Looking for private scholarships to help pay for college and reduce my student loan debt. Any suggestions on the best sources or databases to find private scholarships that might apply to a range of interests?
There are quite a few online platforms and databases where you can find private scholarships. Here are a few you might want to consider:
1. Appily: This platform allows you to create a profile and matches you with scholarships based on your personal and academic information. It's a revamped version of Cappex, which was well-regarded for its extensive scholarship database.
2. Fastweb: Another popular scholarship search tool, Fastweb lets you create a personalized profile to help match you to potential scholarships. You can also find details on various contests that offer cash prizes.
3. Scholarship.com: This platform provides a large database of scholarships. Their search system takes into account your academic interests, expected major, and extracurricular activities.
4. Chegg Scholarships: Known primarily as a textbook marketplace, Chegg also offers an extensive database of scholarships. You simply create your personal profile, and Chegg matches you with potential scholarships.
More locally, check with organizations, clubs, or businesses in your community. They often offer scholarships for local students. Similarly, check with your school's guidance office as they may have information on scholarships specific to your high school or area.
Finally, don't forget to look at the scholarships offered by the colleges you are applying to. Many offer merit or need-based scholarships that can significantly decrease your financial burden.
When searching for scholarships, remember to look for ones that really match your specific profile, experiences, and skills. Some scholarships, while smaller, have very specific requirements, meaning you might face less competition. With diligent searching and time investment, you can potentially find a lot of money in scholarships. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.