COLLEGE AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS

Where to look:

• College-specific scholarship opportunities are spelled out in the financial aid/scholarship tab of a college's website.
• Some are automatic based on your admission application while some may require a separate application, always check!
• Review requirements and deadlines
• Ask if they are renewable?
• Ask what happens if you are awarded an outside scholarship. Some schools decrease institutional grants by the amount of any outside scholarships.

Types of College-Awarded Scholarships

Merit

• Often based on academics (GPA and test scores).
• In addition to academics, talent, skill, athletic ability and geographic diversity may attract merit money.
• Departmental scholarships (usually selected by a professor) are occasionally available to incoming freshman but most are reserved for returning students, especially in the sciences.

Need

• Need-based institutional scholarships are often called “grants”
• Funds awarded based on the family’s financial profile and may require a GPA and test scores.

OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS

Where to look:

• Xello
• Washboard www.theWashBoard.org
• National Scholarship databases
• Avoid scams! Do not ever pay to apply for a scholarship!

Review the scholarship details

• Purpose? Making your case starts with understanding the scholarship’s mission.
• Eligibility? Take note of any financial need, GPA, etc. thresholds.
• Requirements?  Review exactly what needs to be submitted.
• Due date? When is it due and how will your application be submitted?

Gather documents for submission

• Letters of Recommendation? Expect to need two. Pick teachers, counselors, or coaches who know you well.  Give recommenders plenty of time and say THANK YOU!
• Transcript? Request transcripts from the Registrar in the main office
• List of your activities?  Describe and think “impact”
• Essay? See our tips below!
• Financial information? Some need-based scholarships require. 

Perfect your essay

• Understand the scholarship’s mission and audience
• Pick a topic where you shine
• Be authentic, gracious and proud
• Show, not tell.  Avoid regurgitating accomplishments.
• Always have someone look at it.  Does this sound like you?
• Re-imagine essay material from college applications but do not copy!

Stay on top of your search

• At a certain point, it’s time to stop thinking and start writing.  Progress, even in small doses, can be inspiring!
• Create a timeline or calendar to keep yourself moving.
• Target your best odds scholarships first
• Set aside time each week.  Success = working a little at a time