How to apply for scholarships using the Common App?

I've heard that you can apply for scholarships directly through the Common App, but I'm not sure how that works. Can someone shed some light on this process for me? Any scholarships that you can just tick a box for, or is it more complicated than that? Any advice would be amazing!

Hey there! Happy to offer some insight into this! So, the Common Application itself doesn't directly provide a scholarship application process, but it does streamline things a bit. For many colleges, when you apply through the Common App, you're automatically considered for merit-based scholarships that the college offers. You don't need to do anything extra for these which is pretty neat, right?

However, for other scholarships that require separate applications (like essays or specific qualifications), you'll have to apply through the scholarship provider's website or portal. Here's a tip: make sure to review each college's financial aid website or contact their financial aid office directly, as they might have additional scholarships that require separate applications.

If you've got a bit of time, I'd recommend checking out scholarship search platforms like CollegeVine, where you can find scholarships tailored to your profile. Remember, deadlines can vary significantly for different scholarships, so being organized and keeping a calendar can be a game changer for keeping track of everything. And don't forget to proofread your applications and tailor your essays to align with the scholarship's goals or themes. A personal touch can go a long way!

Applying for scholarships might feel a bit overwhelming at first, but with a systematic approach, you can definitely manage it. Good luck!