Top 7 Accounting Scholarships You Should Know About in 2026

Scholarships can make a substantial difference for accounting students, especially those preparing for the CPA. In this post, we’ll break down key scholarship options, including programs from national organizations, firms, and universities to help you find the support you need to succeed.

Why Scholarships Matter for Accounting Majors

Accounting degrees, and especially those targeting the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, can get expensive quickly. With CPA licensure requiring either 120 or 150 credit hours in combination with professional experience, many students need a fifth year or a combined degree program to meet that threshold.

Scholarships help ease the financial load, so you can focus on what really matters: landing educational opportunities in the field, acing CPA prep, and building real-world experience instead of juggling part-time jobs.

They’re also a critical tool for promoting access to opportunities, as securing scholarship support early can be your ticket to coveted Big Four involvement and a stronger return on investment throughout your career.

Invest in Your Future: Scholarship Opportunities for Accounting Students

If you are considering an undergraduate or graduate degree in accounting, now is the time to take the next step toward a rewarding and respected career. Accounting offers stability, strong earning potential, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in business and society. To support students who are ready to pursue this path, a wide range of scholarships is available to help reduce financial barriers and accelerate your professional journey.

An accounting education prepares students for the Certified Public Accountant, or CPA, credential, one of the most respected professional licenses in business. The CPA designation opens doors to diverse and high-impact careers in public accounting, corporate finance, consulting, government, and financial services. While the path to becoming a CPA requires dedication and discipline, it consistently delivers long-term professional recognition, career mobility, and financial rewards.

The accounting profession is currently facing a nationwide talent shortage, with demand far exceeding supply across firms, corporations, government agencies, and financial institutions. In response, universities and the profession have expanded scholarship opportunities to attract and support talented students who are ready to lead. Early financial support allows you to focus on academic excellence, pursue competitive internships, including opportunities with Big Four firms, and fully engage in professional and leadership development. By exploring and applying for these scholarships, you not only reduce the cost of your education but also invest in a future with exceptional career prospects and lasting professional value.

Types of Scholarships Accounting Majors Can Apply

Before you dive into specific awards, it’s helpful to understand the major categories of scholarships for accounting majors. Here’s a quick overview of where support typically comes from and how each type can help you.

National Professional Organizations
Many national accounting organizations offer scholarships for students. These awards often require strong academic performance and membership of the applicant or one of their family members. Think of well-known scholarships from organizations such as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB).

Firm-Sponsored Awards
Big Four firms and other major accounting companies invest in future talent through scholarships. These often target students in their fifth year or in combined degree programs who are working toward CPA eligibility. Beyond financial support, these awards frequently come with internship or recruitment opportunities, providing a direct line to these renowned firms.

Professional Associations
Associations such as the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) and the Association of Latino Professionals For America (ALPFA) offer scholarships focused on diversity, professional development, and networking. These groups aim to support underrepresented students and provide a connection to communities and networks that boost their career growth.

Scholarships Through Universities
Many universities offer scholarships specifically for accounting majors, especially those pursuing the 150 credit hours required for CPA licensure through combined degree or fifth-year programs. These scholarships may link directly to internship pipelines or firm partnerships, helping you build connections while you study.

Top Accounting Scholarships to Consider in 2026

Now that you know the types of scholarships available, let’s look at some specific opportunities. These awards can help you fund your degree, strengthen your CPA readiness, and build the professional connections that give you a career edge. Deadlines and amounts vary, so plan to give yourself the best shot at being named a recipient.

National Professional Organizations

• AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs
  • Amount: $5,000 to $10,000 per recipient
  • Deadline: March 15, 2026
  • Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents in good academic standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). They must have completed at least 30 semester hours of college coursework, including six hours in accounting, by the end of the spring semester. AICPA Student Affiliate membership is also required (free to join).
  • Benefits: Around 100 students are selected annually as AICPA Legacy Scholars, joining a connected community of aspiring accountants dedicated to advancing their education and careers
• Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholars Program
  • Amount: $15,000 per recipient
  • Deadline: Funds are awarded for classes that start on or after August 1; deadlines are set by nominating institutions
  • Eligibility: Students must be nominated by their school and enrolled in an undergrad or grad accounting program at a PCAOB-designated U.S. institution, starting classes on or after August 1 of the award year. They must have a 3.3 GPA or rank in the top third of their class, show strong ethics, demonstrate financial need, and not be a PCAOB employee or related to one. The award is merit-based, though the program encourages consideration of students from historically underrepresented groups in accounting.
  • Benefits: Recognizes academic excellence and supports students committed to pursuing careers in public accounting.

