Question 1

How do I apply for scholarships?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to read the details. Make sure you fit the eligibility criteria. Don’t forget to submit everything required on time. Scholarships are often competitive, and failing to follow directions can result in your application landing in the “no” pile.

Question 2

When should I apply for scholarships?

Accepted Answer

You can apply for scholarships year-round. There are deadlines pretty much every month. Some scholarships have deadlines that fall months, even a year, before the start of the academic term for which it will be applied.  High School students should apply for scholarships as early as possible to get used to the process.

Question 3

What is a merit scholarship?

Accepted Answer

Merit scholarships are awarded based on your achievements, like your academic success.  Often merit scholarships are awarded based on grades or standardized test scores, but they can also be awarded based on artistic or athletic achievement.

Question 4

How is a student loan different from a scholarship?

Accepted Answer

Although conventional student loans must be repaid, scholarships are awarded with no requirement for reimbursement. Nonetheless, certain financial need-based awards such as the Excelsior Scholarship in New York can transform into a loan if recipient fails to remain a full time student.

Question 5

Can undergraduate students apply for scholarships?

Accepted Answer

College students should always be on the lookout for scholarship opportunities throughout their academic career. With countless scholarships available, your odds of obtaining one increases when searching within your major and field of interest - as you will possess more expertise to write a winning essay!

Question 6

Can students start apply for scholarships before college?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most college scholarships can be applied for before starting college.
High school students are encouraged to apply for college scholarships in their senior year. While most college scholarships are available to high school seniors, you can start as early as 9th grade for some scholarship programs.

Question 7

Other than TUN's Scholarship Search Engine, where else should I look?

Accepted Answer

College-bound students should first check with their guidance counselors. Oftentimes, guidance counselors will release lists of outside college scholarships for students to apply for. In many cases these college scholarships will be local in nature and less competitive. Students should also check to see it their parents’ employers offer college scholarships. Lastly, if a student has a part-time job, they too may offer college scholarships.

Question 8

Are there Scholarships for Graduate Students?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many of the scholarships that support certain groups, professional associations or fields of study that are listed in our scholarship directory are available to graduate students. Just type "graduate student" into the search bar above to see. Many universities, organizations, and employers offer scholarships for grad students, so it is important to look at the details of those scholarships. It is also important to research the various scholarship and grant opportunities available to you at your graduate school of choice.

Question 9

Does a scholarship affect my other financial aid?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when you receive a scholarship it can alter your other financial aid arrangements. Every source of student assistance put together should not exceed the cost to attend your college or university. So if you receive scholarships in excess of your the cost to attend an accredited college, your other financial aid can get reduced.

Question 10

Are there scholarships available for trade school?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are scholarships available for trade school. Many employers and organizations offer scholarships specifically to students enrolled in vocational, technical or trade school programs. Additionally, some of the more general college scholarships found on TUN are available to trade and vocational school students as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.

Question 11

What is a full ride scholarship?

Accepted Answer

A full ride scholarship is a type of financial award that covers the complete cost of tuition, room and board, books and supplies, and other related expenses. Full ride scholarships are typically awarded by universities or private organizations to academically talented college students who demonstrate exceptional potential in their chosen field of study. A full ride scholarship can be granted based on academic merit, athletic skill, or financial need. It is important to understand that full ride scholarships for a four year college is very difficult to obtain.

Question 12

What is a Last Dollar Scholarship?

Accepted Answer

A Last Dollar Scholarship is a type of grant that covers the remaining amount of tuition and fees after other scholarships, grants, loans and other forms of financial aid have been taken into consideration. This type of scholarship is typically offered by individual colleges or private organizations to college students to help fill any gaps in funding for students with demonstrated financial need. Depending on the provider, Last Dollar Scholarships may also cover other related expenses such as books and supplies.

Question 13

What is the difference between grants and scholarships?

Accepted Answer

The main difference between grants and scholarships is that grants are generally awarded based on financial need, while scholarships are usually awarded based on merit. Grants are typically need-based awards that do not have to be paid back, while scholarships can come from a variety of sources including employers or organizations. Scholarships may also require an application process and/or an essay. Grants are typically awarded by federal or state agencies and can vary in amount, while scholarships may have specific amounts that students can receive. Both grants and scholarships provide students with financial assistance to help pay for tuition, fees, books and supplies.

Question 14

Can part time students apply for scholarships?

Accepted Answer

While everyone is familiar with the fact that full time college students can apply for scholarships, what many don’t know is that there are numerous scholarship opportunities available to part-time college students as well! Make certain to thoroughly read through the prerequisites of each award you’re considering applying for in order to determine any additional criteria or eligibility restrictions.

Question 15

How much time does it take to apply for a scholarship?

Accepted Answer

Applying for a scholarship can take anywhere from several minutes too many hours depending on the specific scholarship. So it is important to read through the scholarship requirements before you make the commitment to apply. This will help you gain a better understanding of the application process and how much time it might take to complete the application.

Question 16

How many scholarships should high school seniors apply for?

Accepted Answer

High school seniors should aim to apply for as many scholarships as possible in order to maximize their chances of receiving financial aid. A good rule of thumb is to apply for at least 10-15 scholarships, although the exact number will depend on your individual circumstances and financial needs. It is important to research each scholarship carefully and only apply if you meet the award criteria. Make sure that you make your best effort in applying, otherwise you are just wasting your time. Lastly, it’s important to apply for any grants or scholarships offered by your college or university as well.

Question 17

What is a merit scholarship?

Accepted Answer

A merit scholarship is a type of financial aid that recognizes and rewards individuals for their academic achievement. In certain cases, recognition is granted based on a person's extracurricular accomplishments. Merit scholarships are typically awarded by colleges, universities and other organizations to college students who demonstrate outstanding achievement in some area or have the potential to be successful in the future. The amount awarded may vary depending on the institution.  Merit scholarship awards may be renewable or one-time awards and can cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and other associated expenses. Additionally, some merit scholarships are paid directly to the student while others are applied to their college account

Question 18

What is a needs based scholarship?

Accepted Answer

A needs-based scholarship is a type of financial aid awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. It is typically distributed by colleges, universities and other organizations, such as foundations or corporations. Unlike merit scholarships which recognize academic achievement, these awards are based on the applicant's current financial situation, including income levels and other factors that, when taking together, demonstrate financial need.

Question 19

What are the typical requirements of a scholarship?

Accepted Answer

The requirements for scholarships vary depending on the type of award and the institution offering them. Generally, to be eligible for any scholarship you must meet certain criteria such as having a minimum gpa, being a legal resident, permanent resident or US citizen, being enrolled in and in good standing at an accredited educational program, demonstrating financial need or belonging to an underrepresented group. Additionally, most scholarships require applicants to complete an application form, provide transcripts and other supporting documentation, as well as submit essays or personal statements. Some scholarships also require letters of recommendation, which could prolong the process. And all scholarships will have an application deadline that you must meet, so make sure to keep track of that date!

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