What scholarships can I get for college?

I'm starting to look into financing my education and wondering about all the different scholarship options out there for college. Are there any specific ones I should apply for based on grades, community service, or particular majors?

While there are hundreds of scholarships out there based on various factors, a good rule of thumb is to start with ones that are targeted towards your strengths and interests.

- Academic Scholarships: These are usually focused on students with high GPAs, high standardized test scores, or achievements in a particular academic area. Some examples include the Coca-Cola Scholars Program and the National Merit Scholarships.

- Community Service Scholarships: If you've participated in a significant amount of community service, look for scholarships that reward volunteer work. One example is the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.

- Scholarships for particular majors: Organizations and companies often offer scholarships for students pursuing majors relevant to their field. For instance, the American Institute of CPAs offers scholarships for accounting students.

- Local Scholarships: Don't forget about scholarships provided by local businesses, organizations, or community groups. These can sometimes be less competitive because the pool of students applying is smaller.

- Scholarships from colleges: Many colleges and universities offer their own scholarships, which could be merit-based or need-based. Use the net price calculator on each college's financial aid webpage to estimate how much aid you might receive.

Another important type of aid is Federal Student Aid that comes from completing the FAFSA form. This form determines your eligibility for programs like Pell Grants, which don't need to be paid back.

In general, the earlier you start researching and applying for scholarships, the better. Many scholarships have deadlines in the fall of your senior year, but others may be due as early as the spring or summer before. Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements and application process, so be sure to read through all the details carefully. Good luck!