How can transfer students from community colleges find scholarships?

I'm planning to transfer from a community college to a four-year university, and I'd like to know how other students find scholarships to help with the cost. Are there specific scholarships for community college transfers?

Certainly, scholarships can be a great way to offset the cost of attending a four-year university. Transfer students from community colleges have unique scholarship opportunities, some of which are targeted specifically for them.

One excellent resource for transfer students is the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, which offers several scholarships for its members. If you are a member of this honor society at your community college, I'd recommend exploring their resources.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is another substantial opportunity for high-achieving community college students planning to transfer to a four-year institution—it's worth up to $40,000 per year!

Horatio Alger Association State Scholarships also offer scholarships for prospective transfer students. Each year, they award scholarships to eligible students in all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

Moreover, don’t forget that the university you’re transferring to may also have scholarships available for transfer students. You'll want to visit the financial aid section of the university's website or contact their financial aid office to inquire about any potential scholarships.

Look at school-based scholarships as well as scholarships from third-party organizations. Appily can be a resource to search for third-party scholarships, by entering information about your situation and goals to find scholarships you may be eligible for.

Keep in mind that some scholarships may require an application process, including written essays or other submission materials. Start this process early to give yourself the best chance of success.

Finally, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA, to see if you qualify for any federal aid or work-study opportunities. Though the FAFSA is most commonly associated with financial aid for freshman-year college students, transfer and returning students are also eligible.

Remember, each scholarship will have different requirements and application processes, so start your search early and keep track of any upcoming deadlines. Good luck!