SEMA Scholarship & Loan Forgiveness Program

SEMA Scholarship & Loan Forgiveness Program is sponsored by SEMA. Scholarships and loan forgiveness for individuals pursuing automotive-related degrees or certifications, including repair and aftermarket fields. Open to U.

S. or Canadian citizens demonstrating passion for automotive careers.

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

Learn more about our impact arrow_forward Whether you are a student starting your journey or a professional already in the field, we have a For incoming freshmen or continued enrollment in college, university, or post-secondary Be a high school senior or 18 years of age at submission U.S. or Canadian Citizen (permanent/legal residents not eligible) Demonstrate passion for automotive hobby and career Incoming freshmen or continued enrollment in U.S./Canada school Pursuing automotive degree/certification (all disciplines welcome) Apply for Scholarship arrow_forward Loan forgiveness for employees of SEMA member businesses who have completed their Employed by a SEMA member business Demonstrate passion for automotive hobby and career Possess degree/certificate from U.S. or Canadian school Minimum $2,000 in outstanding student loans Apply for Loan Forgiveness arrow_forward Applications open in January.

Create your profile and Committees review applications based on academic Winners are selected and notified. Acceptance details Scholarship monies are distributed directly to your View All Stories arrow_forward celebration Just Announced 46 recipients awarded $99,000 in scholarships and loan forgiveness for pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. Everything you need to know about applying for SEMA scholarships.

When is the application deadline? 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. Can I apply for both a scholarship and loan forgiveness? 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. Do I need to be a SEMA member to apply? 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 Scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 for students. Loan forgiveness awards range from $1,000 to $3,000 for qualifying employees. What fields of study qualify?

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