Obscure scholarships: where can I find them?

Hi there! So, I've been looking for scholarships to help me pay for college, and I know there's a lot of competition for the more popular ones. Does anyone have recommendations on where to find less-known or obscure scholarships that I might have a better chance at winning?

Hello! It's true that lesser-known scholarships can have less competition, giving you a better chance of winning them. Here are a few strategies to help you find obscure scholarships:

1. Local organizations, businesses, and foundations: Many local businesses, non-profit foundations, and community organizations sponsor scholarships for students in their area. Check with your school's guidance counselor or local library for a list of available scholarships in your community.

2. Your parents' employers: Some companies offer scholarships to children of their employees. Ask your parents if their workplace has a scholarship program or any educational benefits you could take advantage of.

3. Professional associations: If you have a specific career interest, there may be professional associations or organizations related to that field offering scholarships. Check their websites, as there might be scholarships available for students pursuing a career in that industry.

4. Hobbies, clubs, and special interests: Many organizations sponsor scholarships based on unique skills, interests, or involvement in specific activities. Consider checking websites and online forums related to your hobbies or interests to see if they have any scholarships available.

5. CollegeVine's Scholarship Strategy tool: CollegeVine has a tool that can help you develop a strategic approach to finding and applying for scholarships based on your eligibility criteria, interests, and intended major.

6. Online scholarship search engines: While many online scholarship search engines list popular and widely-publicized scholarships, they can also help you discover lesser-known ones by narrowing down your search based on specific criteria, such as location, demographic background, unique hobbies or interests, and intended major. Examples include Fastweb, Cappex, and Scholarships.com. Make sure to create a profile on these platforms to get personalized matches to available scholarships.

Remember, applying for lesser-known scholarships is just one part of your broader scholarship strategy. Be sure to continue looking for opportunities, both large and small, and prioritize those that have less competition or are the best fit for your specific skills, talents, and background. Good luck in your scholarship search!