How to Get Help Obtaining Scholarships

Getting financing for college can take a combination of resources. Scholarships are a fantastic way to ease some of the financial burden, but you'll need to know how to navigate your way around locating and applying for them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Planner with calendar
• 9 x 11 folders
• Stamps
• Academic portfolio (when required)

1. There are many scholarship opportunities available. Some are based entirely upon academic excellence while others may have restrictions such as income level, intended major at college, or participation in a particular fraternity, sorority, theatre or music group, just to name a few. Always read each scholarship's requirements before spending time preparing to submit to them.
2. College financial aid offices are the best starting point. They can advise you of any scholarships the college offers and what the qualifications are, plus they can tell you if there are any state-provided scholarships from a lottery or other funds. Beyond that, Sallie Mae online has a wonderful information page on the various types of scholarships and how to avoid scholarship scams. The article can be viewed under the resources listed below.
3. The Scholarships website is another popular web database. According to their website, they are recognized by well over 6,900 colleges and universities. Their website offers tips and tools for a full range of financial aid options and college searches.
4. Don't neglect the small dollar scholarships. Being awarded five $500 scholarships is just as good as being awarded a single $2500 scholarship. Yes, it takes more time and work to apply for them, but no one ever said getting today's tuitions costs together was going to be easy.
5. Have your parents find out if their employer offers any scholarships to dependent children of employees. Many companies do, and these can be very easy to get processed with the help of a company administrator. Also, if your parent is a veteran find out through the V.A. if you might have any benefits coming.
6. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation states that it is a "not-for-profit organization that conducts two academic competitions for recognition and undergraduate scholarships." Information and application details can be found at their website, (see Resources below).
7. Send out inquiry packages to colleges and universities as early as possible, preferably in your junior year. Many of the return packets you receive will include information on available scholarships. Finding valid scholarships is not hard, it is time consuming. You will have to watch for deadlines and follow guidelines very closely. Scholarships are usually a competition, so make sure you have an academic portfolio that's ready to stand above the rest.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your academic portfolio professional. Stay away from frills and bright colored tabs, paper, etc.
• Dedicate a certain amount of time each day to working on scholarships.
• Start early. Scholarship deadlines can already be passed by the time you find out about them, so you'll want to be ready the next time it is offered.
• Avoid any online database that requires payment. There are plenty of good, free databases that offer excellent information on scholarships.
• Read the Sallie Mae website resource below on avoiding scholarship scams BEFORE you begin a full search.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• Flexible Scheduling, Online Programs, Get Info Now