How Do I Get SHRM Scholarship

Are you planning to within the next 12 months? If you need financial support to earn SHRM certification or if your chapter or state council requires funds to promote SHRM certification programs, consider applying for a SHRM Foundation scholarship. 

The SHRM Foundation, dedicated to improving workforces and workplaces, is offering nearly $500,000 in scholarships this year for eligible SHRM members pursuing certification, academic goals, and professional development. In addition, the foundation awards over $400,000 annually to undergraduate and graduate students studying HR. 

How Much Does the SHRM Exam Cost?

The cost of the SHRM certification exam varies based on SHRM membership fee status and the specific exam taken. Here are the key details:

Exam Fees

• SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Standard Exam Fees:
  • SHRM Members: $410
  • Non-Members: $510
• Early-Bird Exam Fees:
  • SHRM Members: $335
  • Non-Members: $435
• Student Exam Fees:
  • SHRM Student Members: $149
  • Non-Member Students: $209
• Corporate and Military Exam Fees: $270 for both members and non-members.

Additional Costs

Besides the exam fees, candidates should consider potential additional costs, such as:

• Preparation Materials: Costs for study materials or courses can range significantly, with self-study options starting around $795 for members and up to $1,025 for non-members. You can 
• Retest Fees: If a candidate needs to retake the exam, they will incur the full exam fee again.
• Membership Fees: Becoming a member of SHRM may provide lower exam fees but involves an additional cost for membership itself.

Overall, the total cost for obtaining SHRM certification can range from approximately $1,000 to $1,500 when considering exam fees and preparation material.

Check this out: What Types of Questions are on the SHRM?

Overview of SHRM Foundation Scholarships

The SHRM Foundation is committed to supporting the development of future HR leaders by providing financial assistance through scholarships. Each year, the foundation distributes over $400,000 in scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing studies in human resources (HR) .

This significant investment reflects the foundation’s dedication to transforming workforces and workplaces for the better.

Types of Scholarships Offered

The SHRM Foundation offers several categories of scholarships, each designed for specific audiences and needs:

• General Scholarships
  • Amount: $2,500
  • Beneficiaries: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students who are pursuing degrees in HR or related fields. This funding can be utilized for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses, making it a valuable resource for students striving to complete their degrees.
• HR Exploration Scholarships
  • Amount: $1,200 plus a one-year SHRM membership.
  • Beneficiaries: Aimed at emerging HR professionals, these scholarships are designed to encourage students to explore the field of human resources. The inclusion of a SHRM membership provides recipients with access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tools that can enhance their educational experience and career prospects.
• Graduate Scholarships
  • Specific scholarships, such as the Susan R. Meisinger Scholarship for Graduate Study in HR, are available to support graduate students. These scholarships are targeted at people who are pursuing advanced degrees in HR and are committed to making a significant impact in the field.
• Cheslie C. Kryst Memorial Scholarship
  • This scholarship, aimed at graduate students, opened for applications on January 9, 2024, with a deadline of March 13, 2024. It honors the legacy of Cheslie C. Kryst and supports students who demonstrate a commitment to the HR profession and community service

Undergraduate Scholarships

Undergraduate scholarships offered by the SHRM Foundation provide financial assistance to students pursuing degrees in human resources and related fields. 

Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate SHRM Scholarships

To apply for an undergraduate scholarship, you must satisfy the following criteria:

• Membership: Applicants must be current SHRM Members® (professional or student).
• Enrollment Status: Must be enrolled in a degree-seeking undergraduate program with at least one full semester remaining before graduation (see additional clarification below), OR have been accepted and are ready to begin your studies within six months. If you have already begun your last semester or will have completed your studies by the date of notification, you are not eligible.
• Accreditation: Your college or university must be a regionally accredited institution of higher learning.
• Degree Program: Your degree program must be HR-related (e.g., business, psychology, HR, organizational development, etc.).
• Academic Performance: You must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Additional Criteria: Individual opportunities may have additional criteria. Please review each opportunity for the full list of eligibility requirements.

