Find and apply for as many scholarships as you can – FAFSA

The scholarships are gifts. They don’t need to be reimbursed. There are thousands of them, offered by schools, employers, individuals, private businesses, nonprofits, communities, religious groups, and professional and social organizations.

What types of scholarships are available?

Some college scholarships are based on merit . You earn them by meeting or exceeding certain standards set by the fellow. Merit scholarships can be awarded based on academic achievement or a combination of academics and a particular talent, trait or interest. Other scholarships are based onfinancial need .

Many scholarships are aimed at particular groups of people; for example, there are scholarships for women or graduate students. And some are available because of where you or your parents work, or because you come from a certain background (for example, there are  scholarships for military families  ).

A scholarship can cover the entire cost of tuition, or it can be a one-time scholarship of a few hundred dollars. Either way, it is worth applying as it will help you lower the cost of your studies.

How to find scholarships?

You can find out about scholarships in several ways, including contacting the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend and check the information in a public library or online. But be careful. Make sure the information about scholarships and offers you receive is legitimate; and remember that you don’t have to pay to find scholarships or other financial aid. Check out our information on how to  avoid scams  .

Try these free sources of scholarship information  :

When can I apply for scholarships?

It depends on the deadline of each scholarship. Some deadlines are as early as a year before college starts, so if you’re in high school now, you should research and apply for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior years . But if you missed this window, don’t give up! See information on scholarships to see those for which you can apply now.

How can I apply for scholarships

Each scholarship has its own requirements. The scholarship website should give you an idea of ​​who is eligible for the scholarship and how to apply. Make sure you read the application carefully, fill it out completely, and meet the application deadline .

How can I get my scholarship money?

It depends on the stock market. The money can go straight to your college, where it will be applied to any tuition, fees, or other amounts you owe, and then any remaining funds returned to you. Or it can be sent to you directly as a check. The scholarship provider should tell you what to expect when they notify you that you have been awarded the scholarship. Otherwise, be sure to ask.

How does a scholarship affect my other student aid?

A scholarship will affect your other student aid because all of your student aid added cannot exceed the cost of your tuition at your college or career school . Thus, you will need to inform your school if you have been awarded a scholarship so that the financial aid office can subtract that amount from your tuition (and some other aid, such as loans, that you may have received offered). Then, any remaining amount can be covered by other financial aid to which you are entitled. Questions? Check with your financial aid office.

source: https : //studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/scholarships