3 answers
Sanai
Student
Hollywood, Florida
1
Question
Updated
1278 views
How can I find and win more scholarships ?
As an incoming college student, I’m really interested in learning more about how to find and secure more scholarships to help cover my education expenses. What are some of the best strategies for discovering lesser-known scholarships, and how can I make my applications stand out to scholarship committees? Are there specific tips for writing strong personal statements or gathering recommendation letters that can make a real difference? Also, how important is maintaining a high GPA or participating in extracurricular activities when it comes to winning scholarships?
Login to comment
3 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would check the college or university website (of the college you are attending), for possible opportunities.
Each college and university usually has something called a "College Foundation" where you can log into, from the college or university webpage and review their financial aid and scholarship assistance.
Private donors and benefactors, support college and university programs, and amongst their financial gifts are scholarships and financial assistance for students.
These scholarships can come in many forms, they can be based on major, future occupation, college or non-profit activities, ethnicity, and other criteria.
So, the college or university College Foundation, is always worth checking, as far as an online option.
Each college and university usually has something called a "College Foundation" where you can log into, from the college or university webpage and review their financial aid and scholarship assistance.
Private donors and benefactors, support college and university programs, and amongst their financial gifts are scholarships and financial assistance for students.
These scholarships can come in many forms, they can be based on major, future occupation, college or non-profit activities, ethnicity, and other criteria.
So, the college or university College Foundation, is always worth checking, as far as an online option.
Joseph Ford
222
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Here are some helpful sites that can help your search:
https://www.collegeboard.org/
and
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/plan-for-college/find-your-fit/what-colleges-require-SAT
https://www.collegeboard.org/
and
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/plan-for-college/find-your-fit/what-colleges-require-SAT
Pat Golden-Romero
Teach Hospitality/ Culinary Arts, College Admissions
24
Answers
Santa Cruz, California
Updated
Pat’s Answer
Hi Sanai, Answers to your questions : What are some of the best strategies for discovering lesser-known scholarships, and how can I make my applications stand out to scholarship committees? 1) Lesser known private scholarships: Fastweb.com & scholarships. com ( this one is becoming more popular) Apply to scholarships you may not think you qualify for as I hear repeatedly the Fastweb has scholarships that otherwise aren't awarded. Have a well written essay/ application which clearly states your career / academic field of interest, goals. Share your motivation for that career. If you have some personal family strive/challenge that you've overcome- share it ! If scholarship is for a specific industry/ career, then tailor your essay accordingly. If you've had some internship experience in field- share it. Check spelling & grammar!
Are there specific tips for writing strong personal statements or gathering recommendation letters that can make a real difference? 2) see above on statements. LOR should come from school counselors or teachers that really know you. Ask multiple people, as teachers get asked a lot & it may take time. If you've won any awards or been recognized for some achievement- ask the person who nominated you!
Also, how important is maintaining a high GPA or participating in extracurricular activities when it comes to winning scholarships? It depends, in part, on the GPA minimum for the school/ program you are applying to, example : a S.T.E.M. program requires a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Or other competitive programs or the school could require a 4.0 . If your school of choice has awarded a scholarship, mention that in the statement. There is no limit to the number /$ amount of scholarships! The school should have a scholarship page & also ask your HS college counselor for other resources within your town. Good Luck
Are there specific tips for writing strong personal statements or gathering recommendation letters that can make a real difference? 2) see above on statements. LOR should come from school counselors or teachers that really know you. Ask multiple people, as teachers get asked a lot & it may take time. If you've won any awards or been recognized for some achievement- ask the person who nominated you!
Also, how important is maintaining a high GPA or participating in extracurricular activities when it comes to winning scholarships? It depends, in part, on the GPA minimum for the school/ program you are applying to, example : a S.T.E.M. program requires a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Or other competitive programs or the school could require a 4.0 . If your school of choice has awarded a scholarship, mention that in the statement. There is no limit to the number /$ amount of scholarships! The school should have a scholarship page & also ask your HS college counselor for other resources within your town. Good Luck