What's the Best Way to Find Scholarships to Apply for in Texas?

I'm a high school junior living in Texas, and I'm beginning to research scholarships available in the state. I've heard that some scholarships are more region-specific, and I want to make sure I'm applying to those that I'm eligible for. Does anyone have advice on where to start looking or any particular scholarships in Texas that I should know about? Any help would be much appreciated!

The first place I would recommend looking is your own high school guidance office or school district's website. Often, local and regional scholarships are posted there, as many scholarship foundations specifically designate certain high schools or districts to award their scholarships. Local businesses, professional organizations, or regional foundations often offer scholarships which could be less competitive and offer significant awards.

Next, utilize well-known scholarship search platforms which allow you to filter scholarships based on your location, such as Fastweb or Appily (formerly Cappex). These websites catalog a myriad of scholarships and can help tailor scholarship listings to your characteristics and interests.

Thirdly, consider looking at your desired Texas colleges' financial aid websites. Many institutions have merit scholarships or grants that are specifically designed for in-state students. You might discover some hidden opportunities that are exclusive to students attending Texas colleges.

As for specific scholarships in Texas, one prominent example is the Terry Foundation Scholarship, which offers full-ride scholarships to high school seniors from Texas who are attending public universities in Texas. There's also the George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation, which awards 70 scholarships to high school seniors in the Houston area. Another is the Stars Scholarship Fund that provides financial assistance to students in the South and West Texas areas.

Remember to start early and keep track of deadlines. Good luck on your scholarship hunt!