Getting Private Scholarships for College?

I'm a junior looking to gather private scholarships, not just relying on the college ones. If you have tips on the best ones to apply for or how to find these opportunities, I'd appreciate the guidance!

Finding private scholarships is a great way to supplement your college funding – good for you for thinking ahead! There are thousands of scholarships out there, each with different eligibility criteria, so you'll want to narrow your search to those that fit you best.

One effective way to start looking for scholarships is by using online scholarship search engines. These allow you to input information about yourself—like your intended major, your grades, your hobbies—and get a list of scholarships that you may be eligible for. A great example is the new Appily site. This kind of search tool can help you get a head start on applications and can save you from sifting through scholarships that you don’t qualify for.

Pay attention to scholarships related to your specific interests, experiences, or your intended field of study. These tend to be less competitive because not as many students can apply. For example, if you're interested in journalism, look for scholarships specifically for future journalists.

Remember, don't disregard smaller scholarships. The big, nationwide scholarships get a lot of attention, but they are also very competitive. Scholarships awarded by local organizations or businesses often have a smaller applicant pool, which may increase your chances of winning. Don’t ignore the smaller awards—they can add up!

Be organized and plan ahead. Many scholarships require essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, or other supplemental materials. It's essential to keep track of deadlines and requirements. Start brainstorming and drafting essays well in advance and let your recommendation writers know early.

Lastly, verify the legitimacy of the scholarship. Any scholarship that requires you to pay a fee to apply or guarantees you will win before you apply is likely not legitimate. Always double-check!

It’s a process that requires some determination but is definitely worth the effort. Good luck with your search! You're taking a big step toward making your college dreams a reality.