Understanding Academic Scholarships for High School Seniors

I'm a high school junior and I'm really trying to position myself for some academic scholarships when I graduate. I know they look at things like GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but I've also heard there might be other factors involved. What do colleges generally look for when awarding academic scholarships to high school seniors? And are there any specific scholarships out there that I should know about and start preparing for now?

Academic scholarships, as you pointed out, primarily consider your academic achievements like GPA and SAT/ACT scores. However, they might also evaluate class rank, the rigor of your high school schedule (number of Honors, AP, IB, dual enrollment classes), and achievements in academic competitions. Scholarships awarded by a college usually look at the strength of the applicant pool of that year, so the exact standards may vary by year.

Beyond those basic metrics, scholarships often take into consideration the whole student. They may look for students who show strong leadership qualities, commitment to community service, standout extracurricular involvement, or exceptional talent in a particular area. Writing ability also matters, since most scholarships require an application essay or personal statement.

Some nationwide academic scholarships you could consider prepping for include the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, the Regeneron Science Talent Search, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities scholarships. These programs value not just academic achievements, but also community involvement and leadership.

For school-specific scholarships, take a look at the universities you're interested in. Many have merit scholarships that you can qualify for by applying or being accepted. For example, Boston University has the Trustee Scholarship that covers full tuition for its recipients.

Lastly, remember to consider local scholarships in your community. Often businesses, organizations, or even high schools will offer scholarships to local students. These scholarships usually have less competition since they're limited to a specific geographical area.

Prepping for academic scholarships often aligns with college admissions prep - keep your grades as high as possible, aim for excellent test scores if you're taking the SAT or ACT, and get involved in meaningful extracurricular activities where you demonstrate dedication and leadership. Best of luck!