Studying 3D Animation can be quite a financial commitment these days. The costs can be staggering, causing many aspiring students to abandon their dreams of pursuing this creative and promising field of study. However, don’t despair just yet because I’ve compiled a list of 18 Animation Scholarships for you to explore in 2024. These scholarships are designed to alleviate the financial burden and make your animation dreams a reality.
Best Animation Scholarships 2024
If you’re concerned about the financial implications of pursuing a 3D Animation degree, these scholarships are here to address those worries and make your dreams come true. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 18 Animation Scholarships in 2024.
#1. Worldstudio AIGA Scholarship
The Worldstudio AIGA Scholarship is an annual opportunity for talented art students from disadvantaged and low-income families. This scholarship supports various art forms, including animation. The award amount varies depending on the available funds each year and is funded through private donations.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens or green card holders.
- We are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in a discipline with the intention of making it a full-time career.
- Matriculated or planning to enroll at an accredited U.S. college or university.
- Minimum GPA of 2.0.
- Financial need is a key criterion, so applicants must provide comprehensive information of financial assistance.
How to Apply:
Visit the scholarship provider’s website for the application process.
#2. Peanuts on Parade Scholarship Fund
This scholarship is exclusively for undergraduate students residing in Sonoma County, California, majoring in Cartooning or Animation. Preference is given to students with professional experience and acceptance to accredited art institutions in San Francisco. Interviews may be required, and the award amount varies based on available funds.
#3. Aspiring Animation Professional Scholarship
The Aspiring Animation Professional Scholarship is an opportunity for high school seniors planning to pursue a career in animation or a design-related field. Ten scholarships of $1,000 each are awarded annually.
Eligibility:
- U.S. high school seniors
- Intending to pursue an animation degree at a post-secondary school or college.
- Demonstrated academic success and a passion for animation or design.
- Selection is based on academic achievement and the applicant’s portfolio and essay.
Scholarship Deadline: June 1, annually
#4. initiAIT Scholarships
The initiAIT Scholarships are for new undergraduate students starting an AIT Bachelor Degree in the 2021 academic year. Domestic students in Australia are eligible. The scholarship provides an $8,000 discount off tuition fees and allows students to use various media, including animation, to solve creative challenges.
Eligibility:
- Domestic students (Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident)
- Commencing the AIT Bachelor Degree in 2021
- No prior tertiary level study
Requirements:
- Ability to generate and develop creative ideas
- Skill, effort, and creativity are key judging criteria
Scholarship Deadlines: Multiple deadlines throughout the year
#5. Women In Animation Scholarships
Women in Animation (WIA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing women in the animation industry. The WIA Animation Scholarship awards up to three animation students demonstrating artistic talent, a passion for animation, financial need, and a promising future in animation.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Female students at accredited institutions offering animation courses.
- Sophomores to High School Seniors.
- Minimum GPA of 2.85.
- Current members of WIA.
Submissions Must Include:
- Proof of WIA membership
These scholarships allow talented artists to pursue their animation dreams without being burdened by financial constraints. Now, let’s delve into more scholarship opportunities to help you make an informed choice and take a step closer to your animation aspirations.
#6. Women In Animation – Phyllis Craig Scholarship
Women in Animation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women in the animation industry, offers the Phyllis Craig Scholarship. This annual scholarship provides $1,000 to one deserving female student enrolled in an animation program at an accredited art school or college. It honors Phyllis Craig, a founding member of Women in Animation and former head of their education committee.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a student in an accredited animation program in the U.S., aspiring to become an animation professional.
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens or registered aliens with the right to work in the U.S.
- Financial need must be demonstrated.
Submissions Must Include:
- Applicant’s portfolio or reel. Originals should not be sent as they will not be returned.
- A 500-word essay outlining educational and career goals, as well as financial needs, written by the applicant.
- One written recommendation from a teacher or mentor.
Scholarship Deadline: April 29th
How to Apply:
For application details, please visit the scholarship provider’s website.
