How do high school seniors find scholarships for college?

I'm a high school senior trying to figure out how to secure scholarships for college. I know there are a lot of options out there, but I'm feeling overwhelmed. What's the best way to start looking and applying?

Your instinct to start seeking out scholarships is absolutely on the right track. It's true that, with so many options out there, the search can feel overwhelming. But fear not! Here are a few steps to guide you.

First, explore local opportunities. Local scholarships often have fewer applicants, which can increase your chances of winning an award. These could be from local businesses, clubs, or civic groups in your area. Your high school guidance office is also a great place to start as they are likely to have information about these opportunities.

Next, check out scholarship databases and apps. Many online platforms aggregate scholarship opportunities, making the searching process easier. Platforms like Appily, College Board's Scholarship Search, Fastweb, and others can provide a wealth of options. Make sure to create a profile with as much information as possible, as these platforms usually generate scholarship recommendations based on the info you provide.

Additionally, consider any unique aspects of your identity or experiences. There are scholarships specifically for students with certain demographics, interests, or career aspirations. For example, if you're part of a cultural organization, they may offer scholarships. Also, if you're planning to pursue study in a specific field, there might be organizations offering scholarships to students in that area.

Finally, look at the colleges that you're applying to. Many schools have scholarship opportunities integrated into their admissions process, or separate scholarships that you need to apply for. You can find these opportunities on each college's financial aid or scholarship page on their website.

Remember to keep track of all the scholarships you are interested in and stay organized. Consider keeping a spreadsheet noting the deadlines, requirements, and next steps for each. Also, be aware that some scholarships require essays or other application components, so give yourself enough time to complete these.

Stay diligent, and best of luck in your search!