What are some ways to find good scholarships for college?

I'm curious about finding high-value scholarships. How do I identify 'good' scholarships, and is there any advice on making my application stand out?

When searching for scholarships, there are a number of strategies you can employ.

To identify 'good' scholarships, start first by considering what makes a scholarship 'good' for you. Reflect on your unique skills, experiences, interests, and background. Are there scholarships specific to your intended major? What about scholarships based on your unique experiences, hobbies, or community service? Scholarships that align closely with your profile are often the most worthwhile to pursue because your chances of success will be higher.

You could consider using scholarship search platforms like Appily. They have a robust database in which you can enter your specifics (e.g., grade, intended major, location) and find scholarships tailored to you. Just remember, always discern a scholarship's reliability before you apply; avoid any that require a fee to apply or seem too good to be true.

Additionally, check out local community foundations, regional businesses, or professional organizations related to your field of interest, who often offer scholarships to local students. Remember to also explore opportunities from the financial aid office of the colleges you're interested in. They might be able to guide you towards scholarships from the institution itself or from their network.

In terms of making your application stand out, here are few tips:

1. Strong writing: Your essays should be well-written, clear, free from grammatical errors, and engaging. Make sure your true personality and voice shine through your writing.

2. Uniqueness: Highlight unique experiences or perspectives you can bring. Avoid cliche stories. Be authentic!

3. Align with the mission: Understand the sponsor's mission or values (usually stated on their websites). Try to align your essay and application with these values.

4. Be concise: Stick to the word limit. If no word limit is provided, aim for clear and concise responses.

When you get to writing the scholarship essays, be sure to edit and revise thoroughly. Don't be shy to ask a trusted mentor, teacher, or counselor to review your essays. Their feedback could be invaluable in polishing your writing and conveying your message effectively.

In short, a well-researched, personalized, and carefully written scholarship application can go a long way in securing funding for your college education! Good luck!