Don’t leave money on the table… or the desk!
Dealing with student debt can feel like a huge weight; but there are many resources out there to lighten the load. Taking the time to secure grants and scholarships can make a massive difference down the line. Here’s how you can make it happen:
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Start Early and Stay Organized
Seriously, don’t miss those deadlines! Start researching scholarship opportunities early and keep a solid list of everything you are applying for. Think about setting up a spreadsheet or another similar tool to keep you organized. This is key to stay on track.
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Explore Every Option
Scholarship search engines, like Scholarships.com, are your friend. But don’t stop there! Check your college’s financial aid office, local organizations, community foundations, your parents’ employers, and even social media. Don’t dismiss smaller scholarships you come across, either. Many times, they are less competitive, and they add up faster than you think.
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Prioritize
Not all scholarships are a perfect fit, and that’s completely normal! Make sure you’re reading all the directions carefully and focusing on what each scholarship is really looking for. Put your energy into applications that make sense for you and your goals, while tailoring your application to the specific scholarship.
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Put Forward Your Best Work
Scholarships give you a space to showcase your strengths, experiences, and aspirations in a personal and engaging way. Take advantage of this opportunity and proofread your essay (and then proofread it again). Answer every part of the prompt, adhere to the word limit, and use perfect grammar. For an extra polish, ask friends, family, or professors to give your essay a once over. Fresh eyes can pick up things you may miss!
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Choose Recommenders Wisely
Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for letters of recommendation. Asking early shows respect for recommender’s time and gives them a chance to write a thoughtful letter that highlights your strengths and potential. The better your recommender knows you, the stronger their letter will be. Pick someone who can sing your praises with the help of specific examples!
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Maximize Eligibility
Want to really impress scholarship committees? It’s about more than just acing your classes (though a high GPA is definitely important). Committees are looking for well rounded individuals, so consider getting involved in academic and professional experiences. Being a part of extracurriculars, taking on leadership roles, and volunteering in your community will help your application shine.
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Take Advantage of FAFSA
Even if you think your family’s income is too high to qualify for financial aid, still fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA helps determine your eligibility for many types of financial aid, like grants or subsidized loans, which have lower interest rates. You might be surprised by what you’re eligible for.
Finding and leveraging scholarship and grant opportunities may take time and effort, but the payoff can be well worth it. By researching thoroughly, staying organized, tailoring each application, and applying widely, you can unlock financial resources that reduce the burden of tuition and open doors to academic and personal growth. So, take control of your education today!