7 answers
Madeleine
Student
Bucyrus, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
470 views
How do I begin applying for scholarships?
I’m a senior in high school and have began looking at colleges but am unaware of how to start applying for scholarships.
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7 answers
Paul Jones
School counselor/college counselor
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Madeleine,
As has already been suggested, scholarship search programs can be helpful here. Some good ones include:
-https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-search
-https://www.cappex.com/scholarships
-https://scholarshipowl.com
-https://www.scholarships.com
-https://www.fastweb.com
-https://www.niche.com
Also, check whether there are tuition assistance programs for your state, which there usually are. I'm next door to you in Michigan, which has several. New York, where I previously lived, had them. I would expect Ohio to as well.
Another fruitful avenue is to look for scholarships for groups to which you belong. For instance, there are specific scholarships for which only Jewish students are eligible, others for which only low-income students are eligible, and so on. Google "college scholarships for ____ students," and also check organizations that cater for students in whichever groups you belong to.
Lastly, check the scholarships and other aid programs at the colleges you intend to apply to.
Two tips: don't rule out private and out-of-state colleges; public and in-state are not necessarily cheaper. Indeed, some of the most generous financial-aid packages are awarded by out-of-state colleges, elite ones in particular, especially for need-based aid. Secondly, don't shy away from applying for scholarships that call for essays, as these tend to have fewer applicants, improving your odds. (Plus, you can use these scholarships as college-essay practice, which is never a bad thing.)
Good luck!
Mr. Jones
As has already been suggested, scholarship search programs can be helpful here. Some good ones include:
-https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-search
-https://www.cappex.com/scholarships
-https://scholarshipowl.com
-https://www.scholarships.com
-https://www.fastweb.com
-https://www.niche.com
Also, check whether there are tuition assistance programs for your state, which there usually are. I'm next door to you in Michigan, which has several. New York, where I previously lived, had them. I would expect Ohio to as well.
Another fruitful avenue is to look for scholarships for groups to which you belong. For instance, there are specific scholarships for which only Jewish students are eligible, others for which only low-income students are eligible, and so on. Google "college scholarships for ____ students," and also check organizations that cater for students in whichever groups you belong to.
Lastly, check the scholarships and other aid programs at the colleges you intend to apply to.
Two tips: don't rule out private and out-of-state colleges; public and in-state are not necessarily cheaper. Indeed, some of the most generous financial-aid packages are awarded by out-of-state colleges, elite ones in particular, especially for need-based aid. Secondly, don't shy away from applying for scholarships that call for essays, as these tend to have fewer applicants, improving your odds. (Plus, you can use these scholarships as college-essay practice, which is never a bad thing.)
Good luck!
Mr. Jones
Emma Verde
Physical Therapist
172
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Hi Madeleine,
I'd start by asking your school's guidance office. You can also google scholarships and browse through college websites. Make a list of the scholarships that match your skills, interests, and achievements.
Once you've got your list, take a good look at the requirements for each one. Some might want to see your grades, others might care about your community involvement or what you want to major in. Gather up all the materials you need, like transcripts, letters of recommendation (don't forget to ask your teachers or mentors well ahead of time), and put together a resume listing all the cool things you've been up to in high school. Most scholarships will also want you to write an essay, so be prepared to spend some time crafting a personal statement that tells your story.
Now, keep a calendar with all the deadlines and follow the application instructions closely. Sometimes you'll apply online, and other times you might need to mail stuff in. Before you submit anything, make sure it's polished and error-free. Proofread those essays, check for typos, and make sure everything looks neat and tidy.
And don't just aim for the big national scholarships; local ones can be a goldmine too. They often have fewer applicants, so your chances might be better. Remember, scholarship hunting can be competitive, so don't get discouraged if you don't get every one you apply for. You literally have nothing to lose and everything to gain when it comes to scholarships so apply for everything under the sun. Good luck!
I'd start by asking your school's guidance office. You can also google scholarships and browse through college websites. Make a list of the scholarships that match your skills, interests, and achievements.
Once you've got your list, take a good look at the requirements for each one. Some might want to see your grades, others might care about your community involvement or what you want to major in. Gather up all the materials you need, like transcripts, letters of recommendation (don't forget to ask your teachers or mentors well ahead of time), and put together a resume listing all the cool things you've been up to in high school. Most scholarships will also want you to write an essay, so be prepared to spend some time crafting a personal statement that tells your story.
Now, keep a calendar with all the deadlines and follow the application instructions closely. Sometimes you'll apply online, and other times you might need to mail stuff in. Before you submit anything, make sure it's polished and error-free. Proofread those essays, check for typos, and make sure everything looks neat and tidy.
And don't just aim for the big national scholarships; local ones can be a goldmine too. They often have fewer applicants, so your chances might be better. Remember, scholarship hunting can be competitive, so don't get discouraged if you don't get every one you apply for. You literally have nothing to lose and everything to gain when it comes to scholarships so apply for everything under the sun. Good luck!
