Can you apply for scholarships after you start college?

I'm starting college this fall and wondering if I can still apply for any scholarships after I begin classes. Are there scholarships available for current college students, or is it mostly for incoming freshmen?

Absolutely, you can definitely apply for scholarships even after you've started college. In fact, there are quite a few scholarships specifically designed for current college students. While some scholarships are indeed targeted towards incoming freshmen, many are open to all undergraduate students. They may be department-specific, based on academic achievement, or may require certain extracurricular involvement. It's also common to see scholarships for specific majors or career paths.

Furthermore, some schools offer scholarships based on your performance within college itself. Therefore, you might have a new set of opportunities to secure scholarships based on your college GPA, leadership roles, or other achievements.

The key is to keep researching and applying. Check out your school's financial aid website, reach out to your academic department, or use online search tools like Appily or the Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop scholarship tool for avenues to find scholarships. And don't forget about local organizations, businesses, and community groups - many of them offer scholarships for current students as well.

Just keep in mind the application timelines and deadlines, as they vary widely. Some scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, while others have specific application periods. Some also renew annually, so even if you missed the deadline this year, you could apply next year.

In short, your scholarship search doesn't have to end after high school. Opportunities are abundant throughout your college years. So keep your eyes open and continue to apply! It's possible to receive more than one scholarship, making your education more affordable.