What scholarships should high school juniors apply for?

I'm currently a junior and trying to get a head start on scholarship applications for college. What are some scholarships that current juniors should be aware of and apply for? Any advice on requirements?

There are quite a number of scholarships that high school juniors can apply for, many of which can offer significant financial assistance for your college journey.

The first one I'd recommend looking into is the National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSC). High school juniors who take the PSAT/NMSQT have the opportunity to qualify for National Merit recognition and scholarships. The scholarships are quite prestigious and can offer significant financial benefits.

You can also consider the American Legion Oratorical Contest. It rewards scholarships to students who excel in public speaking and knowledge of the U.S. Constitution. You'll need to deliver a speech on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution, with emphasis on a citizen's duties and obligations to the government.

The Coolidge Scholarship is another full-ride scholarship that students can apply for in their junior year. The scholarship covers tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study. The selection criteria are primarily based on academic excellence, interest in public policy, and appreciation for the values President Coolidge championed.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation also annually awards 150 scholarships of $20,000 each to high school seniors, but you can start your application in your junior year. They’re looking for students who not only have a dedication to leadership and service but also an energy that invigorates others.

For students interested in the sciences, the Regeneron STS (formerly Intel STS) awards up to $250,000 for students conducting independent science, math, or engineering research projects.

Remember to pay close attention to the individual requirements and deadlines for each scholarship. Usually, they will require some form of an essay, as well as letters of recommendation and your academic transcript. For scholarships like the Regeneron STS, you'll also need to present a science project, while for the American Legion Oratorical Contest, you'll need to prepare a speech.

It’s also a good idea to search for scholarships in your local community. These tend to have less competition than national scholarships, increasing your chances of winning. Look for scholarship opportunities through local businesses, community organizations, and civic groups.

Lastly, you might want to check out Appily. It's a scholarship database that can help you discover more opportunities based on your profile. Good luck with your scholarship hunt!