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13 Types of Scholarships & Tips To How To Get Them
Scholarships are a big deal when you’re heading to college or university. They’re like a helping hand, giving you the financial boost you need to cover things like tuition, books, and maybe even a coffee or two during those late-night study sessions.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 13 different types of scholarships that cater to all sorts of students. Whether you’re a top student, someone who loves helping out in the community, or have a unique talent, there’s probably a scholarship out there with your name on it. We’ll also share some handy tips on how to get your hands on these scholarships. Our goal is to make the whole process feel a bit less overwhelming and a lot more doable.
So, let’s get started on this journey together, making your dream of further education a reality without the financial stress.
Table of Contents
What is a scholarship?
A scholarship is a financial award given to students to help pay for their education, and it doesn't need to be repaid. This sets it apart from loans, which accrue interest and must be paid back, and grants, which are typically need-based. Scholarships are usually merit-based, rewarding academic achievement, talents, or community involvement.
The benefits of scholarships extend beyond just financial relief. They allow students to focus more on their studies and activities without worrying about money, often leading to better academic performance and a more enriching educational experience. Moreover, being awarded a scholarship can enhance a student’s resume by highlighting their skills and achievements, giving them an edge in the job market. Scholarships can also provide valuable networking opportunities, connecting recipients with key individuals in their future careers. In short, scholarships offer not only immediate financial support but also long-term advantages for a student's academic and professional future.
13 types of scholarships in the U.S and tips to secure them
Navigating the vast ocean of scholarships can seem daunting, but understanding the different types available can significantly boost your chances of snagging that much-needed financial aid. Here’s a breakdown of 13 common types of scholarships in the U.S. and some pointers on how to increase your chances of winning them:
1) Merit-based Scholarships:
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional ability in academics, arts, athletics, or other areas. Unlike need-based scholarships, which are determined by financial need, merit-based scholarships recognize and reward a student's achievements and talents. These scholarships often consider the student’s involvement in extracurricular activities and community service, highlighting their well-roundedness and commitment to excellence in multiple areas.
Tips to Secure Merit-based Scholarships:
- Start Early: Begin your search for merit-based scholarships well in advance. This gives you ample time to prepare your application, gather necessary documents, and meet deadlines.
- Excel Academically: Maintain a high GPA and seek out advanced courses or honors classes to showcase your academic prowess.
- Showcase Your Talents: Participate in extracurricular activities, competitions, and community service that align with your skills and interests. Winning awards or holding leadership positions can strengthen your application.
- Personalize Your Application: Tailor your application essays and letters of recommendation to highlight your achievements and how they align with the scholarship's criteria.
- Apply Widely: Don’t limit your applications. Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for to increase your chances of securing funding.
Free Resources to Help Get Merit-based Scholarships in the US:
- Fastweb.com: Offers a comprehensive database of scholarships, including merit-based awards, and personalized matching based on your profile.
- Scholarships.com: Another extensive source for scholarship searches, providing access to a wide array of merit-based opportunities.
- College Board’s Scholarship Search: This tool allows you to search for scholarships based on your academic interests, extracurricular achievements, and more.
- Your High School or College’s Financial Aid Office: Often, schools have resources and listings of available scholarships, including those awarded based on merit.
Examples of Merit-based Scholarships:
- National Merit Scholarship Corporation: Offers scholarships to top PSAT scorers in their junior year of high school.
- Presidential Scholarships: Many universities offer these prestigious scholarships to incoming freshmen based on their high school academic records, test scores, and leadership experiences.
- The Coca-Cola Scholars Program: Awards 150 college scholarships annually to high school seniors based on their academic achievement, leadership, and service to the community.
- Gates Millennium Scholars Program: Targets outstanding minority students with significant financial need and leadership capabilities.
2) Need-based Scholarships:
Need-based scholarships are financial awards given to students whose financial situation requires additional support to afford higher education. Unlike merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on achievements and talents, need-based scholarships focus on the student’s financial need. The determination of need typically considers the family's income, the overall cost of attending the educational institution, and any other financial aid the student may already be receiving.
