Student working on a laptop in an automotive setting

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund

Fueling The Future
Of Automotive

We believe financial barriers shouldn't stop passion. We help students pay for college tuition and industry professionals pay off their student loans.

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5000+ Scholarships Awarded Since 1984 Scholarships Awarded
$5,000 Max Tuition Award Max Award
July Awards Distributed Distribution
Our Mission

Support At Every
Stage Of Your Career

Whether you are just starting your education or paying off debt from your degree, SEMA has a program for you. We collaboratively created and sustained scholarships for students in the automotive industry, partnering on incredible investments in developing student talent.

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Two Paths to Funding

Whether you are a student starting your journey or a professional already in the field, we have a program for you.

Program Key: SEMA

school

For Students

Scholarships

For incoming freshmen or continued enrollment in college, university, or post-secondary career/tech schools.

Eligibility Requirements

  • check_circle Be a high school senior or 18 years of age at submission
  • check_circle U.S. or Canadian Citizen (permanent/legal residents not eligible)
  • check_circle Demonstrate passion for automotive hobby and career
  • check_circle Incoming freshmen or continued enrollment in U.S./Canada school
  • check_circle Pursuing automotive degree/certification (all disciplines welcome)
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work

For Employees

Loan Forgiveness

Loan forgiveness for employees of SEMA member businesses who have completed their studies.

Eligibility Requirements

  • check_circle Employed by a SEMA member business
  • check_circle Demonstrate passion for automotive hobby and career
  • check_circle Possess degree/certificate from U.S. or Canadian school
  • check_circle Minimum $2,000 in outstanding student loans
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2026 Application Timeline

Phase 1: Jan 1 - Apr 3

Apply Online

Applications open in January. Create your profile and start your submission.

Phase 2: April - May

Review Process

Committees review applications based on academic achievement and passion.

Phase 3: June - July

Notification

Winners are selected and notified. Acceptance details are sent out.

Phase 4: August

Awards

Scholarship monies are distributed directly to your educational institution.

Our Community

Scholars Making a Difference

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SEMA Scholarship Winner
2025 Winners
celebration Just Announced

Class of 2025
Award Winners

46 recipients awarded $99,000 in scholarships and loan forgiveness for pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket.

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Scholarship Mentions

2026 Scholar Accolades Announced

October 15, 2024

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Upcoming Events

Join us at SEMA Show 2026
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about applying for SEMA scholarships.

Applications must be submitted by April 3rd, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered for the current cycle. We recommend submitting at least 48 hours in advance to avoid any technical issues.

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for both programs, you may submit separate applications. However, awards are typically limited to one per individual per year.

For student scholarships, SEMA membership is not required but recommended. For the Loan Forgiveness program, you must be employed by a current SEMA member business at the time of application and award.

Scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 for students. Loan forgiveness awards range from $1,000 to $3,000 for qualifying employees.

Automotive technology, mechanical engineering, business (automotive-related), and other fields directly related to the automotive aftermarket industry.

Questions? Contact Us!

email SEMAeducation@sema.org