How do I find reliable scholarship sites?

I'm starting to dive into the world of scholarships, but it's super overwhelming with so many sites out there. I've heard of some generic ones like Fastweb and Cappex, but how do I know which scholarship sites are trustworthy, and which might be a waste of time? I'm looking for any tips or personal experiences that could guide me to some reliable scholarship platforms where I can find scholarships tailored to different criteria. Has anyone found success with lesser-known scholarship sites?

Sure, navigating the scholarship landscape can feel a bit like the Wild West at times, but there are indeed many reputable and reliable resources. You correctly mentioned Fastweb, which is one widely used and trusted platform. However, Cappex has been rebranded and is now known as Appily, which also contains a wealth of scholarship information.

Another highly-rated scholarship resource is Scholarships.com, and it's been in operation for some time. This platform does a good job of matching you up with scholarships that align with your interests and background.

A resource you may not have heard of is Chegg Scholarships. They do a good job of categorizing scholarships based on various criteria so that you can narrow down your search efficiently.

Lastly, don’t forget to explore university websites directly. They often have extensive information on scholarships specific to their institution, both merit-based and need-based. Your high school's website or counseling office is also a good resource for scholarships provided by local organizations.

One thing to keep in mind while going through these platforms is that legitimate scholarships seldom, if ever, require a fee to apply.

Do dedicate some time to scholarship exploration. It can feel like a shot in the dark at times, but remember, every dollar you win is a dollar less you have to borrow. Best of luck with your search!