What's the deal with internal scholarships?

Hi all! I've heard about internal scholarships and I'm a bit confused about what they are. How do they work, and how do I find out if colleges I'm applying to offer them?

Hi there! Internal scholarships are scholarships that are offered directly by the colleges or universities themselves. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. They are different from external scholarships, which are provided by outside organizations or individuals.

To find out if the colleges you're applying to offer internal scholarships, you can visit their financial aid or scholarships webpage, which usually provides information on the types of scholarships available and their requirements. College catalogs and admissions brochures may also mention these scholarships.

Be aware that some internal scholarships may require a separate application, while you may be automatically considered, or even awarded, others based on your application information or performance in high school. For example, a college may automatically offer a scholarship to students who have maintained a certain GPA or achieved a specific SAT score. Other schools might offer subject-specific scholarships, such as for STEM or humanities students, based on your intended major or academic achievements, but conduct an application review before determining who receives the scholarship.

It's important to research and apply for these scholarships early, as many of them have deadlines that are separate from the regular application process. Additionally, you may want to check if your chosen college offers scholarships through its specific departments, as these may not always be listed on the main financial aid page. Remember that you can always reach out to the financial aid office, or a particular department, directly if you want clarification on anything.

In summary, internal scholarships can be a great opportunity to help finance your education, so it's essential to do thorough research on each college's offerings. Be sure to apply for any scholarships you qualify for and pay close attention to deadlines. Good luck!