Who gets the most scholarships?

I'm curious about the types of students or profiles that typically win the most scholarships. Is it based on academic achievements, extracurriculars, or something else?

There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as scholarships can be awarded based on a variety of factors. However, there are certain characteristics that tend to be common among students who successfully procure multiple scholarships.

Academic Achievement: Many scholarships are indeed merit-based and take into account students' academic performance. This includes things like grade point average (GPA), standardized test scores, class rank, and academic rigor. The students who often get the most scholarships are those who maintain high academic standards.

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities: Scholarship committees often look for students who show leadership potential and active engagement in extracurricular activities. Many scholarships use the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars to judge activities. In other words, students who achieve at high levels or demonstrate leadership in their activities (Tier 1 and Tier 2 extracurriculars) typically have more success with scholarships.

Community Service: Students who demonstrate significant involvement in their communities through service or volunteer work also tend to be strong candidates for scholarships, as this shows a commitment to making a positive impact on others.

Unique Qualities and Circumstances: Some scholarships are awarded based on specific individual or demographic characteristics, such as being a first-generation college student, belonging to a certain ethnic group, or pursuing a particular field of study.

Financial Need: Need-based scholarships are awarded to students with financial need. The assessment of need is typically based on information provided through the FAFSA or similar financial aid forms.

But remember, the most successful scholarship applicants are those who take the time to find scholarships that are a good fit for their unique abilities and experiences. By focusing on scholarships where you meet all of the eligibility criteria, you can increase your chances of winning awards.

As an example, if a student is a first-generation college student with a strong passion for computer science and who has demonstrated leadership through their role as a mentor in a local coding club, they should focus on scholarships that reward first-generation students and students who can demonstrate leadership and enthusiastic involvement in computer science.

Overall, being diligent about searching for scholarships, meeting all eligibility criteria, and carefully crafting thoughtful, personalized application materials are the keys to obtaining multiple scholarships.