Applying for scholarships - do I have to?

Hey everyone! College tuition is kind of wild, and I was just wondering, do I have to actively apply for scholarships or will I automatically be considered for them when I apply to college? Trying to figure out if I need to set aside time to apply for individual scholarships. Thanks!

Hello! Good question. College tuition can indeed be daunting, and pursuing scholarships is one way to offset those costs. While some schools automatically consider applicants for merit-based scholarships, you typically need to actively apply for the majority of scholarships, both within the colleges themselves and through external avenues.

When it comes to merit-based scholarships, many colleges will automatically evaluate you based on the information in your application. These scholarships can be awarded based on your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or a combination of factors. However, some schools might require additional applications for certain scholarships, so it's always important to check each college's financial aid page for specific requirements.

As for external scholarships, there's a wide variety available that require some form of application. These can range from locally-hosted community scholarships to larger, national scholarships like the Coca-Cola Scholars Program. The application process for these scholarships often includes submitting essays, recommendation letters, or creating a project. I would encourage you to actively search for these opportunities, as they're often underutilized by students.

It's definitely a good idea to set aside time to apply for individual scholarships, as any financial assistance can help in lowering the burden of college tuition. Start by searching for scholarships based on your personal interests, intended major, and background. Platforms like CollegeVine, Scholarships.com, and Fastweb can help you discover funding opportunities tailored to your profile.

Remember that earning scholarships can be competitive, so don't get discouraged if you don't secure one right away. Continue applying as you progress through college, as scholarships aren't limited to just incoming freshmen. Good luck!