The short version
- A scholarship is typically gift aid for education costs.
- A grant is often need-based gift aid.
- A stipend is usually a payment for work, training or living costs tied to a role.
Scholarships
Often merit- or criteria-based gifts that reduce what you owe a school.
Grants
Frequently need-based; federal and state programs are common examples.
Stipends
Common in apprenticeships, internships and graduate assistant roles; tax treatment can differ.
Read the offer letter
The document should say whether the payment is aid or wages-like compensation.
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