Are there scholarships for doing well in college?

I know about scholarships for incoming students, but I'm curious if colleges offer scholarships for students who perform well academically while already in college. How do these typically work?

Yes, there are scholarships awarded by colleges for students who exhibit strong academic performance while already enrolled. These are often referred to as "merit-based scholarships" or "continuing student scholarships" and they generally reward students who maintain a high GPA, demonstrate strong leadership, or contribute positively to the campus community.

These scholarships function in a few different ways. For some, colleges automatically consider you based on your GPA and academic record—you don't need to apply separately. Your college's financial aid office can provide more details about these types of institutional scholarships.

For other scholarships, you will have to apply directly. These applications can include essays, letters of recommendation, or interviews, much like applying for private scholarships. Deadlines for these types of college scholarships can vary, so it's essential to check with your college's financial aid office or the specific department offering the scholarship.

It's also worth noting that there are numerous external scholarships targeted at current college students. Many private organizations, nonprofit groups, and companies administer these awards. Searching for these scholarships can be done through various online platforms like Appily or Fastweb.

Always stay on top of deadlines and criteria, and regularly check for any new scholarship opportunities. That's your best bet for securing additional funding! Good luck!