When should I start applying for scholarships for college?

As a high school junior looking ahead to college, I'm trying to figure out the timelines for scholarships. What's the best time to start applying for college scholarships, and are there any deadlines I should be aware of?

It's great that you are planning ahead for college expenses! Generally, the scholarship application process can begin as early as your high school freshman or sophomore years, but many scholarships open their application processes to high school juniors and seniors. For high school juniors, you can certainly start researching scholarships and even begin applying for those that don't have a strict requirement for class year.

A bulk of scholarship deadlines fall between January and March of your senior year in high school, but the timelines can vary widely. There are scholarships with deadlines that fall throughout the year, so it's crucial to stay organized and keep track of each scholarship’s deadlines and submission requirements to ensure you don't miss any opportunities.

Another timeline you might consider relates to your college application process. Securing scholarships early can give you a better sense of your financial situation when making your college decision. Also, some scholarships are specific to the college you plan to attend, so you might need to wait until you've made a decision before applying for those.

Remember to diversify your sources when looking for scholarships. In addition to national scholarships, check for opportunities at the local and state level, from your intended college(s), and within your community or special interest groups. A resource like Appily, for example, can be a great place to search for and manage scholarship applications.

Ultimately, the earlier you start, the more scholarships you'll be eligible to apply for, increasing your overall chances of securing funding for your college education. Good luck in your scholarship search!