Navigating scholarships for college seniors

Hey, I'm currently a high school junior soon to be a senior. I'm curious, how do college seniors go about getting scholarships? Are there scholarships that specifically cater to seniors, and when is the best time to apply for them?

There are many scholarships out there specifically catered to high school seniors. Applying for scholarships in your senior year is a great way to alleviate some of the financial burden attached to attending college. Scholarships can be found through a variety of platforms. For example, Appily is a handy tool to check scholarship deadlines and eligibility and to help manage applications.

There is no set 'best' time to apply for scholarships as deadlines can vary widely. However, typically, many scholarships open their application windows in the fall or early winter. It is advisable to begin your research and application process early in your senior year, usually around the start of the school year, to give yourself ample time to apply to as many scholarships as possible.

Keep your eyes open to a variety of scholarship types like merit-based, need-based, and scholarships targeted towards certain demographics or fields of study. Many local businesses and community organizations also sponsor scholarships for high school seniors. Check if your school or local community has scholarships available for seniors.

Also, remember that your university might also offer merit-based or need-based scholarships that you are automatically considered for when you apply. Some might require a separate application, so make sure to check each college's financial aid website for specific details.

Finally, don't forget the value of smaller, less competitive scholarships. While they might not offer as much money as some of the large national scholarships, they often have fewer applicants, and every bit helps when paying for college. Good luck with your scholarship search!