What are some scholarship ideas for college students?

I'm trying to get a head start on my scholarship search as I'm thinking about different ways to pay for college. What are some good types of scholarships that current college students have found helpful? Any specific ideas would be great!

There are quite a few scholarships that current college students have found worthwhile. These scholarships often fall into several categories based on eligibility criteria such as academic merit, community service, intended major, or personal background.

Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on your academic achievements. One well-known example is the Coca-Cola Scholars Program which awards 150 students with $20,000 each year.

Major-Specific Scholarships: If you have a clear idea of your intended field of study, look for scholarships geared towards students in that area. For example, the American Institute of Architects offers several scholarships for architecture students.

Community Service Scholarships: If you have a track record of volunteering in your community, this could be a great avenue to explore. For instance, the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards recognizes middle and high school students for outstanding community service.

Background-Based Scholarships: There are also scholarships that aim to support students of certain ethnic backgrounds, first-generation college students, or those from underrepresented backgrounds. Organizations such as the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) or the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) offer numerous scholarships for underrepresented students.

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: If you had taken a gap year, have adult learner status or are a returning student, there are scholarships for you as well. Back2College.com is a resource specifically for adult learners that includes links to a variety of scholarships.

A useful tool to discover opportunities is the scholarship search tool on the College Board or Appily websites. You can filter scholarships by various criteria to find ones that match your profile.

Remember, apply to as many scholarships as you can to increase your chances of winning. They can take some time and effort to apply for, but the potential rewards make it a worthwhile investment. Good luck!