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Scholarship

SKOL-er-ship /ˈskɒləˌʃɪp/

nounB2

formalacademic

Financial aid awarded to students based on academic merit, talent, or other criteria, which does not need to be repaid.

Distinct from loans (which must be repaid) and grants (often need-based). Scholarships are typically merit-based.

The story behind the word. The word 'scholarship' has a fascinating journey. It comes from 'scholar,' which ultimately derives from the Greek word schola, meaning 'leisure' or 'school.' In ancient Greece, 'leisure' was seen as the prerequisite for serious study. By the 15th century, 'scholarship' referred to the state of being a scholar, and later, by the 18th century, it evolved to mean financial aid for students, reflecting the idea of supporting those dedicated to learning.

Word relationships

Grant: typically need-based financial aid, doesn't need repayment
Fellowship: often for graduate students, includes funding for research or study
Award: a general term for something given for achievement

Loan: money borrowed that must be repaid
Debt: money owed

Commonly confused with

Stipend: 'Scholarship' is for educational costs; 'stipend' is a fixed regular sum paid as a salary or allowance, often for an internship or research.

Word family

Scholar (noun): a person who studies a lot and has a lot of knowledge
Scholarly (adjective): involving or relating to serious academic study

Collocations

academic scholarship
athletic scholarship
merit scholarship
full scholarship
apply for a scholarship
receive a scholarship
scholarship fund

Example sentences

"She earned a full-ride scholarship to cover all her tuition and living expenses." Example of a significant award.
"Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing STEM fields." Types of scholarships.
"Applying for scholarships can significantly reduce the burden of student debt." Benefit of scholarships.

Memory hook

A SCHOLARSHIP helps a SCHOLAR afford their SHIP (school tuition). Scholar's ship.

When not to use

Don't use 'scholarship' to refer to the general pursuit of academic knowledge (use 'scholarly work' or 'academia' instead).

Fun facts

The oldest continuously offered scholarship in the world is believed to be the 'Exhibition' at Merton College, Oxford, dating back to 1264.
Some scholarships are highly specific, like those for left-handed students or students with unique hobbies.