How to apply for scholarships while already in college?

If I'm already attending college, are there scholarships I can still apply for? I haven't done this before and need some guidance on where to start, since tuition's getting steep.

Absolutely! There are many scholarships that students can apply for while already in college. These aren't as heavily advertised as the scholarships for incoming freshmen, but they are out there and can make a substantial difference in your college costs.

To start off, you should reach out to your college's financial aid office. They may have a list of scholarships that are specifically available to current students. Some of these scholarships might be from the college itself, or they may be external scholarships that the college is aware of.

In addition to your college's offerings, there are also many websites where you can search for scholarships. For instance, websites like Fastweb and Appily allow you to input your personal and academic information, and they generate a list of scholarships for which you may qualify. For these scholarships, it's important to pay attention to the eligibility requirements, as some awards might be specifically for freshmen, sophomores, or students in a particular major.

Beyond general scholarships websites, look for organizations that fund scholarships for students in your field of study. Your major's department might also have information about scholarships specifically for students pursuing that major.

Also, don't overlook smaller or local scholarships. While many nationwide scholarships get thousands of applicants, localized ones typically have fewer, so your chances of winning might be higher.

If you've been involved in any clubs, organizations, or community service in college, see if they offer scholarships – both for members and non-members.

Remember, when applying for scholarships, be sure to pay attention to the application deadlines and any requested materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, or essays. It goes without saying that you need to put a lot of effort into your application to stand out from the crowd.

If your parents are affiliated with certain organizations (union, professional organization, etc.), see if those organizations provide scholarships for the children of members.

Keep in mind that scholarship applications often require some time and effort to complete, but the potential benefits are well worth it. Besides reducing your tuition fees, being awarded scholarships also looks great on your CV!