Find out how you can afford college this year! Learn about FASFA, scholarships, grants, colleges, universities, and more. Watch this engaging video and get ready for college.
Don't rule yourself out. Scholarships are not limited to class valedictorians and star athletes. They are awarded based on a number of factors—from your career goals to exceptional writing skills displayed in an essay contest.
Apply for as many awards as you qualify for. Even small awards can be helpful in covering costs, such as books.
Pay close attention to deadlines. Missing a deadline is a sure way to become disqualified.
Look everywhere for scholarships offered by a variety of sources, including companies, unions, foundations, community organizations, churches and more.
Tell everybody you need help. Family, friends, teachers and others in your community are great resources because they may know something you do not.
Understand the conditions of an award—such as maintaining a specific GPA or participating on an athletic team.
Make use of free scholarship directories and searches offered by reputable organizations, such as The Sallie Mae Fund.
If you receive a scholarship, be sure to write a thank-you note to the organization. You may want to reapply for the scholarship in the future so it is important to make a good impression.