NAHJ Scholarships
Offered by National Association of Hispanic Journalists
About This Scholarship
The National Association of Hispanic Journalists runs one application for a group of named scholarships for students headed into English or Spanish-language journalism on any platform. NAHJ says it has awarded close to $2 million in scholarships since the program started.
This cycle lists the Lori Montenegro Scholarship ($5,000, with a focus on Afro-Latino students), the White House Correspondents' Association Scholarship ($6,000 plus a mentor who covers the White House), the Cecilia Alvear Scholarship for future producers ($5,000), the Ada Lourdes Vigo Afro-Latino Scholarship ($5,000), the Dunia Elvir Scholarship for NAHJ student members facing financial or medical hardship ($5,000) and the MORIAH Scholarship ($5,000). The Ruben Salazar fund offers a $2,000 value as a sponsored trip to the 2027 NAHJ conference in Minneapolis rather than cash.
High school seniors bound for college, undergraduates and graduate students at four-year or community colleges in the U.S. or Puerto Rico can apply. Funds go to the student's school in late August and can cover tuition, housing or books.
Eligibility
- College-bound high school senior, undergraduate or graduate student
- Attending a four-year college or community college in the United States or Puerto Rico
- Planning a career in English or Spanish-language journalism
- Minimum GPA (NAHJ lists both 2.8 and 3.0 on the same page, plan on 3.0)
- Some named awards add requirements, such as NAHJ student membership for the Dunia Elvir Scholarship or an Afro-Latino background for the Ada Lourdes Vigo award
How To Apply
- Review the named scholarships on the NAHJ scholarships page and pick the ones that fit
- Prepare a one-page resume, an unofficial transcript and two recommendation letters from non-relatives
- Write a double-spaced essay of 500 words or less on why you want a journalism career, plus any award-specific essays
- Gather up to three work samples in print, broadcast, audio, photo or multimedia
- Submit through the Apply Here link on the NAHJ page by 11:59 p.m. Pacific on January 8, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be an NAHJ member?
The general guidelines do not require membership, but the Dunia Elvir Scholarship is limited to NAHJ student members.
Can community college students apply?
Yes. Students at community colleges and four-year schools in the U.S. and Puerto Rico are eligible.
Can I write my essay in Spanish?
Work samples may be in English or Spanish, and applicants for the Ada Lourdes Vigo award who are pursuing Spanish-language journalism must write that essay in Spanish.