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Merit scholarships - how much do they cover?

A bit stressed about college costs 😬. Can someone help me understand how much merit scholarships usually cover? Are they like a fixed amount, or do they vary by school and applicant?

a year ago

It's completely understandable to be concerned about college costs. Merit scholarships can definitely help alleviate the financial burden. Merit scholarships are awarded based on a student's academic, athletic, or artistic achievements, rather than financial need. The amount they cover varies significantly between schools and applicants. Some scholarships might be a one-time award, while others could cover a fixed amount for each year of your undergraduate education.

There are different types of merit scholarships, and the amounts can range from a few hundred dollars to covering full tuition, room, and board. Some scholarships might only cover part of the tuition, while others might cover additional expenses such as housing, books, or travel. It's important to note that merit scholarships are typically competitive, and eligibility requirements may vary between schools and specific programs.

Here are some examples of merit scholarships:

1. School-specific scholarships: Many colleges offer their own merit scholarships to attract top students. These scholarships usually take into account academic achievements and may include additional components like extracurricular involvement, leadership qualities, or volunteer experiences. The amounts can vary widely depending on the college and can be partial or full-tuition awards.

2. Departmental scholarships: These scholarships are typically awarded to students within a specific academic department or field of study at a college. The criteria often include outstanding academic achievements or demonstrated talent in a particular subject area.

3. External scholarships: These are offered by organizations, foundations, and companies that are separate from colleges and universities. The criteria, application processes, and award amounts vary depending on the provider. Students can find these opportunities through scholarship search engines like CollegeVine's Scholarships tool, Fastweb, or Cappex.

4. Athletic scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to student-athletes based on their athletic abilities and performance. The amounts can vary, and in some cases, they might cover full tuition and other expenses.

When researching scholarships, it's essential to read through the eligibility criteria and requirements carefully, and be aware of application deadlines. Since merit scholarships can vary significantly in terms of the amount they cover, it's crucial to search for opportunities that align with your achievements and interests. Keep in mind that even smaller scholarships can add up and contribute to reducing college costs. Good luck in your search for merit scholarships!

a year ago

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