I'm planning to start college in Fall 2025, and I'm curious about what scholarships are available for that entry year. When should I start the application process, and where can I find this info?
You're right to get an early start on the scholarship search, as deadlines can approach quickly and the application process can be time-consuming.
While individual scholarships set their own deadlines, you can generally expect to see scholarship applications opening in the fall or winter—in many cases, about a year or more before the scholarship will be distributed. For Fall 2025 entry, you might see applications opening around late 2024. Some deadlines could be as early as late 2024 or early 2025, so it's beneficial to get an early start.
Finding scholarships can be a bit of a scavenger hunt, but the effort can pay off! These resources can help get you started:
- High school counseling office: Check with your school's guidance or college counseling office to see if they have a list of local scholarships, which often have less competition than national ones.
- College financial aid offices: Many colleges have scholarships specifically for their students. The school's financial aid website or admissions office can provide more information.
- Online scholarship databases: These services compile a broad range of scholarships, making it easier to find options that are a good match for you. One example is Appily, which allows you to enter some details about your background and interests to give you a personalized list of scholarship opportunities.
Keep in mind that scholarships are just one piece of the financial aid puzzle. You'll also want to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible starting October 1st, 2024. This determines your eligibility for need-based financial aid, including loans, grants, and work-study jobs.
As you identify promising scholarship opportunities, keep an organized system for tracking deadlines and the materials you will need for each application. Attention to detail and good time management are key factors in a successful scholarship search. Good luck!
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