Tips to Secure Need-based Scholarships:
- Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is crucial for students in the U.S. seeking need-based scholarships. It assesses your financial need and is used by many scholarship providers.
- Search Locally and Nationally: Look for scholarships through local organizations, businesses, and community groups, in addition to national scholarship databases. Local scholarships may have less competition.
- Be Thorough in Your Applications: Clearly articulate your financial need and how the scholarship will help you achieve your educational goals. Provide all requested documentation accurately and completely.
- Meet All Deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines and submit your applications early. Late submissions are usually not considered.
- Consult Your School’s Financial Aid Office: They can offer guidance on scholarships and other forms of aid for which you might qualify based on your financial situation.
Free Resources to Help Get Need-based Scholarships in the US:
- FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): The primary step to qualify for federal and state scholarships and grants based on financial need.
- CollegeBoard.org: Provides not only a scholarship search tool but also resources for filling out the FAFSA and understanding financial aid.
- The U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid website: Offers comprehensive information on federal student aid programs, including need-based scholarships.
- Local Libraries and Community Centers: Often have free resources and workshops on finding and applying for scholarships.
Examples of Need-based Scholarships:
- Pell Grants: Though technically a grant, Pell Grants are awarded by the U.S. federal government to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need and do not have to be repaid.
- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship: Offers scholarships to high-achieving community college students with financial need to transfer to four-year universities.
- University Need-based Scholarships: Many universities offer their own need-based scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need, such as the Harvard University Scholarship for undergraduates.
- State-Specific Scholarships: Several states offer need-based scholarships for residents attending college within the state. For example, the Cal Grant in California.
3) Athletic Scholarships:
Athletic scholarships are financial awards given to student-athletes by colleges and universities to attract top sporting talent to their athletic programs. These scholarships are granted based on the athlete's ability to perform in a specific sport and can range from partial to full tuition coverage, sometimes including room, board, and other college expenses.
Tips to Secure Athletic Scholarships:
- Excel in Your Sport: Consistent, high-level performance in your sport is crucial. Participate in high school and club teams, competitions, and showcases where your skills can be observed by college scouts and coaches.
- Create a Highlight Reel: A well-edited video showcasing your athletic skills can be a powerful tool in capturing the attention of college recruiters.
- Be Proactive in Your Recruitment: Reach out to coaches at the schools you're interested in with your highlight reel, athletic resume, and a personal letter expressing your interest in their program.
- Maintain Good Academic Standing: While athletic talent is key, eligibility to play collegiate sports also depends on meeting academic requirements.
- Attend Recruiting Camps and Showcases: These events provide opportunities to perform in front of college recruiters and can increase your visibility.
Free Resources to Help Get Athletic Scholarships in the US:
- NCAA Eligibility Center: Essential for athletes looking to compete at NCAA Division I or II schools, providing guidelines on academic requirements and amateur status.
- NAIA Eligibility Center: Similar to the NCAA, but for colleges and universities affiliated with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
- BeRecruited: A free platform that allows student-athletes to create profiles, connect with college coaches, and find opportunities for athletic scholarships.
- NCSA (Next College Student Athlete): Offers free resources and paid services for student-athletes navigating the college recruiting process.
Examples of Athletic Scholarships:
- NCAA Scholarships: Offered by colleges and universities within the NCAA to athletes participating in sports ranging from football and basketball to less mainstream sports.
- NAIA Scholarships: NAIA institutions also offer scholarships to talented athletes, often with more flexibility in the recruiting process compared to the NCAA.
- Junior College Athletic Scholarships: Community and junior colleges provide athletic scholarships that can be a stepping stone to NCAA or NAIA programs.
- Specific Sports Scholarships: Many schools offer scholarships for particular sports. For example, golf scholarships or swimming scholarships, aimed at attracting athletes in those disciplines.
