% of undergraduate students.
- Over 1.7 million scholarships are awarded annually in the U.S.
- Combining all grants, scholarships, and financial aid, up to 80% of undergraduates get some form of aid.
This means a significant portion but not all college students receive financial assistance through scholarships or grants.