As a junior, I'm really focused on getting my finances in order for college. Any advice on where to find scholarships and grants? I've heard there are some through College Board—are they worth looking into?
Sure, great question! You're right about the College Board Scholarship Search—it's a helpful tool that compiles numerous opportunities. Having said that, don't limit your search just there. During your scholarship hunt, consider checking out the following resources:
1. Your School's Counseling Office: Counselors often know about local and regional scholarships that you might not find online. This can be a less competitive pool which increases your chances of winning.
2. Appily: A platform that matches students with scholarships and helps manage applications. You can customize your search to match your unique profile and goals.
3. Your Prospective Colleges: Universities often have scholarships for both academic merit and financial need. Make sure to check out the Financial Aid section on the websites of the colleges you plan to apply to.
4. Federal and State Aid: Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can provide access to federal and state grants, which you don't need to pay back. Note that the application opens October 1 of your senior year!
5. Professional Associations and NGOs: Many organizations have scholarships and grants typically catered to students interested in their fields. For instance, if you are interested in journalism, try finding scholarships from media organizations or journalism societies.
Remember, while some scholarships may seem small, they can quickly add up and significantly reduce your college expenses. Good luck with your search!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.