Where can I find the most scholarship money for college?

As I plan for college, I'm wondering where I can find the most scholarship money available. Does anyone have tips on what to look for in terms of scholarship opportunities or specific sources I should be aware of?

Looking for scholarships can feel like navigating a maze, but it's definitely worthwhile. First off, you should start with your colleges of interest. Many colleges offer merit-based scholarships, which don't require a separate application. Some schools also offer special scholarships you must apply for separately and often require an additional essay or interview.

Local organizations are another great resource. Your school guidance office may have a list of scholarships offered by entities in your community. Being a local student can increase your odds of winning these, as there might be fewer applicants.

Your high school's website might have a resource page for scholarships. Stay tuned to announcements made by the counseling office too; they may announce available scholarships.

Company scholarships are another avenue to explore. Some companies provide scholarships for employees’ children or for students pursuing a particular field of study. Look for companies in your area of interest and see if they offer any scholarships.

Another resource is online databases like Appily, which is often updated with new scholarship opportunities. You can typically filter by eligibility requirements such as GPA, test scores, intended major, or personal characteristics.

Lastly, don't overlook smaller, less-known scholarships. Even a few hundred dollars can help cover books or other expenses. These typically have fewer applicants, which can increase your chances of winning. Furthermore, don't be deterred by the effort required for applications-- every dollar you win is less money that you need to borrow or earn.

Remember, legitimate scholarships should never require you to pay to apply. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is, and it's worth investigating a bit further before submitting any information. Best of luck in your search!