A rewarding career in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) enables practitioners to assist people and families in resolving difficult relationships and mental health issues. However, funding a graduate program in MFT can be difficult.
Thankfully, there are many scholarships available to assist students in achieving their academic and professional objectives. Check out and apply for these top scholarships for MFT graduate students in 2024.
1. AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program (MFP)
The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) offers the Minority Fellowship Program to support the training of future MFTs dedicated to underserved populations.
- Eligibility: MFT graduate students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.
- Scholarship Amount: Up to $25,000, including training and mentorship opportunities.
- Deadline: January 2024
Visit the AAMFT website for application details.
2. SAMHSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program
This federally funded program supports MFT students who aim to serve in high-need communities, particularly in behavioral health services.
- Eligibility: Graduate students in accredited MFT programs.
- Scholarship Amount: Varies, often include tuition and stipend support.
- Deadline: Varies by participating university.
Check with your school’s financial aid office to see if it participates.
3. NBCC Foundation Scholarships
The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation offers scholarships to students in counseling-related fields, including MFT. These scholarships aim to increase access to mental health care in underserved communities.
- Eligibility: MFT students committed to working in rural or underserved areas.
- Scholarship Amount: $8,000
- Deadline: March 2024
Visit the NBCC Foundation website for more details.
4. Psi Chi Graduate Scholarships
Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, offers scholarships to graduate students, including those in MFT programs. These scholarships reward academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Eligibility: Psi Chi members enrolled in an MFT or related graduate program.
- Scholarship Amount: $3,000
- Deadline: May 2024
Learn more at the Psi Chi website.
5. California MFT Stipend Program
Designed for students attending MFT programs in California, this stipend program aims to address the state’s mental health workforce needs. Recipients commit to working in public mental health settings.
- Eligibility: Graduate students in MFT programs in California.
- Scholarship Amount: $18,500
- Deadline: Applications typically close in spring.
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6. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Graduate Scholarship
This scholarship is available to graduate students, including those in MFT programs, who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to service.
- Eligibility: Full-time graduate students with at least a 3.0 GPA.
- Scholarship Amount: Up to $2,500
- Deadline: February 2024
Learn more on the Zeta Phi Beta website.
7. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)
The HSF provides financial support to graduate students of Hispanic heritage, including those pursuing MFT degrees.
- Eligibility: Hispanic/Latino students with strong academic performance.
- Scholarship Amount: $500–$5,000
- Deadline: February 2024
8. Kathryn Sears Family Therapy Scholarship
This scholarship supports students committed to advancing family therapy practices. It honors Kathryn Sears’ dedication to the field.
- Eligibility: Enrolled MFT graduate students with a demonstrated passion for family therapy.
- Scholarship Amount: $2,000
- Deadline: April 2024
9. American Psychological Association (APA) Grants and Scholarships
The APA provides funding opportunities for graduate students in mental health disciplines, including MFT.
- Eligibility: MFT students engaged in research or projects related to mental health and family dynamics.
- Scholarship Amount: Varies
- Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year.
10. Yellow Ribbon Program for Military Veterans
This program provides funding for veterans pursuing graduate degrees, including MFT, at participating institutions.
- Eligibility: Veterans or dependents eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
- Scholarship Amount: Covers tuition and fees not covered by the GI Bill.
- Deadline: Rolling
Tips for Winning MFT Scholarships
Securing scholarships for MFT graduate studies requires thoughtful preparation. Here’s how to make your application stand out:
- Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Highlight your passion for family therapy, your career goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Demonstrate Community Involvement: Volunteer or work experiences in mental health and family services strengthen your application.
- Choose Reputable References: Obtain recommendation letters from professors or supervisors familiar with your skills and dedication.
- Meet Deadlines: Submit all required documents well before the deadline to ensure a smooth process.