Your Scholarship Strategy: Developing a Plan of Attack

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Where to Begin?

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of scholarships out there? Don't fret! The first step is having a strategy, and we're here to help you build one.  Scholarships provide a valuable lifeline, making higher education more accessible. In this post, we explore practical steps for high school students to unearth the plethora of scholarship opportunities available to them.

Strategy: It’s all about your Approach


1. Start Early & Create a Plan of Attack

The key to a successful scholarship search is to start early. High school students should make it a habit to stay informed about available scholarships. Subscribe to scholarship newsletters, follow reputable scholarship websites, and leverage school resources to receive timely updates.

2. Prepare Your Materials

The first step in your strategy should be preparing your materials. This includes your resume, transcripts, writing samples, and any portfolio work. Using tools like Google Drive can make storing and accessing these materials easier.
  • Transcript
  • Weighted & Unweighted GPA
  • Standardized Test Scores
  • General Essay & Writing Samples
  • Resume
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Portfolio (if applicable)


3. Strategize Your Scholarship Search

Prioritize smaller applicant pools and best fit.

The best way to spend your time is to focus on the scholarships where you meet the criteria and have the least amount of competition.  If you meet all of the criteria for a nation-wide scholarship and for a local scholarship given by your county or state chose wisely about which application you prioritize.  You don't want to get lost in a sea of 10,000+ applicants.  

Match your strengths, academic record & demographics.

You are also going to want to spend your time on scholarships where you meet the most criteria.  Make sure your GPA, test scores, demographics, academic record, intended major, etc. are all matching for the scholarships you are applying to.  If not, you could be wasting valuable time!

4. Search With all Available Resources

    1. Utilize online scholarship databases
    The internet is a treasure trove of scholarship opportunities. Numerous online databases compile information about scholarships from various sources. Platforms like Fastweb, College Board, and Chegg can be valuable tools for students to filter and find scholarships that match their interests, skills, and academic achievements.  Look for the links and extended list below.
    1. Tap into local resources
    Beyond online platforms, students should explore local resources. Community organizations, foundations, and businesses often offer scholarships to support local talent. Visit the school's counseling office, connect with community leaders, and attend local events to discover hidden gems in terms of scholarship opportunities.
    1. Maximize college & university resources.  
    Colleges and universities themselves are excellent sources of scholarship information. Most institutions have dedicated financial aid offices that can guide students through the process. Explore the scholarships offered by the colleges you are interested in, as there may be specific opportunities based on your intended major, extracurricular activities, or background.  Make sure to complete your FAFSA & CSS profile (if applicable) so that colleges can accurately identify you for more opportunities.
    1. Seek out niche scholarships tailored to your unique talent.
    Students should not underestimate the power of niche scholarships. There are scholarships tailored for specific talents, hobbies, or interests. Whether it's a passion for a particular subject, a unique skill, or involvement in a specific community, there might be a scholarship waiting for students who take the time to look.
    1. Speak with your support network & helpers.
    School counselors are valuable allies in the scholarship search. High school students should schedule regular meetings with their counselors to discuss their college and scholarship plans. Counselors can provide personalized guidance, share local opportunities, and offer insights into the application process.  Speak with your parents, family & friends who have recently gone to college, school counselors and any other supports who can help on your journey! 

5. Demonstrate Your Value

Perfect the art of essay writing.

You will never regret getting better at writing (I CAN NOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH!).  Many scholarship applications require essays. High school students can enhance their chances of success by honing their essay-writing skills. Crafting compelling and authentic essays that reflect personal experiences, goals, and aspirations can set applicants apart in a competitive field.

6. Stay organized and track important deadlines.

The scholarship application process can be overwhelming, with various deadlines and requirements. To navigate this maze successfully, students should stay organized. Create a calendar with deadlines, make a checklist of required documents, and ensure that all materials are submitted on time.


Major Scholarship Search Engines



There are a plethora of scholarship search engines available to help you find scholarships that match your strengths and needs. Here are a few of the major ones to consider:


Diversify: Exploring Other Sources


Don't limit your scholarship search to online databases. There are many different sources for scholarships, including:

- Direct from the college or university

- Companies & organizations

- Fraternities & sororities

- Non-profit organizations

- Faith-based organizations and places of worship

- Athletics

- Your parent’s employer

- Local government offices

- Your high school

Be Ready to Submit

When you find a scholarship you're interested in, be ready to submit any required materials. These may include videos, essays, writing samples, recommendations, research, and examples of your work.

Overview

- Prepare your materials

- Match your strengths to the scholarships

- Prioritize smaller applicant pools or more specific eligibility criteria

- Utilize all of your resources

Securing scholarships for college is not an insurmountable challenge; it's a journey that requires diligence, organization, and resourcefulness. High school students armed with the right information and proactive strategies can open doors to valuable scholarship opportunities, easing the financial burden and paving the way for a successful college experience.

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