scholarships essay free

18 Essay-Free Scholarships to Apply for in 2024

Scholarships are a fantastic way to save money on your college tuition and avoid taking on too much student debt. But, let’s face it, the process of applying for scholarships can be time-consuming and, sometimes you just want something a little easier.

The good news is that easy scholarships – in particular, scholarships without essays – do exist. Some require as little effort as simply entering your name and email address (a scholarship “sweepstakes”), while other scholarships without essays require you to submit something else (like a short video, social media post, or illustration) rather than an essay. These second group of scholarships rewards effort and creativity. 

Avoiding Scholarship Scams

5 sweepstakes-style scholarships with no essays, 3 easy scholarships with short answers.

• 10 Creative, essay-free scholarships

Ready to apply for your own scholarships without essays?

It’s important to keep in mind two things about the easiest scholarships without essays:.

• Your chances of winning a scholarship award are much lower than with traditional scholarships. This is because more people usually apply for these easier scholarships. 
• You run the risk of being spammed with loads of emails. In fact, many scholarship sweepstakes are created with the sole idea of getting your email address in mind. We therefore recommend using easy scholarship sweepstakes as a secondary option for paying for college. Consider using the majority of your time applying for scholarships with essays that you find on reputable scholarship sites.

And if you’re mostly worried about saving time, consider using Going Merry to apply for scholarship bundles , which combine multiple scholarships with the same essay prompts into one application. Sign up for Going Merry today to begin applying.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some easy, no-essay scholarships are actually scams.  Follow the tips below to avoid getting scammed.

Scam Tip #1: Say “No” to Upfront Fees!

A scholarship shouldn’t cost anything at all to apply for (except postage). Be wary of any company or scholarship provider who requires you to pay an upfront fee in order to apply. Chances are they have nothing to offer you!

Scam Tip #2: Do The Paperwork Yourself

Some scammers will try and lure you in by telling you that they’ll take care of all the scholarship paperwork for you, including answering all the questions. You can just sit back, relax, and wait for the money to start rolling in. It almost seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? We hate to break it to you, but that’s because it is. Doing your own applications will save you loads of trouble!

(Psst – You can, however, save on some of the paperwork and the repetitive form filling by using Going Merry , which auto-fills your scholarship forms with information from your profile. You’ll still need to answer any scholarship application-specific questions yourself though!)

Scam Tip #3: Guaranteed Scholarships Don’t Exist

If scholarships were guaranteed, student loans would be a thing of the past. Avoid any company claiming to offer you a guaranteed scholarship. It’s a guaranteed scam.

Scam Tip #4: Avoid Dodgy Offers

If you receive an email from an unknown and unprofessional-looking company claiming to offer an amazing scholarship if you enter personal information on their site, it’s best to avoid it. If you’re unsure, simply do a quick Google Search and see if others have reported it as a scam before , and talk to your guidance counselor to see if he or she has information or experience working with the company.

Scam Tip #5: Do Your Research!

Doing a quick search (on Google or snopes.com ) can save you tons of trouble in the end.  Unfortunately, easy scholarships are too good to be true a lot of the time.

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Now that we’ve got that out of the way, here’s our list of scholarships without essays:

These are scholarships that require almost no effort.

1. Going Merry Seasonal Scholarships (Spring, Summer)

Amount: $1000 per year (one $250 winner each season)

Provider : Going Merry

When you create a free profile on Going Merry, you’re automatically matched with thousands of scholarship opportunities, including the Going Merry No Essay Scholarship, offered four times a year in the Spring , Summer , Fall , and Winter . Simply click “Start application,” and then “Submit application” to apply. It’s that easy!

Bonus: When you first register, we’ll prompt you to apply for our bundle of four no-essay, seasonal scholarships for the next year. This way, you won’t even have to think about submitting a new application each season. It’s our way of welcoming you to our platform! Sign up today to take advantage.

2. Christian College Scholarship

Amount: $2,500

Provider: The Christian Connector IncIf you’re planning on attending a two- or four-year Christian college, you’re eligible to enter the drawing for this $2,500 Christian College Scholarship . Simply fill out a short online survey and you’re good to go!

Loving these scholarships, but need help applying for your government financial aid? We can help you fill out your FAFSA and state aid.

3. Citizens Scholarship

Amount: $15,000

Provider: Citizens Bank

Citizens wants to honor the dedication of students and families pursuing higher learning! We are offering a Citizens Grand Prize Scholarship of $15,000 to use towards school expenses. We will also be offering a $2,500 Scholarship monthly.

4. AFSA Second Chance Scholarship

Amount: $1,000

Provider: AFSA Scholarships

If you didn’t have the luck of winning the AFSA High School Senior Contest, try your luck again after graduation with the AFSA Second Chance Scholarship . This $1,000 award is awarded to five high school graduates during the summer months. Deadlines change on a yearly basis, so check out the scholarship website for the most up-to-date information.

5. Scholarship4Moms

Amount: $10,000

Provider: Scholarships4MomsThe Scholarship4Moms scholarship and its organization was created by a group of mothers who wanted to help bring financial relief to moms who are seeking to further their education. Simply register with your first name, last name, and phone number, and you’ll be entered to win!

Want more scholarships? Get 20 new scholarships delivered to your inbox each week.

These are scholarships that don’t require essays (you know, those longer 500-word type ordeals), but do require you to answer a few questions or to write a short piece (e.g. letter, caption, tweet).

6. Aspire Scholarship

Provider: Access Scholarships Foundation

The Aspire Scholarship , hosted by Access Scholarships and CollegeVine, is yet another one of our easy scholarship opportunities created to give back to a deserving student who is applying for scholarships to help pay for college. In just five sentences or less, this scholarship asks you to answer the following prompt: “Tell us what you aspire to achieve and how you believe a college degree can help you to accomplish it.”

7. E-waste Scholarship

Provider: Digital Responsibility

Each year, 20 to 50 million tons of e-waste are discarded in the world. According to the EPA, recycling e-waste allows more than 100 million pounds of materials to be reused annually. The purpose of the E-waste scholarship is to help you understand the impact of e-waste and what can be done to reduce e-waste. This scholarship just requests a short statement that completes this sentence: “The most important reason to care about e-waste is…”

8. The Customized Girl Annual Scholarship

Amount: $500

Provider: Customized GirlCustomized Girl prints bold statements on customized shirts. Naturally, they know an eye-catching quote when they see one. To apply to the Customized Girl Annual Scholarship , post your statement as a caption on Instagram to be chosen as one of two winners, and your statement may be featured on a customized shirt! Check out past winners on the scholarship page for inspiration.

10 Creative, essay-free scholarship s

These are scholarships that require you to submit videos, drawings, business plans, etc. instead of essays. Get creative!

9. Two Ten Higher Education Footwear Design Scholarship

Provider: Two Ten Footwear Foundation

Amount: Up to $3,000

Submit: Three design drawings

Sneakerheads can show-off their inner hypebeast/hypebae for the Two Ten Higher Education Footwear Design Scholarship ! Students studying design with a focus on footwear are encouraged to apply. Provide three design drawings from your portfolio for consideration.

10. Illustrators of the Future Contest

Provider: L. Ron Hubbard

Submit: Illustrations

L. Ron Hubbard’s Illustrators of the Future Contest is an opportunity for new science fiction and fantasy artists worldwide to have their work judged by some of the masters in the field and discovered by a wide audience.

11. Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship

Provider: The Gallery Collection

Amount: $10,000 (+$1,000 prize for the school)

Submit: An original photo, art, work, or graphic design

If you have a knack for art and sentiment, apply for the Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship with your original art. You can use all art forms. Just upload an example as a JPEG (.jpg) for the application. Students 14 years or older are eligible to send their ideas.

12. Build A Better Future Scholarship

Provider: Honors Graduation

Submit: Short video

Ever wondered just how much of a difference high school students can make in their communities? The winners from previous years have proven it can be profound. That’s why the Annual Design a Better Future scholarship continues to be a design-thinking, community-improvement project.

Each year, Honors Graduation funds up to five $10,000 tuition awards, with the top project receiving up to $5,000 to keep the project going.

13. #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

Provider: U.S. Higher Education (Led by Temple University)

Amount: At least 50% of tuition

Submit: A video or an essay

First-year international students at participating American universities can cut down the cost of education with the #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship . The #YouAreWelcomeHere campaign gained nationwide support in creating a scholarship awarding two students per university. The video submission must express ideas of advancing intercultural learning. Check the list of participating universities on the campaign’s scholarship page .

14. “Create Real Impact” Contest

Provider: Impact Teen Drivers

Amount: $500- $1,500

Submit: A video, music, creative writing, or graphic design

Students between 14-22 years old may apply to the “Create Real Impact” Contest . The contest seeks original work about a solution and strategy regarding reckless and distracted driving. Choose either video, music, creative writing, or artwork. There are many submission options and contest categories, so make sure to visit the scholarship page for details!

15. GoSkills Scholarship

Provider: GoSkills

Amount: $2,000

Submit: An application and business plan

Calling future girl bosses: Here is your time to debut your online business ambitions. The GoSkills Scholarship (Fall) and (Spring) is open to female high school and college students. There are open-ended questions on the application, but it’s more like a friendly conversation. The questions ask you about your concerns and your role models. Besides the application, you need to provide a link to your business plan (GoSkills provides instructions for your business plan right above the area for the link). Try your hand at mapping a business plan to be your own boss in the future.

16. Anytime Games Scholarship

Provider: Anytime Games

Amount: $3,200

Submit: A video

Because Anytime Games has a keen passion for helping students achieve academic excellence, they’re sponsoring the Anytime Games scholarship contest . To enter, choose one of the six thought-provoking questions from the list, and answer the question needs in the form of an essay or video. Two lucky winners will receive cash they can use towards tuition at the college of their choice.

17. Doodle for Google

Provider: Google

Amount: $55,000

Submit: A doodle illustration

Doodle for Google is an annual contest open to students in grades K-12. Students are invited to create their own Google Doodle for the chance to have it featured on Google.com, as well as win some great scholarships – like this Doodle for Google scholarship – and tech packages for their schools.

18. HeadSetPlus.Com College Scholarship

Provider: HeadSetPlus.Com

HeadSetPlus.Com wants to help you pay for college with the HeadSetPlus.Com College Scholarship … no essay needed! Be creative and create a video with a maximum length of five minutes detailing why you deserve the scholarship and what inspired you to pursue a degree in your field.

You can find and apply for scholarships without essays right on our website. You can request letters of recommendation, upload your resume, and apply for scholarships. Sign up for free today .

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Ready to find scholarships that are a match for you?

Top 20 No Essay Scholarships to Apply for in 2024

Introduction: No essay scholarships

Let's talk about no-essay scholarships. Whether you've been applying to scholarships for a while or you're completely new to the scholarship process, chances are, at some point you've felt tired, frustrated, or even fully on fed-up with writing all of those essays. Finding financial aid can be a lot of work - I feel you!

A smart strategy when applying for scholarships is to mix up the types of scholarships you're applying for. But what does this actually mean?

Well, if you're familiar with the world of scholarships, you've probably discovered that there are scholarships out there of all sorts, shapes, and sizes.

Some scholarships are for small amounts (think: anywhere from $100 to a few thousand dollars) while others go for larger amounts (sometimes even full-tuition!). Some scholarships have long lists of application requirements, while others only ask you to write a sentence, upload your transcript, or fill out a form.

