Scholarships for Pre-College Programs: Where to Start?

I'm exploring pre-college programs to boost my college app, but the fees are high. Are there scholarships or financial aid options available for high school students joining pre-college programs? Any pointers on where to start would be helpful!

Absolutely! Many pre-college programs do offer scholarships or financial aid to students who demonstrate need or a high level of academic achievement. Here's a roadmap to get you started:

1. Program-Specific Aid: The first place to look is the pre-college program to which you're applying. Many programs will have scholarships and financial aid options right in their budget, especially those at universities or colleges. They will often have a dedicated section on their website or admissions materials where they outline these opportunities.

2. External Scholarships: Second, look for external scholarships. Websites like Appily can be valuable resources for finding opportunities that match your situation.

3. Local Organizations: Third, check with organizations local to you. Groups like Kiwanis, Rotary, and even local businesses can be sources of funding. These often require some legwork and self-advocacy but can result in direct funding or grants.

4. Crowdsourcing: Finally, consider crowdsourcing! Websites like GoFundMe have made it easier than ever to fundraise for academic programs. Just ensure to present compelling reasons why this pre-college program would be beneficial for your academic and professional trajectory.

Remember, some pre-college programs are selective and expensive, but there are also plenty of affordable and still worthwhile options out there. Always do your research about the actual benefits of the program before enrolling– not all expensive programs equal a boost in your applications.