Building Futures.

NRCF supports efforts to reduce educational disparities for those who have faced barriers related to sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression and is open to all applicants and allies who support these principles.

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 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.

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Privacy

matters.

About 20% of LGBTQ+ students choose to keep their identity private until they feel financially secure. Our highest priority is privacy for all applicants.

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

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Two students smiling together outside

National Rainbow College Fund is making a difference for California college students.

140

Scholarships Awarded in 2025

Discover Ways to Give

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.