So, when I say "mix up the types of scholarships you're applying for", I'm saying that it's important to consider things such as scholarship type (is there an essay required?), amount (generally, scholarships with  bigger awards  are harder to earn), and category (how specific does the scholarship get in terms of matching your unique profile?).

This post covers one specific type of scholarship that I'm sure you'll enjoy incorporating into your scholarship strategy: a no-essay scholarship!

Most of these no essay scholarships are open to high school , college , and  graduate  school students, be sure to get those easy applications in, and keep your toes crossed while you get to work on some of those other more labor-intensive opportunities.

*Pro-tip - While some of these no essay scholarships currently have specific deadlines, keep them bookmarked because they often renew monthly, quarterly, or yearly!

20 No essay scholarships to apply for ASAP!

Too cool to pay for school no essay scholarship.

Award Amount:  $1,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Quarterly (last day of the month in September, December, March, and June)

PS - this is one of no essay scholarships awarded by Access Scholarships (that's us!). It's open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students studying in the United States, and is an easy way to win $1,000. 

Niche $10,000 No Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:  $10,000

Scholarship Deadline:  Rolling

ScholarshipPoints No Essay $2,500 Monthly Scholarship

Amount : $2,500 

Deadline : Expires on the last day of each month

Eligibility: The ScholarshipPoints Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

Smart Owl No Essay $1,000 Scholarship

Amount : $1,000 (4 awards per month!)

Deadline : Expires on the 28th or 29th of each month

Eligibility: The Smart Owl Scholarship is a monthly no essay scholarship open to all high school and college students ages 16 and older, who are US residents!

Sallie Mae College Scholarship

Award Amount : $2,000

Scholarship Deadline : Monthly

Eligibility- Open to high school juniors & seniors and all college students

CollegeVine No Essay $2,000 Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,000

Scholarship Deadline:  December 31

Open to high school students of all years (must be a US resident).

Bold $25,000 Scholarship

Amount:  $25,000

Deadline:  Continuous

CollegExpress Monthly Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,500

Scholarship Deadline:  Last day of each month

Niche No Essay Scholarship

Scholarships360 $10,000 scholarship.

Scholarship Deadline:  Rolling 

Open to high school sophomores and juniors in the US. 

Appily Easy Money Scholarship

Around the corner from college scholarship.

Award Amount : $1,000

Scholarship Deadline : December 31, June 30

Open to all high school students, including students with DACA status and international students who are planning on attending a higher education institution in the US! 

Be Bold No-Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:  $25,000

Scholarship Deadline: Rolling

Christian Connector Scholarship

Eligibility:  Open to high school juniors and high school seniors who are interested in or planning to enroll in a Christian college or university.

Direct Textbook Photo Essay Scholarship

Award Amount:  $500

Discover Student Loans Scholarship Contest

Scholarship Deadline:  January 4

Lounge Lizard Web Design Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  February 27 and October 10

Create A Greeting Card Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  March 9

Frame My Future Scholarship

Award Amount:  $2,000 each (5 awards)

Scholarship Deadline: March 15

ULoop Dorm Survey Scholarship

Scholarship Deadline:  June 30

Frequently asked questions about no essay scholarships

Are no essay scholarships legit.

No essay scholarships are 100% legit!

No essay scholarships are created to be more like contests or sweepstakes. Generally, all you have to do to be considered is enter some information on an application page and you're good to go. This is in contrast with other more labor-intensive scholarships, that require a greater amount of work and time commitment (think: essays, letters of recommendation, videos, interviews).

The fact that no essay scholarships don't require a whole lot of effort (they're definitely the easiest opportunities out there!) doesn't mean that they aren't just as real as other scholarships that do have more detailed eligibility and application requirements to apply. In fact, no essay scholarships can sometimes be just as competitive as full-ride scholarships , given the fact that so many students apply for these opportunities.

At the end of the day, each and every scholarship we feature in our database and in our blog posts aims to guide students in the direction of legitimate opportunities to help you navigate the journey of paying for college.

What are some common qualities of a no essay scholarship?

The most identifiable quality of a no essay scholarship is the fact that it doesn't require an essay! Rather than asking students to upload an essay on the application page, these scholarships generally will ask for the completion of a form, or for students to upload a photo, video, or other unique type of submission. The fact that these scholarships can often be completed much more quickly and easily than other scholarships is what makes them so great.

You'll also find that the majority of no essay scholarships are open to a wide variety of students, and they usually won't have any specific eligibility requirements such as only being open to students in certain majors or with a certain minimum GPA.

Who is eligible to apply for no essay scholarships?

When it comes to eligiblity, as I mentioned just above, no essay scholarships are usually open to a wide range of students. For example, a no essay scholarship might be open to students ages 13 and older in the US, or maybe it's open to all high school students in the US. These eligibility criteria are very generous and intended to give all (or nearly all) students who want to apply an opportunity to do so.

How difficult is it to win a no essay scholarship?

Because no essay scholarships are usually open to so many different types of students, along with the fact that they often require very little effort on the part of the student (and run more like sweepstakes than real in-depth scholarships), means that they are difficult to win, and the process is unpredictable.

Luckily, because these scholarships require so little time commitment to apply, not winning one of these types of scholarships doesn't necessarily indicate that you've wasted your time applying, since it likely didn't take that much time in the first place!

How can I increase my chances of winning no essay scholarships?

No essay scholarships are open to such a wide variety of students in terms of eligible areas of study, state residency, and year in school. This, in combination with the fact that the winners for these scholarships are generally always selected at random, means that increasing your chances of winning one of these scholarships is very, very difficult.

In the spirit of full-transparency: the only way that you can actually increase your chances of winning no essay scholarships is by applying for all of them and not missing any deadlines.

For example, take Tallo's monthly no essay scholarships . They pick at least 12 winners each year, usually at the end of each month. If you want to maximize your chances of winning one of Tallo's no essay scholarships, you should set a reminder to make sure that you apply for them every month, so that you don't miss out on an opportunity to win.

Most of the no essay scholarships I've come across are for small amounts, such as $1,000. Why is this the case?

Most no-essay scholarships are for small amounts (think: $500 - $2,000) because, in comparison to other scholarships that have lots of application requirements, no-essay scholarships tend to run more like contests.

Organizations love to give back to students in any and all ways possible, and they also like to try to make student's lives easier by offering easy scholarship opportunities.

However, from the perspective of private organizations, many of them would rather save their scholarships of higher amounts to be distributed through competitive opportunities where they can select students on the basis of merit, leadership, and other qualities. That's why you'll probably never come across a full-ride scholarship that doesn't require an essay or extra submission of some sort!

Where can I find more scholarships to apply for?

There are tons of resources and places out there that you can use to find "harder" scholarships to apply for to pair with your efforts in applying to the easy ones.

The first place I recommend you go is over to the Access Scholarship Search Engine or Blog, where you can find all types of scholarships based on criteria such as home state, area of study, ethnicity, and more.

After that, I recommend you also do some surfing of the web, as well as outreach to your guidance counselor or financial aid office to help you find local scholarships and even more nuanced opportunities.

Important tips and things to keep in mind with no essay scholarships

Tip #1: apply often..

Many of these scholarships run continuously on a monthly or quarterly basis.

Set a reminder for yourself to revisit these scholarships each month and reapply to give yourself the best chance at winning one!

Tip #2: Find ways to get a leg up.

Scholarships with no essays that have any sort of additional component (like an art or video submission) will tend to give you a "leg up" because they involve more than some luck.

Take full advantage of scholarships like these by putting your best foot forward with that extra submission!

Tip #3: Make no essay scholarships one piece of the puzzle.

Scholarships with no essays should be a key component of your scholarship application strategy because of how easy they are to apply for.

However, it's important to remember they should be balanced with other scholarships that have more specific and stringent requirements.

When you apply for essay-based scholarships, you're given the opportunity to tell the committee about you, who you are and why you should be selected for the opportunity. The winners for these scholarships, unlike their no-essay counterparts, are not chosen at random, so if you choose these scholarships carefully, apply for ones that are specific to your qualities, and write strong essays, you'll have the best chances of winning at the end of the day!

General tips for applying for all kinds of scholarships

Navigating the world of scholarships can be stressful and confusing to say the least. Follow these tips to make sure you’re covering all of your bases and giving yourself the greatest possible chance at success!

#1: Get yourself organized before you dive right in.

Just like with any other part of the college / financial aid process, organization is crucial to success when it comes to searching and applying for scholarships.

My top organization-related recommendation for students is to start by creating a readily-accessible folder on your computer where you can then create subfolders for your scholarship essays, transcripts, and other application materials. This is also the place where you’ll want to house your scholarship tracker , which will help you keep track of scholarships you find, upcoming deadlines, and your overall progress.

#2: Do your brainstorming.

You likely wouldn’t start an essay on the American Revolution without doing some initial brainstorming and planning first. The same rule should apply for when it’s time to search for scholarships.

Sit down with a pen and paper or a blank word document open, and start to bullet out a list of traits and things that you feel make up who you are as a person. These things should be both academic and personal. To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, here’s a sneak peek into what my own personal list might look like:

-I am from New Jersey

-I am a business student with an interest in marketing

-I like to play sports (tennis, basketball, etc)

-I hold leadership positions in my extracurriculars

-I identify as female

-I am a twin

-I am left-handed

-I enjoy doing crossword puzzles

-I go to college in Wisconsin

I could go on and on with this list, but I won’t bore you! What I’m trying to get at though is that creating a list like this to track your hobbies, academic pursuits, and other things that make up who you are can be incredibly helpful in allowing you to find scholarships that are highly specific to you.

PS - For some students, this may also fall under the initial organization step of the process, but ultimately it doesn’t matter when you do it as long as it gets done.

#3: Know where to look.

Knowing what types of scholarships you want to search for doesn’t really matter if you don’t know where to actually search for them! Here are a few ideas on where you can get started in searching for scholarships:

- Scholarship search engines like AccessScholarships.com, which allow you to search through thousands of scholarship opportunities all in one place

- Normal search engines , such as Google (the more specific you can be here, the better)

-Your school’s college prep, guidance, or financial aid page/website

- Social media (you can follow scholarship accounts and hashtags that might be relevant to help you discover local scholarships)

- Family, friends, teachers, coaches, and other people in your community who might know of local or community-based scholarships that you’re eligible for

#4: If a scholarship has an essay or additional type of submission, make sure you put your absolute best foot forward.

This is, in my opinion, the biggest key to help students see success in actually winning scholarships.

You can have a 4.0 GPA and solid letters of recommendation, but if you don’t also take the time to carefully craft, edit, and perfect the essay (or other additional submission), you’re missing out on giving the scholarship committee the opportunity to learn more about who you are as a person and why you’re a great fit to win the award.

#5: Keep those grades up.

Although this eligibility requirement can definitely vary, many scholarships require students to have at least a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA. Sometimes, the minimum requirement can be even higher, such as a 3.75/4.0.

While grades certainly aren’t the end-all-be-all, keeping your GPA up (as high as you possibly can!) will make sure that you are opening yourself up to as many opportunities as possible.

#6: Apply often.

Unfortunately, applying for scholarships is not a “one and done” process. To give yourself the highest chance at seeing success, you should apply for scholarships as often as you can, or whenever you come across an opportunity that you think is worth applying for.

Many students find it helpful to set specific goals in this area, like to apply for 3 scholarships each month. Ultimately, the goal you set should be one that is specific and realistic, based on all of the other things that you’re juggling!

#7: Ask for feedback along the way.

If you don't ever take the time to assess your weak spots, how can you possibly improve?

