BASW Changemaker Scholarships | 2026–2027
Social work is for people who care deeply about others and who want a career that is meaningful, practical, and sustainable. We want to support undergraduate students who may not have originally planned to major in social work, but who already bring the heart, experience, and insight the profession needs.
Removing Financial Barriers, Expanding Opportunity
Students often come to our program from communities that have experienced inequity, economic difficulty, or limited access to higher education. Tuition costs and high cost-of-living can cause students to work excessive hours, take on significant debt, or delay their education. We know that these barriers can deter or derail even capable and motivated learners.
These scholarships are designed to:
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Partially or fully cover remaining tuition costs for BASW students based on financial need (awards will range from $5,000 to $10,000 annually for 2 consecutive years; $10,000-$20,000 total)
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Allow students to focus on learning, practicum education, and community engagement
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Support students who might not otherwise be able to pursue a social work degree
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Recruit students into a rewarding, high-impact profession
By reaching as many students as possible, this scholarship initiative recognizes that broad access—not just a few individual awards—is essential to building a strong, diverse, and effective social work profession.
Even if you did not plan a career in social work, the field needs you.
Many of our strongest students discover social work after starting in psychology, sociology, public health, or education. They come to the profession from all backgrounds and experiences. If you have ever supported a family member through a crisis, helped someone navigate a complex system, or advocated for fairness and care, social work may already be part of who you are.
Social Work is a great fit for folks who:
- Want to serve their community and make a tangible difference close to home
- Bring lived experience navigating foster care, housing insecurity, economic hardship, mental health care, medical settings, or challenges succeeding in school
- Are drawn to frontline, people-centered work with individuals, families, and communities
- Are seeking a career that combines purpose, stability, and real-world impact
Our graduates work in hospitals, schools, nonprofits, community settings, private practice, and leadership roles. Many go on to MSW programs through advanced standing pathways; others build long-term careers directly after graduation.
Your Community Needs You. We’ll Help You Get There.
If this interests you and you want to learn more join us March 18th for our Changemaker Information Session!
Nominate a Changemaker today!
If you know someone that you think is a future changemaker, please submit a nomination for the Changemaker Scholarship today! A nomination is not required for consideration – applicants can apply directly. Your nomination will just help us connect directly to prospective applicants. Submit your nomination today!
Scholarship FAQ
All applicants to the BASW program for the 2026–2027 academic year are eligible for this scholarship – you must gain admission to the BASW program (and UW if a transfer) AND submit a separate scholarship application to be considered. Scholarships are designed to support a broad range of students and are open to everyone applying.
Applicants do not have to be a US citizen or resident. Undocumented and international students are encouraged to apply.
Recipients
- Must be admitted to the UW Seattle BASW program for Autumn 2026
- Must verify SAI as determined by FAFSA or WASFA (If you are ineligible for the FAFSA/WASFA – i.e. international student – this requirement is waived)
- Must maintain enrollment in UW Seattle BASW program for duration of scholarship and maintain good academic standing
Awards will receive partial tuition support based on available funding and student need; awards will range from $5,000 to $10,000 annually for 2 consecutive years students.
Yes, please click here to apply! The scholarship deadline is April 15th, 11:59 PM PST and we aim to notify recipients by July 2026.
The goal is to significantly reduce costs of attendance for as many students as possible. Award amounts will vary from $5,000 to $10,000 annually, for 2 consecutive years (up to $20,000 in total). These awards will be deposited to student accounts and can be used for educational expenses as needed.
The 2026–2027 BASW Changemaker Scholarships represent more than financial aid. These scholarships are a bold investment in UW students and the future of social work. By supporting undergraduate students at a pivotal moment in their academic and professional development, we aim to strengthen a profession that touches people’s lives every day.
Undergraduate social work education is a critical entry point into the profession. Investing in students at this stage not only strengthens the social work workforce but also expands access to further training, including MSW programs, ensuring more skilled and committed practitioners are prepared to create social change.
Absolutely. Many BASW graduates go on to MSW programs, including advanced standing pathways. While this scholarship cannot be used for MSW tuition, it can help reduce undergraduate student debt and make it easier to afford graduate school. Other funding resources are available for the MSW program.
We aim to notify recipients by July 2026.