What does merit-based mean for college scholarships?

I'm trying to understand how scholarship applications work for college, and I keep seeing 'merit-based' scholarships mentioned. What exactly does 'merit-based' mean in this context? Is it all about grades, or do other achievements come into play, like extracurriculars or leadership roles? Also, how competitive are these types of scholarships compared to need-based ones? I'm aiming to ease the financial burden on my family, so any advice on this would be great.

It's a great question you're asking. A merit-based scholarship is a financial award given based on achievements or traits that exemplify "merit." It's not just about your GPA or test scores, although these often do play a significant role. Merit can also refer to talents, interests, and extracurricular involvement.

If you're an accomplished musician, for example, you might be eligible for a merit-based scholarship related to your musical talents. Similarly, if you have exceptional leadership skills demonstrated by your role in student council or a similar organization, there could be merit-based scholarships aimed at grooming future leaders.

Compared to need-based scholarships, which consider the student's financial circumstances, merit-based scholarships focus primarily on academic or other personal achievements. This does not mean one is inherently more competitive than the other. The competition really depends on the specific scholarship, including the number of applicants and the eligibility requirements.

Keep in mind that many colleges and organizations offer both types of scholarships, and it's perfectly reasonable—perhaps even advisable—to apply to a mix of need-based and merit-based scholarships. Also remember that the best approach to applying for scholarships is to focus on those most tailored to your specific strengths, achievements, and circumstances, where you'll likely have the best chances.