Are there scholarships available for average students?

I'm a bit worried about my chances of finding scholarships since I don't have a perfect GPA or a super impressive extracurricular record. I consider myself an 'average student,' but I still want to try for any scholarships I might qualify for. Does anyone know of scholarships that cater to students like me who aren't necessarily at the top of the class? Any suggestions on where to look or how to build a strong application despite not having super high grades?

Absolutely, there are multiple scholarships available for 'average' students. It's crucial to remember that not all scholarships are based on academic merit. There are a plethora of scholarships that focus on factors such as community involvement, leadership, personal hobbies, and even unique talents.

The first place to check would be your school's guidance counselor's office. They often have information about local scholarships, many of which might not require high GPAs. Then, you might want to explore websites like Appily, Fastweb, or Scholarship.com, which curate and list multiple scholarships, and have filter options that allow you to tailor your search to your specific situation.

One example of a scholarship for average students is the "Do Something" scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have made a difference in their community, rather than for academic or athletic accomplishments. The "Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck at Prom" scholarship, on the other hand, evaluates creativity and originality as it offers a potential scholarship for students who create and wear a prom outfit made entirely from duct tape!

As for crafting a strong application, focus on presenting your unique experiences, hobbies, responsibilities, or roles you've held. Maybe you've had a part-time job, been a caregiver for a family member, or perhaps you have a unique hobby. All these can make you stand out to scholarship committees. Make sure you craft thoughtful, personalized essays that clearly communicate your interests and experiences, as this can significantly increase your chances of securing a scholarship. Remember, being genuine and honest in your applications is key.

Lastly, keep applying! It can feel time-consuming, but applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of securing some financial aid. Awards may vary in size, but every little bit helps. Good luck in your search for scholarships!