A scholarship program is a form of financial aid that does not require repayment and can cover the cost of tuition, fees and books. Scholarships are awarded by universities, schools, foundations, businesses, government agencies, and private individuals and can be merit-based or need-based. Students can find scholarships for all levels of higher education, from high school to post-graduate studies, and they are available for all types of student interests and achievements, including academic merit, athletic achievement, community service, research experience, leadership skills and specific talents.
In addition to their generous monetary awards, scholarships can also provide valuable networking opportunities and a boost to your college resume by demonstrating your dedication, hard work, and determination. The key is to research all the available options and build a list of awards that match your qualifications and interests, advises Camire. Ensure that you are qualified to apply by reading the award guidelines carefully; for example, some scholarships are only open to high school seniors and some only accept applicants with certain GPAs or standardized test scores.
Prepare for the scholarship application process just as you would for a job interview, with meticulous preparation and thoughtful essay responses. Depending on the type of scholarship, you may be required to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation and undergo a thorough review by a committee. Remember to thank anyone who reviews your application; this is a small but important gesture that can make a difference in the outcome of your scholarship.