In addition to searching for scholarships, make sure you complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA determines need-based federal aid such as grants and loans. The FAFSA also generates a Student Aid Report (SAR) which is used by colleges in determining need-based grants and scholarships.
Scholarship applications often require recommendation letters, resumes, family financial information, transcripts, and lists of activities, academic honors, leadership roles, work experience, community service and more.
Prior to starting your search, gather all these materials and save them in a folder for easy access. Having this information on hand will save time and ensure you do not forget important information to include in each application.
Scholarship applications should usually be completed six months to one year before the academic year they will be used.
High school seniors should be ready to start their scholarship applications in the fall. High school underclassmen should research scholarship opportunities and begin assembling application components so that they can prepare their scholarship applications in the fall of their senior year.
A common mistake students make with their scholarship search is limiting themselves based on scholarship amount. Small award amounts add up too, so apply for scholarships you are eligible for, even if the amount is smaller.
Never pay for scholarship information or advice! If you are required to pay money to get money, it could be a scam. Contact your Financial Aid office for guidance.
Create a timeline that will allow you to set aside time to apply for scholarships. By scheduling your time, you will submit more applications than you would when applying only during downtime. Ideally, you should approach your scholarship searches as if they are another assignment due.
Creating a calendar of due dates is a beneficial tool. Always set your due date on or before each deadline. It is vital to keep track of all your scholarship deadlines so that you do not miss out on great opportunities. Most scholarship committees discard late applications.
In order to put your best foot forward, be true to yourself when developing your essay. The review committee is interested in your unique story. Make sure that your essay expresses your voice and experiences.
Continuously review and work to improve your application essays. It's helpful to save your work so that you can recycle application components that may be applicable to other scholarships. That way, you will not have to recreate the wheel when crafting your application.
Remember, the more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances.
Follow @mistudentaid for new scholarship opportunities, updates, and best practices on all of our social media platforms.