Asking for feedback throughout the scholarship process, whether it be from a committee, a teacher, or someone who is helping you along the way, is crucial to helping you grow and becoming a stronger applicant. 

Getting feedback is especially important when it comes to the scholarship essay piece of the puzzle. When we write and edit, we tend to overlook our own mistakes because we're so used to making them. Sometimes it takes an extra set of eyes on an essay to help lead you in the direction of success.

No-essay scholarships: To conclude...

To summarize, no-essay scholarships can be a great addition to any overall scholarship strategy for high school, college, and graduate students.

Since no-essay scholarships often operate on a monthly or quarterly basis, you can give yourself a better chance at winning these scholarships if you enter in every application period that you're eligible for.

Although no-essay scholarships usually aren't for large amounts, the process of entering to win is usually an easy one, so there's no harm in applying for these scholarships to round out your strategy and yes, give you a break from all those essays!

$2,000 No Essay Scholarship

Help cover the cost of college without writing a single essay!

Niche is giving one student $2,000 to put toward tuition, housing, books or other college expenses — no essay required.

Apply below for your chance to win so you can focus on your education, not your finances. Good luck!

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By proceeding you acknowledge and agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and  Scholarship Rules .

Who Can Apply

All high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year. Please note: Not everyone is eligible for this scholarship. Niche sponsored scholarships and sweepstakes are for people with US citizenship or a valid Visa/US passport only. Read the scholarship rules for full eligibility requirements.

How It Works

The $2,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is an easy scholarship with no essay required! Only one entry allowed per person. The winner will be determined by random drawing and then contacted directly and announced in Niche's email newsletter and on the Scholarship Winners page.

About Niche scholarships

We believe cost shouldn’t keep anyone from pursuing a higher education, so we connect students with thousands of scholarships — many of which don’t require an essay — to help them afford college. In 2023 alone, we offered over $285,000 in Niche scholarships. Read more about Niche scholarships here or visit our FAQs .

Scholarshipsowl

Top no-essay scholarships for easy application: unlock free college funding.

In an era where student loan debt is soaring to unprecedented levels, the quest for scholarships has become more critical than ever. One avenue that has gained popularity is the realm of “ no essay scholarships ” — a lifeline for students seeking quick and straightforward ways to fund their education without the hassle of lengthy essay submissions. This article explores the landscape of no-essay scholarships in 2023, shedding light on their significance, application process, and the impact they can have on alleviating the burden of rising college costs.

Table of Contents

Maximizing Success in No-Essay Scholarship Applications: A Strategic Approach

In the pursuit of no-essay scholarships, students often find themselves drawn to the allure of a streamlined application process, free from the burdensome task of essay writing. However, as the popularity of these scholarships grows, so does the competition. To navigate this landscape effectively and increase your chances of success, consider adopting a strategic approach outlined in the following key points:

1. Seek Competitions Over Randomized Drawings:

While the simplicity of no-essay scholarships is enticing, many operate as scholarship sweepstakes, offering a low probability of winning. To boost your chances, target opportunities that assess additional materials, such as videos, portfolios, or photographs submitted by applicants. This not only distinguishes you from the competition but also enhances your overall application.

2. Exercise Caution Against Scholarship Scams:

The convenience of no-essay scholarships makes them a hotspot for scammers. Before applying, ensure you’re not divulging personal information that could compromise your identity. Never agree to pay a fee for entering a scholarship competition. To navigate potential scams effectively, familiarize yourself with the red flags outlined in our guide on how to spot scholarship scams.

3. Persistence Pays Off:

Many no-essay scholarships, particularly those conducted through random drawings, announce monthly winners and reopen applications. To maximize your chances of securing a scholarship, make it a habit to revisit these opportunities each month and reapply. Persistence can be a key factor in turning the odds in your favor.

4. Explore Similar Scholarship Categories:

For those seeking to minimize essay-related commitments, exploring alternative scholarship categories is a wise strategy. Video scholarships and easy scholarships, although potentially requiring short essays, generally demand less time and effort than traditional applications. Diversifying your application portfolio across various categories broadens your opportunities.

5. Balance Your Scholarship Strategy:

While no-essay scholarships offer a convenient way to seek educational funding, it’s crucial not to over-rely on them. Diversify your scholarship strategy by exploring local scholarships facilitated by community organizations and high school counselors. A balanced approach increases your chances of securing funds from various sources.

6. Don’t Overlook Financial Aid Opportunities:

If you have demonstrated financial need, federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant, stands as an accessible and straightforward source of funds for your higher education journey. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on time is pivotal in gaining eligibility for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Don’t underestimate the power of financial aid as a significant contributor to your educational funding.

In adopting these strategic measures, students can approach no-essay scholarship applications with a well-rounded and informed perspective. By navigating the terrain intelligently, you position yourself for success in securing the financial assistance needed to pursue your academic aspirations.

The Student Loan Crisis

To appreciate the relevance of no-essay scholarships, it’s essential to understand the backdrop against which they operate. Student loan debt in the United States has reached staggering heights, approaching $1.6 trillion. This figure surpasses the nation’s credit card debt, making it a formidable financial challenge for students and graduates alike. By delving into the dynamics of the student loan crisis, we can better comprehend the urgency of alternative funding solutions such as no-essay scholarships.

The spiraling student loan debt has reached unprecedented levels, inching close to a daunting $1.6 trillion in the United States. This figure, surpassing even the colossal credit card debt, poses a formidable financial challenge for both current students and graduates. In the following sections, we will dissect the intricate layers of the student loan crisis, exploring its origins, current status, and the profound impact it has on individuals and society as a whole.

The Rising Costs of Education

The escalating costs of education, outpacing inflation, present a significant hurdle for aspiring students. Tuition at four-year public colleges has doubled since 1988, and federal grants, once a reliable source of support, now cover only 29% of the expenses at public colleges. The financial strain on students has led to a reliance on loans, with 69% of 2018 graduates shouldering an average debt of nearly $30,000. No-essay scholarships emerge as a beacon of hope in mitigating this financial burden.

As the costs of education continue to skyrocket, the financial burden on students has become more acute. Four-year public colleges, in particular, have witnessed a doubling of tuition since 1988, creating a considerable gap in funding. Federal grants, once considered a robust support system, now cover a mere 29% of the expenses associated with public college attendance. This dire financial landscape has forced 69% of the graduating class of 2018 to resort to loans, with the average graduate accumulating a staggering debt of almost $30,000.

Understanding No-Essay Scholarships

No-essay scholarships, as the name suggests, do not require applicants to submit lengthy essays. Instead, they often feature alternative application materials such as videos, pictures, or creative projects. Some scholarships, however, have no application requirements at all. This diversity makes them accessible to a wide range of students across different educational levels.

In the realm of scholarship applications, no-essay scholarships stand out as a unique and accessible option for students. Unlike their traditional counterparts, these scholarships do not demand lengthy essays. Instead, they embrace alternative methods of application, allowing students to showcase their skills and talents through videos, pictures, or creative projects. Moreover, some of these scholarships come with no application requirements whatsoever, simplifying the process even further and broadening their appeal across various educational levels.

Qualifications for No-Essay Scholarships

No-essay scholarships stand out for their simplicity and accessibility. Key qualifications include the absence of an essay requirement, open eligibility to various students, and a quick and straightforward application process. The broad eligibility criteria make these scholarships appealing to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, providing a versatile funding option for diverse educational pursuits.

The allure of no-essay scholarships lies in their simplicity and accessibility. These scholarships typically share common qualifications: the absence of an essay requirement, open eligibility to a wide range of students, and a streamlined application process. This makes them an attractive funding option for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students alike, offering a versatile solution to the financial challenges associated with pursuing diverse educational paths.

Why Choose No-Essay Scholarships?

The appeal of no-essay scholarships lies in their ease of application. With minimal time and effort required, busy students can apply to multiple scholarships, increasing their chances of securing much-needed financial assistance. While recognizing the value of traditional essay-based scholarships, the article emphasizes the practicality and efficiency of no-essay scholarships for students juggling academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and professional commitments.

Amidst the myriad of scholarship options, the attractiveness of no-essay scholarships is underscored by their straightforward application process. The minimal time and effort required make them a practical choice for busy students who are balancing academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and professional responsibilities. While acknowledging the merit of traditional essay-based scholarships, this article highlights the efficiency and accessibility of the no-essay alternative, positioning it as a pragmatic solution for those navigating the complexities of higher education.

Types of No-Essay Scholarships Available

A comprehensive overview of the various types of no-essay scholarships reveals the breadth of opportunities available to students. From scholarships that require just a few clicks to apply to those with creative elements like videos or photographs, the options cater to different preferences and skill sets. This section showcases the diversity within the realm of no-essay scholarships.

The world of no-essay scholarships is diverse, offering a spectrum of opportunities for students with varying interests and talents. Some scholarships require no more than a few clicks to apply, while others encourage creativity through videos, photographs, or other artistic expressions. This section aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the types of no-essay scholarships available, emphasizing their flexibility and inclusivity.

Finding No-Essay Scholarships: The Bold.org Platform

Navigating the landscape of no-essay scholarships becomes more accessible with platforms like Bold.org. This section provides insights into how students can utilize Bold.org to create a profile, match with relevant scholarships, and filter opportunities based on interests, characteristics, and educational levels. The platform’s role in simplifying the scholarship search is highlighted, empowering students to discover tailored funding options.

In the digital age, platforms like Bold.org have emerged as valuable tools for navigating the landscape of no-essay scholarships. This section delves into the functionalities of Bold.org, offering insights on how students can leverage the platform to their advantage. From creating a personalized profile to matching with relevant scholarships and filtering opportunities based on individual characteristics, interests, and educational levels, Bold.org is pivotal in simplifying the scholarship search. By empowering students with tailored funding options, these platforms contribute to a more efficient and effective scholarship application process.

When to Start Applying for No-Essay Scholarships

Timing is crucial when it comes to scholarship applications. While students can start applying at any point in high school, the article encourages early engagement, particularly for high school juniors and seniors. Insightful tips guide readers on when and how to initiate their scholarship journey, emphasizing the importance of starting early to maximize opportunities.

The optimal timing for initiating the application process for no-essay scholarships is a key consideration. While the flexibility exists for students to begin their application journey at any point during high school, this section encourages early engagement. Insightful tips are provided, guiding readers on when and how to embark on their scholarship journey. Emphasis is placed on the importance of starting early to maximize opportunities, ensuring that students are well-positioned to navigate the competitive landscape of scholarships.

Tips for Winning No-Essay Scholarships

While no-essay scholarships offer a streamlined application process, standing out among applicants remains essential. This section provides actionable tips for increasing the likelihood of winning scholarships, including seeking out more restrictive scholarships, applying early and frequently, and making one’s profile unique to leave a lasting impression.

The streamlined nature of no-essay scholarships doesn’t diminish the importance of standing out among applicants. In this section, readers will find actionable tips to enhance their chances of securing these scholarships. Strategies such as seeking out more restrictive scholarships, applying early and frequently, and crafting a unique profile to leave a lasting impression are explored. By providing practical advice, this section equips students with the tools needed to navigate the competitive landscape and emerge successful in their pursuit of no-essay scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions about No-Essay Scholarships

Addressing common concerns and inquiries, this section provides clarity on the legitimacy of no-essay scholarships, strategies for improving the chances of winning, the number of scholarships one can attain, tax implications, application numbers, and the existence of GPA requirements. By dispelling doubts and providing comprehensive answers, the article aims to empower readers with the knowledge needed to navigate the world of no-essay scholarships confidently.

