PDK Prospective Educator Scholarships Opening Soon
Offered by PDK International (Phi Delta Kappa)
About This Scholarship
PDK International -- the professional association for educators behind Phi Delta Kappa, Educators Rising, and Pi Lambda Theta -- has funded scholarships for future teachers for decades through its Educational Foundation. The Prospective Educator Scholarships award roughly 30 scholarships each year, generally ranging from $500 to $5,000, to students committed to careers in education.
The program targets the front end of the teacher pipeline: high school seniors planning to major in education and current undergraduates enrolled in education programs. Applicants affiliated with PDK's network -- Educators Rising members, children or grandchildren of PDK members, or Pi Lambda Theta members -- qualify for the largest share of named awards, and Educators Rising membership is free for students at participating schools.
Applications for each academic year open in December and close in spring, with a scholarship committee reviewing essays, recommendations, and academic records. Given persistent teacher shortages nationwide, this is one of the few national programs dedicated purely to growing the profession.
Eligibility
- High school senior planning to major in education, or current undergraduate enrolled in an education degree program
- Commitment to a career in teaching, demonstrated through activities, essay, and recommendations
- Affiliation with the PDK network (Educators Rising membership, Pi Lambda Theta membership, or family connection to a PDK member) is required for most named awards
- Enrolled or enrolling full-time at an accredited college or university
- No application fee
How To Apply
- Review the scholarship list at pdkintl.org and confirm which awards your PDK/Educators Rising affiliation qualifies you for
- Complete the online application when the cycle opens in December, including your essay on your commitment to teaching
- Submit transcripts and letters of recommendation before the spring deadline
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a member of a PDK organization?
Most named awards require a PDK-network affiliation -- Educators Rising or Pi Lambda Theta membership, or being the child or grandchild of a PDK member. Educators Rising membership is free for students at participating high schools, which is the easiest route for most applicants.
How much can I win?
Individual awards generally range from $500 to $5,000, with about 30 scholarships awarded each cycle. Some awards are one-time and a few are renewable.