#7. AIE Animation Scholarships
The Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) offers student scholarships based on financial need and merit. The AIE Community Outreach Scholarship is also available to students facing critical financial situations. To apply, the first step is completing the FAFSA, which determines eligibility for federal loans and grants. Candidates can apply for an AIE Outreach Scholarship if funds from the FAFSA and Parent PLUS loans do not cover tuition.
Award Amount: AIE Scholarships provide a maximum annual award of $5,000.
How to Apply:
To apply for the AIE Animation Scholarship, contact your local campus and send a letter to the Head of School detailing your financial need. You can find more information on the scholarship provider’s website.
#8. JMC Academy Animation Scholarships
JMC Academy, Creative Industries, offers prestigious animation scholarships for Australian students. Eighteen scholarships are available annually. These scholarships cover the tuition fees for the first year of study for courses in Animation, Digital Design, Contemporary Music and Performance, Songwriting, Audio Engineering and Sound Production, Entertainment Business Management, Game Development, and Film and Television Production. Candidates should demonstrate a genuine interest in pursuing a career in the creative industry.
Eligibility:
- Australian citizenship or permanent residency is required.
- Demonstrate passion and aptitude for your chosen field of study.
- Showcase your aptitude through a relevant portfolio or compilation of work that reflects your experience and interests.
Scholarship Deadline: December 18th
How to Apply:
Application forms can be downloaded from www.jmcacademy.edu.au or obtained by contacting JMC Academy directly. Alternatively, you can email [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]. For more information, contact one of the scholarship provider’s student recruitment advisors at 1300 410 311.
These scholarships are golden opportunities to nurture your passion for animation and unleash your creativity without the financial worries that often come with pursuing your dreams. So, if you have the talent and determination, don’t miss out on these scholarships that can fuel your journey toward a rewarding career in animation.
#9. Chancellor’s International Scholarships in Animation
The University of Hertfordshire is renowned worldwide for offering 60 Chancellor’s International Scholarships, each valued at £2,000. These scholarships are available to new full-time students who have been assessed over fee issues and are self-funded.
Award Amount: The Chancellor’s International Scholarships in Animation offers a financial award of £2,000.
Eligibility:
- International students coming from countries outside of the European Union and paying international fees are eligible.
- The scholarship is open to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate international students. It is not available for part-time study or research students.
- An applicant is considered an international student if they are not a European Union citizen.
Applicants will have their University application assessed for eligibility. Notifications of successful scholarship awards are typically conveyed through email. Note that a student can receive only one scholarship award.
How to Apply: For detailed application information, please visit the scholarship link provided.
#10. Murphy & Cadogan Fellowships in the Fine Arts
The Murphy & Cadogan Fellowships in the Fine Arts is a scholarship opportunity for graduate students who are residents of the Bay Area in California. Eligible students must be enrolled in the Academy of Art College, California College of the Arts, John F. Kennedy University, Mills College, San Francisco Art Institute, San Francisco State University, Stanford University, or the University of California at Berkeley.
Award Amount: The value of the Murphy & Cadogan Fellowships in the Fine Arts ranges from $5,000, though the number of awards may vary.
Eligibility:
- Graduate students attending any of the mentioned universities are eligible.
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Students must have completed at least one semester of graduate study and have at least two semesters remaining before graduation.
Contact:
Arts and Culture Program Fellow
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 415-733-8523
Address: One Embarcadero Center, #1400, San Francisco, CA 94111
How to Apply: For detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship, please visit the scholarship link provided.
#11. SkillsUSA 3-D Visualization and Animation Scholarship
Sponsored by SkillsUSA and often in collaboration with the Art Institutes, the SkillsUSA 3-D Visualization and Animation Scholarship is an annual competition for students who submit a finished animated short video using 3-D computerized images.
