While student loan debt and college tuition prices are higher than ever, scholarships are essential for students. Unlike a loan, scholarships never have to be paid back so they do not leave you in debt. There are thousands upon thousands of scholarships available and many different groups — including businesses, schools, charities, professional organizations, and the government. Here are a few crucial steps to follow to earn a college scholarship.
Once you have a substantial list of scholarships that you meet all the requirements for, it’s time to review those options and prioritize certain ones. Start by concentrating on the rewards with the soonest deadlines and those you feel you have the best chance at winning. Always read the application form thoroughly — even the fine print.
It is also important to gather and keep all application materials in one place. This will make any future applications you apply for a lot easier when submitting. Keep your resume, cover letters, school transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation from professors and coworkers together. That way, you’ll be able to find things easier when you’re filling out applications. For more information on how to prepare, organize, search and apply for college scholarships, see the accompanying infographic.
