Module 4: Smart Scholarship Strategies
Scholarships Are Everywhere — Truly!
There are literally scholarships for everything and everyone — your background, interests, future goals, hobbies, talents, community involvement, and even unexpected things you’d never imagine. The challenge isn’t that scholarships don’t exist… it’s knowing where to find them, understanding the requirements, and keeping up with deadlines.
Most scholarships follow a timeline similar to financial aid: you usually apply in the fall or early spring of one school year to receive the money the next academic year or next semester. That’s why it’s so important to start searching early and apply often — there’s no limit to how many scholarships you can apply for.
We encourage students to apply to at least 3–5 scholarships each semester, because applying doesn’t guarantee receiving them. But the more applications you submit, the better your chances of earning awards that help cover your college costs.
Some Scholarships Are Renewable!
Many scholarships aren’t just a one-time award—some are renewable, meaning you can receive the money every semester or every year as long as you continue to meet the requirements. Renewal terms vary: some renew for two semesters, others for two years, and some can even fund all four years of college. This is why it’s crucial to read the details carefully before applying. A renewable scholarship can be worth thousands over time.
Small Scholarships Matter Too
Many students skip the smaller awards—like $300 or $500—because they think they’re not worth the effort. But everything adds up. Ten $500 scholarships = $5,000, which could pay for books, transportation, housing deposits, or meal plans.
And smaller, local scholarships often have the highest acceptance rate, meaning students are more likely to win them. We strongly encourage applying to all scholarships that fit your background or goals, big or small.
1. Start Local (Your Best Chance!)
Local scholarships often have fewer applicants, which means much higher odds of winning. Encourage students to begin here:
School counselor’s office or website (often the most up-to-date list).
Local nonprofits (Rotary, Lions Club, VFW, GFWC, Kiwanis, immigrant support orgs).
Local businesses or banks — many offer $250–$2,500 awards.
Employers — student or parent workplace scholarships.
Community groups & foundations — rural community foundations often have dozens.
2. Trusted National Databases
(These were mentioned in your workshop — now expanded with safer, updated guidance.)
BigFuture (College Board) – reliable & free
Bold.org – lots of small awards, easy to apply
Scholarships.com – broad searchable list
Going Merry – student-friendly and organized
Hispanic Scholarship Fund, Jack Kent Cooke, Dell Scholars, etc.
3. Avoid Scholarship Scams (Important, especially for first-gen families)
Never pay to apply.
Never give SSN, bank info, or parent tax info.
Beware of “guaranteed scholarships.”
Avoid services that charge to “find scholarships for you.”
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