Finding scholarship programs can be a time-consuming and difficult process. Unfortunately, many students spend hours looking for a scholarship but fail to put an equal amount of effort into completing their application. The application is by far the most important part of your scholarship search; give it the time it deserves.

When you apply for scholarships, it is important to be clear on the scholarship requirements. After all, you want to be sure you are eligible before you apply for scholarships

Scholarship Requirements

Different scholarships have different requirements and use different criteria to select scholarship recipients. For example:

• You may be required to write an essay, pass a written exam, or complete a project demonstrating your potential.

• Programs may specify how scholarship funds must be used, set time restrictions for disbursing the funds, or set a ceiling on qualifying family income.

• Scholarship funds may be paid directly to the college.

• Failure to meet certain requirements (maintaining a satisfactory GPA in your college) could jeopardize your ability to keep the scholarship.

Make sure you get as much information about the scholarship as possible. Write, call or e-mail the provider of the scholarship to ensure you have full details of application procedures and what will be expected of the successful applicant. If the scholarship entails a particular project, find out the full objectives and intended methodology of the project. If the scholarship is being funded by a private enterprise, gather as much information as you can about the company, its philosophy and its goals. You can never have too much information!

Even if you do have application guidelines, be sure they are the most current versions before you apply for scholarships. Scholarship guidelines routinely change from year to year.

If a particular post-secondary institution has already accepted you as a student, you should apply for scholarships offered through the college or university. To learn about possible scholarship opportunities, contact the financial aid office of the institution.

If you are not yet sure of what schools to apply to…or are a little overwhelmed with the research, it is helpful to talk to college recruiters and representatives. They can explain more to you about programs of study and financial options at their school.

You can use FastWeb’s school finder tools to research programs across the country and request to be put in touch with representatives. It will simplify your process.

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Authors: Subash, Courtesy of ArticlesBase; FastWeb