SHRM Foundation Graduate Scholarships

Graduate students in HR-related master's or doctoral programs at regionally accredited institutions may apply. Applicants must be current SHRM members, hold at least a 3.5 graduate GPA (or 3.0 undergraduate GPA if not yet enrolled), and have at least one full semester remaining. Full-time, part-time, online, and distance programs qualify.

General graduate scholarships pay $5,000; the Cheslie C. Kryst memorial award pays $10,000; the Susan R. Meisinger Scholarship for Graduate Study in HR pays $20,000. Funds are issued as a check to the institution for tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Each award is one-time but prior recipients may reapply.

Apply through the SHRM Foundation online application (resume, transcripts, short answers, one reference letter). The 2026-27 cycle opens January 12 and is due March 13, 2026.

SHRM Foundation awards over $400,000 in graduate and undergraduate HR scholarships each year.