How difficult is it to secure a scholarship?

I'm trying to plan ahead for college, and scholarships seem like a necessary part of the picture. But I'm hearing mixed things about how hard it is to actually get one. Is there a lot of competition out there, and what can I do to improve my chances? Are there particular types of scholarships that are more attainable than others, like local vs. national ones?

Scholarship competition can be fierce, but that should not deter you from applying. The difficulty largely depends on the type of scholarships you're aiming for. Generally, national scholarships can be more competitive due to the larger pool of applicants. However, they also tend to offer bigger awards.

On the other hand, local and small-scale scholarships, while offering perhaps smaller prizes, often have less competition, which might increase your chances of being awarded.

To boost your chances, one effective strategy is to apply early and often. Many people tend to focus more on high-reward national scholarships, so a consistent approach towards local or lesser-known scholarships can pay off. Start your scholarship search early, ideally at least a year before you'll need the funds, and apply for as many as you are eligible for.

Furthermore, achieving and maintaining excellent academic performance can help you be more competitive for merit-based scholarships. But remember, academics isn't everything. Demonstrating strong leadership, community service, and involvement in extracurricular activities can also make a significant difference.

For need-based scholarships, each application will usually require information about you and your family's financial situation. These scholarships aim to give assistance to students who demonstrate financial need, so ensuring you provide accurate and detailed information is crucial.

In the end, the key is to be aware of all the scholarship opportunities available to you and proactively work towards them. Consider tools like Appily to locate scholarships that cater to your unique profile. Prepare strong applications and never underestimate the smaller, less popular scholarships - they can add up and make a significant impact.