Suggestions for non-academic scholarships for college?

I'm curious about scholarship options that don't focus on academics. Are there scholarships out there for things like music, art, or volunteer work? Where should I start looking, and what are the application requirements usually like?

Absolutely, there are significant non-academic scholarships available that reward talents, hobbies, or exceptional service. For music and art, many organizations offer scholarships based on the talent displayed in auditions or portfolio reviews. These might be local organizations, music/art schools, or national bodies. Keep your eyes open for these opportunities.

Volunteer work is also recognized by many scholarships. The key here is to be able to highlight your long-term commitment and ideally a leadership role. Often these scholarships aim to reward not only the hours invested but also the impact made, so start documenting your work if you've not already.

Application requirements for non-academic scholarships can vary significantly. For art and music scholarships, you may need to submit a portfolio or audition recording. For scholarships based on community service, you might need to write an essay discussing your work and its impact and provide references who can vouch for your contributions.

To start your search, your school's guidance office might have information on local or state scholarships. Your community, like local libraries or community centers, could have listings as well. Online platforms like Appily have scholarship databases where you can customize search parameters to match your attributes.

Remember though, each of these scholarships will likely have its own deadlines, eligibility criteria, and application processes, so it's important to stay organized in your approach.

Good luck with your search! Looking for non-academic scholarships is a fantastic way to make your unique skills and experiences work for you in your college funding search.