If I'm from Oregon and planning on starting college soon, are there any specific scholarship sources or websites tailored for incoming freshmen in the state? Any locals have tips for finding these opportunities?
Absolutely, there is indeed state-specific information for scholarships if you're an Oregon resident. You can start with the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA), which is a free application for undocumented individuals, DACA-eligible students, and others who meet certain criteria to apply for financial aid, including several state scholarships.
In addition, the Oregon Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC) offers over 600 scholarships specifically for Oregon students. You can apply for these scholarships with a single application. The application typically opens on November 1st and closes on March 1st, so make sure you're keeping track of those dates.
You also have access to the Oregon Community Foundation which manages over 500 scholarships for students - some are focused on specific schools or fields of study.
Appily (formerly known as Cappex) is also a comprehensive site you can use to filter for scholarships that are state-specific, program-specific, or based on other factors.
Beyond web platforms, you should consider local organizations, clubs, and employers in your community. These may offer smaller, more specific scholarships which could have fewer applicants, potentially increasing your chances. Try to research with these entities directly or ask school counselors or local librarians who may have compiled such resources.
Remember, you should never have to pay to apply for a legitimate scholarship, so be wary of scams while conducting your search. Best of luck on your hunt for scholarships!
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