How to Apply for Undergraduate SHRM Scholarships

To apply for an undergraduate scholarship, you must complete an online application. The application requires the following information:

• Basic contact information.
• Short answer questions about academic, volunteer, and work experience and career aspirations.

• A current resume.

• Transcripts, in English, from an accredited institution. Universities within the United States must be regionally accredited. Universities outside of the United States must be accredited by a widely recognized accrediting body within the country or by the agency or ministry that oversees higher education within the country. The SHRM Foundation may request an applicant with an international transcript to provide a transcript evaluation (at the applicant’s expense), from World Education Services or another reputable service, prior to reviewing an application.
• One letter of reference, which provides insight into the applicant’s character, career and/or volunteer accomplishments, work ethic, values, and need. Please address the letter of reference to “SHRM Foundation Scholarship Review Committee.” Who can write a letter of reference? Letters may be written by work or volunteer colleagues, coaches, professors, etc. They should not come from family members. Applicants must request all recommendation letters through the scholarship application system. The SHRM Foundation cannot accept recommendation letters directly from applicants.

Distribution of Undergraduate Scholarships

If selected to receive an Undergraduate Academic Scholarship, recipients will be required to provide proof of enrollment and college/university payment instructions. 

The SHRM Foundation will issue a check for $2,500 directly to the educational institution for payment of tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at the educational institution, or for fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses at the educational institution.

Special Considerations for Undergraduate SHRM Scholarships

• Each scholarship is a one-time award; however, previous applicants and past scholarship recipients are eligible to re-apply.
• Full-time, part-time, online, and distance learning programs are acceptable.
• Scholarships are for college-degree programs only and may not be used to attend professional development seminars.
• Recipients should intend on submitting proof of enrollment no later than July for the institution to receive timely payment.

Graduate Scholarships

The SHRM Foundation provides a range of graduate scholarships aimed at supporting students pursuing advanced degrees in human resources (HR) and related fields. This scholarship is designed to support students who are committed to advancing their education and careers in human resources

Eligibility Criteria for Graduate SHRM Scholarships

To apply for a graduate scholarship, you must satisfy the following criteria:

• Membership: You must be a current SHRM member (professional or student).
• Enrollment Status: You must be enrolled in a degree-seeking masters or doctoral program with at least one full semester remaining before graduation (see additional clarification below), OR have been accepted and are ready to begin your studies within six months. If you have already begun your last semester or will have completed your studies by the date of notification, you are not eligible.
• Accreditation: Your college or university must be a regionally accredited institution of higher learning.
• Degree Program: Your degree program must be HR-related (e.g., business, psychology, HR, organizational development, etc.).
• Academic Performance: You must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, or, if not yet enrolled, an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Additional Criteria: Individual opportunities may have additional criteria. Please review each opportunity for the full list of eligibility requirements.

How to Apply for Graduate SHRM Scholarships

To apply for a graduate scholarship, you must complete an online application. The application requires the following information:

• Basic contact information.
• Short answer questions about academic, volunteer, and work experience and career aspirations.

• A current resume.

• Transcripts, in English, from an accredited institution. Universities within the United States must be regionally accredited. Universities outside of the United States must be accredited by a widely recognized accrediting body within the country or by the agency or ministry that oversees higher education within the country. The SHRM Foundation may request an applicant with an international transcript to provide a transcript evaluation (at the applicant’s expense), from World Education Services or another reputable service, prior to reviewing an application.
• One letter of reference, which provides insight into the applicant’s character, career and/or volunteer accomplishments, work ethic, values, and need. Please address the letter of reference to “SHRM Foundation Scholarship Review Committee.” Who can write a letter of reference? Letters may be written by work or volunteer colleagues, coaches, professors, etc. They should not come from family members. Applicants must request all recommendation letters through the scholarship application system. The SHRM Foundation cannot accept recommendation letters directly from applicants.

Distribution of Graduate Scholarships

If selected to receive a Graduate Academic Scholarship, recipients will be required to provide proof of enrollment and college/university payment instructions. 

