When are deadlines for college scholarships usually?

I've been trying to get organized for my senior year, and I'm curious about when scholarship deadlines typically fall. Are there common deadlines, or is it a mixed bag? I'd love to hear from people who have gone through the process.

In general, scholarship deadlines can range from the fall of your senior year to the spring of your first year in college. However, most scholarship deadlines tend to fall between December and March of your senior year in high school.

Certain scholarships sponsored by colleges themselves may line up with admission application deadlines (like the Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision deadlines). However, scholarships offered by third parties (organizations, foundations, corporations, etc.) often operate on their own schedules.

I’d recommend that you start researching scholarships during the summer before your senior year. That will give you ample time to identify opportunities that match your qualifications and plan your application submissions. Keep in mind that each scholarship may require a different application process, which could include essays, recommendation letters, or specific projects. You wouldn't want to rush these, so the sooner you start, the better.

Lastly, remember to be organized and diligent. Create a tracking system (like a spreadsheet) where you record the scholarship name, the application deadline, the requirements, and the date you submitted your application. This will help you manage the process and ensure you're not missing any critical deadlines.

Remember, scholarship deadlines are just as strict as college application deadlines, so it's crucial to plan accordingly. Don't leave money on the table by missing a deadline!