Finding and Applying for Scholarships

Searching for scholarships by category

Scholarships are available in a variety of categories. You can apply for scholarships based on your interest, your grade point average, or your athletic ability. You can also find scholarships that specifically target minority students. Some scholarship programs will even consider your hobbies. To find scholarships that fit your interests, use a free scholarship search engine.

Scholarship search engines are easy to use and list a wide range of options. Whether you're looking for a scholarship or need a scholarship application, the College Board offers a free tool to match you with the appropriate opportunities. The College Board's website lists more than 1.5 million scholarships worth $3.4 billion, and allows you to search by category. Scholarships can also be found by completing a personal profile. You can also find scholarships for military members, transfer students, and international students.

Searching for scholarships by GPA

Many scholarships require students to meet certain standards for eligibility. These criteria may include academic performance, financial need, and test scores. If you are not sure about the criteria, ask a teacher, mentor, or employer. You may also consider scholarships that are specifically for a particular GPA. When you do find a scholarship that meets these requirements, be sure to keep your grades high.

While GPA is a factor, there are also many scholarships that will consider other factors, such as athletic ability or ethnicity. Some scholarship providers even award scholarships based on religion, class rank, or community involvement. Depending on the requirements of a specific scholarship, you should visit the school's website or contact the financial aid office to find out exactly what they require. Most colleges publish the academic marks they require for merit scholarships, which can make it easier for you to find scholarships that fit these criteria.

Searching for scholarships by application type

Scholarships come in many forms, from the traditional need-based to merit-based. These financial awards help students attend college, and are typically nonrepayable. Scholarships are an excellent way to fund college expenses and eliminate the need to take out loans. Some scholarship programs require you to submit an application, while others do not.

Before applying for a scholarship, it's important to gather the information required to complete the application. Many scholarship programs require letters of recommendation. Make sure to contact your recommenders at least four weeks in advance so they have time to complete the letters. Some scholarships also require transcripts or test scores.

Searching for scholarships by age

Searching for scholarships by age is a good idea for high school seniors who are planning on going to college. This is because there are many scholarships available to students who are at least 13 years old. High school seniors who miss their opportunity to apply for a scholarship will be losing out on five years of free college tuition. In addition, it's important to remember that most scholarship applications are online these days.

Besides visiting a scholarship search site, students can also consult their local school to see what scholarships are available. School counselors are an excellent resource for finding scholarships, as they often keep a list of local scholarships.