Getting Private Grants and Scholarships
What Are Private Grants and Scholarships?
A wide variety of companies, foundations, and public organizations provide scholarships.
Scholarships may take a little work to apply for, but they are essentially free
money! Most scholarships fall into one of two categories: merit-based or need-based.
Merit-based scholarships award individuals for standout academic, athletic, or artistic
qualities, while need-based scholarships (or grants) provide support to students
with exceptional financial need.
Scholarships are a great way to fund your college expenses, but you will likely
face tough competition. Don't be discouraged by the application process – with the
possibility of free money, it's well worth it!
How Do I Get a Private Grant or Scholarship?
The first step in getting a scholarship is research. There are thousands of scholarships
available every year. For a list of scholarship search utilities, visit our
resources page.
There are many scholarship websites, but beware that those that request money are
usually scholarship scams. Be suspicious if the scholarship application requires
a fee (even a low one), if there is a "guarantee" that you'll win, or if it says
"everyone" is eligible.
The Federal Trade Commission's website offers
advice on how to avoid being duped by scholarship scams.
Tips for Getting a Scholarship
These tips on applying for scholarships will improve your chances of getting an
award. Good luck!
- Start looking for scholarships in your junior year of high school. Remember, the
earlier, the better.
- List your best or most important qualifications first. You want to "wow" the reader
as soon as possible!
- Many applications are only a page, maybe two, in length. Be clear, concise, and
compelling. Remember writing concisely and well takes time so plan to write and
rewrite your application so it makes the best impression possible. Have someone,
such as a teacher or parent, read it before you submit it.
- Learn about the organization that is offering the scholarship. If you are applying
for a scholarship from a community-service organization, be sure to highlight your
service activities in your essay.
- Follow the directions. Private scholarships are competitive, and you don't want
to lose out on a scholarship because you didn't follow the directions!
- Highlight academic achievements and activities that are most relevant to the scholarship
that you are applying for.