Scholarship Award: Winners of the 3-D Visualization and Animation Scholarship often receive a $10,000 tuition scholarship. Art Institutes offer these scholarships, and they are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Contact:
Julie Walsh Marketing Coordinator Art Institutes 210 Sixth Ave, 33rd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States Phone: (412) 995-7302 Fax: (412) 456-2305
Website: http://www.artinstitutes.edu
How to Apply: For detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship, please visit the scholarship link provided.
#12. Waubonsee Community College Foundation Animation Scholarships
The Waubonsee Community College Foundation Animation Scholarships provide a $500 credit for tuition. To be eligible, candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 in high school or college.
Scholarship Award: Successful applicants receive a $500 credit for tuition.
Eligibility:
- Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.75.
- Applicants must be either high school or college students.
How to Apply: Detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship can be found at the scholarship link provided.
Application Deadline: The application deadline for the Waubonsee Community College Foundation Animation Scholarships was on February 4th.
#13. Creative Minds Scholarship
The Creative Minds Scholarship program is designed for continuing AIT students who may not have been ready to submit a scholarship application when they first started at AIT. This opportunity is available to both domestic and international students.
Scholarship Award: Recipients of this scholarship program receive a 50% discount off their upcoming term tuition fee.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The candidate must have at least 90% attendance.
- An average Distinction or above grade is required.
- The candidate must be a full-time student.
- A teacher’s endorsement for a positive attitude towards studies, involvement in AIT, and the application of creative thought and communication in studies is needed.
- Candidates must have commenced an AIT Bachelor program or earlier and have studied for at least two terms. Additionally, they should have at least one more term left to study.
Application Deadlines: The deadlines for this scholarship program vary according to terms.
How to Apply: Detailed information on how to apply for the AIT Creative Minds Scholarship can be found at the scholarship link provided.
#14. Paul Franklin Scholarship for Visual Effects Undergraduates
Paul Franklin, co-founder of Double Negative, one of London’s prestigious post houses, offers a full-fee scholarship for a talented student pursuing a career in visual effects. This scholarship is to support students in funding their studies at Escape Studios, Europe’s premier visual effects academy.
How to Apply:
Candidates should apply to study the BA/MArt The Art of Visual Effects (Integrated Masters) degree via UCAS. If you meet the entry criteria for the degree, you will be invited to attend a Creative Workshop at Escape Studios. All visual effects applicants are considered for the Paul Franklin scholarship. More information on how to apply for this scholarship can be found at the scholarship link provided.
These scholarships provide a remarkable opportunity to pursue your passion for animation and further your education without the financial burden. They are the stepping stones to a successful career in the creative and dynamic world of animation.
#15. The Society of Illustrators Animation Scholarships
The Society of Illustrators sponsors an annual Student Scholarship Competition, considered one of the most prestigious competitions for student-generated contemporary illustration worldwide. This competition includes an animation category, offering a platform for students to showcase their most sophisticated, well-crafted, and original work.
Eligibility:
- To qualify, applicants must be undergraduate art majors and enrolled in an accredited art school, college, or university. High school seniors and graduate students are not eligible for this competition.
- There is a $15 entry fee for each film submission.
Scholarship Award: The scholarship award amounts vary and are determined by the competition’s jury. Over the past 30 years, the Society has awarded approximately $1,500,000 to deserving students, providing a launching pad for many professionals in the animation and arts industry.
How to Apply: Detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship can be found on the scholarship provider’s website.
#16. Randy Pausch Scholarship Fund
The Randy Pausch Scholarship Fund, initiated by the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, honors the memory of Dr. Randy Pausch, a Computer Science Professor. This scholarship fund is open to a variety of possible career paths, including art, animation, programming, engineering, game direction, game design, sound design, and music composition.
Eligibility:
- Two scholarships, each worth $2,500, are offered exclusively to students in the USA.
- Applicants must have a minimum 3.3 GPA and be full-time undergraduate students starting their second year or graduate students.
How to Apply: For detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship, please visit the scholarship provider’s website.
