Scholarships
Hundreds of scholarships are out there to help you pay for college, but…you have to apply!
Start looking for scholarships your junior year and continue through your senior year.
Follow these tips to increase your chances of earning scholarships:
Check out ScholarshipQuest. This free online database has over 2,000 state and local scholarship.
Search the Internet for free national scholarship search sites.
Visit your guidance counselor weekly for information about local scholarships.
Juniors...pay attention to scholarships seniors are earning.
Get organized. Place scholarship applications in deadline order and prioritize each award. Local awards and college-specific applications deserve top priority because you're more likely to earn them.
Be prepared to list your activities, honors and volunteer or paid jobs on scholarship applications. Compile and update that information using the Activities Resume.
Use the College Funding Estimator to estimate your FAFSA results. If you show financial need, keep a copy of the results page and use it when applying for need-based scholarships.
Use quality references such as a teacher, coach or counselor. Encourage them to write specific examples of your leadership skills. Give them advance notice and a specific deadline.
Get an early start on essays. Describe your interests, hope for the future, and leadership abilities.
Pay close attention to grammar, spelling and neatness. Ask at least two people to proofread your application.
Expect to complete at least 30-40 applications if you're serious about finding scholarships. Consider the potential payoff for the time you invest!
- Because it's a stressful time for your student, here's how you can help find scholarships:
- Conduct scholarship searches on your own.
- Set up a file for each scholarship and place them in deadline order.
- Set aside time weekly to help your student complete scholarship applications.
- Beware of scholarship or financial aid services that charge a fee! Free services are available through EducationQuest and your student's guidance office. If you receive "official-looking" letters offering such services, talk to an EducationQuest representative or a guidance counselor before you reply.
