Supporting Prosperity Through Education
With four-plus decades of helping students access education, Nelnet believes in the power of learning. Whether it’s creating opportunities to chart a path to success for those who are underserved or rewarding academic achievement to drive progress, the Nelnet Foundation’s support for education makes us all stronger and more prosperous.
I was over the moon when I heard that I was a 2023 Nelnet Scholar. Higher education is a tremendous expense for mine and millions of other American families. I am so grateful for the help that I received from Nelnet, which has allowed me to attend Syracuse University.
Trish Balani
2023 Nelnet Scholar
Nelnet Scholars Program
In 2004, the Nelnet Foundation created the Nelnet Scholars Program to recognize academic excellence by granting college scholarships to the children and dependents of Nelnet associates. Recipients are selected based on past academic performance and future potential, leadership, and work experience. Each year, the program offers renewable $5,000 scholarships and nonrenewable $1,500 scholarships. Nelnet Scholars demonstrates the organization’s commitment to associates and their families, as well as an investment in building the future workforce.
Read more about the impact of the Nelnet Scholars Program on Nelnet associates and their children.
Over 5 Years:
Awarded
Scholarships Awarded
The Learn to Dream Scholarship–Nebraska
Since 2007, the Learn to Dream Scholarship has been helping low-income students in Lincoln, Neb. access two years of free higher education at Southeast Community College. Open to all Lincoln students who qualify for free or reduced lunch, the scholarship is funded by Nelnet, Union Bank & Trust, and the Acklie Charitable Foundation. The program provides more than just financial support, offering resources and information to help ensure students’ success in achieving their dreams of completing post-secondary education.
Hear from Nebraska students about how the Learn to Dream Scholarship has impacted them.
Since 2007:
Scholarships Awarded
If I didn’t have Learn to Dream to help cover most of my costs, I wouldn’t have made it more than one semester. I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunities I received.
Hazy Nieveen
Learn to Dream Scholarship Recipient
The Learn to Dream Scholarship–Utah
Launched in 2021 in partnership with Nelnet Bank, the Learn to Dream Scholarship changes the lives of students from low- to moderate-income families in Utah by removing cost barriers to college. The program partners with Salt Lake Community College, Davis Technical College, and Tooele Technical College to fund tuition, fees, books, trade kits, and other education supplies.
Thank you so much for this scholarship. I’m so grateful that I can go through the program without worrying if I’ll be able to pay for it. Before starting the program, I didn’t know how I was going to pay for it, but I hoped I would get a scholarship. When I received the email that I got this one, I was so excited. Thank you again! I really appreciate it.
Davis Tech Scholar
Scholarships Awarded
Awarded
First Generation Student Recipients
Women Recipients
Minority
Since 2021
University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business
Nelnet’s founders and several executives are graduates of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s College of Business. To help give back and to invest in the development of future business leaders, the Nelnet Foundation awards grants totaling $20,000 each year to top UNL College of Business students.
Community College of Aurora
The Nelnet Foundation supports underserved students and students with financial need with scholarships.
Work With Us
We’re always looking for partners who share our passion. Reach out, and let’s see how we can strengthen our communities and power a stronger, better tomorrow—together.