Paying for college seems daunting, so I'm looking for suggestions on scholarships that could ease the cost. What are some well-known or lesser-known scholarships worth applying for?
Absolutely, exploring scholarship opportunities is a great approach to help curb the cost of college. Here are a few scholarships, both widely recognized and a bit lesser-known, you might want to consider:
1. Coca-Cola Scholars Program: This is a highly competitive program that awards 150 scholarships each year to high school seniors planning to attend a post-secondary institution in the US. Typically, the award amount is $20,000.
2. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship: This is a highly selective scholarship for high-achieving, low-income students planning to attend a four-year college or university. This award is up to $55,000 per year and includes ongoing educational advising.
3. Elks National Foundation "Most Valuable Student" Competition: This offers 500 four-year scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $7,500, awarded to high school seniors who are United States citizens.
4. The Gates Scholarship: Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship program offers financial support to 300 top student leaders annually, covering full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid.
Remember, while these scholarships come with large award amounts, they are highly competitive. So it's also a good idea to look for local scholarships in your community or scholarships specific to your intended major or interests. Smaller scholarships have fewer applicants, so your chances of winning may be higher.
Also, make sure to take advantage of available scholarship databases like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and Appily to find a comprehensive list of scholarships tailored to you. Be sure to confirm the details, eligibility criteria, and due dates on the scholarship's official website to ensure accuracy.
Best of luck with your search! Applying for scholarships requires time and effort, but bear in mind that it can significantly lessen the financial strain college imposes.
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