What are the steps to apply for a scholarship?

I've recently started thinking about applying for scholarships to help with college expenses and would really appreciate some guidance on the process. Are there general steps I need to follow, or does it vary greatly depending on the organization? Also, how early should I start applying, and are there any common mistakes I should avoid in my application? I’m hoping to get a head start on this and gather as much information as I can. Any tips or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated.

While the process for applying to scholarships can differ, some basic steps usually apply:

1. Explore & Search: Identify scholarships that you may qualify for. Use all resources at your disposal such as scholarship databases like Appily and FastWeb, inquire at your school's guidance office, and search on college websites where you're applying.

2. Understand Requirements: Thoroughly read all details about each scholarship you're interested in. Make a note of eligibility requirements, what's required for the application (such as essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc.), and deadline dates.

3. Organization is Key: Keep track of scholarships you are applying for in a spreadsheet or a similar tool to help manage applications and deadlines effectively.

4. Unique Applications: Tailor each application according to the scholarship specifics. Many scholarships have unique essay prompts so recycling one essay for all could lead to lesser chances.

5. Start Early: This cannot be overstressed. Some scholarships have deadlines before the college application deadlines so it’s always advantageous to start early.

As for possible mistakes:

1. Not Following Instructions: Ensure you adhere to the guidelines and instructions. This includes word limits in essays, deadline dates, the specified mode of submission (email, online forms etc.), and so on.

2. Not Proofreading: Always proofread your application forms and essays to avoid errors. A well-polished submission provides a positive impression.

Remember, each scholarship is unique so it's important to spend adequate time on each application. Also, don't get discouraged if you don't get selected for an opportunity. There are thousands of scholarships out there, so keep applying! You’re already off to a good start by thinking ahead and seeking advice. Good luck!