National Convention Scholarships
The NAEA Art Educator Scholarship Fund supports art educators seeking further professional learning opportunities through the many programs and events offered by NAEA. The scholarships below support innovators in visual arts, design, and media arts education, providing access to professional learning, leadership experience, and connectivity to the field through the NAEA National Convention.
Available Scholarships
NAEA suggests registering to attend NAEA26 by November 21 to lock in the best registration rate. If you are selected to receive a scholarship, the registration cost you previously paid will be refunded to you. Standard cancellation policy applies. Attendees may only be awarded one scholarship per year.
Application deadline for all scholarships: November 26, 2025
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) Scholarships
The NAEA ED&I Commission proudly offers scholarships that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion within visual arts, design, and media arts education. These awards aim to reduce barriers and increase access for individuals from historically underserved and underrepresented communities.
This opportunity supports ED&I-focused educators and Preservice students, with a priority focus on first-time attendees of the NAEA National Convention.
Up to four (4) recipients will be selected for this scholarship award.
What the Scholarship Includes:
- Complimentary registration to the 2026 NAEA National Convention
- Up to three (3) nights of hotel accommodations in an NAEA designated hotel*
- A one-year NAEA national membership (not to be combined with state association membership)
Eligibility:
- Must spend at least 51% of professional work in visual arts/design education, or
- Be a Preservice student in the field
Applicants will complete a short survey and submit an “About Me” essay addressing their experience and goals related to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the field.
First Time Attendee Scholarships
This scholarship is designed to support visual arts educators attending their first NAEA National Convention. Whether you’re early in your career, new to NAEA, or a seasoned educator looking to experience the Convention for the first time, this opportunity provides the support you need to fully engage in the professional learning, networking, and inspiration that NAEA has to offer.
Up to Four (4) individuals will be selected for this scholarship award.
What the Scholarship Includes:
- Complimentary registration to the 2026 NAEA National Convention (valued up to $285)
- Up to three (3) nights of hotel accommodations in an NAEA designated hotel*
- Travel stipend of up to $300 for transportation, meals, and incidentals*
Eligibility:
- Must be a current NAEA member through March 7, 2026
- Must spend at least 51% of professional work as a visual arts educator
- Must be a first-time in-person attendee (those who have only attended virtually in the past are not eligible)
Art Educator Scholarships
The Art Educator Scholarship is designed to support ongoing professional development for NAEA members. Whether you’re returning to the National Convention or attending for the first time, this scholarship helps you stay engaged in your learning journey—offering opportunities for inspiration, fresh strategies, and deeper connections within the field.
Up to Ten (10) individuals will be selected for this scholarship award.
What the Scholarship Includes:
- Complimentary registration to the 2026 NAEA National Convention
Eligibility:
- Must be a current NAEA member through March 7, 2026
- Must spend at least 51% of professional work as a visual arts educator