Scholarships for Youth & Young Adults Impacted by Addiction

Finding financial support for education can feel especially overwhelming for youth and young adults impacted by a family member’s struggle with the disease of addiction. To make the search easier, Eluna has gathered a list of active scholarships created specifically for students who have been affected by substance use disorder or who are committed to supporting prevention and wellness in their communities.

These opportunities honor the resilience of young people navigating complex family experiences and aim to reduce financial barriers as they pursue their educational goals.

For students enrolled in a college, university, or trade school who have lost a parent/guardian, grandparent, sibling, or spouse to alcohol, drug, or prescription drug abuse. Multiple scholarship are offered each year. Learn more and apply

Addictions.com Scholarship

For full-time college students passionate about raising awareness about the dangers associated with substance misuse and addiction. Three scholarships will be awarded to qualified college students who write the winning essays (for first, second, and third places). Learn More and Apply

Narcotics.com College Scholarship

Essay-based scholarship for college students majoring in behavioral health. Will provide financial assistance to help pay for books, tuition, or daily expenses, with the hope to encourage more students to pursue careers in the areas of behavioral health and addiction-related studies. Learn More and Apply

Cardinal Crew Scholarships

For students enrolled part or full time in an academic institution or certificate program – and whose lives have been impacted by a family member’s addiction. The Cardinal Crew will award two scholarships yearly to those whose lives have been impacted by addiction. Learn more and Apply

Hope for Healing Scholarship (FHE Health)

For college students pursuing a degree in mental/behavioral health, nursing, or addiction medicine. The Hope for Healing Scholarship has been awarded annually since 2020 and accepts applications on a continuous, rolling basis throughout the year. Learn More and Apply

More Scholarship Listing Sites

Here some additional scholarship guides and platforms to consider:

• Bold.org is a site to create or apply to exclusive scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
• Eluna’s list of Scholarships for Grieving Youth & Young Adults
• Eluna’s Camper Alumni Scholarships