Indiana scholarship opportunities for high school students

I'm a high school junior in Indiana looking for scholarships to help with college tuition. What types of scholarships are available specifically for Indiana residents? Any tips on where to find these scholarships and how competitive they are?

There are numerous scholarships specifically for high school students in Indiana. A few notable ones include the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, which provides up to full-tuition, mandatory fees, and a $900 yearly stipend for books and equipment for four years of undergraduate study. This scholarship is highly competitive and is awarded through the student's local Community Foundation.

Another one is the Mitch Daniels Early Graduation Scholarship, a one-time scholarship for Indiana students who graduate high school at least one year early. It isn't as competitive as the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship because it's not as widely applicable—only students who graduate early are eligible.

The Indiana Commission for Higher Education also offers the Frank O'Bannon Grant, which is a need-based grant for Indiana residents attending eligible public, private, and proprietary postsecondary institutions in Indiana. The competitiveness can vary but it is largely based on financial need.

You should also check out the 21st Century Scholars Program which provides up to four years of undergraduate tuition at any participating public college or university in Indiana. This program is meant for 7th and 8th graders who qualify for free or reduced price school lunch.

The Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship provides high-achieving high school and college students interested in pursuing a career in education the opportunity to earn a renewable scholarship of up to $7,500 each year for four academic years.

As for finding these scholarships, start with your school counselor and check websites of Indiana colleges and universities. Also, platforms like Appily are helpful in consolidating different scholarship opportunities and making the search more efficient. In terms of competition, it's difficult to provide a blanket statement as each scholarship varies based on the number of applicants and the eligibility requirements. However, scholarships like the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship are known to be quite competitive given their generous offerings.

Please remember to pay close attention to the eligibility requirements and deadlines for each scholarship - every bit of assistance can help lower the cost of your college education. Best of luck!