How can I find free scholarships?

I'm trying to apply for as many scholarships as possible to lessen college costs, but I'm a little overwhelmed by where to start. How can I identify and apply for free scholarships? What resources or websites are best for finding scholarships that don't require any kind of application fee?

There are numerous free resources that students can utilize in their search for scholarships.

For starters, your high school guidance counseling office may have information on local scholarships and tips on how to apply for these. Often, local scholarships have less competition and may increase your odds of securing funds for college.

Your prospective colleges' financial aid websites are also an invaluable resource, as they often list scholarship opportunities for incoming students. Be sure to check if there are specific scholarships for your potential major or department.

Online search engines can also help you find scholarships. Sites like Fastweb, Appily, and Scholly allow you to create a profile to match you with relevant scholarships. Be prepared to spend some time on these sites, as they can provide a wealth of opportunities, but require some amount of sifting to find suitable scholarships.

Keep in mind, you should never have to pay to apply for scholarships. Beware of scholarship scams that require application fees or promise guaranteed scholarships, as authentic scholarships rarely, if ever, operate in this manner.

Remember, applying for scholarships is much like applying for college: it requires time, diligence, and perhaps a bit of luck. However, the payoff can make your efforts worthwhile and lead to substantial financial aid for your college journey. Good luck!