Scholarship Search: How to Find Merit Scholarships Now That You've Submitted Your Applications
How to find merit scholarships now that your college applications are in.
Now that you have submitted your early applications, it is time to think about how you will pay for college. College can be expensive, but there is free money available in the form of scholarships and grants: money you do not have to pay back!
The key is to start looking now and pay close attention to deadlines.
1. Look for merit scholarships
Many colleges offer merit scholarships based on your grades, test scores, academic achievements, leadership, or other accomplishments.
Some colleges automatically consider you for merit scholarships when you apply for admission. Others require a separate scholarship application.
Here is a useful link to get you started: https://collegetracker.app/discover/merit-scholarships
2. Check each college's scholarship steps
Now that your applications are in, go back to each college on your list and check what it requires for scholarships. Some colleges consider every applicant for merit scholarships automatically. Others ask for a separate scholarship application, often with its own deadline and its own essays or materials.
Do not assume that because your application is submitted, the scholarship steps are done. Check each college's website and your applicant portal so nothing is missed.
3. Check the requirements
Scholarships can have very specific requirements. Before applying, check:
Application deadline
Minimum GPA
SAT/ACT requirements, if applicable
Whether a separate scholarship application is required
Essays or supplemental materials
FAFSA or other financial aid requirements
Always confirm the requirements and deadlines on the college's official website, as scholarship policies can change from year to year.
4. Search beyond the colleges
There are thousands of scholarships offered by foundations, businesses, community organizations, and other groups. Even smaller awards can add up!
Your next steps
Start researching scholarships now. Keep a list of the scholarships you may qualify for, their requirements, and their deadlines.
Do not wait until you receive your college acceptances to start thinking about how you will pay for college. Start looking for free money now!
I look forward to answering any questions you might have about applying to scholarships.
Warm regards,
Claudine Vainrub
EduPlan