Scholarships for Hobby Artists in College

I'm a junior really into art as a hobby, not planning to major in it, though. Are there any scholarships for students who have a passion for art during college? Would appreciate any tips on where to find such scholarships.

Absolutely, there are plenty of scholarships available for hobby artists, even if you're not planning on studying art.

For instance, one notable scholarship is the Doodle for Google contest, where you create a Google Dial and stand to win a $30,000 college scholarship. Additionally, the National YoungArts Foundation offers cash prizes for students aged 15-18 who excel in visual, literary, design or performing arts. This scholarship is not just for art majors, but it does require a portfolio for judging.

When searching for scholarships, consider check out Appily, which is a free and easy-to-use tool for finding and applying for scholarships. They have a wide variety of categories and filter settings that can match you with scholarships based on your specific passion, like art.

Moreover, do check your future college's scholarship page too. Many colleges offer their own scholarships for various talents and interests, even for those not directly related to a student's major. Don't forget to also check local organizations, your high school's guidance office or even some surprising sources like local businesses and nonprofits, as many of these places often offer smaller scholarships for various talents, hobbies, and demographic groups.

One useful tip is to also consider art competitions instead of traditional scholarships. Many art contests come with cash prizes that can be used towards your college expenses. These are less traditional, but they could offer more opportunity for an artist with a unique style or vision.

Remember though, when applying for scholarships, it’s not just about quantity, but also about the quality of your applications. Put time into your artwork, essay, or whatever else the application requires. Stand out by discussing your passion for art, how it's impacted your views or character, or how it could influence your future studies. Good luck!