I'm a high school junior trying to get a head start on the college application process, and I'm wondering if it's possible to apply for scholarships now or if I should wait until senior year. Are there particular scholarships that allow juniors to apply, and if so, how can I find them? Also, would applying now put me at a disadvantage compared to seniors? Looking for any advice from students who have gone through this process!
Yes, high school juniors can and should start applying for scholarships. There are many scholarships out there specifically targeted towards juniors. Early in your junior year, you might want to conduct a general search for scholarships that are open to underclassmen. You could get a jumpstart on the application process and have your application stand out by demonstrating a proactive mindset.
Applying early would not put you at a disadvantage; instead, it shows your initiative and careful planning for your college expenses. Remember that applying for scholarships is somewhat like applying for college: both require time and effort.
While you could find and apply to scholarships on your own, consider using scholarship search platforms. They can help you filter out the scholarships that are not relevant or do not accept applications from juniors. A particular one to note is the PSAT/NMSQT, which you can take in your junior year and potentially qualify as a National Merit Scholar.
Just as with college applications, remember to pay close attention to each scholarship's requirements and deadlines. Good luck!
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