How do I find scholarships for college students to apply for?

I'm starting my college applications and want to make sure I explore every scholarship opportunity available. Where's the best place to find scholarships that I can actually apply for as a future college student?

There are quite a few resources you can use to find scholarships. Here's a quick guide to kick-start your search:

1. Your High School's Counseling Office: They have likely consolidated a list of local and regional scholarships offered by organizations and businesses in your community.

2. Online Scholarship Search Platforms: Database websites such as FastWeb and Appily (previously known as Cappex) can be helpful. They allow you to complete a profile and match you with scholarships suited to your academic, and extracurricular achievements, demographic, and interests.

3. College Financial Aid Offices: Check the websites of the colleges you are applying to. Colleges sometimes offer scholarships that you can apply to separately, and these can be significant.

4. Online Searches: Simple Google searches can help, too. For example, if you're interested in STEM, search "scholarships for future STEM majors."

5. Organizations and Clubs: Nationally recognized clubs/organizations have scholarship programs. For example, the Boy and Girl Scouts of America or the National Honor Society offer scholarships for their members.

6. Employers: Some companies offer scholarships for their employees or children of employees. If your parents work for a larger company, they can inquire about any possible programs.

Remember, never pay to apply for a scholarship — those are likely scams. Apply early and often, as scholarships are often awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Each one you can get will reduce the amount of student loans you'll need, which will benefit you long after graduation. Good luck!