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A scholarship is money awarded to a
student to help finance a college education. In contrast to loans, scholarships
do not have to be repaid. There are many different kinds of scholarships out
there including:
Private Scholarships
It is important to research scholarship opportunities outside the university.
There are many options out there, such as FastAID.com.
Use their free search to find private scholarships that you are eligible for.
It's free! Also check out FreSch
Free Scholarship Search.
Parents' Place Of Employment
If your parents work for a company or are members of a labor union, have them
check on the scholarship opportunities available. Many companies and unions have
some type of program to help employees' children defray the cost of a college
education.
Community Organizations
In nearly every community, there are organizations and civic groups that offer
college scholarships.
Religious Organizations
Check with your local church, temple, mosque or other religious institution
about scholarship opportunities. Scholarships offered by religious organizations
do not always require that you be of that particular faith. Some might require a
high standing in your high school class; others may be interested in your
dedication and involvement within the religious community; and some are based
solely on financial need.
Ethnic Or Racial Organizations
There is a plethora of organizations offering help to members of a particular
ethnic or racial group.
Corporations
Large corporations such as Chevron, Bank of America, and Westinghouse all offer
college scholarships, as do many smaller companies. Requirements for corporate
scholarships vary. Some ask that you pursue a certain area of study in college
or show promise in leadership.
ROTC Scholarships
The Armed Forces of the United States will offer to fully or partially fund your
college education for a commitment to serve in the military for a period after
graduation. You will also be required to serve as a reserve officer while in
college. Contact your high school guidance counselor or local military recruiter
to find out more.
Merit Scholarships
Merit scholarships are given by colleges to students on the basis of academic
performance without regard for financial need. These scholarships are usually
granted to the "upper crust" of entering students, academically
speaking. In choosing merit scholars, a college usually looks at one or more of
the following criteria:
- Class standing in high school
- Grade point average
- SAT or ACT scores
Depending on the college, some
merit scholarships may also take into account the financial need of a student.
Always check with the colleges you wish to attend to see what factors they
consider in awarding these scholarships. Remember, the more attractive you are
to a college, the better the chance you have of receiving such a scholarship.
University Scholarships
Major-Specific Awards. At some colleges, scholarships may be awarded to
students who have performed particularly well in a certain field. For instance,
a student who has shown an aptitude for mathematics might be awarded a
scholarship through that department at the university, provided they plan to
pursue mathematics as a major course of study.
Fellowships. Some students
may be granted fellowship money to pursue certain projects while at the
university. For example, a student interested in performing research in
chemistry may be awarded a fellowship. The university will grant funds for such
a student to carry out research under the supervision of a faculty member.
Athletic scholarships. Most
colleges and universities offer scholarships to attract excellent athletes. The
biggest scholarships usually go to athletes in major sports such as football,
basketball or baseball. Scholarships are offered in other sports as well. If you
show promise as a high school athlete, you may be eligible for an athletic
scholarship.
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