Securing an athletic scholarship requires talent, hard work, and strategic planning. By showcasing your athletic abilities, maintaining your academic performance, and actively engaging in the recruitment process, you can increase your chances of earning a scholarship that supports both your educational and athletic ambitions.
4) Scholarships for Minorities:
Scholarships for minorities are dedicated financial aid programs designed to support students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds, including African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, and Asians. The primary goal of these scholarships is to promote diversity within higher education by providing minority students with opportunities to pursue their academic and career ambitions without the burden of financial constraints.
Tips to Secure Scholarships for Minorities:
- Identify Your Eligibility: Research scholarships that are specific to your racial or ethnic background. Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships aimed at specific minority groups.
- Highlight Your Background and Experience: In your application, discuss how your cultural heritage and experiences have shaped your identity, ambitions, and commitment to your community.
- Engage in Community Service: Involvement in community activities and service projects can strengthen your scholarship application by demonstrating your commitment to giving back and making a difference.
- Maintain Strong Academic Records: While these scholarships focus on supporting minorities, many still consider academic performance as part of their criteria.
- Apply Broadly: Don’t limit yourself to just one or two options. Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success.
Free Resources to Help Get Scholarships for Minorities in the US:
- United Negro College Fund (UNCF): Provides scholarships and other educational support to African American students.
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): Offers scholarships and resources for Hispanic American students.
- American Indian College Fund: Supports Native American students in accessing higher education through scholarships and grants.
- Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF): The nation’s largest non-profit provider of college scholarships for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI).
Examples of Scholarships for Minorities:
- The Gates Millennium Scholars Program: Aimed at outstanding minority students with significant financial need, covering the full cost of undergraduate education in any field of study.
- Ron Brown Scholar Program: Provides scholarships and support services to African American high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) Awards: Offers scholarships to students of Hispanic heritage pursuing their first undergraduate or graduate degrees.
- American Indian Graduate Center Scholarships: Provides funding for American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
5) Scholarships for Women:
Scholarships for women are designed to support female students who aspire to pursue higher education and careers in various fields, particularly in areas traditionally dominated by men, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). These scholarships aim to bridge the gender gap in education and the workforce by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and resources to empower women to excel in their chosen disciplines.
Tips to Secure Scholarships for Women:
- Focus on Your Field: Target scholarships specifically designed for women in your area of study or interest, especially if it's in a field where women are underrepresented, like STEM, finance, or leadership.
- Demonstrate Leadership: Highlight any leadership roles or initiatives you've taken on, especially those that showcase your commitment to advancing women in your field.
- Community Engagement: Emphasize your involvement in community service, organizations, or projects that support women's advancement and gender equality.
- Maintain Academic Excellence: While many scholarships for women focus on leadership and empowerment, strong academic records can also significantly bolster your application.
- Personal Essays: Use your application essays to share your personal journey, challenges you've overcome, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your educational and career goals.
Free Resources to Help Get Scholarships for Women in the US:
- Scholarships.com and Fastweb.com: Both offer extensive databases of scholarships, including those specifically for women, and tools to match you with suitable opportunities.
- American Association of University Women (AAUW): Offers several scholarships, grants, and fellowships to women pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies.
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE): Provides scholarships to women pursuing engineering, engineering technology, and computer science degrees.
- Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting (EFWA): Supports women pursuing accounting degrees through scholarships at various levels of their education.
Examples of Scholarships for Women:
- The Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship: For women in technology, this scholarship honors Anita Borg's vision of creating gender equality in the tech industry.
- P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship for Women: Offers scholarships to international female students wishing to pursue graduate studies in the United States and Canada.
- The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship: Offered by Zonta International to women pursuing undergraduate or Master’s degrees in business management.
- The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships: For women pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in engineering, engineering technology, or computer science.
6) Community Service Scholarships:
Community service scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated a significant commitment to serving their communities through volunteerism, leadership, and a spirit of giving back. These scholarships recognize and encourage students who have made a positive impact on their local or global community through various forms of community service.
Tips to Secure Community Service Scholarships:
- Document Your Service: Keep a detailed record of all your community service activities, including hours committed, roles undertaken, and the impact of your work. This documentation will be invaluable for your applications.
