I've heard there are some really unique or 'weird' scholarships out there that aren't as competitive. Does anyone have tips on where to look for these or past experiences in applying to scholarships that aren't as well-known?
Absolutely, unique or "weird" scholarships certainly exist, and they can be fun to seek out. Here are some tips on how to find and apply for these scholarships:
First off, you can do an online search for “unusual scholarships” or "weird scholarships." Although broad, this can generate some interesting options that you may find appealing and be eligible for.
Websites like Fastweb or Appily can be quite helpful too. These scholarship search sites compile lists of scholarships that cater to a huge variety of interests, circumstances, and talents, including the more unusual ones. With Fastweb, for example, after creating a profile, they'll filter scholarships according to your interests and qualifications, which could indeed yield some offbeat options.
Remember to check your local community. Often, there are lesser-known scholarships offered locally by businesses, clubs, and organizations that might not be as competitive since they have a smaller applicant pool.
Furthermore, keep in mind your own unique hobbies, interests, or personal traits. Are you a passionate duck caller? An expert in Klingon? These could lead you to niche scholarships. There are scholarships out there for a wide range of interests or unique talents.
Just remember, as entertaining as these may be, make sure to use your time wisely and prioritize those scholarships for which you are most qualified and have a realistic chance of winning. Additionally, make sure the time investment matches the potential gain-- a smaller $100 scholarship might not be worth several days of your time spent preparing an application.
Finally, when you find potential scholarships to apply for, do a quick check to verify their legitimacy. Watch out for any that require payment to apply or seem too good to be true. And always keep your personal information safe.
The hunt for unusual scholarships can not only be fun but potentially quite rewarding. Best of luck to you in your search!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.