As students explore the landscape of no-essay scholarships, they inevitably encounter questions and concerns. This section serves as a comprehensive guide, addressing common inquiries and dispelling doubts. Topics covered include the legitimacy of no-essay scholarships, strategies for optimizing success, the potential number of scholarships one can attain, tax implications, application numbers, and the presence (or absence) of GPA requirements. By providing thorough and accurate information, this section empowers readers to navigate the world of no-essay scholarships with confidence and clarity.

Understanding the Landscape of Student Loan Debt

Delving deeper into the overarching issue, the article explores the factors contributing to the surge in student loan debt. Rising tuition rates, outpacing wage growth, and the changing dynamics of financing education are examined. By understanding the root causes, readers gain a more profound insight into the urgency of seeking alternative funding avenues.

The pervasive issue of student loan debt demands a closer examination of its contributing factors. In this section, readers are guided through an exploration of the dynamics that have fueled the surge in student loan debt. The escalating tuition rates, which have outpaced wage growth, coupled with the evolving dynamics of financing education, are dissected to provide a comprehensive understanding. By unraveling the root causes, readers gain a more profound insight into the urgency of exploring alternative funding avenues.

Disparities in Student Loan Distribution

Student loan debt is not distributed evenly across demographics, giving rise to racial and gender-based gaps. The average debt differs between white and Black borrowers, and women, despite constituting a majority of college students, bear a disproportionate amount of student debt. This section explores the implications of these disparities and highlights the importance of scholarships tailored to disadvantaged groups.

The burden of student loan debt is not borne evenly across demographics, leading to pronounced racial and gender-based disparities. This section delves into the disparities in average debt between white and Black borrowers. It also addresses the disproportionate amount of student debt carried by women, who, despite constituting a majority of college students, face unique challenges. The implications of these disparities are examined, underscoring the importance of scholarships specifically tailored to address the financial challenges faced by disadvantaged groups.

Connecting the Dots: Scholarships for Underrepresented Groups

Bringing the narrative full circle, this section reinforces the significance of scholarships designed for racial minorities, first-generation students, women, and other underserved groups. By showcasing the scholarships available on Bold.org and similar platforms, the article underscores the role of targeted financial support in addressing disparities in student loan debt.

In the final section, the article brings the narrative full circle, emphasizing the pivotal role of scholarships tailored for underrepresented groups. Racial minorities, first-generation students, women, and other underserved demographics are highlighted, and the article showcases specific scholarships available on Bold.org and similar platforms. By illuminating the existence of targeted financial support, the article underscores the potential for scholarships to address and mitigate the disparities in student loan debt faced by marginalized and underrepresented groups. Embark on your scholarship journey with confidence!

Explore a plethora of opportunities at Scholarshipsowl.com, where educational dreams come to life. Maximize your chances of success by applying strategic tips and discovering a diverse range of scholarships tailored to your unique strengths. Don’t let financial barriers hinder your path to education—visit http://scholarshipsowl.com/ today and seize the opportunity to shape your academic destiny! Your future begins with the right scholarship, and Scholarshipsowl.com is here to guide you every step of the way. Start your scholarship adventure now!

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10 Sites to Kick Off Your Scholarship Search

These websites offer free databases to help students apply for thousands of available scholarships.

10 Sites to find Scholarships

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You don't need to be at the top of your class or a star athlete to win scholarships.

Scholarships can be a good way to ease the financial burden of college or fund your education entirely. Many scholarships are merit-based , meaning they're awarded because of a student's academic, athletic, artistic or leadership abilities.

But you don't need to be at the top of your class or a star athlete to win scholarships. Many are awarded based on a student's financial need, and you may even be able to find some related to your hobbies .

Often, some of the best scholarship sources "are in your backyard ," says Angela Warfield, principal consultant and founder of college admissions consulting firm Compass Academics. School counselors as well as local cultural affinity groups, churches, clubs, community foundations and athletic organizations often award scholarships. Targeting these first is a good way to stack scholarship money, experts say.

But you should expand your search wider, and there are plenty of free websites and apps that can help. Here are 10 websites experts suggest using to start your scholarship search.

Going Merry

A popular site recommended by independent college admissions counselors is Going Merry , which aims to simplify scholarship applications for students. Signing up is free, but students can also check to see how much they're eligible for in scholarships without signing up. According to the website, students have won upward of $40,000.

"I recommend this for students due to its user-friendly platform, which simplifies the scholarship application process and aggregates numerous scholarship opportunities in one place," Denard Jones, lead college counselor at college admissions consulting company Empowerly, wrote in an email. "It offers a time-efficient approach, allowing students to focus more on their studies and extracurricular activities while pursuing valuable merit aid opportunities."

Scholarships.com

This website helps students discover scholarships they qualify for, organize their matches and apply for those scholarships. The recently redesigned website has helped streamline the process even more, says Kevin Ladd, chief operating officer and co-creator of Scholarships.com and a former U.S. News contributor.

Ladd says the platform prioritizes legitimacy, accuracy and ease of function for users.

"If you found it on Scholarships.com, it is safe to apply for it," Ladd wrote in an email. "We thoroughly vet each one, ensuring it’s legit and there are no fees associated with applying. Daily, we are looking at these and checking them against the URL associated with them, looking at the deadline and dollar amount, filtering, etc. and emailing or calling the provider if necessary to ensure timeliness and accuracy."

You may have heard about the Scholly app through the television show "Shark Tank," where founder Christopher Gray shared how he earned $1.3 million in scholarships thanks partly to applying to virtually every scholarship he qualified for. He found that for many of the scholarships he won, he was one of a few applicants or the only applicant.

Financial management company SoFi estimates $100 million in scholarship money goes unclaimed each year, and Gray says he created Scholly to help students find that money. Now owned by educational lender Sallie Mae, the app is free and helps students identify scholarships based on their academic profile and demographics.

“A lot of students are taking on way more debt than they have to,” Gray says. “That’s mainly because they don’t know these scholarships exist."

Fastweb is another free scholarship search provider that claims to have a database of 1.5 million college scholarships worth over $3.4 billion. Owned by Monster.com, Fastweb also offers college planning resources and financial aid information.

"I like it because it’s got such a huge database," says Monica Matthews, author of "How to Win College Scholarships: Guides for Parents and Students in 10 Easy Steps." Matthews helped her three sons win tens of thousands of dollars in college scholarships through websites like Fastweb.

Fastweb is "the most comprehensive website for students to find scholarships," says Christopher Rim, founder and CEO of admissions consulting firm Command Education. Like many scholarship websites, Fastweb may send a lot of emails after you sign up, so Matthews recommends creating an email address specifically for scholarship searches so that your primary email inbox doesn't get flooded.

A platform created by the College Board, BigFuture allows students to search for scholarships and get help paying for college. The website claims to have a database of more than 24,000 scholarships that award more than $1.5 billion annually. The website allows students to create a profile and get matched with scholarships they qualify for.

"I recommend it to high schools because it offers a reliable tool for accessing essential information on both self-help and gift aid search processes," Jones says.

The majority of scholarships are awarded to high school seniors, but RaiseMe advertises scholarships available to students as early as their freshman year. The website matches students with micro-scholarships, which RaiseMe defines as "a small grant that you can earn during high school or community college and put towards tuition at a four-year college or university."

Students must create a profile on the website and enter their grades, hobbies, honors, awards, community service and other achievements. From there, they can potentially earn money from one of the 300 colleges that RaiseMe partners with.

On average, students who use RaiseMe and meet standard eligibility requirements for a college earn $25,000 in micro-scholarships over four years of high school, according to the website.

Previously known as Cappex, Appily is another free resource that allows students to search both schools and scholarships that they qualify for based on their personal profile and demographics. You can search for scholarships based on your year in school, and after you complete a short questionnaire, the site filters schools and scholarships that may be applicable.

"This platform provides a comprehensive scholarship database, aiding students in identifying financial aid opportunities to support their search for affordability in a personalized way by matching opportunities with student preferences," Jones says. "It also features college reviews from actual students, offering valuable insights into campus life, academics and extracurriculars."

Along with searching for scholarships, Niche.com allows students to gain a sense of a school's "personality" by reading student reviews, Hartley says. Similar to other websites, Niche matches students with scholarships that match their qualifications and provides essay-free scholarships, which some students may prefer.

Unigo is another website that pairs students with scholarships that fit their profile. The website has more than 3.6 million athletic, merit-based and company-sponsored scholarships and grants in its database, as well as 650,000 college reviews, statistics and other data points to use when vetting schools.

Users can check each month to find new scholarships that fit their profile, with some applications taking just a few minutes to complete.

Scholarships360

After struggling to find scholarships on their own, brothers Will and Brian Geiger launched Scholarships360 in 2010 to help students find money for college. Since then, the website has offered a free database of thousands of scholarships that can be filtered by grade and demographic, plus scholarships that are easy to apply for and don't require an essay.

A new site feature is that all scholarships "are now 'ungated' so that students don't need to sign up," company CEO Will Geiger wrote in an email. "We think that this makes Scholarships360 particularly student-centric as students can go directly to the scholarship website. They can also use our app to check their eligibility and get matches."

Trying to fund your education? Get tips and more in the U.S. News  Paying for College  center.

12 Ways to Win a Scholarship

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Best Writing Scholarships in 2024

Showing 159 scholarships that match your search.

Immerse Education

The Immerse Education Essay Competition provides the opportunity for students aged 13-18 to submit essay responses to a pre-set question relating to their chosen subject. 10 winners will receive a 100% scholarship, with runner-up prizes also awarded. 100% Scholarship Award For Cambridge, Oxford, Sydney & London Summer School Essay Competition.

Categories: Critical Essay

Organization: Immerse Education.

Deadline: January 04, 2025.

Additional awards: Runner-ups: 50% of scholarship.

Categories: Critical Essay.

Apply now →

Creative Writing Award

The winner will be offered the opportunity to occupy during her or his first academic year the residence room where J. D. Salinger lived; and Leadership standing in the Ursinus writing community. The winner will be expected to join the previous award winners in reading subsequent creative portfolios, and will help the Office of Admission in selecting the next winner. Award winners are also expected to be prominent members of Ursinus’ Literary Society, The Lantern, and the creative writing community.

Categories: Critical Essay, Journalism, Nonfiction, Novel Writing, Personal Essay, Playwriting, Poetry, Portfolio, Research, Screenwriting, and Short Fiction

Organization: Ursinus College.

Deadline: January 15, 2025.

Categories: Critical Essay, Journalism, Nonfiction, Novel Writing, Personal Essay, Playwriting, Poetry, Portfolio, Research, Screenwriting, and Short Fiction.

The Sub Pop Loser Scholarship

Sub Pop Records is extremely proud to offer a grand total of $15,000 in college scholarship money to three eligible high school seniors. To apply you must submit a one-page essay using any combination of our questions as a guide (or write something completely your own, be inspired and creative!). Applicants must be residents of Washington or Oregon in pursuit of higher education.

Categories: Personal Essay

Organization: Sub Pop Records.

Deadline: March 23, 2025.

Additional awards: Second place scholarship of $5,000, third place scholarship of $3,000.

Categories: Personal Essay.

Islamic Scholarship Fund Program

Students who are Muslim or active members of the Muslim community may apply for the Islamic Scholarship Fund. The ISF awards multiple scholarships each year ranging from $3,000-$10,000, though the amounts and number of recipients will vary. Students must submit applications including essay questions, work samples, and letters of recommendation, and must also be majoring in an ISF-supported field related to media or politics.

