Unconventional scholarships would be a more appropriate term for weird scholarships. They go against the very notion that most people have about scholarships.

First let us see what is considered normal before we delve into what is weird. Traditionally, scholarships used to be merit based and were awarded to students who show outstanding merit in arts, sports or academics. Similarly grants were awarded to those who couldn\’t afford education but displayed potential. Mostly students that are good in any of the acceted fields such as maths, sciences, arts, sports, even cheerleading, are the ones who get scholarships. But, what if your special abilities do not fit the social norms, well, there are very unconventional and weird scholarships for that purpose. These quirky characteristics may fall under three criteria.

Those based on Physical Criteria

The scholarships that are awarded for possessing unique physical characteristics or abilities fall into this category. For example, there is a scholarship for being unusually tall. A club for tall people offers a grant of up to $1,000 for male students with a height of 6\’2\’\’ and above or female students with a height of 5\’10\” and above. And fair enough, little people, or those who have dwarfism also have their own scholarships and grants. There are also weird scholarships for being a twin, being overweight and even for being a redhead.

Those based on interest

Students who have unique interests or philosophies in life have a lot of scholarship opportunities. There are several organizations that offer scholarship grants to those who share the same interest as their members. There is one scholarship grant awarded to vegetarians. Besides being a vegan, an applicant is also required to write an essay on a related topic. Scholarships are also offered for those who are into knitting, skateboarding and many other hobbies.

Those based on talent

These scholarships are awarded to people who have unique, unconventional abilities. Under this criterion, the student with the weirdest or quirkiest talents may actually qualify for a scholarship grant. For example, there is a 1500 USD scholarship for being an exert at duck calls. There is also another scholarship for having exceptional welding skills.

Even though some of these weird scholarships might sound funny, they have their purpose. They are a celebration of life and the uniqueness of every person.