- Reflect on Your Experience: In your application essays, discuss what you learned from your community service experiences and how they have shaped your goals and values. Scholarship committees are interested in understanding how your service has impacted you and your community.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership positions in volunteer organizations or initiatives can further demonstrate your commitment and ability to make a significant impact.
- Get Recommendations: Letters of recommendation from supervisors or leaders within the organizations where you volunteered can provide a powerful testament to your dedication and impact.
- Target Relevant Scholarships: Focus your search on scholarships that specifically reward community service to improve your chances of success.
Free Resources to Help Get Community Service Scholarships in the U.S.:
- DoSomething.org: Offers various scholarships to young people who have taken action on social issues through their volunteer campaigns.
- VolunteerMatch.org: While primarily a platform to find volunteer opportunities, it can also be a resource for scholarships related to community service.
- Points of Light: They provide information on the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, which can bolster scholarship applications.
- Your Local Community Foundations: Many community foundations offer scholarships to local students with a strong record of community service.
Examples of Community Service Scholarships:
- Prudential Spirit of Community Awards: Recognizes middle and high school students for outstanding service to their communities.
- The Bonner Scholars Program: Provides scholarships to students in need who have shown a commitment to community service and wish to continue their involvement in college.
- Coca-Cola Scholars Program: While not solely based on community service, this scholarship considers community involvement as part of its selection process.
- AXA Achievement Scholarship: Awards students who have demonstrated ambition and self-drive, including achievement in school, community or work-related activities.
7) First-generation Scholarships:
First-generation scholarships are designed specifically for students who are the first in their immediate family to pursue higher education. The goal of these scholarships is to ease the financial burden of college and encourage higher education attainment among families without a traditional college background. These scholarships recognize the unique challenges faced by first-generation college students and seek to support their academic and professional journeys.
Tips to Secure First-generation Scholarships:
- Highlight Your Journey: Use your application essays to share your story as a first-generation student. Discuss the challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them, as well as your aspirations for the future.
- Engage in Your Community: Involvement in community service or extracurricular activities can demonstrate your leadership potential and commitment to making a positive impact.
- Maintain Good Academic Standing: While some first-generation scholarships may prioritize financial need over academic achievement, maintaining good grades can still enhance your application.
- Seek Support and Advice: Reach out to your school’s financial aid office or counseling services for advice on applying for scholarships and other forms of financial aid for first-generation students.
- Apply Broadly: Don’t limit yourself to just first-generation scholarships. Apply for as many scholarships as possible for which you meet the criteria.
Free Resources to Help Get First-generation Scholarships in the U.S.:
- I'm First!: An online community providing support, advice, and scholarship information for first-generation college students.
- The College Board: Offers a scholarship search tool that can be filtered to include scholarships aimed at first-generation students.
- Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC): Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, EOCs provide counseling and information on college admissions to individuals who want to enter or continue their postsecondary education.
- Your High School Counselor: Can provide personalized advice and information about scholarships and programs designed for first-generation students.
Examples of First-generation Scholarships:
- The Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship: Provides financial support to students who are the first in their family to attend college.
- The Gates Millennium Scholars Program: Although not exclusively for first-generation students, this program offers scholarships to outstanding minority students with significant financial need, many of whom are first-generation college students.
- The I'm First! Scholarship: Offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors who will be the first in their family to go to college and have demonstrated leadership in their community.
- TRIO Programs: While not a scholarship, TRIO programs like Upward Bound and Student Support Services provide valuable support to first-generation students, including scholarship resources.
8) Scholarships by Major:
Scholarships by major are designed to support students who are pursuing specific academic disciplines or career paths. These scholarships aim to foster talent and encourage students in fields ranging from engineering and medicine to arts and humanities. By providing financial assistance, these scholarships help students focus on their studies and research, reducing the need for part-time work and enabling them to invest more time into their academic and professional development.
