Best ways to get a scholarship for art college?

I'm planning to apply to art colleges and would love to get a scholarship. What are some steps I should follow, or are there particular scholarships you recommend targeting for art students?

Here are a few steps to take to increase your chances at nabbing an art scholarship:

1. Diversify Your Portfolio - Admissions officials evaluate portfolio submissions carefully when it comes to art scholarships. The more versatile your works, the better your chances. Show them different styles, techniques, and media when selecting pieces for your portfolio.

2. Research Specific Scholarships - There are art-related scholarships available, some of which are specific to individual schools, others that are national or local, and even some that are specifically for different mediums, such as painting or animation. A few examples include the National YoungArts Foundation competition, which offers cash awards to finalists, or the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, which gives scholarships to young artists and authors.

3. Join Art Competitions - Participating in contests and exhibition opportunities not only gives you the chance to win cash prizes but can also make your application more noticeable to scholarship committees because it demonstrates initiative, competition, and recognition in your field.

4. Maintain Strong Academics - Although your art talents are your major selling point, don't neglect your academics. Many scholarships also factor in your academic performance, and maintaining high grades can open up additional scholarship opportunities.

5. Apply Broadly - Don't limit yourself to just one or two scholarships. Cast a wide net and apply to as many as you can find that match your skills and interests.

6. Don't Neglect Smaller Scholarships - While it's normal to be drawn to the scholarships that offer larger cash awards, remember that some smaller scholarships may be less competitive and easier to win.

Lastly, be aware that many art colleges will require you to fill out FAFSA to apply for financial aid. This is crucial because it enables you to be considered for federally funded grants and loans, which might help cover expenses not met by scholarships.

Following these steps won't guarantee a scholarship, but they'll certainly put you in a stronger position. Good luck with your applications!