The SHRM Foundation will issue a check for $5,000 directly to the institution for payment of tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at the educational institution, or for fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses at the educational institution.

Special Considerations for Graduate SHRM Scholarships

• Each scholarship is a one-time award; however, previous applicants and past scholarship recipients are eligible to re-apply.
• Full-time, part-time, online, and distance learning programs are acceptable.
• Scholarships are for college-degree programs only and may not be used to attend professional development seminars.

Related Post:

Certification-Related Scholarships Available from SHRM Foundation

The SHRM Foundation also offers scholarships specifically aimed at supporting HR professionals seeking certification and recertification. With nearly $500,000 available this year, these scholarships are designed to assist people in earning or maintaining the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP

• Individual Selection Criteria

The SHRM Foundation will award 110 certification scholarships of $750 each toward the pursuit of a SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP.  Twenty of the 220 scholarships available are reserved for members engaged in issues involving veterans, in alignment with the SHRM Foundation’s current inclusion initiatives.

The review committee awards the scholarships based on the applicant’s work experience and progress (HR involvement and future career plans), volunteer activity, and financial need. 

The committee also considers the applicant’s character, accomplishments, work ethic and values, based on insights offered in a letter of reference from a colleague, professor, coach or other person who is not a family member.

The SHRM Foundation also will award 20 recertification scholarships of $100 each, which may be used to cover the SHRM recertification application fee of recipients who apply within 12 months of receiving the award.

• Chapter and State Council Certification Scholarships

In addition to individual certification scholarships, the SHRM Foundation also supports chapters and state councils:

• Amount: $750 toward programs promoting the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential.
• Eligibility: Chapters or councils designated as SHRM Foundation Champions in the previous year can apply if they are conducting or planning a SHRM certification preparation program.
• Selection Criteria: The decision is based on the chapter’s or council’s plan for fund utilization, financial need, and available matching funds.

Get a SHRM Certification Now

Get a SHRM certification now if you want to enhance your HR expertise and demonstrate your ability to apply essential knowledge effectively in the workplace. This certification not only sets you apart as a recognized leader in the HR field but also opens up exciting career opportunities and increases your earning potential.

By obtaining a SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential, you showcase your commitment to professional development and your readiness to tackle the challenges of today’s complex HR landscape.

Preparing for the SHRM exams requires a multifaceted approach that combines structured study materials, practice questions, and various learning methods. Candidates looking to excel on the SHRM-CP exam can significantly enhance their preparedness by utilizing specialized online test prep resources.

Many SHRM-CP test prep resources include practice questions and simulated exams, which are crucial for building confidence and improving test-taking skills. Similarly, candidates preparing for the SHRM-SCP exam can benefit from targeted online SHRM-SCP exam test prep resources designed specifically for this advanced certification.

These resources delve deeper into strategic HR management and leadership competencies, equipping candidates with the knowledge required to excel in higher-level HR roles. These structured materials provide comprehensive outlines of the exam content, ensuring candidates are well-equipped to tackle the questions effectively.

In addition to these resources, practicing with SHRM-SCP exam practice questions is an essential step in reinforcing learning and building confidence. Engaging with practice questions allows candidates to assess their understanding of key concepts and identify areas that may require further study.

Candidates can choose from various study methods to suit their learning preferences and schedules:

• Self-Study: Utilizing the SHRM Learning System, which includes study materials, practice questions, and online resources, allows candidates to learn at their own pace and in their preferred environment.
• Instructor-Led Courses: Participating in classes led by certified instructors, either in-person or online, provides the opportunity for interactive learning, guidance, and feedback from experts in the field.
• Study Groups: Joining local SHRM chapters or study groups enables candidates to collaborate with peers, share insights, and benefit from the collective knowledge and experiences of the group.
• Practice with Sample Questions: Taking practice exams is an effective way to gauge readiness and familiarize oneself with the format and types of questions encountered on the actual exam. SHRM-CP exam practice questions are available to help candidates assess their progress and identify areas for improvement.

