College Scholarships

Prepare a Portfolio

Before you even begin your college scholarship search, take the time to prepare a portfolio showcasing your academic achievements. Here are some things you can include:

• Grades
• ACT or SAT scores
• Athletic activities
• School clubs and organizations
• Community activities
• Volunteer work
• Leadership positions
• Paid employment
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or other supportive adults
• Ideas for essay topics that can be customized for a variety of scholarship applications

In addition to the items mentioned above, you may also want to take some time to think about the characteristics that make you stand out from other scholarship applicants. For example, there are awards for those who have overcome learning disabilities, students who will be the first in their families to attend college, and students who have parents who have served in the military, as well as scholarships for minority students.

Find College Scholarships

Once you’ve gained a solid understanding of why you’re qualified to receive a college scholarship, it’s time to begin the search for opportunities that best match your background and future career goals.

While your high school guidance counselor can provide some scholarship assistance, there are many excellent online resources you can use to find opportunities for financial aid. For example, the following directories can help you get started on your search:

• FastWeb
• Broke Scholar
• FreeScholarshipGuide
• FindTuition

Although there are thousands of legitimate scholarship programs, there are many scam artists as well. Remember that no one can ensure you’ll receive a scholarship. If someone asks you to pay a fee in exchange for a guaranteed scholarship, this is a scam and should be reported to the proper authorities. To learn more about college scholarship scams, please visit the Federal Trade Commission website.

Complete the Application

As you’re completing your college scholarship application, remember the following:

• Read the directions carefully. To avoid careless mistakes, read the application two or three times before you begin writing.
• Don’t omit necessary information. In fact, unless the application specifically says it’s not allowed, consider sending additional letters of recommendation, essays, or other supporting materials to help the committee get a more complete picture of your qualifications.
• Proofread your work. Before mailing your application, check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. If possible, ask a friend or family member to look over the application as well.
• Pay attention to deadlines! In many cases, your application will be automatically disqualified if you miss the submission deadline.
• Keep copies of every application you submit. In fact, many students purchase a special 3-ring binder just to organize their scholarship materials.

Show Your Appreciation

If you are selected to receive a scholarship, take a few minutes to send the sponsor a short thank-you note. Briefly describe how the scholarship will help you reach your career goals and thank him/her for the generous gift. This gracious gesture will ensure other students have the same opportunities in future years.

Don’t Get Discouraged

If you weren’t selected to receive a scholarship, don’t give up. Many college scholarships are highly competitive and most organizations only have a limited amount of funding available. However, perseverance will pay off. Every scholarship you apply for will increase your chances of success!

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