Can scholarship money be used for college room and board?

I'm trying to figure out what scholarship funds can be applied to. Specifically, can they cover expenses like room and board, or are they mostly limited to tuition fees? I want to budget effectively for my college expenses.

Yes, scholarship money can generally be used for a wide range of educational expenses, including room and board. Scholarships are typically awarded to cover what is often referred to as the "cost of attendance," a figure that includes tuition, room and board, books, supplies, and some other fees.

However, it's important to note that the spending rules can vary by scholarship. Some scholarships may specifically be for tuition only, while others are unrestricted and can be used for any part of the cost of attendance. You'll need to check the specifics of each scholarship you apply for or receive to determine how the funds can be used.

For example, a scholarship might be explicitly designated for tuition, or it might be more flexible and you can use it for expenses like housing or meal plans. In some cases, if the scholarship amount exceeds your tuition costs, the leftover funds might be provided directly to you for other educational expenses.

Being aware of these details will help you budget effectively. Finally, understanding the use of your scholarships may also have important implications for your financial aid package. If you're ever unsure about what your scholarship funds can cover, don't hesitate to reach out to the organization offering the scholarship—they should be able to provide you with these details.