Scholarships: Where Do I Start?

The price tag for college can seem intimidating. How are you expected to pay thousands of dollars a semester and then be able to pay rent, buy groceries, and go out with your friends? Most families today are living paycheck to paycheck, so they can’t afford to start a college fund for their children like they used to. Sometimes federal financial aid only goes so far and you’ll need to supplement. This is where scholarships can help. Finding the right scholarship can be just as difficult as choosing which college to attend. However, finding any way to avoid taking out a student loan is definitely worth the work. Here are a few tips to encourage you on finding and applying to college scholarships.

Research different types of scholarships. There are scholarships for art, science, sports, community service, technology, and almost every class subject. You’ll be more motivated to finish an application if it’s for a subject you actually enjoy. There are also scholarships based on your ethnic background or financial situation. They are created by foundations that want you to have a chance at a good education. Many scholarships will have a minimum GPA requirement, but they are usually between 2.5-3.0s. If you aren’t quite there yet, that can be a great starting point.