Finding Unpopular Scholarships: Any Tips?

I've been hearing that there are a lot of scholarships that fly under the radar, and I'm curious about how to find these 'unpopular' scholarships. These could be less competitive due to a lack of awareness, which sounds perfect for me to increase my chances. Does anyone know where to start looking for these kinds of scholarships, or have any success stories on how they found lesser-known ones?

If you're hoping to secure scholarships that aren't as widely known, there are a few strategies you can try. Firstly, local scholarships, as these often have a smaller applicant pool because they are limited to students in your area. Reach out to your high school counseling office to see if they have a list of local scholarships, or contact community organizations, local businesses, and charities since they often award scholarships as well.

Secondly, look into scholarships related to your specific interests, talents, or career goals. There are countless niche scholarships out there, from the Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship for vegetarian high school students to the Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest for those who can create the best outfits made out of Duck Brand duct tape. Making a more targeted list can not only ensure less competition but can also cater to your strengths and increase your chances of winning.

Another great resource could be your chosen college or university. Many institutions have department-specific scholarships that only go out to students within those departments. Give their financial aid office a call or check their website.

Finally, the key to finding these scholarships is to start searching early and search often. Consider setting up a Google Alert for scholarships so you can stay updated on newly announced opportunities directly to your inbox. Good luck with your search.