2 answers
Haley
Student
Portland, Oregon
1
Question
Updated
288 views
What is the best way to get as many scholarships as possible?
I am trying to help my parents pay as little as possible.
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2 answers
Kaelyn Hiles
Teacher’s Assistant
2
Answers
Mesa, Arizona
Updated
Kaelyn’s Answer
Hellos! Before you start your scholarship search, ensure you have a strong resume and a completed FASFA form as these are essential for many scholarships. The best way to increase your chances in receiving scholarships is to apply for as many as possible. Try to focus on local scholarships as the odds are better than national scholarships. A good way to find local scholarships is to communicate with your school’s counselor. Chances are also increased by applying to essay scholarships. Many students don’t wish to write an essay for a scholarship. You should have strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, employers, or other professionals. Do not have your letters written by family and friends. Pay attention for scams, remember that no legitimate scholarship will ask you to pay them.
Kristy-Lyn McCoy, PMP®
People Intelligence & Analytics
16
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Kristy-Lyn’s Answer
Financial aid is a common concern for many students, and it's crucial to tackle it wisely. Having financed my own education, I understand its importance.
Start by exploring free financial aid options like scholarships and grants before considering loans. Many graduates struggle with debt, so borrow only what you truly need.
1. File Your FAFSA: This is the first step in accessing federal aid. If you're unfamiliar with it, check out helpful FAQs online.
2. Consult Local Resources: Talk to your guidance counselor or local community college for scholarship leads. Many scholarships are easy to apply for and can cover significant costs like books.
3. Use Scholarship Search Engines: Websites can help you find scholarships that match your interests and skills. Check out resources like BigFuture, CareerOneStop, Fastweb, and ScholarshipOwl.
4. Assess Your Financial Needs: Consider your living situation, potential work opportunities, and expenses. Remember, where you graduate from is less important than the education and connections you gain.
5. Consider Loans Carefully: If you need loans, explore federal options first, as they often have better terms. Private loans are available too, but interest can add up quickly. To save money, consider starting at a community college or online for general courses.
In summary:
- Seek local scholarships and grants.
- Use nearby resources for additional scholarship information.
- Apply broadly using search engines to increase your chances.
- Consider loans only after exhausting other options.
Good luck with your financial aid journey!
Start by exploring free financial aid options like scholarships and grants before considering loans. Many graduates struggle with debt, so borrow only what you truly need.
1. File Your FAFSA: This is the first step in accessing federal aid. If you're unfamiliar with it, check out helpful FAQs online.
2. Consult Local Resources: Talk to your guidance counselor or local community college for scholarship leads. Many scholarships are easy to apply for and can cover significant costs like books.
3. Use Scholarship Search Engines: Websites can help you find scholarships that match your interests and skills. Check out resources like BigFuture, CareerOneStop, Fastweb, and ScholarshipOwl.
4. Assess Your Financial Needs: Consider your living situation, potential work opportunities, and expenses. Remember, where you graduate from is less important than the education and connections you gain.
5. Consider Loans Carefully: If you need loans, explore federal options first, as they often have better terms. Private loans are available too, but interest can add up quickly. To save money, consider starting at a community college or online for general courses.
In summary:
- Seek local scholarships and grants.
- Use nearby resources for additional scholarship information.
- Apply broadly using search engines to increase your chances.
- Consider loans only after exhausting other options.
Good luck with your financial aid journey!