Scholarships for community college freshmen: What can I expect?

I'm about to start community college as a freshman and I'm looking for scholarships to help with expenses. What kinds of scholarships are typically available for first-year students? Any tips on where to start searching?

Absolutely, there are plenty of scholarships available for first-year students at community colleges. They typically fall into three main categories:

1. Merit-based scholarships: These are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, or other special talents. Many community colleges offer merit-based scholarships that can help cover part of your tuition.

2. Need-based scholarships: You might qualify for scholarships based on your financial need. These scholarships often look at your or your family's income and other financial factors to determine your eligibility.

3. Special-Interest scholarships: These are awarded to students who meet certain criteria, like being part of a certain group or pursuing a specific field of study.

As to where to start, you can first check your community college's financial aid office. Many have their own database of scholarships, both need-based and merit-based. They should have the information you need to understand the criteria for each opportunity and how to apply.

Another place to look is online platforms like Scholarship.com or Appily. These are large search engines that let you filter scholarship opportunities based on your specific situation and needs.

Your local community may also have opportunities. These can come from civic groups, churches, charities, and businesses in your area.

As a tip, apply early and apply often. Each scholarship has its own deadline and they can range from early fall to late spring. So the sooner you start your search, the more opportunities you will have. Importantly, even smaller scholarships can add up to significant savings.

Lastly, ensure to tailor your application to each scholarship, highlighting your relevant skills, achievements or future plans to meet the criteria. Every little detail can increase your chances of winning the scholarship. Good luck with your search!