Organization: Islamic Scholarship Fund.

Deadline: March 21, 2025.

Additional awards: Multiple awards of varying amounts will be given.

BBB Torch Talk Scholarship

BBB Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to educating consumers on a variety of marketplace issues; this scholarship is in pursuit of that goal. Applicants must attend high school in Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington or Western Wyoming, and will submit a 500-word essay for BBB’s online magazine Torch Talk on one of the given topics.

Organization: Better Business Bureau.

Deadline: March 16, 2025.

Flag House Scholarship Award

Do you know of an unsung history-maker in your community? Is there an organization in your community working to keep the legacy of a historically significant, but often overlooked, individual alive and relevant? Identify a person living or from the past whose professional work, activism, or personal story has made a significant impact on you or your community. Describe why their story is unique and explain how they have changed history. Response should be limited to 350 words.

Categories: Research and Critical Essay

Organization: The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House.

Deadline: March 26, 2025.

Categories: Research and Critical Essay.

Unpublished Writer's Award

The winner of this award receives $1,000, an invitation to accept the award at our annual awards ceremony, promotion on our website, and a feature of their work in our Magajournal and quarterly newsletter. Applicant must email an original, unpublished fiction work (short story or novel excerpt) not to exceed 2,000 typed words on double-spaced pages

Categories: Short Fiction and Novel Writing

Organization: Go On Girl! Book Club.

Deadline: March 31, 2025.

Additional awards: Invitation to awards ceremony, promotion through website and publications.

Categories: Short Fiction and Novel Writing.

Incight Scholarship

The INCIGHT scholarship is open to students in Washington, Oregon, and California who have a documented disability. Applicants must complete two detailed essay responses (video essays also welcome) in order to be eligible. The number of awards and total amount awarded will be determined during the selection process, and winners will be notified in June.

Organization: INCIGHT.

Deadline: April 01, 2025.

Christine B. Dexter Scholarship

The Christine B. Dexter Scholarship was established in honor of Christine B. Dexter after her passing from stomach cancer in 2008. This scholarship awards undergrad students a $2,000 scholarship towards their fall tuition. All recipients demonstrate a history of community service and resilience through their cancer journey.

Organization: Christine B. Foundation.

Marguerite Young Endowment Fund

The Marguerite Young Endowment Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for students who plan to study theology. Candidates must be attending a Protestant seminary as a master of Divinity candidate, preparing for full-time ministry and/or be a seminary intern at a Protestant Church. Application must includes proof of this, as well as a personal essay.

Organization: The Pittsburgh Foundation.

The AAF-Greater Evansville Scholarship

The AAF-Greater Evansville awards scholarships to deserving high school and/or college students yearly in April. To be eligible, students must plan to pursue a career in advertising, marketing, public relations or graphic design. Application varies yearly but includes various education details and personal statements.

Categories: Journalism

Organization: American Advertising Federation of Greater Evansville.

Categories: Journalism.

Aspiring Literary Scholar Award

The winner of this award receives $1,000, an invitation to accept the award at our annual awards ceremony, promotion on our website, and a feature of their work in our Magajournal and quarterly newsletter. Candidate must submit an essay not to exceed 800 words on the topic "The Power of The Written Word."

Dr. Jerry Pournelle Scholarship

The Dr. Jerry Pournelle Scholarship may be awarded to a candidate of any gender majoring in engineering, math, biological or physical sciences, or “science fiction as literature” as an eligible field of study. Applicants must submit a 500-1,000 word essay on one of several scientific topics.

Categories: Research, Personal Essay, and Critical Essay

Organization: The Heinlein Society.

Categories: Research, Personal Essay, and Critical Essay.

Dr. Yoji Kondo Scholarship

The Dr. Yoji Kondo Scholarship may be awarded to a candidate of any gender majoring in engineering, math, biological or physical sciences, or “science fiction as literature” as an eligible field of study. Applicants must submit a 500-1,000 word essay on one of several scientific topics.

Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship

Project Sleep’s Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship is a national scholarship program to support students with narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. Students must complete an application form that includes a response to the esssay question: "If you could go back in time and speak to yourself on the day you were diagnosed, what would you say? Write a letter to yourself on that day."

Organization: Project Sleep.

What are writing scholarships?

Writing scholarships are financial awards given to students based primarily on written work, though other factors are usually taken into consideration as well. Most writing scholarships involve a prompt or series of prompts to which applicants must respond. Some writing scholarships — especially those that award large amounts of money — require applicants to submit past writing samples, or even a full portfolio.

The good news is that, with so many writing scholarships to choose from, you don’t have to apply for any that are “out of your league.” Indeed, though most students have heard of writing scholarships, you may not realize just how many different varieties there are! Here are five of the most common types of writing scholarships, all of which you can find in this directory.

1. Personal essay scholarships

Personal essay scholarships involve writing on a topic related to your own experience. You’ll often see personal essay prompts like, “How have your experiences influenced your choice of major?” and “What are your career aspirations and how do you plan to achieve them?” Other prompts may ask you to write about a role model, a life-changing event, an aspect of your identity, etc. Suggested length is usually about 500-1,000 words, but varies depending on the level of detail requested and how many essay questions are provided.

Just about every scholarship these days has a personal essay component of some kind. This is because personal essay responses both demonstrate writing skills and give the judges a clear sense of each applicant’s goals. No one wants to throw away money on an aimless student — so if you’re applying for a personal essay scholarship, make sure to convey both your writing abilities and your ambitions in your work!

2. Critical essay scholarships

Critical essay scholarships are more in line with what students might consider  “academic” essays. The prompts typically ask applicants to analyze works of literature. However, unlike open-ended English class essays, most critical essay scholarships provide a very specific prompt (e.g. “Examine The Great Gatsby in the context of its World War II-era revival”).

Critical essay scholarships can also involve non-literary subject matter. Some may ask applicants to evaluate a historical event or figure; others may ask them to defend their stance on a political or legal issue. Though the line between critical and personal essays can sometimes blur, for the purposes of this directory, we define critical essays as those that use evidence from an external source to prove a point.

3. Short fiction scholarships

Short fiction scholarships include scholarships for short stories, one-act plays, poetry, and any other form of fiction that isn’t a novel or full-length script. Short fiction scholarships tend to be easier to find than long-form fiction scholarships, since most judging panels don’t have time to read more than a few thousand words per entry. Therefore, if you write fiction and you’re hoping to nab yourself a scholarship, this category is the way to go! (That said, if you’re a hardline novelist, some places will accept a sample chapter or two as short fiction entries.)

4. Journalism scholarships

Journalism scholarships are for students interested in pursuing a career in news, magazine, and/or online journalism. These scholarship applications almost always ask for writing samples to show the candidate’s interest. Depending on the organization, they may prefer topical news reports, informative articles, thinkpieces, or a mix. Some journalism scholarships provide a prompt and ask applicants to write a new article, but the focus is usually on samples. Speaking of which…

5. Portfolio scholarships 

Portfolio scholarships are the most rigorous kind of writing scholarship, requiring a substantial body of work from each applicant — usually 5-10 pieces of writing, if not more. The upside is that awards for portfolio scholarships tend to be pretty sizable, and may even cover your entire tuition!

If you decide to apply to a portfolio scholarship, make sure you have several strong pieces of work in your oeuvre, and consider writing a few new pieces as well. What you shouldn’t do is rush through a dozen new pieces to throw together as a portfolio. If you don’t have samples at the ready from previous assignments or projects, you’ll be better off applying to a less intensive writing scholarship.

Why apply to writing scholarships?

Applying to writing scholarships is a huge undertaking, especially if you’re pursuing multiple scholarships at once. It can sometimes feel like the effort isn’t worth it, or that you have little chance of actually winning any awards. But in truth, submitting to writing scholarships is one of the best investments you can make in your education, your creative writing skills, and your professional life.

Scholarships for larger amounts do attract more applicants, but that doesn’t mean they’re impossible to land — only that you have to work a little harder to stand out. And you can definitely sway the odds in your favor by applying to lots of small scholarships ($500 or less) for which you’ll have fewer competitors. Remember that every little bit helps! For example, if you plan on taking out student loans, even a $500 scholarship could save you much more in interest down the line.

Another compelling reason to apply to writing scholarships is that oftentimes, you’ve already done the work, or the work required is minimal. For scholarships that require writing samples, you’ll simply submit what you’ve already written in the past — and even for scholarships with specific prompts, you rarely have to write more than a couple of pages. If you were seriously committed, you could apply to a scholarship every day, spending a single concentrated evening on each application.

Jumping off that thought, as English majors love to say: the more writing scholarships you apply for, the better a writer you’ll become. Writing tons of scholarship essays will make you a much more creative and efficient writer. Not only will this help with your personal writing projects, but it will also be invaluable to your education and even your career! Writing is a crucial skill for every major — you’ll always have to write papers and emails to professors, after all — and even if you don’t plan to pursue a writing-based job, you'll still need writing skills to polish your résumé.

Finally, remember that there’s a writing scholarship out there for everyone, no matter what your interests or intended field. This directory includes plenty of creative writing scholarships, yes; but there are also personal essay scholarships for future doctors, lawyers, salespeople, and so much more. You have nothing to lose by giving it a shot, so why not start searching for your dream writing scholarship today? (And if you’re unsure about your writing skills, you might benefit from some of the resources below.)

Resources to strengthen your writing skills

• 20 Writing Tips to Help You Become A Better Writer Today
• How to Stop Procrastinating and Build A Solid Writing Routine
• What is Creative Nonfiction? Memoirs, Literary Journalism, and More!
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10 Winning Scholarship Essay Examples From Real Students

Make your application shine.

Writing a scholarship essay can be intimidating. The competition is fierce and the stakes are high, so students are bound to feel the pressure. It may be helpful, therefore, to look at essays that were successful. What did those students do to impress the committee? These scholarship essay examples will give you a better idea of how to make an application shine! 

Tips for Writing a Scholarship Essay

We’ve put together a whole guide for how to write a scholarship essay , so if you haven’t read it already, definitely give it a look! In addition, here are some quick tips to help students get started. 

Carefully read the rules

The last thing you need is to be disqualified from winning a scholarship because you didn’t do the right thing. 

Start early

Don’t wait until the last minute to start researching and applying for scholarships. Give yourself plenty of time to work through the process. 

Get to know the provider

Think of the scholarship provider as your target audience. You want to tailor your essay to impress them, so do your research. What kinds of candidates are they looking for? What causes do they support? Dig deep for the information you need!

Think about who you are, what you want to say, and how to appeal to the scholarship committee. Write everything down and then choose the best ideas. 

The scholarship committee will be reviewing many applications. How can you make yours unforgettable? Highlight your strongest assets, share hard lessons if they showcase your growth as a person and/or student, and be honest. Never lie in a scholarship essay!

Be professional

Consider this the most important academic paper you’ve ever written. Don’t use slang or casual language. Submit a properly formatted essay that’s been well-edited and proofread by multiple people.

One last tip

Don’t reuse scholarship essays! Yes, it’s time-consuming, but students need to put the same effort into every application. Use the same process and it will get faster and easier every time!

Scholarship Essay Examples

Afc visionary scholarship essay by nicole kuznetsov.

Award Amount: $5,000

Essay prompt: Why do you want to go to college? Why is it important to you?