Tips to Secure Scholarships by Major:
- Research Early: Start looking for scholarships within your chosen field of study early on. This allows you to tailor your academic and extracurricular activities to strengthen your scholarship applications.
- Showcase Your Passion and Commitment: Use your application to highlight your dedication to your field of study. Discuss any relevant projects, internships, volunteer work, or club memberships that demonstrate your interest and commitment.
- Maintain Strong Academic Performance: Excelling academically is crucial, as many scholarships by major consider GPA and other academic achievements as key criteria.
- Get Involved in Your Academic Community: Participating in departmental events, joining professional associations related to your major, and attending relevant workshops or conferences can enhance your scholarship application and expand your network.
- Seek Guidance from Faculty: Professors and academic advisors can provide valuable advice and may even recommend you for specific scholarships.
Free Resources to Help Get Scholarships by Major in the U.S.:
- Scholarships.com: Offers a search feature that allows you to find scholarships based on your chosen major.
- Fastweb: Provides a customizable scholarship search that can be tailored to your field of study, helping you find relevant scholarships.
- Professional Associations: Many professional associations offer scholarships to students pursuing related fields of study. Check the websites of these organizations for scholarship information.
- College and University Scholarship Pages: Visit the scholarship page of your college or department for major-specific scholarships. They often list awards available to students within specific fields.
Examples of Scholarships by Major:
- The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program: Offers scholarships to students pursuing research careers in the natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
- American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program: Targets African American, Hispanic, and American Indian students pursuing chemistry-related careers.
- Thurgood Marshall College Fund Scholarships: Provides scholarships for students attending historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), covering a wide range of majors.
- The Beinecke Scholarship Program: Supports graduate education in the arts, humanities, and social sciences for exceptionally promising students.
9) Religious Scholarships:
Religious scholarships are financial aid awards provided by religious organizations or institutions to students who are actively involved in their faith community or intend to pursue a career related to their religious beliefs. These scholarships are designed to support students of various faiths in achieving their educational and vocational goals, while also encouraging them to continue their involvement in religious activities and service.
Tips to Secure Religious Scholarships:
- Demonstrate Active Involvement: Highlight your participation in religious communities, activities, and service projects. Scholarship providers often look for candidates who are not only academically qualified but also deeply involved in their faith community.
- Connect Your Faith and Career Goals: If you plan to pursue a career related to your faith, explain how your educational and professional aspirations align with your religious beliefs and how you intend to serve your community in the future.
- Seek Recommendations from Religious Leaders: Letters of recommendation from pastors, rabbis, imams, or other religious leaders who can attest to your faith commitment and community involvement can strengthen your application.
- Research Faith-Based Institutions: Many religious colleges and universities offer scholarships to students who share their faith. Explore these institutions and their scholarship opportunities.
- Apply Broadly: Look for scholarships offered by various religious organizations, not just your own place of worship. National religious bodies, local religious groups, and faith-based charitable organizations are all potential sources.
Free Resources to Help Get Religious Scholarships in the U.S.:
- Scholarships.com and Fastweb: Both offer searchable databases that include religious scholarships. You can filter your search by your specific faith tradition or religious interest.
- Your Place of Worship: Many religious communities offer scholarships or can connect you with local or national opportunities.
- Religious Colleges and Universities: Check the financial aid sections of their websites for scholarships available to students of faith, even if you're not planning to attend a religious institution.
- Faith-Based Organizations: Many national and regional religious organizations have scholarship programs for members. Visit their websites or contact them directly for more information.
Examples of Religious Scholarships:
- The United Methodist GBHEM Scholarships: Offers various scholarships for members of the United Methodist Church pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies.
- Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago Academic Scholarship: Provides scholarships for Jewish students who are residents of the Chicago area.
- The Islamic Scholarship Fund: Offers scholarships to Muslim students in the United States who are actively involved in their community and pursuing degrees that will benefit society.
- The National Catholic College Admission Association Scholarship: Awards scholarships to students attending member Catholic colleges and universities.
