Winning Scholarship Strategies

Scholarship Myths You can’t get scholarships because of stiff competition Scholarships require a glamorous talent Scholarships only go to top students Since you are a top student, scholarships will find you If you apply for loans, it decreases your chances for scholarships

Scholarship Truths Finding scholarships requires dedication Winning scholarships requires organization and attention to detail New scholarships come out all the time Don’t overlook scholarships for smaller awards

Merit Scholarships Awarded based on various criteria –Individual achievement Volunteer work, overcoming adversity, academic achievement –Ability and talent Athletic skills, musical aptitude, public speaking –Potential Career aspirations, academic major Requirements vary by scholarship

Merit-Based Sources Scholarship search engines –Profile-based database Colleges or universities –Financial Aid Office –College Foundation –Academic Major department Public libraries –Books and publications

Merit-Based Sources High school guidance counselor –Many have scholarship listings Employer connections –Eligible family members Community organizations –Churches, clubs, veterans associations

Avoid Scams Beware of “guaranteed” scholarship funds –Watch out for fees and guarantees “This scholarship will cost some money.” “We’ll do the work for you!” “You are a finalist (in a contest you never entered)!” “You can’t get this information anywhere else!” –Legitimate companies never guarantee scholarships

Getting Started Building qualifications –Both in school and after school Indentify potential scholarships –Keep your eyes on the bulletin boards and check your scholarship websites frequently Sign up for free scholarship search services –Fill out several profiles with different angles

Ideal Candidates Meet the scholarship criteria and eligibility requirements Properly and completely fill out applications Include volunteer activities Match the values of the awarding organization Emphasize potential

Application Packet The application is more than just a form –Personal information –Short answer essay (150 words) –Long essay (up to 1500 words) –Letters of recommendation –Transcripts and official test scores –Resume –Career goals statement

Writing a Winning Essay Topics and focus vary Personal in nature Show, don’t tell Recycle essay ideas Check grammar and spelling carefully Have others proofread your essay

Letters of Recommendation Request in writing Cover letter providing scholarship details Specific points to be covered Directions from the application List of candidate accomplishments Self-addressed, stamped envelope

Scholarship Strategies Apply early and often –Contact committee early for application –Allow plenty of time Meet deadlines –Late applications are not considered Candidate must fill out the application –Assistance from parents/counselors is OK –Applications in doubt are discarded

Scholarship Strategies Answer all questions –Write “does not apply” if not applicable –Do not leave blanks Show how you meet criteria –Make sure qualifications are met Be truthful –Scholarships can be revoked

You’ve Won Thank-you letters Track how funds are to be used –Some scholarships have geographical or time limits Taxes –Scholarship money may not be taxable if used for tuition, books and supplies –May be taxed if used for living expenses

Other Sources Military scholarships/grants –Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) –Montgomery G.I. Bill –National Guard Americorps

Impact on Financial Aid Most schools adjust loan awards Some schools adjust need-based grants Winnings must be reported to the school Check with your Financial Aid Office Tuition/fees only scholarships can’t go directly to the student

Other Resources How to Go to College Almost For Free, Ben Kaplan