Check this out: What is the Best Way to Prepare for the SHRM?

How Hard is It to Get SHRM Certified?

How Hard is the SHRM Test? The difficulty of obtaining SHRM certification varies based on individual preparation and background. The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams consist of 134 questions, with a pass rate of approximately 48% for the SHRM-SCP exam. Candidates typically have 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete the test, which is divided into two sections. 

Preparation is crucial, and many candidates invest in study materials or courses, which can add to the overall cost of certification. Candidates can use SHRM-CP test prep and SHRM-SCP test prep resources to enhance their readiness and familiarize themselves with the competencies and knowledge areas evaluated in the exams.

These structured materials provide comprehensive outlines of the exam content, ensuring candidates are well-equipped to tackle the questions effectively. In addition to these resources, practicing with SHRM-SCP exam practice questions is an essential step in reinforcing learning and building confidence.

Engaging with practice questions allows candidates to assess their understanding of key concepts and identify areas that may require further study.

Candidates can choose from various study methods to suit their learning preferences and schedules:

• Self-Study: Utilizing the SHRM Learning System, which includes study materials, practice questions, and online resources, allows candidates to learn at their own pace and in their preferred environment.
• Instructor-Led Courses: Participating in classes led by certified instructors, either in-person or online, provides the opportunity for interactive learning, guidance, and feedback from experts in the field.
• Study Groups: Joining local SHRM chapters or study groups enables candidates to collaborate with peers, share insights, and benefit from the collective knowledge and experiences of the group.
• Practice with Sample Questions: Taking practice exams is an effective way to gauge readiness and familiarize oneself with the format and types of questions encountered on the actual exam. SHRM-CP exam practice questions are available to help candidates assess their progress and identify areas for improvement.

Required Documents

The application process for SHRM scholarships typically involves submitting the following documents:

• Online application form
• Transcripts from accredited institutions
• Letter of reference from a colleague, professor, or coach (not a family member)
• Resume
• Short answer responses to questions about academic, volunteer, and work experience, as well as career aspirations

Scholarship Policies

• One-Time Award: Each scholarship is a one-time award; however, past applicants and recipients can reapply in subsequent years.
• Use of Funds: Scholarships cannot be used for past expenses and must be directed toward tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for enrollment or attendance at the educational institution.
• Application Windows: There are typically two scholarship windows each year, with deadlines set for early September and January.

Importance of SHRM Scholarships

SHRM Scholarships play a crucial role in making HR education accessible. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for HR professionals is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 71,000 new jobs in the field .

• Financial Accessibility

Alleviates the financial burden of tuition and educational expenses, making higher education more attainable for students. Provides significant funding, with amounts typically reaching $2,500 for undergraduate scholarships and $5,000 for graduate scholarships.

• Support for Diverse Students

Promotes diversity and inclusion within the HR profession by supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. Enriches the educational experience for all students by fostering a more inclusive workforce.

• Professional Development

Grants access to SHRM membership, which includes valuable resources such as networking opportunities, professional development programs, and industry research. Enhances career prospects by providing tools and resources that support continuous learning and growth.

• Certification Support

Offers scholarships specifically aimed at assisting people in obtaining or maintaining HR certifications (e.g., SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP). Helps professionals enhance their qualifications and demonstrates a commitment to the HR field.

• Recognition of Achievements

Celebrates the accomplishments of HR professionals through various awards programs, fostering a culture of excellence within the profession. Encourages recipients to strive for success and contribute positively to their organizations and communities.

• Networking Opportunities

Connects scholarship recipients with a community of HR professionals, enhancing their professional network and opening doors for mentorship and collaboration.

• Increased Job Market Competitiveness

Equips recipients with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a competitive job market, as HR roles are projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030. These benefits collectively contribute to the development of a skilled and diverse HR workforce, ensuring that the next generation of HR leaders is well-prepared to meet the challenges of the evolving workplace.

Related Post: How Does Paying Minimum Wage Affect the Economy

FAQs