Most former college students say that they wished they had applied for more scholarships and grants. One big reason: being awarded a scholarship or grant is like getting free money for college. And unlike student loans, you don't have to pay that money back.
However, most students don't know where to begin to find scholarships. So on this page, we'll give you some creative places to look that you're not likely to find anywhere else.
Remember, there are many ways to earn scholarships and grants. They can based on particular skills or talents that you have; if your family’s income is below a certain level; if you live in a particular area; if you’re pursuing a certain major; because you have particularly high test scores or grades, or other factors, too.
When to apply for scholarships and grants
Obviously, scholarships and grants can lower the amount you have to pay for college. But many people wait until after they get their acceptance letters to start looking for additional scholarship money. That’s much too late. Because just like colleges need time to review the applications they receive, organizations that offer scholarships and grants need time to review their applicants’ qualifications.
So here’s the point:
- If you want scholarships or grants, you have to apply for them. And while this might surprise you, you should apply for them even BEFORE you apply to colleges.
- What’s more, you can qualify for scholarships and grants every year that you’re in college. So be sure to apply for them in the Fall of each year.
Where should you search for scholarships and grants? Here are some great places to start:
Applying for scholarships from colleges
Much of the money students receive in the form of scholarships and grants comes from the college itself. These can be, for example, sports or academic or music scholarships, or support to help lower income or highly desired students to attend. Although many colleges will provide estimates on their sites, students do not actually know how much money a college will give them in grants or scholarships until they get accepted (and sometimes there are further appeals after that).
In terms of how to apply, colleges will look at the CSS Profile, the FAFSA, or both. The CSS Profile is put out by the College Board and used by many colleges (see list). The FAFSA is issued by the Federal government and is used by all colleges. The best time to fill out these forms is in the Fall, when they become available.
Applying for scholarships from the government
Your very best way to get free money from the government is to fill out the FAFSA. Simply by completing and submitting the FAFSA form, you open the door to Pell Grants and other scholarships.
FAFSA is your key to college money from the Federal government. Another good option is through your State government. You can find your state site here. Log on and see what specialized scholarships are available. Many states offer benefits if you go to a college within that state, or if you agree to work there, or if you pursue certain kinds of careers.
You can also try contacting your local or state government officials directly. Here’s how:
- When you’re online, look up the names of your congressperson, senators and state legislators. Then go to their website and enter the word “Scholarships” in the Search window.
- Contact the elected officials in your local government (city, county, township, etc. and ask what scholarships or grants may be available). Most towns have a website that tells you their names and how to reach them.
Applying for scholarships in your community
Your local area is one of the best – and easiest –places to ask about scholarships and grants. And compared to statewide or national scholarships, there aren’t nearly as many students applying.
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Ask at your school
Your school counselor has lots of information about different types of scholarships you may qualify for. And here’s another tip: talk to recent graduates who are now in college. They might give you some really good ideas. -
Check out your library
Librarians are some of the best professional researchers in the world. Tell the librarian you’re looking for local places that offer scholarships or grants to college-bound students, and you’re sure to get some valuable help. -
Try your house of worship
Churches, synagogues, mosques and other religious institutions often provide support for members seeking to improve their lives. Ask your clergy if they know about any scholarships that might be available. -
Don’t overlook organizations your family works for or belongs to
Sometimes companies and organizations offer benefits that include supporting higher education for their members’ children. Ask your parents or guardians if their employers sponsor scholarships, or if they belong to any unions or professional organizations that might. -
Contact local clubs and community groups
From the Lions’ Club, to the Rotary, to the Chamber of Commerce, there are lots of community groups and nonprofit organizations that may offer scholarship money for local college-bound students. One very good site to go to is guidestar.org, where you can search for scholarships given by nonprofit organizations in your area. A suggestion: Once you're on the Guidestar site, enter "Scholarships" in the search bar, then search by state.
Applying through scholarship websites
There are websites that can help you find scholarships, but be warned: only use them if they are free! Don’t get caught in any scam where you’re asked to pay to find a scholarship. And always remember to read the privacy policies to be sure you know how your information will be used.
Here are some legitimate sites that are free to use:
- fastweb.com
- scholarships.com
- scholarshipamerica.org
- bigfuture.collegeboard.org
- guidestar.org (to use, type “scholarships” in the search bar)
Applying for corporate scholarships
Some large corporations offer scholarships, like this one.* However, the level of competition for these offers is usually very high. If you measure up, good for you! But if not, it’s probably a better use of your time to look at more realistic options.
*Note: This example is solely for educational purposes and does not imply endorsement by College Money Matters, nor discrimination against similar brands, products or services not mentioned.
Be smart about your college acceptance letters
When you receive your college acceptance letters, do the math. It’s not about the amount of scholarships they offer you, it’s about how much you will have to pay out of your pocket once you subtract the scholarship amount from the total cost. And remember, some financial aid comes in the form of loans, so make sure you know which part is free money, and which part you’ll have to pay back.
Doing the math is also important because sometimes a college that at first seems to have a higher price may cost less after scholarships than one with a lower original cost. And of course, a school that gives you lots of free money scholarships may still be more expensive than your other choices.
Check out the tools we've put in our Helpful Sites page to help you figure out the right decision for you.
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