How to Find College Scholarships?

Answer 1

In this day and age, college scholarships play a vital role in funding a college education. College has become very expensive and scholarships can make an otherwise unaffordable goal, affordable. There are two main categories when it comes to scholarships—financial, need-based scholarships and merit scholarships.

Financial, need-based scholarships are based on the income of the student and the student’s parents. The maximum income amount will vary from college to college and also from state to state. Some schools require just a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) while others require a more detailed profile. Usually financial scholarships that are dispensed by a college or university are automatic and do not require the student to apply.

If you will not qualify for a need-based scholarship, your other option is a merit-based scholarship. These vary greatly and can be found in a number of places. You just need to know where to look.

Before talking about merit scholarships, it is important to realize that to receive one, it’s necessary to start planning as early as your freshman year in high school. You should be very involved in extracurricular activities, community service activities, and still receive better-than-average grades. It doesn’t hurt to have a part-time job either. These are all important when applying for a merit scholarship.

There are three main places to check when looking for merit-based college scholarships. The first is your high school’s guidance office. This office will have a list of all the available local scholarships. Note that some of these scholarships will combine both elements and will require you have financial need, as well as merit. Since these are local and limited to your high school, you have a better chance of snagging one.

The second place to check is at the college or university that you plan to attend. Usually, the school will have a number of automatic merit scholarships based on your GPA and your SAT or ACT scores. They will also have a list of scholarships sponsored by their alumni, etc. The qualifications for each scholarship will be different, so it is very important to read through each one carefully.

The third place to check is the internet. There are a number of websites devoted to merit scholarships. You plug in your information, interests and activities and you will receive a number of college scholarship suggestions. You can even set up an email update so you can see new scholarships as they become available. Remember, the more scholarships you apply for, the better your chance of receiving one.