10) Scholarships for International Students:
Scholarships for international students are designed to provide financial assistance to non-U.S. citizens wishing to pursue their studies in the United States. These scholarships are offered by universities, colleges, and external organizations to attract and support talented students from around the globe, facilitating their academic endeavors in the U.S. and contributing to the diversity and enrichment of the educational environment.
Tips to Secure Scholarships for International Students:
- Start Your Research Early: Begin looking for scholarships as early as possible, as deadlines can be much earlier than the academic year start date, and the application process may require additional steps for international students.
- Understand the Requirements: Pay close attention to the eligibility requirements for each scholarship. Some may require specific visas, levels of English proficiency, or intend for students from certain countries.
- Highlight Academic and Personal Achievements: Emphasize your academic excellence, leadership skills, extracurricular activities, and any obstacles you've overcome. Personal achievements can set you apart from other candidates.
- Seek Scholarships Offered by Your Desired University: Many U.S. universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Check their financial aid pages or contact the admissions office for information.
- Explore External Organizations: Look for scholarships from governments, international organizations, and foundations that support students from your country or field of study.
Free Resources to Help Get Scholarships for International Students in the U.S.:
- EducationUSA: A U.S. Department of State network providing advice and information to international students about studying in the U.S., including scholarship resources.
- InternationalStudent.com: Offers a scholarship search for international students looking to study in the U.S.
- Institute of International Education (IIE): Provides a searchable database of scholarships, fellowships, and grants for international students.
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Offers scholarships for graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the U.S.
Examples of Scholarships for International Students:
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Allows graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the U.S.
- The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program: Provides a year of professional enrichment in the U.S. for experienced professionals from designated countries undergoing development or political transition.
- #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship: A renewable scholarship for undergraduate international students demonstrating leadership and a vision for promoting intercultural exchange.
- Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD): Provides one-semester scholarships to undergraduate students from around the world for non-degree full-time study combined with community service, professional development, and cultural enrichment.
11) Corporate Scholarships:
Corporate scholarships are financial awards sponsored by businesses and companies to support the education of their employees, their employees' children, or students pursuing academic degrees in fields related to the company’s industry. These scholarships reflect the corporation's commitment to education, workforce development, and community engagement, and often aim to cultivate talent in areas of interest to the industry.
Tips to Secure Corporate Scholarships:
- Research Companies in Your Field of Interest: Look for corporations within your desired industry or field of study. Many companies offer scholarships to students as a way to invest in future talent.
- Check Your Eligibility: Corporate scholarships can have specific eligibility criteria, such as being an employee or a dependent of an employee, pursuing studies in a related field, or attending certain institutions.
- Highlight Alignment with Corporate Values: In your application, demonstrate how your academic and career goals align with the company’s mission, values, or industry. Companies are likely to invest in students who show potential to contribute to their field.
- Maintain Strong Academic Performance: Like other scholarships, corporate awards often consider academic achievements. Focus on maintaining high grades and demonstrating your commitment to your field of study.
- Network and Seek Mentorship: Engage with professionals in your field, including those working in companies offering scholarships. Networking can provide valuable insights and increase your visibility to potential sponsors.
Free Resources to Help Get Corporate Scholarships in the U.S.:
- Fastweb and Scholarships.com: Both offer comprehensive databases that include corporate scholarships, allowing you to search based on your field of study and other criteria.
- Company Websites: Visit the career or community engagement sections of company websites for information about available scholarships and application requirements.
- Professional Associations: Industry or professional associations often have lists of corporate scholarships or can offer guidance on where to find them.
- Your School’s Financial Aid Office: Counselors may have information on corporate scholarships relevant to your major or career goals.
Examples of Corporate Scholarships:
- The Google Scholarship Program: Offers various scholarships for students pursuing computer science and technology-related fields.
- The Coca-Cola Scholars Program: Provides scholarships to high school seniors with leadership, academic achievements, and a commitment to community service.
- The Ford Motor Company Fund: Offers scholarships for students pursuing degrees in engineering, manufacturing, and other fields related to the automotive industry.