Why it was successful: The  beauty of this essay is that it’s well-organized and simple. Nicole Kuznetsov chose to outline her story by using chronology and provided a clean, concise story following a linear path.

North Coast Section Foundation Scholarship Essay by Christine Fung

Award Amount: $1,000

Why it was successful: Christine Fung masterfully shared how her upbringing instilled strong values, a love for education, and a passion for medicine .

The Bill Browning Scholarship Essay by Gabby DeMott

Award Amount: $10,000

Essay prompt: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Why it was successful: Gabby DeMott shared her experiences with personal growth and overcoming fears in Germany. She also appealed to the very human feeling of wanting to belong in a way that was inspiring. 

Life Happens Scholarship Essay by Emily Trader

Award Amount: $15,000

Essay prompt: How has the death of a parent or guardian impacted your life financially and emotionally? Be sure to describe how the loss of your parent/guardian impacted your college plans, and explain how the lack of adequate (or any) life insurance coverage has impacted your family’s financial situation.

Why it was successful: Emily Trader fully addressed the prompt in honest, beautiful detail. She knew her audience and tailored her essay to appeal to them while telling her compelling story. 

Change a Life Foundation Scholarship Essay by Isabella Mendez-Figueroa

Essay prompt: Please explain how your experience volunteering and participating in community service has shaped your perspective on humanity. Elaborate on how these experiences have influenced your future ambitions and career choice.

Why it was successful: Isabella Mendez-Figueroa shared an empowering story about her parents overcoming financial adversity so that she and her sister could be the first in their family to go to college. 

Giva Scholarship Essay by Joseph Lee

Essay prompt: Who is (or what makes) a good doctor?

Why it was successful: Joseph Lee offered a captivating , personal story that was essentially a list of things that make someone a good doctor without it feeling boring or calculated. 

New York University College of Arts and Science Scholarship by Ana

Award amount: $39,500 

Essay prompt: Explain something that made a big impact in your life.

Why it was successful: Ana discussed how early experiences w ith learning difficult things has contributed to her passion for teaching and supporting students. 

The Fund for Education Abroad Rainbow Scholarship Essay  by Steven Fisher

Award amount: $7,500

Essay prompt: The Fund for Education Abroad is committed to diversifying education abroad by providing funding to students who are typically under-represented in study abroad. Please describe how you and/or your plans for study abroad could be viewed as under-represented.

Why it was successful: Steven Fisher’s powerful essay   connected his realizations about his own sexual identity with embracing the beautiful diversity found all around the world. 

Women’s World Banking Founder’s Scholarship Essay by Rosaisha Ozoria

Essay prompt: Write about your hopes for the future of women and girls worldwide.

Why it was successful: Rosaisha Ozoria   focused on a very specific topic , financial literacy for Hispanic women, and emphasized its importance and relevance to her own life. 

The Millennium Gates Last Dollar Scholarship Essay by Famyrah Lafortune

Award amount: $3,500

Essay prompt: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” —Nelson Mandela Describe a change you would like to make in the world. Tell us about how you would plan to make that change, and what obstacles you might encounter along the way.

Why it was successful: Famyrah Lafortune starts with a strong statement about ending racial inequality and then details the steps she’ll take to make it happen. 

Do you have any great scholarship essay examples? Share them below!

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Scholarship Essay Examples

With college tuition costs rising each year, many students apply for merit scholarships to help make college more affordable. However, merit scholarships can be competitive—and that’s where our scholarship essay examples come in. By reading our scholarship essay examples, you can learn what it takes to write an award-winning essay. 

Scholarships are an excellent opportunity for students to lessen their college tuition costs. Most merit scholarships require a brief application, usually including one or more essays. Below, we’ve rounded up our best scholarship essay examples.

Reading winning scholarship essay examples, especially scholarship essay examples about yourself, can help you begin the scholarship essay process. By reviewing essay examples, you can learn how to craft a strong essay. You’ll also get a better sense of what scholarship committees look for when they review applications.

In this guide to Scholarship Essay Examples, you’ll find tips on how to write the best scholarship essay, as well as:

• Various scholarship essay examples about yourself
• A strong scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship
• Scholarship essay examples about financial need, and more!

We’ve included scholarship essay examples specific to schools, including UC Berkeley, as well as specific programs, like the SHPE scholarship. We’ll also discuss the different types of scholarships you’ll find on your scholarship search. 

Now, before we jump into our essay examples, let’s learn more about getting scholarship money for college.

What is a scholarship essay?

A scholarship essay is an essay you’ll include in your merit scholarship applications. In many ways, your scholarship essays might resemble your college essays. So, the scholarship essay format should seem familiar. 

The best scholarship essays will highlight who you are and why you deserve money for college. Scholarship essay prompts will ask you to include various information, from details about your background to explanations of why you deserve a scholarship.

Crafting a compelling, well-written essay can help you win substantial financial awards to help cover your college tuition costs. However, not all scholarship essays are the same. Later on, we’ll review different winning scholarship essay examples to show you what kind of essays you’ll write in your application process.

Types of Scholarships

There are many different types of scholarships available to students. You can find a variety of scholarship opportunities on scholarships websites. The earlier you start your scholarship search, the more scholarships you’ll find. 

While some scholarship applications accept applicants of all backgrounds and abilities, some have very specific eligibility guidelines. So, you may not be eligible for every scholarship. If you’re not sure whether or not you’re eligible, you can find eligibility information on most scholarships websites. 

Here are a few different scholarship types you may come across in your scholarship search:

• Academic scholarships
• Merit scholarships
• Essay competitions
• Community service scholarships
• Military scholarships

Scholarship essay prompts will differ across programs. As you’ll see in our winning scholarship essay examples, the prompts can vary in word count and complexity. We’ll provide you with descriptive essay examples to help you get an idea of what to expect.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Most scholarships we’ll highlight in this article are merit-based scholarships . A merit-based scholarship is money awarded by a college or community organization based on your academic achievements. 

In contrast, a need-based scholarship is awarded based on a student’s financial need. If you are applying for financial aid, be sure to check out our scholarship essay examples about financial need. You’ll find both merit- and need-based scholarships on your scholarship search.     

To qualify for a merit-based scholarship, you generally must meet specific criteria. Scholarship committees look at your grades, academic achievements, extracurriculars, and even test scores. Need-based scholarships can have similar requirements, but they’re primarily concerned with your family’s financial status.

There are many merit-based scholarships available to help students afford college, including:

• National merit scholarships
• Gates Scholarship
• Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship
• Robertson Scholarship

Check out our guides on these popular merit-based scholarships for more details. There, you’ll find tips on how to write a winning essay. Our descriptive essay examples can also help prepare you to apply to these programs After all, while prompts vary, the scholarship essay format remains fairly standard. 

Finding scholarships

In this guide, we’ll highlight some scholarships you may be eligible for. However, make sure to check out the rest of our resources to help you approach the scholarship search. 

Some scholarships we’ll discuss include:

• QuestBridge scholarship : helps low-income students attend elite colleges
• Park scholarships : for students attending NC State University
• SHPE scholarship : offers financial assistance for Hispanic students interested in STEM degrees. 

Scholarship essay examples about financial need will help you prepare for your scholarship applications. For instance, if you apply for the SHPE scholarship, you’ll include a lot of details about your background. 

You can also use scholarship search portals or scholarships websites to find other scholarships you may be eligible for. 

How do you write a scholarship essay?

While scholarship essay prompts may differ, you’ll usually stick to the same general scholarship essay format. 

One resource that can help you write the best scholarship essays and find money for college is Sallie Mae. Sallie Mae is a private lender offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional student loans. They also grant scholarships and provide aspiring college students with a scholarship search portal on their scholarships websites. Here’s what they have to say about having a winning scholarship essay format.

Organization

When writing a scholarship essay, it’s best to start with a scholarship essay format that organizes your thoughts. This will allow you to follow a plan that clearly and concisely gets your points across. You should begin your essay with a solid introduction. Then, introduce your supporting arguments and add an appropriate conclusion. 

A good scholarship essay clearly states why you deserve to win money for college with evidence to back up your argument. You’ll see how to do this in our scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. The best scholarship essays will be original and honest. It should be written in an inspirational and positive tone, highlighting your strengths and capabilities. 

When you feel like you have put your best foot forward, you should ask others for their feedback. This can be from a teacher, counselor, or one of our advisors here at CollegeAdvisor! Proofread your final essay and make sure you’ve caught any spelling and grammatical errors before submitting your application.

Up next, we’ll get into our descriptive essay examples and the different scholarship essay prompts they responded to. 

By looking at scholarship essay examples, you can learn what exactly makes a good essay. So, let’s look at some descriptive essay examples written by students looking to secure money for college. 

First, we will walk you through scholarship essay examples about yourself. Then, we’ll look at a scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. Lastly, we will provide you with scholarship essay examples about financial need. Remember to keep these scholarship essay examples in mind when writing essays of your own!

Scholarship Essay Examples About Yourself

Let’s take a closer look at some scholarship essay examples about yourself.

Scholarship essay prompts vary quite a bit, so make sure you understand what the prompt really asks of you. That way, you can answer the question or address the prompt in its entirety.

Some scholarship essay prompts may ask how the scholarship will make a difference for you. They may also ask about any contributions you have made to your community. 

Ready to look at some winning scholarship essay examples? Check out these scholarship essay examples below.

The first of our scholarship essays is for Phi Sigma Rho. Here’s the prompt: 

How do you promote Phi Sigma Rho and STEM on your campus or in your community? (300 words Max)

Phi sigma rho scholarship essay.

In my campus and community, I strive to promote Phi Sigma Rho and STEM by promoting Phi Rho’s values and sharing my experiences and passion for Phi Rho.

My involvement in the Women in Engineering Program (WEP) and Society of Women Engineers (SWE) has allowed me the opportunity to promote Phi Rho and STEM. These activities have given me insight into how to successfully create a network that will support and encourage women in engineering to continue their careers. 

Within WEP, I served as a sophomore orientation leader (Envoy), mentoring first-year women and assisting with program logistics. As an envoy, I was able to promote Phi Rho ideals of friendship and encouragement. I was also able to informally recruit for Phi Rho by sharing my experiences and passion for the sorority.

Within SWE, I was the Internal Relations Chair my freshmen year and am the Director of Member Engagement this year. Both roles are related to member engagement, allowing me to promote friendship within engineering. Member engagement is important for creating a community among female engineers. Similar to my envoy position, my leadership within SWE has allowed me to share my love for Phi Rho.

Additionally, my volunteer experience with Engineering Ambassadors (EA), a STEM outreach group, has allowed me to promote STEM in the community. In EA, I give presentations on engineering, speak on panels, and lead hands-on activities for K-12 students. EA has taught me strategies to promote STEM to children and teenagers.

Because of Phi Sigma Rho, I have the confidence to inspire and encourage the next generation of female engineers. I hold the values of scholarship, friendship, and encouragement in the highest regard and strive to embody those in every leadership position and volunteer role. Through SWE, WEP, and EA, I have promoted Phi Sigma Rho, its values, and STEM as a whole in both my campus and community.

This is, in many ways, a scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. The writer clearly highlights how they’ve engaged with Phi Sigma Rho and how their values align with those of the organization. The writer also provides specific examples of their leadership positions, skills, and accolades. 

The next two of our scholarship essay examples about yourself are for the SHPE scholarship. Here they are: 

SHPE Scholarship essay example #1

Essay prompt:.

