I'm just starting my search for college scholarships and could really use some examples of ones that I should be looking into. There are so many options, and it's a bit intimidating figuring out where to start. If anyone has been through this process or has good recommendations on specific scholarships to apply for, especially those applicable to juniors, I would appreciate your advice. Thanks!
Certainly, hunting down scholarships can seem like a tall task initially, but there are several well-regarded ones that high school juniors and seniors should definitely consider. Here's a curated selection that spans multiple categories, highlighting a few of the top options.
1. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation: This is a highly competitive scholarship that rewards students based on leadership, extracurricular involvement, and academic achievements. Approximately 150 scholars are selected each year for an award of $20,000.
2. National Merit Scholarship Program: High school juniors who take the PSAT/NMSQT qualify for this prestigious scholarship. Semi-finalists are picked based on test scores, with amounts of different scholarships varying.
3. Ronald McDonald House Charities Scholarships: These are need-based scholarships open to high school seniors who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.
4. Gates Scholarship: A highly selective, last-dollar scholarship, it's open to minority high school seniors demonstrating significant financial need, academic achievement, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service.
5. Dell Scholars Program: This scholarship is open to high school seniors who have participated in approved college readiness program(s) in grades 11 and 12, have a minimum GPA of 2.4, demonstrate need, and are eligible to receive a Federal Pell Grant in the first year of college.
6. Horatio Alger Scholarship: This scholarship program aids students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.
Beyond these, remember to also seek local and regional scholarships through community foundations, local businesses, and civic organizations, as these competitions are often less crowded than national versions. Good luck with your search!
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