At this time of year many seniors are getting accepted into their dream college. But even with this good news many might feel anxious because they do not know how they will pay for college.  Everyone should apply for student aid through FAFSA, but will that be enough?  College graduates don’t want to be in debt for the rest of their life so sometimes they wonder how to apply to scholarships to help pay for their education.  Here are some useful tips on applying for scholarships.  

First it’s important to know that applying to scholarships is often similar to the FASFA, TAP, or HEOP application process. Many scholarships are awarded to a variety of students based on their academic standings or achievements. Throughout of 2023-2024 academic year, there has been a diverse of scholarships open to students who wear glasses, students who play sports, dance, read, or even if they are left-handed. Now can you imagine how incredible that is?

Let’s deep dive into how to apply for these amazing scholarships. To start your application journey it is necessary to do your research with a youth leader in room 234.  These helpful people are aware of the steps  you need to take complete to the scholarship process. It is important to note that scholarship application windows usually start from the early spring!  Keeping an eye on deadlines is important so be sure to have a planning calendar to stay organized.

Many scholarship applications will ask for both academic and personal information. If the application requires you to write an essay, I recommend writing it as early as possible. Remember to take time on the essay and understand what they are asking you because this is where you get to show the application directors who you are and why you need the scholarship. Also, speak to an advisor for assistance and ask for a recommendation letter. Make sure to give them a reasonable time before the application is due (A month before the application is due is a good time frame).

Another important part of the scholarship application is describing your awards, community service, and grades. This is where these scholarships will examine where you are in your academic standings and what extracurriculars you have done that will make you an outstanding candidate. There are different grade ranges between scholarships you need to have which it’s okay if you haven’t always been on the honor roll! Don’t overwhelm yourself trying to be the perfect candidate- just present your best self. Finally, there is no limit on the number of scholarships you can apply for so keep researching and applying.  GOOD LUCK!

• Scholarships
• https://www.scholarships.com/
• Big future
• https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-search

• Fast Web
•  (https://www.fastweb.com/)
• Bold Scholarships
• (https://bold.org/scholarships/)
• Niche
• https://www.niche.com/colleges/scholarships/