Hey everyone! I'm a high school junior trying to plan for college. I've been looking into scholarships a lot lately. I understand that many scholarships cover tuition costs, but I'm also concerned about living expenses. Does anyone know of any scholarships specifically designed to help cover living expenses? Maybe scholarships that aren't so focused on academic achievement? I could use some advice or personal stories on how you've managed to find and secure these kinds of scholarships. Thanks a bunch!
Planning for the cost of attendance isn't just about tuition, but also includes room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. These can add up, so it's wise of you to consider how to cover them.
Several scholarships depend on factors other than academic achievement, like special talents, interests, or community service. Some scholarships are also non-restrictive, meaning they provide you with a cash award that you can choose to use towards living expenses. For instance, the "You Deserve It" Scholarship from ScholarshipOwl awards $1,000 without any specific restrictions on usage.
You can look for these kinds of scholarships on various platforms, such as Appily or Chegg. Many of these sites give you the option to filter scholarships by category, so you can look for something that suits your particular talent, interest, or background. Be sure to filter for "non-restrictive" or "any use" type scholarships.
Other avenues include locally-based scholarships, perhaps through your high school, local businesses, or community organizations. Many of these scholarships may factor in community service or leadership roles as well.
Organizations connected to your parents’ work or organizations representing your cultural heritage may also provide scholarships that can be used for general expenses.
Remember to apply to as many scholarships as possible. It's a numbers game, so the more you apply, the better your chances. Each scholarship might not be huge, but they can combine into a significant sum.
Lastly, consider work-study options once you're in college where you could work part-time on or off campus, and the income you earn can go towards your living expenses.
Hope these suggestions help you navigate the scholarship search process and figure out the best way to fund your college experience! Good luck!
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