College can be expensive—but scholarships are one of the best ways to reduce the cost without taking on debt. The good news? There are thousands of scholarships out there. The challenge? Knowing where to look.
Whether you're a high school senior, a current college student, or returning to school later in life, this guide will show you where to find scholarships and how to start your search the smart way.
1. Start With Your School
High School Counselors
Your guidance counselor is a great resource. They often have:
-
Lists of local scholarships
-
Information on school-specific awards
-
Applications for scholarships sponsored by community organizations
College Financial Aid Office
Already in college? Your school's financial aid office can direct you to:
-
Institutional scholarships
-
Department- or major-specific awards
-
Merit- and need-based options
2. Use Scholarship Search Engines
These websites let you filter scholarships by:
-
Major
-
GPA
-
Ethnicity
-
Location
-
Interests
-
And more
Top Sites to Try:
Pro Tip: Create a separate email just for scholarship applications to stay organized and avoid spam.
3. Explore Employer and Parent Workplace Opportunities
Some employers offer scholarships to:
-
Employees
-
Children of employees
-
Interns or part-time staff
Ask your parents to check with their HR department or company website—you might be surprised what’s available.
Final Thoughts
Finding scholarships takes effort, but it’s one of the best ways to invest in your future without taking on unnecessary debt. Set aside time each week to apply. Stay organized with a spreadsheet or tracker, and apply early and often.
Remember: You don’t need straight A’s or a perfect SAT score to win scholarships. There’s something out there for nearly everyone—you just have to look.