What scholarships should I consider?

Hey, I'm a high school junior and I want to start applying for scholarships to help out with college costs. What are some solid scholarships out there that I should definitely look into? Preferably ones that have broader eligibility criteria. Thank you!

Hello! It's great that you're starting early on your scholarship search. Here's a list of various scholarships with broader eligibility criteria that you can consider:

1. Coca-Cola Scholars Program: This scholarship awards 150 students with $20,000 each annually. It's based on leadership, academics, and community involvement.

2. Dell Scholars Program: This program offers a $20,000 scholarship to students who have demonstrated financial need, grit, potential, and ambition. Participating in an approved college readiness program is an additional requirement.

3. The Gates Scholarship: This program awards full-ride scholarships to 300 high-performing, low-income students annually. They look for leadership, academic record, and community involvement.

4. The Horatio Alger Scholarship: These scholarships range from $10,000 to $25,000 and are offered to high school students who've shown determination and strength in facing hardships. The recipients should demonstrate financial need and an interest in furthering their education.

5. The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship: This offers financial aid to high-achieving students with financial need and who have been engaged in extracurriculars, community service, and leadership activities. Awards vary depending on the student's needs.

6. Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarship: This scholarship is open to high school seniors who are U.S. citizens, with up to $50,000 awarded to 500 students. The selection is based on academics, leadership, and financial need.

7. AXA Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship awards $2,500, $10,000, or $25,000 to students who have shown ambition, determination, and the ability to set and reach goals. One winner will be selected from each state.

While these are more selective scholarships, they offer more generous payouts and have relatively broad restrictions on who is eligible. Definitely visit their individual websites to learn more and find out if you are eligible to apply.