How to use a system to find scholarship money for college?

What’s the best way to find scholarship money for college? Are there any systems or platforms that can help streamline the search and make it easier to find opportunities that fit my profile?

The process of searching for scholarship money can be made more manageable by using particular platforms that specialize in this area. A few notable resources to consider include Scholarship.com, Fastweb, and Appily. These platforms work by having you create a profile and then match you to scholarships that align with the details in your profile such as your academic achievements, volunteer activities, and income level.

Scholarships.com and Fastweb have been around for years and have a large database of scholarship opportunities. Appily has recently gained popularity for its easy-to-use interface and the wide range of scholarships it has in its database due to its previous iteration as Cappex.

Beyond these platforms, the U.S. Department of Labor offers a free scholarship search tool on its website. It's always a good idea to thoroughly investigate options provided by the federal government, as their programs are often quite robust.

For more localized opportunities, check with your high school guidance office, local community organizations, or your intended college's financial aid office. Many scholarships are not heavily advertised and these sources may have additional information.

Remember, the best strategy is to apply to as many scholarships as possible that fit your profile and background. Be mindful of the deadlines and ensure your applications and essays are put together well. Many scholarships are very competitive, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to polish your application. Do not get discouraged if you do not win a scholarship—keep applying to as many as you can. The more you apply, the better your chances.