- The Boeing Scholarships: Awarded to students studying engineering, business, and other fields relevant to the aerospace industry.
12) Military Scholarships:
Military scholarships are financial awards designed to support members of the military, veterans, and their families in pursuing higher education. These scholarships can be branch-specific, honoring service in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or National Guard, or they can be more general, aimed at anyone with a military affiliation. They recognize the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families and aim to ease the financial burden of education as a token of gratitude.
Tips to Secure Military Scholarships:
- Identify Your Eligibility: Determine which military scholarships you qualify for based on your service, the branch of the military, or your family member's service. Scholarships may also be available for specific ranks, deployments, or service-related injuries.
- Highlight Military Service and Achievements: In your application, emphasize your military service, leadership experience, achievements, and how they have prepared you for academic success.
- Connect Education Goals to Service: Explain how your intended field of study relates to your military service and how it will help you achieve your post-military career goals.
- Utilize Military Support Services: Many military bases and veterans' organizations offer resources and assistance for service members and their families seeking scholarships and other forms of educational funding.
- Apply Broadly: In addition to military-specific scholarships, apply for general scholarships for which you meet the criteria. Every bit of funding helps.
Free Resources to Help Get Military Scholarships in the U.S.:
- The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Offers information on the GI Bill and other educational benefits for veterans and their families.
- Military.com Scholarship Finder: Provides a searchable database of scholarships for military members, veterans, and their families.
- Service-specific Associations: Organizations such as the Army Scholarship Foundation, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, and Air Force Aid Society offer scholarships and educational grants.
- American Legion, VFW, and DAV: Veterans' organizations like these offer scholarships and can assist with finding additional resources.
Examples of Military Scholarships:
- GI Bill Benefits: Offers various educational benefits to veterans, service members, and their families, covering tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and more.
- Tillman Scholars Program: Supports active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses with academic scholarships, leadership development, and a supportive community.
- Fisher House Foundation's Scholarships for Military Children: Provides scholarships to the children of military personnel for their undergraduate studies.
- Heroes' Legacy Scholarships: Offers scholarships for the children of fallen or disabled service members, based on academic achievement and community involvement.
13) Scholarships for Students with Disabilities:
Scholarships for students with disabilities are dedicated financial aids intended to support individuals facing physical, sensory, or learning disabilities in pursuing higher education. These scholarships are designed to level the playing field, providing funds not just for tuition but also for necessary accommodations and support services that ensure equal access to educational opportunities. Offered by various organizations, foundations, and educational institutions, these scholarships aim to empower students with disabilities to achieve their academic and career aspirations without being hindered by financial constraints.
Tips to Secure Scholarships for Students with Disabilities:
- Document Your Disability: Obtain and provide documentation of your disability from a qualified professional, as this is often a requirement for application. Ensure the documentation is up-to-date and clearly outlines your educational needs.
- Research Widely: Look for scholarships that specifically cater to your type of disability. There are scholarships available for a wide range of disabilities, including but not limited to visual and hearing impairments, mobility challenges, and learning disorders.
- Showcase Your Strengths and Achievements: Focus on your abilities and accomplishments in your application. Highlight how you've overcome challenges related to your disability and how it has shaped your personal and academic growth.
- Tailor Your Application: Make sure your application essays and materials speak directly to the mission of the scholarship organization and how the scholarship will support your educational goals.
- Seek Support: Utilize resources such as your school’s disability services office or local disability advocacy groups for assistance in finding and applying for scholarships.
Free Resources to Help Get Scholarships for Students with Disabilities in the U.S.:
- National Center for Learning Disabilities: Offers resources and scholarship opportunities for students with learning disabilities.
- Disability.gov: Provides a comprehensive list of scholarships available for students with disabilities, covering a wide range of needs and fields of study.
- The HEATH Resource Center at the National Youth Transitions Center: Offers an online clearinghouse of education-related resources for students with disabilities, including scholarship information.
- Bookshare: An accessible online library for people with print disabilities, which also offers information on scholarships.
