Can people in community college apply for scholarships?

Is it possible for students currently attending community college to apply for scholarships? I'm considering this as a way to help finance my education and eventually transfer to a four-year university. Any tips on where to start?

Absolutely, community college students can certainly apply for scholarships! In fact, a number of scholarships are specifically targeted towards community college students. It's a smart strategy to offset the costs of tuition and books. Here is a roadmap to guide you in your scholarship hunt:

1. Institutional Scholarships: Start your exploration at your community college's financial aid office. Some schools offer in-house scholarships you might qualify for, based on factors such as academic performance, transfer intentions, financial need or specific fields of study.

2. Local Community Opportunities: Businesses, foundations, and civic associations in your local area often sponsor scholarships for local students, including those attending community college.

3. FAFSA: Make sure to complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSASM) every year. It’s the gateway to many kinds of financial aid, including grants, work-study, and loans. Eligibility isn't just restricted to students at 4-year colleges. The SAI (student aid index) disclosed in your FAFSA results will be used to assess your eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs.

4. Online Scholarship Platforms: Besides these options, various online platforms like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Appily allow you to create a profile and match you with scholarships you're eligible for.

Finally, a useful tip while applying for scholarships is to aim for a mix of both 'reach' scholarships (those which are highly competitive) and less competitive ones (which may have a smaller applicant pool), to broaden your chances. And remember to keep track of deadlines, and make sure your applications are tailored, thorough and submitted on time. Good luck!