How do colleges inform you about scholarships when you apply?

When you submit your application to colleges, do they notify you of any scholarships you're eligible for? I'm curious if this is something they automatically do, or if I have to search and apply for scholarships separately.

In most cases, colleges award merit scholarships automatically to admitted students based on their academic achievements and test scores, if required. This means that once you submit your application and get accepted, the college will inform you of any merit-based scholarships you've been awarded—typically included in your acceptance letter or in a separate financial aid package notification.

However, merit scholarships aren't the only type of financial aid available. There are also need-based scholarships which are awarded based on your financial situation. To be considered for these, you'll need to complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once the school receives your FAFSA, they can determine your eligibility for need-based aid, which can include grants, federally-subsidized loans, and work-study opportunities, in addition to scholarships.

Some colleges also offer specific scholarships that require a separate application. These can be in various forms like talent-based scholarships for arts or athletics, or scholarships for specific majors or career paths. Deadlines and requirements for these scholarships vary, so it's essential to research each college's scholarship offerings and application procedures on their website or by contacting their office of financial aid.

Remember to also look for local and national scholarships outside the colleges to which you're applying. Platforms like Appily can be a great resource for this. These types of scholarships usually require separate applications, but can also be a significant source of funding for college, and can be used at any institution.

In summary, some scholarships will automatically be considered as part of your admissions application, but others may require separate applications or other steps to be eligible. It's important to research each individual college's scholarship process and deadlines to ensure you're not missing out on any potential opportunities.