Summarize your life experiences and any challenges that have impacted your path to higher education. (250 Words) 

Essay Example:

I vividly remember the first day of First Grade because I didn’t know the Pledge of Allegiance like the rest of my classmates. Growing up in a Hispanic household, I had never learned what the pledge was. This was the beginning of several years of disconnect. 

From receiving weird looks when I told classmates my family opened Christmas gifts at midnight, to my parents’ confusion when I didn’t want them to speak Spanish in public, both sides of my life never understood the other. As a result, I always felt out of place in school, like I was behind in some way because I didn’t share the same upbringing as my classmates. In contrast, academics felt like a level playing field, something we were all learning together in the same way.

While I couldn’t tell you who won the super bowl, I could do mathematics or read just as well, if not better, than my classmates. Socially, I always felt out of place, but academically I was always comfortable, and as a result, I tried to excel in that area of my life. That desire to succeed created the relentless work ethic I have today and the appreciation I have for education.

Despite the lack of emphasis from my parents on schoolwork, I developed this sense of responsibility and persistence to pursue an education. Although my family’s Hispanic culture made my life difficult when I was younger, it made me a more resilient person.

More scholarship essay examples

Shpe scholarship essay example #2.

Discuss your educational and career aspirations as well as your ability to complete and achieve these goals. (250 words)

Using a degree in engineering, I hope to work on improving sustainability and efficiency in the aerospace industry by creating cheaper, safer, and more environmentally-conscious options.

Recently, Pratt and Whitney designed an engine that is 16% more efficient and will release 3600 less metric tons per airplane per year. Excitingly, it also greatly reduces the noise footprint of an airplane. Innovations like these will allow the aerospace industry to evolve and improve while reducing negative environmental impact. I hope to work at the forefront of this innovation, pushing the boundaries of improved engine performance and efficiency. 

Last semester, I started working in the Experimental and Computational Convection Laboratory on campus to learn more about turbines. Some current projects in the lab involve new turbine cooling techniques and additive manufactured heat exchangers. Throughout the course of my undergraduate career, I hope to learn more about the barriers facing improved engine and turbine efficiency. Following undergraduate, I plan to attend graduate school to gain a deeper knowledge of these topics. Following graduate school, I may go into industry working on turbines and jet engines. Due to beginning research early, I believe graduate school is an attainable educational goal.

The potential ability to make a difference in the environmental impact of the aerospace industry is exciting. To accomplish this, I know studying Mechanical Engineering will give me the skills necessary to fulfill my career goals.

Both of these scholarship essay examples use specific details to highlight the writer’s strengths, experiences, and accolades. In reading these winning scholarship essay examples, we get a sense of who the writer is both as a person and as a student. 

Scholarship Essay Sample about “Why I deserve the scholarship”

Another scholarship essay prompt you may come across is “why I deserve this scholarship.” A good scholarship essay clearly highlights why you deserve to win the scholarship and provides evidence to support your argument. 

Below, you’ll find scholarship essay samples about why I deserve the scholarship. You can use these as a guide to help you tackle your own scholarship essays. 

Here’s the first of our scholarship essay examples, which was used for the Park Scholarship: 

The Park Scholarship is an investment in the potential of young people. It prepares scholars to make lifelong contributions to communities, states, nations, and the world. Tell us a story that illustrates your potential to make these lifelong contributions. (What have you done that should compel us to invest in you?) (Max. 3,990 characters including spaces.)

Park scholarship essay example.

Coming from a Venezuelan family, I have always been able to connect with total strangers through Spanish. Whether I’m eating at a restaurant or volunteering, I am constantly stumbling upon other Spanish speakers. The ability to converse in their language allows me to bond with them in a way I couldn’t in English, something I do not take for granted. 

Because of my experience, I believe that learning a foreign language is an incredibly important skill. Being able to speak in a second language allows a person to understand another community and reach out to people within that community. Additionally, speaking a second language assists in appreciating other cultures. This appreciation is important for fostering open-mindedness, something America as a whole struggles with today. 

In my school district, foreign language classes are not offered until late middle school. Once in high school, many students drop the class. In addition, those who stay in the class often find that the classes provide little more than a basic understanding of the language and then become discouraged in their learning. On a larger scale, this issue affects America as a whole. Second language programs often come second in terms of funding and planning and are not encouraged as rigorously as other academic courses. As a result, many Americans are ignorant to the benefits of bilingualism and are unable to understand the viewpoint of those who are multilingual.

After my freshman year of high school, my frustration with my community’s lack of priority for second language learning culminated in my desire to take some sort of action to promote foreign language education. In my sophomore year, a classmate and I created and ran an introductory Spanish program, Spanish in the Spring, at my local library for young children in the district. I spent hours at home creating lesson plans, activities, themes, and advertisements for the program. I placed heavy emphasis on cultural aspects and the importance of the Spanish language in America and the world as a whole.

My purpose for this program was to introduce children at a young age to learning a foreign language, so their desire to learn would continue throughout their life. Through the program, I was also able to share my belief of the importance of learning a second language with the children, as well as their parents. After the final day of the program, I was thrilled when one parent mentioned their desire to learn a foreign language program themself. I felt that if I made an impact on one person or family, the entire program was worthwhile. 

Unfortunately, this past spring I was unable to continue the Spanish in the Spring program due to library scheduling restraints. However, I hopefully plan to offer the program again this spring with some changes that will improve and expand the experience. One of these changes will include the immersion of parents into the experience to encourage foreign language education as a family activity.

While this program was only offered once, the impact was immeasurable, for the children, for the cause of foreign language education, and for me.

This is another scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. In it, the writer clearly and directly answers the prompt—that is, they highlight their potential to make a lifelong impact on members of their community. 

Ready for another scholarship essay example? Here’s the next one: 

How will a ScholarSHPE impact your life and education? (200 Words)

Shpe scholarship essay example.

Receiving a ScholarSHPE will give me the gift of time and opportunities. My parents are unable to support me financially throughout college due to large amounts of accrued debt. A ScholarSHPE will reduce my financial stress and allow me to improve my overall health as a result. It will also prevent the need to work several hours a week at a part-time job to pay for tuition, books, and living expenses, which will limit what I can do academically and outside of class. A ScholarSHPE will allow me to spend more time on research pursuits, engineering extracurriculars, volunteer work, and school work, instead of long hours at a part-time job. 

This essay sample is fairly straightforward. In it, the writer follows a clear scholarship essay format, explicitly answering the prompt. 

UC Berkeley Scholarships essay examples

Let’s look at some school-specific merit scholarship essay examples. 

At the University of California – Berkeley , students can apply for a variety of merit scholarships. These scholarships can help offset the cost of UC Berkeley tuition. 

Below, we’ve included various scholarship essay examples for the UC Berkeley scholarships. These UC Berkeley scholarships can help students cover their college tuition costs. This can make the UC Berkeley tuition less of a barrier for students hoping to attend. 

You’ll find a variety of UC Berkeley scholarships that can help you afford UC Berkeley tuition. Available UC Berkeley scholarships include: 

• Berkeley Undergraduate Scholarship
• Fiat Lux Scholarship
• Middle Class Scholarship
• Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship

These are just a few ways to cover the cost of UC Berkeley tuition. UC Berkeley students also receive more than $10 million per year in outside scholarships to cover college tuition costs. If you are interested in exploring non-UC Berkeley scholarships, check out this list of outside scholarship resources . 

To help you get started, check out our winning UC Berkeley scholarship essay examples. The authors of these scholarship essay examples about financial need all won money to help cover their UC Berkeley tuition.

UC Berkeley scholarship essay examples

I am grateful to realize how fortunate I am today. All the loved ones around me and their acts of kindness have given me such a great life. I also realize the sacrifices that those around me have had to give up in order for me to succeed. It is because of this that I have realized what “paying it forward” truly means. I have been given the opportunity to make an impact in my community and I have fully taken advantage of this opportunity. I have been a volunteer for the Buddyball Sports Organization, which is a non-profit sports organization dedicated to providing the opportunity for children with developmental disabilities to play sports.

Growing up, watching and playing sports has been one of my greatest pleasures of life, so teaching these less fortunate kids has been something I have enjoyed doing every single weekend. On top of this, I am also both a volunteer at the South Orangetown Ambulance Corps and the Nyack Hospital. With the desire to pursue a career in the medical field, volunteering at these places has given me a great idea of what my career could look like in the near future. While all of these volunteer activities have had a significant impact on me, little did I know that this summer would truly make a lasting difference in my life. 

This past summer, my family decided to go on a vacation to India to visit my relatives. This was the first time in my life that I was going to India and this was only because my grandmother came down with Parkinson’s disease and was extremely sick. Little did I know at that time that my visit to India would be a life-changing experience. Never could have I imagined such a filthy village. Everywhere I looked, there was garbage and to make matters worse, no one seemed to do anything to try to ameliorate the repugnant image of my home country.

While I realized on my flight home that I was not going to be able to make a difference and help my community back in India, there was nothing stopping me from doing so right here in Rockland County, New York. When I was told that I would have the opportunity to help organize and direct “Make a Difference Rockland,” I joyfully accepted! Make a Difference Rockland is a free public meet and greet for all local non-profits and other government agencies in an attempt to promote different community service opportunities within the public. By gathering all the local non-profit organizations and giving them a chance to present themselves, people learn more about all of the local community service opportunities that are available to them. This way, the community will be able to recruit volunteers and will not have to suffer through calamitous conditions.

As one of the people in charge of organizing, it was my responsibility to adequately contact, invite and help prepare for hundreds of people. Once I gathered their contact information, I had to ask each one of these places if they would be interested in joining the fair. If interested, I had to also prepare a table for them to present themselves at the fair. The feeling of bringing all of these community service groups together brought me a feeling of happiness that I will never forget. 

The best scholarship essays will teach the reader about who the writer is, what they care about, and why they deserve a scholarship. The essay above does just that—it highlights the writer’s background and describes how they give back to their community. 

Next, let’s dig into a few more scholarship essay examples. 

If you’re interested in more descriptive essay examples, keep reading. 

Reading a ton of winning scholarship essay examples is a great way to pick up on what makes them winners. Over time, you’ll start to notice how the details, tone, and flow all work together to tell a story.

Below, you’ll find a few more scholarship essay examples. Our first one is from the NC Parks Scholarship. Here’s the prompt:

What do you do to serve your community? Why do you do the service that you do? What impact have you made? What challenges or insights have your service contributions given you? (Max. 3,990 characters including spaces.) 

Community-focused scholarship essay example #1.

“What are the boys like in high school?” “Is it easy to get a boyfriend?” Sighing, the other frustrated leaders and I look at each other as we read the questions posed by the younger girls. Every year at Girls’ Night Out (GNO), a program that introduces and prepares eighth-grade girls for high school, the girls question the leaders about relationships and dating ad nauseum, irritating other leaders to the point of ignoring the questions. 

Giving each question a careful and deliberate answer is often difficult, but instead of disregarding the issue, I try to offer my most sincere and honest advice. Originally, when I began as a group leader in the program I would give the same response, “You shouldn’t worry about boys. Instead, enjoy your friends, and do things you enjoy.” While that advice is true, it is often not the answer that will satisfy the girls. Through many years in the program, I have learned that advice is not “one size fits all”; it must be individualized to the person’s needs. Now, when faced with a question about dating, I respond with more questions before giving “words of wisdom”.