#17. Eamonn Butler Scholarship for Computer Animation Undergraduates
Eamonn Butler, Head of Animation at Cinesite, generously offers a full-fee scholarship to a talented student every year. This scholarship is aimed at helping students achieve their dream of becoming an animator.
Scholarship Worth: The Eamonn Butler Scholarship for computer animation students is fully funded, covering the recipient’s tuition fees for the entire program, which can span up to four years.
How to Apply: Candidates must apply to study for the BA/MArt The Art of Computer Animation degree via UCAS. If they meet the entry criteria for the degree, they will be invited to attend a Creative Workshop at Escape Studios. Every computer animation applicant is considered for the scholarship. Based on their performance at the Creative Workshop, three students will be shortlisted for the Eamonn Butler Scholarship, and one student is usually selected as the winner. Applicants must attend a Creative Workshop to be considered. Visit the provided link for more details on how to apply.
#18. Nickelodeon Animation Scholarship
Nickelodeon, a renowned entertainment brand for kids, has partnered with the Get Schooled Foundation to award a skilled and innovative animator for creating an original animated short. This scholarship opportunity is designed to support animators in realizing their dreams.
Scholarship Worth: The winner of the Nickelodeon Animation Scholarship receives a $25,000 scholarship.
Eligibility:
- This Animation scholarship program is open to animators between 17 and 24 years old.
- Animators aged 13 to 16 are also invited to submit a theme-based looping animation to win a prize.
How to Apply: Complete the form through the provided link to apply for this scholarship.
These scholarships offer financial support and the chance to gain recognition and showcase your animation talents. They are your stepping stones to a bright and fulfilling future in animation.
#19. Disney Animation Program
The Disney Animation Programs offer valuable opportunities through Apprenticeships, Internships, and Technology Internships. These programs are designed to support college students looking to enhance their computer animation skills with the magic of Disney World.
Key Details:
- Eligibility: Students returning to school in the fall can apply for the Disney Animation Program.
- Duration: The Disney Animation Program typically runs for 8 to 12 weeks, during which students will be paid for participation.
- Mentorship: As an intern, you’ll have the chance to work directly with a Disney mentor, delving into all aspects of art, narrative, and film production.
- Collaboration: The Disney Animation Internship fosters collaboration, allowing you to work with talented students worldwide on individual and group projects.
Opportunities: There are various opportunities available at the Walt Disney Animation Studios, including roles related to creating great stories, developing appealing characters, crafting believable worlds, innovation, and partnering in creativity. Some specific positions include:
- Story Artist
- Layout Artist
- Editorial
- Visual Development Artist
- Modeler
- Look Development Artist
- Animator
- Character Technical Director
- Effects Animation Artist
- Lighter
- Stereo Artist
- General Technical Director
- Production Management
Application Link: If you’re interested in pursuing a 3D animation opportunity with Disney, you can find the application link on the scholarship provider’s website.
FAQs on Animation Scholarships:
Q1: What are some scholarships and grants for 3D animation students?
- Worldstudio AIGA Scholarship
- Peanuts on Parade Scholarship Fund
- Aspiring Animation Professional Scholarship
- initiAIT Scholarships
- Women In Animation Scholarships
- Women In Animation – Phyllis Craig Scholarship
- AIE Animation Scholarships
- JMC Academy Animation Scholarships
- Chancellor’s International Scholarships in Animation
- Murphy & Cadogan Fellowships in the Fine Arts
- SkillsUSA 3-D Visualization and Animation Scholarship
Q2: Where can an animator work?
- Professional animators can find film, television, commercial advertising, and computer game design opportunities.
Q3: What are some requisites for animation?
- Students pursuing animation careers typically complete coursework in graphics and computer design.
Q4: Are animation scholarships for only undergraduates?
- No, these 3D animation opportunities are available to college, undergraduates, and master’s students.
In conclusion, this compilation features 19 of the best scholarships for animation students worldwide. We hope these top animation scholarships will help propel you toward achieving your dreams in this exciting field. Success and good luck on your animation journey!
