Serving United Methodist Students

GBHEM Scholarships offers financial aid to United Methodist students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Every year, an average of $4 million is awarded to help students in the United States and abroad pursue their dreams through higher education. With this financial aid, GBHEM is opening pathways for students of all backgrounds to earn their degrees and serve as the next generation of leaders for the church and the world.

Applying for Scholarships

The GBHEM scholarship application typically opens in January each year.  Add your name to our interest list below to be notified when the next application cycle opens.

Global Ministries Leadership Development and Scholarships Program

Global Ministries’ Leadership Development and Scholarships

The General Board of Global Ministries Leadership Development and Scholarships Program provides access to needed training and expertise for global partners through scholarships and training opportunities.

Scholarships for International Students

United Methodist students who are studying at an accredited institution within a central conference outside the United States may be eligible for grants and scholarships.

GRASP Scholarships

Where Does the Money Come From?

Funding for scholarships is made possible through the generosity of our fellow United Methodists and through decades of sound financial stewardship by our agency. Financial support for all GBHEM and scholarships comes from five primary sources:

63% from endowments
22% from wills and annuities
13% from United Methodist Special Sundays
1% from online gifts.
1% from fiduciary income

Our Theological Commitment to Education Access

The General Boards of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries share a theological commitment to working to provide access to education. This commitment includes providing scholarships and other assistance to persons from disadvantaged groups that cannot access education and opportunities on the same basis as others. This commitment is grounded in our Methodist theological heritage and our beliefs about God’s call to work for mission and justice in the world.

As United Methodists, we believe that all people are created in the image of God and of sacred worth. We further believe that all people have a right to education. We recognize, however, that not all people have access to education. As United Methodists, our faith compels us to take concrete actions to oppose injustices that disregard the inherent worth of all people. This includes tangible steps to promote access to education through scholarships.

Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

Your Generosity is Important

How to Apply For Scholarships

The 2025 general application for all GBHEM scholarships has closed. Join the Interest List and we will send you an email reminder when the application window is about to open for 2026 Scholarships.