Once a year, the Mike Rowe Work Ethic Scholarships look for hardworking people who will keep the lights on, water running, and air flowing—people who will show up early, stay late, and bust their asses to get the job done. This scholarship is for the hard workers who are out there.
When is the deadline for applications?
The application deadline is April 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT.
Describe the award to me:
The Mike Rowe Work Ethic Scholarship provides financial support, ranging up to $20,000, to students enrolled or planning to enroll in approved skilled trade programs. It rewards individuals who demonstrate a strong work ethic, personal responsibility, and a positive attitude.
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Which fields qualify?
Eligible fields include trade programs such as
- Automotive Technology,
- Aviation Technology, Building Construction,
- Electrical Technology,
- HVAC,
- Plumbing,
- Welding,
- Cosmetology,
- Culinary Arts,
- Diesel Technology,
- Energy Technology, and more.
Note that Bachelor’s degrees and healthcare programs like nursing or veterinary medicine are not eligible.
The type:
This is a one-time scholarship award aimed at funding professional certifications, 1-year certificates, or associate degrees in trade-related fields.
What are the requirements for the Mike Rowe Scholarship?
- U.S. residents who are graduating high school seniors, graduates, or GED recipients seeking professional certification or associate degrees in approved trade programs.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a strong work ethic.
- They should be enrolled or planning to enroll in an approved trade program, demonstrate a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and personal responsibility, and show financial need.
- Submission of transcripts, school verification, two references, a video, and the latest 1040 tax form is required.
How Do They Choose Applicants?
Applicants are judged based on their application quality, demonstration of work ethic, financial need, responses to S.W.E.A.T. Pledge questions, video submission, references, and supporting documents like transcripts and tax forms.
Which nations are qualified?
Only residents of the United States are eligible.
Where will the prize be accepted?
The scholarship applies to tuition and costs at U.S.-based vocational/technical schools or trade programs.
How Many Honors?
Approximately 300 awards are available each cycle.
What Advantage Does the Award Offer?
It helps cover the cost of trade education and training, reducing financial barriers and encouraging skilled labor development.
What’s the Duration of the Award?
It is a one-time award that supports the duration of the approved trade program, typically 1-2 years.
How do I apply for the Mike Rowe Scholarships?
- Enroll in an approved trade program.
- Sign the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge.
- Answer 4 questions about the pledge.
- Create and submit a video.
- Provide 2 references.
- Verify school costs.
- Submit transcripts and the most recent 1040 tax form.
- Complete and submit your application before the deadline.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
Mike Rowe Works Foundation Scholarship
Mike Rowe Scholarships FAQs
What are the approved programs for the Mike Rowe Scholarship?
Approved programs include skilled trades such as
- Automotive Technology,
- Aviation Technology,
- Commercial Driving,
- Construction,
- Computer Information Technology,
- Cosmetology,
- Culinary Arts,
- Diesel Technology,
- Electrical Technology,
- Energy Technology,
- Farming & Agriculture,
- HVAC,
- Machining,
- Manufacturing,
- Marine Technology,
- Nursing (LPN, not RN),
- Plumbing,
- Protective Services,
- Welding,
- and Veterinary Technology (not veterinary medicine).
When does the Mike Rowe Scholarship open for 2025?
The 2025 application cycle opens on February 12, 2025.
What is the deadline for the Mike Rowe Scholarship 2025?
Applications must be submitted by April 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT.
What are the 4 qualities the Mike Rowe Works Foundation looks for in scholarship candidates?
The foundation values candidates who demonstrate:
- Work Ethic
- Personal Responsibility
- Delayed Gratification
- A Positive Attitude
Does the Mike Rowe Foundation offer jobs?
The Mike Rowe Works Foundation primarily focuses on scholarships and promoting skilled trades. They may share job resources or partner with employers but do not directly offer jobs. Check their official website or social media for updates on programs and opportunities.
