AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship Program Now Accepting Applications

Scholarships support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students pursuing degrees in design, photography, and illustration 
The program encourages social and environmental responsibility and cultural awareness 

New York, NY—AIGA, the professional association for design, is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2023/2024 academic year for the AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships program.

This scholarship program increases diversity in the creative professions by removing financial barriers and providing equitable opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Scholarships are awarded annually to students with positive social agendas who are studying photography, illustration, and design disciplines in colleges and universities in the United States. The academic scholarship helps students achieve their educational goals and give back to their communities through their work. Since its inception in 1995, nearly $1.4 million dollars has been awarded to more than 800 college students of art and design. 

Apply online for the AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship. The call for applications is now open, and the deadline is April 7, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Scholarships are awarded in amounts of $2,500–$3,750. One or two top awards may be given in an amount up to $5,000 at the jury’s discretion. Honorable mention prizes in the amount of $500 or $750 cash may also be awarded. Each scholarship is paid directly to the recipient’s school and applied toward tuition. A one-year AIGA membership is also awarded to recipients. 

“This scholarship is helping me leave graduate school debt free. It has also taught me how to be resourceful in funding my art practice and encouraged me to continue to take chances on myself and my career as an artist,” said Ciarra K. Walters, 2022–2023 AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship Recipient.

“Much of design is problem solving and coming up with solutions,” said Victor Davila, Assistant Professor at University of Central Florida, AIGA National Board Member, and AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship Juror. “By giving a voice to designers from all backgrounds, it encourages a diversity of ideas and unique solutions to some of the world's biggest challenges.”

“Fostering social and environmental responsibility should be at the core of design practice, without conscious and authentic regard for our planet and each other, we lose the ability to effect change,” said Juana Medina, Author, Illustrator, and Assistant Professor at George Mason University’s School of Art & Design and AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship Juror. “Design has the power to create momentous solutions, influence lifestyles, and give hope. Creating solutions that maintain a comprehensive approach, ensures better outcomes for everyone.”