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How do you find the right scholarships that aren’t just fluff and don’t apply to you?
Most of the scholarships I find don’t apply to me or are just fluff and I won’t ever win them even though I still apply. It seems like a waste of time.
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2 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
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Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Much of successful scholarship attainment, has to do with where you look for the scholarships. They can come from two primary sources, either private or public. One area people might not know about is the College Foundation option, at local colleges and universities.
College Foundations connect many of their scholarships to specific subjects, activities, majors, ethnicities and classifications. These are normally scholarships, that are supported by private individuals or businesses.
You might find scholarships for students who are first generation college students (neither parent has a college degree), students who are focusing their major on teaching, science subjects, engineering or radiology, or students who might be of a certain ethnicity.
Most of the time potential applicants can find nearly anything that fits into a classification or subject that defines them or their future goals.
All colleges and universities have foundations that offer scholarships. I would log into the website (of the college you are attending or wishing to attend), and research the ones which apply to you and your particular interests.
College Foundations connect many of their scholarships to specific subjects, activities, majors, ethnicities and classifications. These are normally scholarships, that are supported by private individuals or businesses.
You might find scholarships for students who are first generation college students (neither parent has a college degree), students who are focusing their major on teaching, science subjects, engineering or radiology, or students who might be of a certain ethnicity.
Most of the time potential applicants can find nearly anything that fits into a classification or subject that defines them or their future goals.
All colleges and universities have foundations that offer scholarships. I would log into the website (of the college you are attending or wishing to attend), and research the ones which apply to you and your particular interests.
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Instead of searching for general terms like "college scholarships," you can try to narrow your search. Look for scholarships that match your major, your background, where you live, or even your hobbies and interests. For example, if you're studying engineering, search for "engineering scholarships" or "scholarships for STEM students." If you're a first-generation college student, search for scholarships aimed at that group. The more specific you get, the more likely you are to find scholarships that match you.
Another good strategy is to focus on local scholarships. National scholarships are usually very competitive, but local ones tend to have fewer applicants and are easier to win. You can check with your school, community centers, or local businesses to see if they offer any scholarships.
Another great place to find scholarships is through the groups or organizations you're already part of. If you're involved in a sports team or club, check to see if they offer scholarships for their members. Many organizations give scholarships to support their members' education. Your school's financial aid office may also have information on relevant scholarships.
Another good strategy is to focus on local scholarships. National scholarships are usually very competitive, but local ones tend to have fewer applicants and are easier to win. You can check with your school, community centers, or local businesses to see if they offer any scholarships.
Another great place to find scholarships is through the groups or organizations you're already part of. If you're involved in a sports team or club, check to see if they offer scholarships for their members. Many organizations give scholarships to support their members' education. Your school's financial aid office may also have information on relevant scholarships.