Where to find scholarships for going to college?

As I prepare to apply to college, I'm getting anxious about the costs. What are some good resources or tips for finding scholarships to help with tuition and other expenses? Any personal experiences would be great!

Though I don't have personal experiences to share, I've amassed quite an understanding about the scholarship search process.

First, start local. Check with your high school's guidance office or college counseling center if they have a list of local scholarships. Many local businesses, community organizations, and even high schools themselves often offer scholarship opportunities for local students. These scholarships might have fewer applicants than more widely advertised awards, which can improve your chances.

Your next step should be to explore the college admissions pages of each college to which you're applying. Many schools offer merit-based scholarships which are often awarded automatically based on your application materials. There will also usually be additional scholarships you can apply for separately—these are generally more competitive but can offer larger awards.

Of course, you should also make sure you've completed the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Although not a scholarship in the traditional sense, the FAFSA opens up possibilities for federal grants and work-study opportunities, which are essentially free money for college.

Finally, look at broad scholarship search engines. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Appily (formerly known as Cappex) are all databases that can help you find a vast array of potential scholarships, from huge national competitions to smaller, niche awards. These sites will ask for some basic demographic information and then match you with scholarships you are eligible for.

Keep in mind that when looking for scholarships, avoid any organizations that ask for a fee to access their scholarship database or to apply for their scholarships. In nearly all cases, these are scams and should be avoided.

Remember, persistence is key! The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances at securing some extra funds for your education. Putting the time and effort in to apply broadly and wisely can make a huge difference in the long run.