Computer and Video Game Arts Scholarship

Geographic Scope: United States

Focus Areas:

• Video game design and development
• Computer and video game arts
• Career pathways in the video game industry

Target Audience:

• Women students
• Minority students
• College students pursuing degrees in video game-related fields
• Students at accredited four-year institutions in the United States

Program Overview:
The ESA Foundation's Computer and Video Game Arts Scholarship program has awarded nearly 400 scholarships to women and minority students since its inception. The program is designed to enable students to pursue their dream of earning video game-related degrees and accessing quality education and pathways to working in the video game industry.

Additional Opportunities:
Eligible applicants can opt in for an additional scholarship provided through a partnership with Gay Gaming Professionals, which recognizes students showing commitment to service work in LGBTQ+ communities.

Benefits:

• Financial funding for tuition and education
• Networking opportunities with game developers
• Invitations to educational sessions
• Opportunities to meet industry leaders at major events including E3 and other conferences

Background:
Established in 2007, this program reflects the ESA Foundation's commitment to empowering the next generation of video game creators and fostering an industry in which creators reflect the players they're making games for. The video game industry employs more than 220,000 Americans across all 50 states with increasing job opportunities.

Application Process

Application Deadline: Typically March 2 annually at 11:59 PM PST (specific dates vary by year)

Timeline:

• Application period opens in January
• Deadline: March 2 (check website for current year)
• Applicants notified of selection results: Mid-June
• Funds disbursed: August

How to Apply:

1. Visit the ESA Foundation Computer and Video Game Arts Scholarship application portal
2. Complete the online application form
3. Submit all required materials before the deadline

Required Materials:

• Academic records
• Essay/personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• Demonstrated commitment to pursuing video game-related career

Additional Options:

• Applicants can opt-in for the additional Gay Gaming Professionals scholarship recognizing service to LGBTQ+ communities

Contact & Support:

• For FAQs and technical support, visit ESA Foundation website
• Contact ESA Foundation directly for questions