Scholarships Available for Incoming College Freshmen

I'm a high school junior interested in knowing what scholarships might be available for me as an incoming college freshman. Are there any specific ones I should look out for or start applying to now?

There are various scholarships for which you can apply right now. They're grouped in different categories, so it'd be advantageous to focus on scholarships that align with your interests, academic prowess, extra-curricular activities, and background. Let's dive into some noteworthy categories:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are given based on academic, artistic, or athletic excellence. They're typically awarded by individual colleges or private organizations. Common ones are National Merit Scholarships which you can get through your PSAT/NMSQT score.

2. Major-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are available specifically for students interested in certain majors. For example, the Buick Achievers Scholarship Program offers scholarships to students interested in engineering, technology, or design related to the automotive industry.

3. Community Service Scholarships: If you’ve dedicated your high school career to community service, you could be in the running for scholarships such as the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards or the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes.

4. Scholarships for Underrepresented Students: These may come from minority status, first-generation college student status, or other unique criteria. The Gates Millennium Scholars Program, for instance, is targeted towards outstanding minority students.

5. Local Scholarships: Many communities, local businesses and organizations, and even your school can offer scholarships for their members. They might require less competition, so it's worth reaching out to local organizations.

Remember, the best kind of scholarship is the one you can win, so you should apply broadly! Get yourself organized, keep track of deadlines, and don't disregard the smaller scholarships – they can add up. Lastly, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as it can offer additional grants and resources to help fund your education. Good luck!