ABFSE National Scholarship
Offered by American Board of Funeral Service Education
About This Scholarship
The American Board of Funeral Service Education — the national accreditor for mortuary science programs — runs a twice-yearly national scholarship for students already enrolled in an ABFSE-accredited funeral service or mortuary science program. Awards generally range from $1,500 to $2,500 for an academic year, with application deadlines every March 1 and September 1 and the Scholarship Committee meeting in April and October to select recipients.
Applicants must have completed at least one semester or quarter in their accredited program and have at least one term remaining after the award date, which makes this a mid-program scholarship rather than an entry award. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, F-1 visa holders, and DACA participants are all eligible.
Funeral service is a small field with few dedicated scholarships, so a national award from the field's own accreditor — with two shots per year — belongs on the list for every mortuary science student.
Eligibility
- Completed at least one semester or quarter in an ABFSE-accredited funeral service or mortuary science program
- At least one term remaining in the program after the award date (April or October)
- U.S. citizen, permanent resident, F-1 visa holder, or DACA participant
- Complete application package (online form plus mailed transcripts and recommendation letters) received before the deadline
How To Apply
- Complete at least one term in your ABFSE-accredited program before applying
- Submit the online scholarship form at abfse.org
- Mail the email confirmation with transcripts and recommendation letters to the Scholarship Committee (992 Mantua Pike, Suite 108, Woodbury Heights, NJ 08097)
- Meet the March 1 or September 1 deadline; the committee awards in April and October
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply before starting mortuary school?
No — you must have completed at least one semester or quarter in an ABFSE-accredited program, with at least one term remaining after the award date.
How often can I apply?
The program runs twice a year, with deadlines every March 1 and September 1 and awards decided in April and October.
Is my application complete when I submit the online form?
No. ABFSE states your application is not eligible for consideration until they receive your mailed package of transcripts and recommendation letters, so build in mailing time.