I'm looking to get a head start on scholarship applications while I'm still a junior. There must be specific scholarships meant for high school juniors, but I’m struggling to find them. If anyone has been through this and knows any scholarships open to juniors, please share! Your guidance would be super helpful for me and possibly my classmates too.
There are indeed several scholarships that high school juniors can apply for. Here are some examples that you might find interesting:
1. The National Merit Scholarship Program: This is based on scores from the PSAT/NMSQT, which students usually take in their junior year. They award several types of scholarships, including Corporate-Sponsored Merit Scholarships, National Achievement Scholarships, and College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships.
2. Coolidge Scholarship: This is a full-ride, four-year scholarship to any accredited U.S. college or university. The application opens in late fall, and finalists will be invited to finalist weekend in the spring of their junior year.
3. The American Legion Oratorical Contest: This scholarship awards up to $20,000 for a prepared oration on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution.
4. AFSA High School Essay Contest: This scholarship is open to high school juniors and seniors, who are asked to write an essay about important international issues.
Remember, the specifics of these scholarships, such as the exact amount, criteria, and deadlines, can change from year to year, so make sure to verify the details from their respective websites before starting your application.
Also, don't forget to check out local scholarships that might be available in your community. Local businesses, organizations, and charities often have scholarships that receive fewer applicants, thus increasing your chances of winning.
One last tip: start working on your essays early. Quality essays take time and multiple drafts. This will give you the best chance of crafting a memorable and persuasive essay that helps you secure those scholarships! Best of luck!
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