Finding Scholarships for College

I'm overwhelmed trying to find scholarships for college. Where should I start looking, and what resources are out there to help narrow down the options? Are there any hidden gems that aren't widely advertised?

First things first, it's important to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will allow you to apply for various forms of financial aid from the U.S government. There are many types of federal aid available like grants, work-studies and low-interest loans. Moreover, many states and colleges use the information from your FAFSA to determine your eligibility for their aid.

Most colleges also offer major-specific scholarships, merit aid, or alumni-sponsored awards, which may not be well-publicized but can significantly offset costs. So, reaching out to the financial aid office or your intended department at the colleges you're applying to can give you insight into these lesser-known funding opportunities.

Online databases like Fastweb, Chegg, and the newly rebranded Appily (previously Cappex) can be helpful for finding scholarships tailored to your academic and personal background, including unusual or narrowly-defined scholarships. Do remember to use filters or keyword searches for optimal outcomes.

Finally, don't overlook local sources of scholarships. Your high school's college guidance office should have resources, and community organizations, local businesses, churches and even your parents' employers may offer scholarships. These are often less competitive since they have a smaller pool of applicants.

One last tip - be consistent and persistent. Scholarship hunting can sometimes feel like a full-time job, but even small awards can add up and make a big difference. So keep your eyes open and be diligent in applying. Good luck!