Building Futures.

LGBTQ+ students face unique challenges that hinder their ability to afford higher education. Our vision is that every LGBTQ+ person in the U.S. has the means to realize their educational dreams, regardless of the public nature of their sexual identity.

The scholarship that lets you

be you.

National Rainbow College Fund is the first program that offers scholarships to LGBTQ+ students – whether they are publicly out or not.

We’re giving LGBTQ+ youth the opportunity to figure out who they are, what their future holds, and how they can live their lives to the fullest while still being true to who they are.

Back view of student on campus outside

Privacy

matters.

About 20% of LGBTQ+ students stay in the closet until they are financially secure. During the application process, our highest priority is your privacy.

Students studying in the library

Why

they need us now more than ever.

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual students typically receive 12% less financial support than their heterosexual peers. For transgender students, there is a 17% gap.

Learn more about the fund

Two students looking at assignments outside

Two students smiling together outside

Starting in California in 2025, National Rainbow College Fund is making a difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ students.

$500k

Help us reach our goal to support LGBTQ+ students.

Discover Ways to Give

The National Rainbow College Fund is powered by San Diego Foundation, one of the largest community foundations in the U.S. and a leading scholarship provider in California.