Tips for getting scholarships while still in high school

I'm a high school junior, and I'm starting to think about college scholarships. What steps should I be taking now to maximize my scholarship opportunities before I graduate?

You're on the right track by starting to think about scholarships this early! Here are some tips to maximize your scholarship opportunities:

1. Start Early: You're already doing this, which is great! Some scholarships have very early deadlines, before your senior year, so it's important to start looking now.

2. Maintain Strong Academic Standing: Many scholarships are merit-based, which means they require a certain GPA or standardized test score. Maintaining or improving your grades junior year can open up more scholarship opportunities.

3. Get Active in Your Community: Many scholarships are not only about academics but also about character and community involvement. Engaging in volunteer work or taking on leadership roles in organizations you're passionate about can make you a more attractive candidate.

4. Diversify: Consider various types of scholarships. These can be merit-based, need-based, or geared towards specific interests, talents, or backgrounds. There are scholarships for athletes, artists, STEM majors, members of certain communities, and so much more.

5. Apply to Local Scholarships: Local scholarships tend to have fewer applicants, increasing your odds of winning. Check with your school's guidance office, community organizations, or local businesses to find these opportunities.

6. Do Your Research: Use scholarship search tools like Scholly, Fastweb, and Appily to streamline your search. Carefully read the eligibility criteria for each scholarship before applying.

7. Craft a Strong Essay: If a scholarship requires an essay, spend a good amount of time crafting a compelling narrative. A powerful essay can truly set you apart from other candidates.

8. Apply, Apply, Apply: Apply to as many scholarships as you qualify for. While it's a time commitment, every bit of financial aid helps, and it all adds up.

9. Stay Organized: Keep a spreadsheet of upcoming scholarship deadlines and requirements. Prioritize applications to make sure you're applying for those with upcoming deadlines or for the scholarships that best match your skills and interests.

10. Seek Counselor Help: Be sure to discuss your scholarship search with your guidance counselor. They can help point you to scholarships you didn't know about and provide valuable advice.

Finally, although it can be time-consuming, take it one application at a time and don't get discouraged if you don't get the first scholarship you apply for. Good luck!