College Scholarships for All Ages

Contrary to standard practice, students should not wait until their junior or senior year of high school to apply for college scholarships.

There are college scholarships for younger students in almost every grade. These scholarships tend not to be as large as the ones offered for juniors and seniors but can add up to a considerable sum over time.

With the escalating cost of college, every dollar counts.

Unlike buying a lottery ticket, scholarships require effort for success. The amount of effort is dictated by the scholarship requirements.

The Benefits of Starting Early

Aside from the potential monetary benefit, students who begin applying for scholarships in lower grades will be experts by the time they’re a junior in high school.

Being familiar with the process early will help them in their final high school years, when they are applying for larger scholarships with lengthier applications.

It’s not much different than the career ladder. The more effort you put in – the more you learn and develop – the greater your chances for success.

By the time they reach the upper level of high school, they will be “seasoned professionals.”

A Caveat Regarding Private Scholarships

Before you accept an offer of admission from or apply to a college/university, check the school’s policy on private scholarships.

Many schools will reduce the amount of institutional aid by an equal or lesser amount of the awarded scholarship.

Other schools will not alter what they offer and you can use the private scholarship toward any remaining balance or for personal expenses.

Know before you go. 

What’s available?

Scholarship requirements vary. Some are short essays, some are group projects, and some are video submissions. There are serious and focused applications, while others are slightly silly, e.g. writing about the Zombie Apocalypse. 

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