Examples of Scholarships for Students with Disabilities:
- The Anne Ford Scholarship: Awarded by the National Center for Learning Disabilities to high school seniors with documented learning disabilities who are pursuing undergraduate education.
- The Google Lime Scholarship: For students with disabilities who are pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field.
- AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability: Offered by the American Association on Health and Disability to undergraduate and graduate students with a disability who are pursuing studies related to health and disability.
- Microsoft DisAbility Scholarship: A scholarship for high school seniors with disabilities who plan to enter a bachelor’s degree program in engineering, computer science, computer information systems, law, business, or a related field.
How to find and apply for scholarship programs
Finding and applying for scholarships can be a game-changer in financing your education. Here are best practices to enhance your scholarship search and application process, emphasizing key components like personal essays and recommendation letters and maintaining a robust academic and extracurricular profile.
Start Early and Stay Organized
- Early Start: Begin your scholarship search as soon as possible. The earlier you start, the more opportunities you'll have to find scholarships that fit your profile.
- Stay Organized: Create a dedicated folder or digital spreadsheet to track scholarships, deadlines, application requirements, and submission statuses.
Customize Your Applications
- Personal Essays: Your essay is a chance to tell your story, showcasing your unique experiences, challenges, and ambitions. Tailor each essay to the scholarship’s theme and criteria, making sure to highlight why you're the ideal candidate.
- Recommendation Letters: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and potential. Provide them with specific information about the scholarships you're applying for, and give them plenty of time to write their letters.
Maintain a Strong Profile
- Academic Excellence: Keep your grades up throughout your high school or college career. Scholarships often consider GPA and academic achievements as key factors.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Active participation in extracurricular activities, sports, clubs, or community service projects demonstrates your well-roundedness and leadership skills.
Utilize Multiple Resources
- Diverse Searches: Use various scholarship databases, websites, and local resources. Don't overlook smaller, local scholarships, which might have less competition.
- High School or University Resources: Your guidance counselor or financial aid office can be invaluable resources for finding scholarships and providing support throughout the application process.
Practice Good Time Management
- Prioritize Applications: Focus on scholarships for which you are most qualified, especially those that align closely with your academic interests, career goals, or personal background.
- Deadline Management: Pay close attention to deadlines and plan to submit applications well in advance. This gives you a buffer in case of unexpected delays.
Prepare for Interviews
- Interview Preparation: Some scholarships require interviews. Prepare by practicing answers to common questions and articulating your achievements, experiences, and future goals.
Seek Feedback and Revise
- Feedback: Ask teachers, mentors, or peers to review your essays and application materials. Constructive feedback can help you refine your application and increase your chances of success.
- Revise Accordingly: Take the time to incorporate feedback and polish your essays and application materials before submission.
Stay Positive and Persistent
- Persistence: Applying for scholarships can be competitive. If you don’t succeed at first, don’t get discouraged. Learn from any feedback you receive and apply for more opportunities.
- Positivity: Keep a positive outlook and continue to seek opportunities that match your profile and interests.
Conclusion
Scholarships offer a vital avenue to alleviate the financial burdens of higher education, opening up a world of educational opportunities for students from all walks of life. By leveraging the detailed tips and strategies provided—such as the importance of crafting compelling personal essays, securing strong recommendation letters, and maintaining an impressive academic and extracurricular profile—students can significantly enhance their chances of securing these valuable awards. It's crucial to start the scholarship search early, using the guidelines and resources shared, to maximize your chances of success.
We encourage you to tap into all available resources, including Cake's comprehensive tools for students and job seekers, to not only find scholarships but also prepare for the subsequent steps in your academic and career journey. Let this guide be the catalyst for your proactive scholarship search, opening doors to your educational aspirations and paving the way for a brighter academic and professional future. Start today, and take control of your educational destiny.
CakeResume is a free resume maker and portfolio builder that provides hundreds of resume templates (free download) and various job resume examples to help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!
— Originally Written by Donaven Leong —
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