Abu Sanni
Health information manager
10
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Abu’s Answer
To begin applying for scholarships, follow these steps:
1. **Research:** Start by researching scholarships that match your interests, skills, and qualifications. You can use scholarship search engines, your school's guidance counselor, or websites of colleges and organizations.
2. **Create a List:** Make a list of scholarships you want to apply for, noting their deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required materials.
3. **Gather Documents:** Collect the necessary documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores.
4. **Write Essays:** Many scholarships require essays. Write compelling essays that showcase your achievements, goals, and how you align with the scholarship's values.
5. **Fill Out Applications:** Complete application forms accurately and thoroughly. Be sure to meet all deadlines.
6. **Proofread:** Review your application materials for errors and clarity. Consider having someone else review them as well.
7. **Submit Applications:** Submit your applications by the deadlines specified. Keep copies of everything you submit.
8. **Follow Up:** Some scholarships may require interviews or additional information. Be prepared to respond promptly.
9. **Stay Organized:** Keep track of all your applications, deadlines, and communication with scholarship providers.
10. **Apply Early and Often:** Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. Don't limit yourself to just a few.
11. **Seek Guidance:** If you have questions or need help, consult with your school's guidance counselor or a scholarship advisor.
12. **Stay Persistent:** Rejection is common, but don't get discouraged. Keep applying for more scholarships and refining your applications.
Remember that scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of education, so investing time and effort in the application process can be very rewarding. Good luck!
1. **Research:** Start by researching scholarships that match your interests, skills, and qualifications. You can use scholarship search engines, your school's guidance counselor, or websites of colleges and organizations.
2. **Create a List:** Make a list of scholarships you want to apply for, noting their deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required materials.
3. **Gather Documents:** Collect the necessary documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores.
4. **Write Essays:** Many scholarships require essays. Write compelling essays that showcase your achievements, goals, and how you align with the scholarship's values.
5. **Fill Out Applications:** Complete application forms accurately and thoroughly. Be sure to meet all deadlines.
6. **Proofread:** Review your application materials for errors and clarity. Consider having someone else review them as well.
7. **Submit Applications:** Submit your applications by the deadlines specified. Keep copies of everything you submit.
8. **Follow Up:** Some scholarships may require interviews or additional information. Be prepared to respond promptly.
9. **Stay Organized:** Keep track of all your applications, deadlines, and communication with scholarship providers.
10. **Apply Early and Often:** Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. Don't limit yourself to just a few.
11. **Seek Guidance:** If you have questions or need help, consult with your school's guidance counselor or a scholarship advisor.
12. **Stay Persistent:** Rejection is common, but don't get discouraged. Keep applying for more scholarships and refining your applications.
Remember that scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of education, so investing time and effort in the application process can be very rewarding. Good luck!
Dayhelyn Franck
Teacher
1
Answer
Lynn, Massachusetts
Updated
Dayhelyn’s Answer
Hello Madeleine,
Fastweb is a fantastic resource for discovering scholarships. It's completely free to sign up, and you can start applying right away. Here's the link for your convenience: https://www.fastweb.com/
Once you've created your profile, it would be beneficial to draft a resume. Highlight all your remarkable achievements from high school. This will be a handy tool for all your scholarship applications.
Additionally, there's another great platform named College Planning Source. They specialize in assisting with the college application process. If you find any part of your scholarship or college application puzzling, don't hesitate to reach out to them. Here's their website: https://www.collegeplanningsource.com/
Fastweb is a fantastic resource for discovering scholarships. It's completely free to sign up, and you can start applying right away. Here's the link for your convenience: https://www.fastweb.com/
Once you've created your profile, it would be beneficial to draft a resume. Highlight all your remarkable achievements from high school. This will be a handy tool for all your scholarship applications.
Additionally, there's another great platform named College Planning Source. They specialize in assisting with the college application process. If you find any part of your scholarship or college application puzzling, don't hesitate to reach out to them. Here's their website: https://www.collegeplanningsource.com/
Melanie Boberg
Student Teacher
27
Answers
Normal, Illinois
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
I would start with the website of the university or universities you are interested in. Their websites usually have a section of different scholarships and applications that you can start on. They might be major focused so if you don’t know your major yet, the options may be a bit limited. I would also suggest contacting the counselor’s office at your high school. They often have a list of scholarships offered to students that are more local to you. You are more likely to have luck with a local scholarship rather than a national or online scholarship you can find. You can also search for local scholarships online, but they might be harder to come by this way. Start with your high school and prospective university!
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Applying for scholarships is a great way to offset the cost of college, and it's wonderful that you're starting this process early as a high school senior. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you begin applying for scholarships:
1. **Create a Scholarship Calendar:**
- Start by organizing your scholarship search. Create a calendar with deadlines for different scholarships to stay on top of application due dates.
