Paying for College

SCHOLARSHIP SUCCESS

A Guide to Finding and Securing College Funding

Scholarships are one of the best ways to make college more affordable, and with knowledge and know-how, they can be worth the effort. Unlike loans, scholarships are “free money” that students don’t have to repay. Understanding where scholarships come from, how to find them, and how to apply strategically can make a big difference in funding your education.

Here’s everything you need to know to get started:

1. Where Scholarships Come From

On average, over 90% of merit money awarded to students comes directly from the colleges and universities where they’re admitted. Schools often use merit aid to attract strong applicants whose profiles stand out relative to their typical admitted student. This means your best chance of receiving significant funding is to apply to colleges where you’re in the top tier of applicants.

Private scholarships—those awarded by outside organizations—account for the remaining 10%. While they’re often smaller in amount, private scholarships can still add up and make a meaningful impact, especially when they’re local or tailored to specific demographics or interests.

2. Types of Scholarships

Scholarships fall into several categories:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic, athletic, or artistic achievements.

• Need-Based Scholarships: Provided to students with demonstrated financial need.

• Identity/Demographic Scholarships: For students from specific cultural, racial, or identity-based groups.

• Field of Study Scholarships: For students pursuing specific majors or career paths, like STEM or the arts.

• Local Scholarships: Offered by community organizations, rotary clubs, or businesses in your area.

3. How to Start Your Scholarship Search

Scholarship opportunities are everywhere—you just need to know where to look. Here are some top places to begin:

• Institutional Merit Aid: Research the scholarship policies of colleges on your list. Do they offer merit-based aid, and what are the criteria?

• Local Opportunities: Check with community organizations, local foundations, and even your family members’ employers for scholarships.

• Online Search Engines: Use trusted resources like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and Bold.org.

• School Resources: Many high schools provide scholarship databases or updates through platforms like Naviance.

4. Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

Start Early: Deadlines for scholarships can be as early as the fall of senior year, so start your search by junior year to stay ahead.

Stay Organized: Create a spreadsheet to track deadlines, requirements, and submission statuses.

Focus on Local Opportunities: Local scholarships often have fewer applicants, increasing your odds of winning.

Write a Compelling Essay: Many scholarships require essays. Use this as an opportunity to share your unique story and goals.

Reuse and Tailor Applications: Many scholarship essays have overlapping themes. Reuse content where possible, but always tailor it to the specific organization.

5. Don’t Overlook Small Scholarships

While large national scholarships may seem appealing, don’t dismiss smaller awards. Winning multiple smaller scholarships can significantly reduce your costs and may be easier to achieve.

6. Persistence Pays Off

Scholarship hunting is a marathon, not a sprint. The key is persistence and consistent effort. Keep applying—even small wins can add up to big savings.

By combining a targeted college application strategy with a robust scholarship search, you’ll maximize your chances of making college both affordable and rewarding.

Let’s get to college.

The college admissions process doesn't end with an acceptance letter, and the transition to college doesn't begin on move-in day.

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About Stephanie

Stephanie Kwo Friedl, M.Ed., is the founder of Get It Write College Advising & Essay Counseling. She helps students discover colleges where they will thrive and guides families through the admissions process with clarity, strategy, and confidence.

Bringing calm to the chaos of college admissions.