How to Find Private Scholarship Funds for College Students

I'm a junior trying to plan ahead for college costs. Can you share tips on finding private scholarship funds that students can apply for? Any online resources or databases that are particularly helpful?

Certainly, seeking out scholarships is an excellent way to help offset the cost of college. Here are a few solid strategies for uncovering private scholarships:

1. Start with your local community: Many local businesses, organizations, community groups, and even high schools offer scholarships for students. Don't ignore these local opportunities; because they tend to attract fewer applicants than national scholarships, your chances of winning might be higher.

2. Explore national databases: Online platforms such as Appily, Fastweb, and Scholarship.com have sizable databases of scholarships, and allow you to create a profile to match you with applicable scholarships based on your academic interests, background, and more.

3. Check with your parents' employers: Many companies offer scholarships for the children of their employees. So, it's worth asking your parents to check with the Human Resources department at their places of work.

4. Utilize college websites: Many college websites have pages dedicated to outside scholarships. For example, colleges might list scholarships offered by alumni or local businesses.

5. Professional & industry associations: If you already have an idea of your intended career or field, look for professional organizations in that area. Many offer scholarships to encourage students to enter the field.

Remember, when you're applying for scholarships, be wary of scams. Legitimate scholarships will never ask for a fee to apply. Lastly, start your applications early and pay close attention to the eligibility requirements and deadlines. The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of earning money for your education. Good luck!