Maximize Scholarship Money: Best Ways?

What are the best ways to maximize the money I can get from scholarship applications? Are there lesser-known scholarships that offer a lot, or should I focus on certain activities?

There are myriad ways to maximize your scholarship earnings, and strategies will vary based on individual circumstances. However, here are some general steps to increase the financial aid you obtain from scholarships:

1. Start Early: The earlier you start applying for scholarships, the better your chances of securing more funding. Waiting until senior year to search for scholarships can limit your opportunities.

2. Apply to Local Scholarships: Many local businesses, organizations, and community groups offer scholarships for local students. The competition for these is often less fierce than for national or state-wide scholarships, which could increase your chances of winning.

3. School-Based Scholarships: Don't forget to check with the colleges you're applying to. They often have merit-based scholarships that you're automatically considered for when you apply, as well as department-specific scholarships for certain majors.

4. Scholarships for Specific Demographics: There are scholarships for almost every demographic you can think of — scholarships for first-generation college students, students from certain ethnic backgrounds, students with particular hobbies or skills, etc.

5. Be Consistent and Diligent in Your Search: Make sure to be proactive in seeking scholarship opportunities. Platforms like Fastweb, Appily, and College Board's Scholarship Search can be useful resources. But a robust scholarship search shouldn't be limited to these platforms. You can also use search terms relevant to your specific situation.

6. Mind the Details: Ensure you meet all application requirements, submit materials on time, and proofread everything. This includes your essays, which should be unique, well-written, and tailored specifically for each scholarship.

Remember, quality over quantity is key when applying for scholarships. It's more beneficial to devote substantial time and effort to a handful of scholarships, rather than applying to hundreds with less attention to detail. Best of luck!