DECA Scholarship Program
Offered by DECA Inc.
About This Scholarship
DECA prepares emerging leaders in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management through its high school and collegiate chapters, and its scholarship program distributes more than $200,000 each year to members. Awards are funded by DECA and a roster of corporate partners that has included IBM SkillsBuild, Hilton, Publix Super Markets, Raising Cane's, the NRF Foundation with Macy's, and others -- companies that recruit from DECA's talent pipeline.
Individual scholarships generally range from $1,000 to $2,500 and are merit-based, recognizing DECA involvement, leadership, and career interest in business fields rather than financial need. Both high school and collegiate DECA members may apply, from freshmen through college students, though funds must ultimately be used for full-time college enrollment.
Applicants apply through DECA's online scholarship portal with a transcript, three letters of recommendation, and any sponsor-specific materials such as essays or videos. The main application window closes in early-to-mid January.
Eligibility
- Current DECA member (high school or collegiate division) through a school chapter
- Open to all grade levels, from high school freshmen through collegiate members
- Must enroll full-time in college to use awarded funds
- Merit-based: judged on DECA involvement, leadership, academics, and business career interest -- no financial-need component
- Individual sponsor scholarships may add criteria (career focus, region, or essay/video requirements)
How To Apply
- Create an account on DECA's online scholarship portal and complete the application before the January deadline
- Upload a transcript (unofficial accepted) and three letters of recommendation
- Complete any sponsor-specific requirements such as essays, videos, or credentials for the individual scholarships you select
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a DECA member?
Yes -- you must be a current DECA member to be eligible. Membership comes through your school's DECA chapter in either the high school or collegiate division.
Are DECA scholarships need-based?
No. DECA's scholarships are merit-based, judged on your DECA participation, leadership, academics, and interest in marketing, finance, hospitality, or management careers.