How do you find scholarships for high school seniors?

Scholarships for high school seniors are generally awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance in the areas of focus for the scholarship. Students may find themselves eligible for scholarships if they are exemplary in their studies, or if they participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, debate club, or music and art clubs.

As well, some scholarships are offered by individual organizations such as churches and service groups that focus on specific populations such as first generation college goers or children of military personnel.

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Criteria for scholarships for high school seniors

When searching for scholarships for high school seniors, students should keep in mind the following criteria:

  • Nationality and residency
  • Academic record – GPA, class rank, test scores (ACT or SAT) and subjects of focus (for example, student council president or volleyball team captain)• Extracurricular activities (sports, clubs, honor societies)

If your child is interested in applying for scholarships for high school seniors, encourage him or her to take the following steps:

One way to find scholarships is by searching online databases.

Another way to find scholarships is by contacting specific entities such as your church, local service organizations, or businesses.

These resources are also a good place to start in your search for scholarships for high school seniors. Your guidance counselor may be able to recommend other scholarship opportunities that suit your needs. Online forums and discussion websites are also useful resources for ideas on how to find scholarships for high school seniors.

You should seek for high school senior scholarships at the local, state, and national levels. Scholarships for seniors may also be available from the military, private groups, and non-profits.

Read Also: Can you get a student scholarship with bad credit in Canada?

1. Local Scholarships for high school seniors

If you want to start with a local search, you could contact your high school counselor or check if any student organizations provide scholarships for graduating seniors. Scholarships may be available from your place of worship, community center, or local companies to qualified citizens.

2. Schools

During your senior year, you are most likely searching for and applying to your ideal college. While you’re looking, you might want to call the financial assistance offices of these potential institutions. Once admitted, many may provide scholarships to college students. These are linked to academic performance and grade point average.

3. Military Scholarships for high school seniors

Do you come from a military family or want to join the military? There are several colleges that collaborate with ROTC programs. ARMY ROTC scholarships, for example, are for high school students pursuing a four-year college program. You can also join the Army full-time. Some military awards may also be given to the offspring of active duty service members or Veterans.

4. Organizations that provide scholarships for high school seniors

Do you have any special interests or are you a minority student? Many professional groups, such as The Elks, provide scholarships to high school students. Typically, you must be an elite member. Scholarships are also funded by several minority groups, such as UNCF, to make higher education more accessible.

5. Nonprofits and Businesses

Many companies and non-profit organizations provide yearly scholarships. These may be available to high school graduates planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree. You may also demonstrate leadership abilities and advocate for a worthy cause. If your parent works for a large corporation, they may also provide scholarships to workers’ dependents as a perk.

Tips For High School Seniors Applying For Scholarships

1. Begin looking for college scholarships for high school seniors as soon as possible.

This also familiarizes you with the criteria that providers use. It may inspire you to study more, join the National Honor Society, a sports team, or a civic organization. Seniors in high school who are student athletes or overseas students should apply as soon as possible.

2. Always read and follow written instructions.

Many providers reject applications that are late or incomplete. Follow the scholarship criteria, including word count and essay subject, and don’t forget to include any needed documentation.

3. Apply for scholarships if you are eligible.

Even little contributions can help reduce the need for student loans! Simply take notice of any terms and restrictions, such as full-time enrollment, grades, and so on.

4. Submit your application on time.

Some providers may set a deadline, such as 11:59 p.m. EST. Make careful to modify your schedule if you are in the Pacific or Central time zones. Keep an eye on the providers’ social media for approaching deadlines.

5. Collect references and recommendation letters.

Many scholarship sponsors require at least one referee. It might be a teacher, a mentor, a boss, or a coach. Develop a friendship and prepare one referral letter.