Peabody College Scholarships: How to Fund Your Graduate Education

The cost of graduate school shouldn’t stand in the way of your ability to advance in the areas of education, leadership and human development. Understanding your funding options is a critical part of choosing the right master’s or Ed.D. program, helping you remove financial stress so you can focus on learning and career growth.  

At Peabody College of education and human development, supporting graduate students goes beyond academics. From merit-based scholarships to specialized funding opportunities, Peabody is committed to helping you make your graduate education more accessible, so you can pursue your goals with confidence.

Can You Get Scholarships for Grad School?

Many prospective graduate students assume that scholarships are reserved for undergraduates.  Graduate scholarships and grants exist, and they can make a significant difference in funding your education. The key is to identify programs, like those at Peabody College, that prioritize supporting students through scholarships, graduate assistantships and other funding opportunities.

Look for these standard funding options in your search for a graduate school:

Scholarships: merit-based awards that don’t need to be repaid

Grants: typically research-based, often for educators or a specific research area

Assistantships/fellowships: provide funding in exchange for research, para-professional work, or teaching

Additionally, Peabody’s commitment to the field of education has led to many scholarships and grants specifically designed to support M.Ed. and Ed.D. students. These funding opportunities are often tailored to encourage students to pursue high-need areas, advance equal access to education or engage in research and leadership initiatives that directly impact schools and communities. By targeting these programs, you can reduce your financial burden and align your studies with the areas of greatest impact and career growth.

Learn more about guaranteed funding available through the Teacher Pathway Scholarship.

Grad School Scholarships and Grants to Consider

Scholarships and grants can come from a wide range of sources: universities, private foundations, professional associations and even state or federal programs. Whether you’re pursuing an M.Ed., an Ed.D. or another graduate program at Peabody College, it’s worth exploring both national and local options to build a complete funding plan.

These scholarships and grants are typically awarded based on merit, professional experience, leadership potential or specific areas of interest rather than financial need. Need-based support is available through loans or Federal Work Study, and submitting the FAFSA is recommended for any domestic student seeking this type of aid. Understanding the difference can help you strategically explore all funding opportunities and maximize the support available for your graduate education.

Scholarships for Educators and Future Education Leaders

Graduate students pursuing degrees in teaching, education leadership, policy, counseling or special education may be eligible for a variety of scholarships that recognize academic achievement, leadership potential and commitment to service. 

Students applying for on-campus programs who have successfully completed (or will have completed by the time of enrollment) service with one of the seven programs listed below are guaranteed to receive a partial tuition scholarship.

• AmeriCorps Award
• Bonner Foundation Award
• City Year Award
• McNair Scholars Award
• Peace Corps Award
• Posse Award
• Teach for America Award

In addition to these opportunities, prospective students are encouraged to explore state-based funding and specific scholarships for grad school in Tennessee. These sources can complement national awards and help build a comprehensive funding plan.

Peabody College Scholarships

Peabody College is committed to making high-quality graduate education more accessible for aspiring educators and education leaders. In 2025, 86 percent of admitted students received scholarship support, reflecting a sustained investment in expanding opportunity and strengthening the educator workforce, particularly across Tennessee.

Several scholarship and funding options are available to Peabody students: 

The Teacher Pathway Scholarship guarantees a minimum 30 percent scholarship for admitted students who enroll in terms after Spring 2026 to eligible initial licensure and advanced programs and a minimum 20 percent scholarship for eligible teacher leadership programs. This guaranteed funding is designed to support individuals preparing to enter or advance within the teaching profession.

The Nashville Metropolitan Area K-12 Public School Scholarship is available for students currently working in public K–12 school systems in Middle Tennessee. Applicants admitted to a Peabody College master’s degree program who are employed full-time, in good standing and in any role within a public K–12 school system located in one of the 14 counties that make up the Nashville Metropolitan Area are eligible to receive a partial tuition scholarship applied to the minimum number of credit hours required to complete their degree.

Peabody College also offers merit-based aid for on-campus graduate students. All applicants are automatically considered for merit aid as part of the admissions process. Together, these opportunities reflect Peabody’s commitment to reducing financial barriers, recognizing professional experience and supporting future educators and leaders as they pursue graduate study.

How to Apply for Peabody Financial Aid and Scholarships

Securing a Peabody College scholarship begins with the application for admission. All applicants to Peabody College master’s and Ed.D. programs receive full and automatic consideration for available scholarships as part of the admissions review. No separate scholarship application is required.

• Start your application for admission to a Peabody College master’s or Ed.D. program.

Still exploring our degree offerings? Take our master’s degree quiz to find your path.

• Submit your application. This serves as your application for both admission and scholarship consideration. 

Experience the Benefits of Applying Early

Vanderbilt Peabody College operates on a rolling admission basis, but priority application decision dates begin as early as December 1. Submitting your application by one of these dates ensures earlier consideration and several advantages in the enrollment process.

For detailed guidance on deadlines, required materials and best practices, read our blog: Peabody College’s Tips and Tricks: Submitting Your Vanderbilt Application.

FAQ about Vanderbilt Peabody College Scholarships and Funding

Unlock Peabody College Scholarships for Graduate Students in Education and Human Development

A graduate degree from Peabody College is an investment in your professional impact. Our programs prepare educators, policy leaders and organizational change-makers to tackle complex challenges while leading with evidence and purpose. Graduates benefit from strong career outcomes and a return on investment shaped by thorough preparation and real-world application.

The Peabody Difference reflects a commitment to intellectual rigor and academic excellence, brought to life through internationally recognized faculty and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students gain access to cutting-edge research, applied learning experiences and a community focused on improving education and human development.

We invite you to explore Peabody’s graduate programs and begin the application process early to take full advantage of admissions timelines and engagement opportunities. With no application fee for Peabody College master’s or Ed.D. programs, applying is a straightforward first step toward advancing your career and expanding your impact.