Help with Applying for Scholarships Online

I'm looking to apply for scholarships but am not really sure how to get started, especially with online applications. I've heard there are different platforms and websites that offer scholarships, but I'm a bit overwhelmed. Can someone guide me on the best resources or websites to use? Also, is there a way to keep track of all the applications in an organized way?

Sure, starting to apply for scholarships can seem overwhelming indeed, but you're going to be just fine.

First, to identify scholarships, you can use several online scholarship search platforms. These include resources like Appily, Scholarships.com, or Chegg Scholarships. On these sites, you can create a profile and match with scholarships suited to your personal characteristics and academic merits. Checking the financial aid pages on the websites of the colleges you're interested in is another excellent strategy because some schools offer merit scholarships you could be eligible for.

For the organization part, I recommend creating a spreadsheet where you can catalogue scholarships you're interested in applying for. You can record information like the scholarship name, the award amount, the website, the application requirements, and the deadline date. This way, you can keep track of your progress and ensure you don't miss any deadlines. You could use Excel, Google Sheets, or any other platform you’re comfortable with.

Additionally, when you begin applying, remember to pay attention to the scholarship requirements. Some require essays, academic or activity transcripts, or letters of recommendation. Avoid any "scholarships" that require a fee to apply—these are typically scams.

Overall, applying for scholarships is a cycle of search, apply, and repeat. It might be time-consuming, but remember that every bit can help reduce your college costs. Good luck!