Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA’s) Spring scholarship application cycle is open from March 1st to 31st 2024. GIA is allocating up to $2 million in scholarships to support student tuition in 2024. Among the new initiatives introduced in this scholarship cycle is the GIA Aspire Scholarship.

“Receiving a scholarship let me take more risks after graduating. Since I didn't have a mountain of student debt, I was free to explore all sorts of interesting opportunities” said Chris James T. Boehner, GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG) and 2020 scholarship recipient. “It also helped me fast-track my education, because I no longer needed to save for tuition. I started my GG program two months after receiving my scholarship!”

The GIA Aspire Scholarship program is specifically designed for graduating high school seniors or recent alumni from four San Diego County high schools: Steele Canyon High School, Rancho Buena Vista High School, Alta Vista High School, and Health Sciences High and Middle College.

“We believe that investing in the education of aspiring professionals is key to the continued growth and success of the gem and jewellery industry,” Robyn Burrell, GIA Director of Financial Aid. “By providing opportunities for students to pursue their passion, we aim to create a diverse and skilled workforce that will shape the future of our industry.”

Up to $100,000 in scholarships will be allocated for the GIA Aspire Scholarship. Recipients may receive partial or full scholarships for any On-Campus program starting between July and December 2024 at the GIA Carlsbad campus, ranging from 7 to 26 instructional weeks.

GIA’s scholarship offerings extend beyond the GIA Aspire Scholarship, including needs-based scholarships and Veteran’s scholarships. Need-based scholarships are accessible year-round for prospective U.S. students and require a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).