Firm-Sponsored Awards

• Deloitte Foundation Accounting Scholars
  • Amount: 100% of tuition and academic fees, excluding books and living expenses, if students maintain a 3.0 or higher GPA for all semesters and upon graduation.
  • Deadline: April 1, 2026
  • Eligibility: Eligibility requirements vary among the 25 participating schools. See the scholarship website for an exact breakdown.
  • Benefits: Supports scholarships for students pursuing a five-year accelerated master’s in tax or accounting with a focus in audit, advisory, or tax.
• KPMG Fund for Excellence in Accounting
  • Amount: $5,000 ($2,500 for the fall semester and $2,500 for the spring semester)
  • Deadline: TBD for 2026
  • Eligibility: Outstanding students who are enrolled in the Lubin School of Business in a qualified accounting program and who maintain a 3.30 GPA Overall and in Accounting at Pace University.
  • Benefits: The Scholarship Fund for Excellence in Accounting Education is established by KPMG Partners and professionals to promote educational excellence in accounting at Pace University's Lubin School of Business' Department of Accountancy. Recipients must demonstrate involvement and leadership in either co-curricular activities at Pace or service organizations in their local community or high school.
• EY Accounting Scholarships at Pace
  • Amount: $5,000 ($2,500 for the fall semester and $2,500 for the spring semester)
  • Deadline: May, annually
  • Eligibility: Open to Lubin School of Business accounting students with a 3.30 GPA or higher, these awards recognize those who show strong leadership and active involvement in campus activities, community service, or high school organizations.
  • Benefits: The Ernst & Young Fund for Excellence in Accounting Education was established by Ernst & Young LLP to promote educational excellence in accounting at Pace University. Students may receive this award for no more than three academic years, provided they remain eligible according to scholarship stipulations.

Professional Associations

• National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) National Scholarships
  • Amount: Up to $10,000
  • Deadline: TBD for 2026
  • Eligibility: NABA Foundation scholarships are open to applicants of all races who meet the eligibility criteria and are active members of the National Association of Black Accountants. They should be pursuing a bachelor’s or graduate degree in accounting, business, or finance.
  • Benefits: For NABA student members earning an undergrad or grad degree in accounting or a related field.
• Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) Scholarships
  • Amount: Up to $10,000
  • Deadline: February 27, 2026
  • Eligibility: Candidates of any race, ethnicity, or nationality are welcome to apply. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and an active Premium ALPFA National student or professional membership. Awards go to those with the highest scores from ALPFA judges.
  • Benefits: The program supports students across various business and related fields, including international relations and HR, to economics, hospitality, and IT.

Scholarships Through Your University

Many universities offer scholarships that don’t always show up on national databases. These targeted awards are designed to support specific recruiting goals through partnerships with accounting firms. Here’s what you can expect from these university-affiliated scholarships:

• Support for students preparing for the crucial fifth year to meet CPA requirements
• Financial aid tailored to ease the cost of extended education
• On-campus access to exclusive internship pipelines and firm connections
• Awards that combine merit, financial need, and career readiness

Scholarships for Lubin Students at Pace University

Aside from the previously listed accounting scholarships, Pace University offers standout scholarship opportunities designed to help accounting students succeed, particularly those gearing up for their fifth year. The Lubin School of Business provides merit- and need-based awards to help alleviate the financial load.

• The Janetschek Professional Growth Fund provides financial support to qualified Lubin undergraduate and graduate students seeking business-related development beyond their academic programs. This may include skills training, credential preparation, certifications, and related co-curricular education and activities that develop professional competencies, complementing their program of study. The Janetschek Professional Growth Scholarship committee will review applications and award funds based on the requested amount.
• Graduation Awards for Lubin Undergraduate Students are available to Lubin undergraduate students who have filed for graduation with the Office of the Registrar and have a minimum 3.20 cumulative GPA. Qualifying students can be eligible for the Professional Management Award and the Alumni Association Award.

For graduate students, there is also the Deloitte Foundation Accounting Scholars Program, which provides up to ten full-tuition scholarships to qualified applicants pursuing a fifth-year master’s degree in accounting with a concentration in audit, advisory, or tax.

Pace’s combined BBA/MS, BBA/MBA, and BBA/Taxation programs make it easier to meet CPA requirements while gaining advanced credentials. Additionally, Pace’s location in NYC gives students a direct line to Big Four firms and other top players in the accounting world, opening doors to internships, networking, and career-launching opportunities.

Ready to learn more? Check out Pace’s accounting programs to see which educational opportunities fit your goals.

How to Find and Win Accounting Scholarships: Tips and Tools

Landing accounting scholarships takes strategy and preparation. Use these tips and tools to navigate the process and boost your chances of success.

• When to apply: It’s never too early to start. Aim for the fall or winter of the academic year to meet deadlines with time to spare.
• Where to search: Start with a general search, but don’t stop at scholarship aggregator sites. Be sure to visit the scholarship websites of national professional organizations, firm-sponsored awards, professional associations, and university partnerships for the latest information.
• What makes a strong application: Keep your GPA competitive, gather strong letters of recommendation, and write a personal statement that’s authentic and compelling.
• What to avoid: Don’t wait until the last minute, skip eligibility requirements, or submit generic essays that don’t showcase your unique background and goals.

Remember, accounting scholarships can be a game-changer. Pace is ready to help you find and win the right ones so you can focus on your career. Request information today and take the next step.

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