2. **Explore Scholarship Databases:**
- Utilize scholarship search engines and databases like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and College Board's Scholarship Search. These platforms allow you to filter scholarships based on your personal criteria.
3. **Check with Colleges and Universities:**
- Many colleges offer scholarships to incoming students. Visit the financial aid pages of the colleges you're interested in to learn about their scholarship opportunities and application requirements.
4. **Review Local Resources:**
- Look for scholarships offered by local organizations, community foundations, and businesses in your area. These scholarships may have less competition and be more tailored to your circumstances.
5. **Check Eligibility Requirements:**
- Carefully read the eligibility criteria for each scholarship. Some scholarships are based on academic achievement, while others consider factors like community involvement, ethnicity, or intended major.
6. **Prepare Essential Documents:**
- Gather documents commonly required for scholarship applications, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an updated resume highlighting your achievements and activities.
7. **Write Stellar Essays:**
- Many scholarships require essays or personal statements. Craft compelling, well-written essays that showcase your strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Tailor these essays to each scholarship's specific requirements.
8. **Request Letters of Recommendation:**
- Approach teachers, counselors, or mentors for letters of recommendation well in advance. Provide them with necessary information about your achievements and the scholarships you're applying for.
9. **Complete the FAFSA:**
- If you haven't already, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some scholarships use your FAFSA data to determine financial need.
10. **Proofread and Revise:**
- Thoroughly proofread your scholarship applications and essays. Mistakes or typos can negatively impact your chances.
11. **Submit Applications Early:**
- Aim to submit scholarship applications ahead of deadlines. This demonstrates your commitment and allows time for any unforeseen issues.
12. **Follow Up:**
- Keep track of the scholarships you've applied for and check your email regularly. Some organizations may request interviews or additional information.
13. **Apply for a Variety of Scholarships:**
- Diversify your scholarship applications to increase your chances of success. Apply for a mix of large, competitive scholarships and smaller, local ones.
14. **Stay Persistent:**
- Scholarship hunting can be competitive, and rejections are common. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; keep applying and refining your approach.
15. **Thank Donors:**
- If you win a scholarship, be sure to send a thank-you note to the donor. This not only shows appreciation but also reflects positively on you.
Remember that the scholarship application process can be time-consuming, so start early and stay organized. Each scholarship you apply for is an investment in your future, so put your best effort into each application. Good luck with your scholarship search!
1. **Create a Scholarship Calendar:**
- Start by organizing your scholarship search. Create a calendar with deadlines for different scholarships to stay on top of application due dates.
2. **Explore Scholarship Databases:**
- Utilize scholarship search engines and databases like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and College Board's Scholarship Search. These platforms allow you to filter scholarships based on your personal criteria.
3. **Check with Colleges and Universities:**
- Many colleges offer scholarships to incoming students. Visit the financial aid pages of the colleges you're interested in to learn about their scholarship opportunities and application requirements.
4. **Review Local Resources:**
- Look for scholarships offered by local organizations, community foundations, and businesses in your area. These scholarships may have less competition and be more tailored to your circumstances.
5. **Check Eligibility Requirements:**
- Carefully read the eligibility criteria for each scholarship. Some scholarships are based on academic achievement, while others consider factors like community involvement, ethnicity, or intended major.
6. **Prepare Essential Documents:**
- Gather documents commonly required for scholarship applications, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an updated resume highlighting your achievements and activities.
7. **Write Stellar Essays:**
- Many scholarships require essays or personal statements. Craft compelling, well-written essays that showcase your strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Tailor these essays to each scholarship's specific requirements.
8. **Request Letters of Recommendation:**
- Approach teachers, counselors, or mentors for letters of recommendation well in advance. Provide them with necessary information about your achievements and the scholarships you're applying for.
9. **Complete the FAFSA:**
- If you haven't already, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some scholarships use your FAFSA data to determine financial need.
10. **Proofread and Revise:**
- Thoroughly proofread your scholarship applications and essays. Mistakes or typos can negatively impact your chances.
11. **Submit Applications Early:**
- Aim to submit scholarship applications ahead of deadlines. This demonstrates your commitment and allows time for any unforeseen issues.
12. **Follow Up:**
- Keep track of the scholarships you've applied for and check your email regularly. Some organizations may request interviews or additional information.
13. **Apply for a Variety of Scholarships:**
- Diversify your scholarship applications to increase your chances of success. Apply for a mix of large, competitive scholarships and smaller, local ones.
14. **Stay Persistent:**
- Scholarship hunting can be competitive, and rejections are common. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; keep applying and refining your approach.
15. **Thank Donors:**
- If you win a scholarship, be sure to send a thank-you note to the donor. This not only shows appreciation but also reflects positively on you.
Remember that the scholarship application process can be time-consuming, so start early and stay organized. Each scholarship you apply for is an investment in your future, so put your best effort into each application. Good luck with your scholarship search!
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
240
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Madeleine:
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career paths!
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career paths!