How can I find scholarships for college in Florida if I don't have a social security number?

I'm applying to colleges in Florida, but I don't have a social security number. Are there scholarships available for students like me? What are some of the best options?

Absolutely, you can still find scholarships even if you do not have a social security number.

Several organizations and universities provide scholarships to students regardless of their immigration status. In fact, you could consider institutional scholarships offered directly from your prospective college, as they are often not reliant on federal funding and hence, do not require a social security number.

For instance, the University of South Florida offers the USF Green & Gold Presidential Awards that cover full tuition, fees, and room and board. There's no separate application, and you're automatically considered by meeting the academic criteria and applying for admission by the priority deadline.

Also, there are scholarships specifically set up for undocumented students. One such scholarship is TheDream.US National Scholarship, which is open to high school seniors or community college graduates who are DACA beneficiaries.

Furthermore, the Florida-based organization Hispanic Unity of Florida (HUF) gives out awards through its José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund, aimed at students of Hispanic origin, regardless of immigration status.

Lastly, you can also look at certain online platforms such as Appily. These platforms often provide a large database of scholarships, including many that are not restricted by social security or residency status.

Remember, each scholarship will have specific eligibility requirements and application processes, so it's important to read through all the details before applying. This will help you best allocate your time and effort during the application process.

Keep in mind that you also have to be mindful about many deadlines for these scholarships, which often precede the college application deadlines. Good luck with your scholarship search!