How do I find the most available college scholarships?

I'm a junior trying to plan out my college funding strategy. Does anyone have advice on how to discover the most available scholarships that I can apply for? Are there certain platforms or tips for finding a lot of options?

Sure, I can help with that. There are quite a few tactics you can employ to locate a wide range of scholarship opportunities.

Starting with websites dedicated to scholarship search can be beneficial. Websites like Fastweb, Chegg Scholarships, and Scholarships.com have vast databases that you can search with preferences tailored to your specific criteria. You can input factors such as your intended major, demographic information, and extracurricular activities to help narrow down your search results. But remember, the more specific, the fewer results you'll get, so find a balance between specificity and volume.

Another worthy strategy is to dive into your communities. Local companies, organizations, and civic groups often offer scholarship opportunities. Ask your high school guidance counselor for potential local scholarships. Also, check with your parents' workplaces, as companies sometimes have scholarships available for the children of employees.

Engaging with universities you're interested in is also a solid move. Many institutions have scholarships specifically for their students. Check the financial aid sections of their websites. To get a sense of the scholarships offered by a particular institution, visit the school's financial aid website or contact the financial aid office directly.

Also, consider using Appily, a platform that not only helps you understand your chances at different colleges but also features a scholarship tool that offers a personalized scholarship list.

Lastly, always apply for the FAFSA. Government aid can be a significant contributor to your college fund. Even if you don't think you'll qualify for aid, it's worth applying because some scholarships require a completed FAFSA.

Remember that scholarship applications can be quite involved. They often require essays or other forms of personal statements, and sometimes letters of recommendation. Start searching and applying early to make sure you meet application deadlines. The more scholarships you apply for, the more likely you are to receive some scholarship money, so set up a routine and start applying. Good luck!