Many times I am able to understand the perspective of the middle school student, allowing me to give advice accordingly. Supplying proper advice about sensitive topics is one of the most impactful parts of GNO. As a role model and positive influence for the girls, I largely impact their ideas and perception of the environment when entering high school. In addition to teaching the students valuable lessons, volunteering at GNO has taught me that various perspectives may present themselves identically. To better understand those around me, it is important that I look beyond the surface for the other person’s viewpoint.

Beyond understanding other viewpoints from GNO, I have learned from other service that understanding a person’s situation is essential for providing exceptional assistance. Through Key Club, I volunteer many times a year at the local food pantry. As a volunteer, I help the recipients “shop” at the small grocery store using a point system. The process takes up a lot of time because shoppers do not always know what they want. Originally I  thought this was a poor design. I believed it would be much more efficient to just hand out the food rather than giving out points and shopping with the food pantry recipients.

Upon expressing my opinion to one of the adult food pantry staff, he explained to me that the grocery store aspect of the store taught the recipients life skills. Additionally, by giving them autonomy over what food they “bought”, they retained a sort of independence, an important skill to have if they find themselves above the income level required to use the food pantry.

The next time I volunteered I took note of the skills presented. Budgeting of points, deciding whether or not they needed something, determining the quality of the fruit, and decision-making of choosing extra food or toiletries, were all skills that those above the poverty line have ingrained. For those who have been using food pantries and other assistance for prolonged periods of time, these skills are not so natural. As a result, teaching the people means after they no longer need the services of the food pantry, they have valuable skills necessary for their independence.

From this experience, I learned an important lesson: helping people is not just giving them what they need at the moment, but understanding what they will need in the future and providing that as well. After realizing this, I emphasize the abilities that the food pantry teaches whenever I dedicate my time. By doing that, I am positively affecting the development of those skills. 

When reflecting on the various ways I have served my community, one thing stands out to me: I always understand another viewpoint or gain a new perspective afterwards. For me, the ability to look at something from different angles is an unparalleled talent, and one of the most important skills a person can have.

Describe your volunteer or community experience with SHPE or other organizations and any internships you have held.  (250 Words)

Community-focused scholarship essay example #2.

In SHPE, I have been involved in planning the Penn State College of Engineering STEP-UP (Student Transition Engineering Program at University Park) Program as a chair. The STEP-UP program helps students from Penn State branch campuses smoothly transition to the University Park campus through a 3-day program in the spring. The program introduces them to engineering resources, other engineering students, and provides professional development. Due to COVID-19, this year it was held virtually. 

Within the Society of Women Engineers and the Women in Engineering Program, I have volunteered at different STEM events in the community for elementary school students. I am also currently serving as an Envoy (a mentorship and logistical position) for the Women in Engineering Program Orientation. Additionally, I participate in many of SWE’s service events, such as donating and collecting donations, cleaning up areas on and around campus, and visiting nursing homes.

On campus, I am also involved with Engineering Ambassadors (EA), a group that does STEM outreach around Pennsylvania from the elementary school to high school level. EA goes virtually or in person to schools, does engineering presentations and activities, and answers questions.

Prior to COVID-19, I had secured an internship with Pratt and Whitney, however, they had to cancel their internship program. As a result, I was fortunate enough to obtain a Process Quality Engineering internship at Brentwood Industries for summer 2020.

Both of these scholarship essay examples highlight how the writers have given back to their communities. These winning scholarship essay examples highlight the writers’ strengths. In doing so, they highlight why these writers deserve help with college tuition costs. 

Reflecting on scholarship essay format

As important as the content of your essay is, your scholarship essay format is equally important. As you write, be sure to adhere to the scholarship essay format guidelines provided to you. 

However, there are some things all of the best scholarship essays have in common. Here are some general tips, tricks, and outlines to help you in your own writing process.

Three scholarship essay writing tips:

• Word counts are hard to adhere to, but the other applicants must adhere to them, too. Make sure every word counts. 
• When you write a solid essay, you can repurpose some of your key points, including specific anecdotes and details, in other scholarship applications.
• Writing a good essay helps you solidify who you are and what you want. This sets you up for success in the scholarship application process and beyond. 

Three essential elements to include in your essay:

• State your goals. Scholarship committees are investing in your future and your potential. To take a chance on you, they need to know your plan and what you want to do with your award. 
• Establish an implicit or explicit link between your goals and the scholarship you are applying for. Describe to the committee how the specific scholarship will help you attain your goals. Give them a tangible reason as to why you deserve their investment. 
• Share your story. Use personal details about your experiences that highlight your identity and objectives. How have you pursued your goals and prepared for your future? How will the scholarship help you going forward? Get personal and be honest.

Storytelling in your essay

Some of the best scholarship essays utilize good storytelling strategies. You should share the details of your personal story in a narrative, using a logical order. Remember, telling personal details about yourself and your goals does not mean simply restating your resume!

By the end of the essay, the scholarship committee should have an in-depth sense of why you applied. You should reveal:

• When and how you arrived at your future goals
• Your motivations to accomplish these objectives
• What traits or skills you have developed along the way
• The meaningful experiences that drive you to your goals
• Any personal challenges you have faced and how you have overcome them
• What has shaped you and your worldview

These details humanize you and show your complexity as a person and an applicant. It’s helpful to use anecdotes and personal experiences to give life to facts and details about yourself. Sharing real-life experiences will help make your essay more interesting and more fun to read.

Creating your scholarship essay format

Once you have thought about what you want to say, start thinking about your scholarship essay format. You may start by making a list of what your reader may be interested in:

• How you spend your time
• Your accomplishments
• What your passions are, etc.

Start by brainstorming everything you may want to include in your essay. Then, think about whether the stories you include support your arguments. Ask yourself, “What did I learn?” or “How did this get me closer to my goals?”. These reflections help the reader connect to your purpose for writing. 

Make sure to organize your thoughts in a narrative order. However, there isn’t just one way to write an essay. So, don’t limit yourself to one version of your story. You may find yourself writing multiple drafts before you get to your final scholarship essay format.

Editing and proofreading your essay

When you think you have finished, be sure to proofread and edit to ensure it’s ready to be submitted. Check that you’ve adhered to all the scholarship essay format guidelines (like the word count). 

Reviewing also includes getting input from others! An outside reader’s opinion can help you confirm your essay effectively communicates your ideas.

Tips for scholarship essays

You may notice some similarities between the scholarship essay examples about yourself we’ve provided. That’s because the authors of the best scholarship essays all use similar strategies to make their essays great. 

Here are 5 tips from U.S. News to help you make all of your scholarship essays stand out:

Tips for writing stand-out scholarship essays

1. get personal and be specific.

The best scholarship essays will share an authentic story with impactful details. The key is to be yourself and not shy away from personal details. The more the committee gets to know about you, the more likely they are to invest in your future. You want your essay to offer a genuine, in-depth look into who you are as a person.

2. Tell a story

Your essay should be more than a collection of facts—it should tell a story. That means having a solid introduction that grabs the reader’s attention from the very start. Then, you should include a logical flow of experiences or details. By the end of your essay, you want your reader to have learned something valuable about you.  

3. Tailor the scholarship essay to the prompt

Some of your scholarship essay prompts may be similar across different scholarship applications. However, it’s important that your essay is specific to each prompt and answers the question entirely. While you can repurpose an essay you’ve already written as inspiration or a starting point, be extra attentive when doing so.

4. Don’t tailor yourself to the reader

Many students fall into the trap of telling a story they think scholarship foundation committees want to hear. Instead, stay true to yourself as you craft your scholarship application essays. Don’t tell your reader what you think they want to hear—just tell them who you are. 

5. Follow directions

This final tip may arguably be the most important. Above all else, students should follow instructions. This means adhering to the scholarship essay format guidelines and word count. It also means answering the essay prompt in its entirety. Application readers can be easily frustrated by a student’s failure to follow directions. This could reflect poorly on you and your essay in the long run. 

Use these tips to guide you as you approach the scholarship essay format. 

Scholarship Essay Examples – Final Thoughts

We hope our roundup of scholarship essay examples has shown you how to approach your scholarship applications. With rising college costs, scholarships should be a part of your college financial planning process. Take the time to do your own scholarship search based on your specific interests. You can find plenty of scholarships to apply to on scholarships websites and college financial aid pages. There are many different scholarships websites to help you with your search. 

Save this guide

Feel free to save this guide and review our scholarship essay examples about yourself and about financial need. You can always look back on our scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship when writing your own essay. 

Start with an outline that organizes your thoughts. Then, make sure your essay is clear and concise. Be original and honest, and include personal details and anecdotes when appropriate. State why you deserve to win the scholarship. Then, support your claim in a way that makes a scholarship committee invested in your future. 

We’re here to help

Don’t forget to proofread your essay and ask others for their feedback. When in doubt, reach out to our advisors at CollegeAdvisor. Our team is always here to help support you find and apply for scholarships!

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Even the best student loans and other financial aid items don't always provide enough to cover all the costs of college. Scholarships are a great way to bridge the gap, with no obligation to repay the money. Finding scholarships you qualify for can be difficult. But there are several great scholarship websites that can help you do it.

Keep in mind, however, that many colleges deduct private scholarships from the amount of gift aid they provide, reducing how much "free money" you can get from the school. That would effectively negate the work you did in seeking out and applying for private scholarships. Therefore, you should consider looking at schools that offer merit-based scholarships or provide generous packages to students with financial need.

Scholarships.com

Collegeboard, scholarshipowl, compare the best scholarship websites.

We've rounded up the best scholarship websites for students looking to save on the cost of college, with an emphasis on those that provide a wide breadth of opportunities. Most of the sites are free to use. Some offer basic features at no cost, with an option to pay for additional functionality. 

Peterson's 

Our experts for the best scholarship websites.

We consulted scholarship and financial experts to give their insights into finding the best scholarship websites — and when to avoid them altogether.

• Christopher Rim, founder and CEO at Command Education
• Jennifer Ledwith, owner at Scholar Ready
• Neeta Vallab, founder at MeritMore
• Ryan Wangman, former loans reporter at Personal Finance Insider

Best Scholarship Websites FAQs

There isn't a singular website that's the best to apply for scholarships. Instead, consider scholarships.com, Fastweb, Bold.org, Peterson's, College Board, Scholly, GoingMerry, Scholarship Owl, and ProFellow.

Do your due diligence when looking to apply for scholarships you find on aggregation websites. Confirm that the scholarship's sponsor is legitimate by looking at reviews of the company, and check its Better Business Bureau grade, if available. 

Most private scholarships won't completely cover the cost of your education. You're better off looking for merit scholarships from individual colleges that cover your costs completely or filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)  to see if you're eligible for a need-based full ride. 

Generally speaking, you shouldn't pay someone to search for scholarships for you, though there are exceptions to every rule. Many scholarship websites are free to use. They only "cost" the time you spend searching on them. 

The timing on when you should start filling out applications for scholarships varies depending on the specific scholarship you're applying for. Some scholarships are even available to high school students, so it's never too early to start your search.

The GPA requirement varies from scholarship to scholarship, but the lowest GPA is usually around 2.0. In general, you'll have a better chance of success with a higher GPA. 

Some of the most common scholarship types include academic scholarships, athletic scholarships, identity-based scholarships, and first-generation student scholarships.

Our Experts' Advice for Choosing the Best Scholarship Websites

What are the advantages of private scholarships versus scholarships or grants from schools.

Neeta Vallab: 

"Honestly, there are very limited advantages to using private scholarships over grants directly from schools. Unlike private scholarships, most grants from schools do not require a separate application and are renewable for four years. Additionally, many colleges will deduct the value of a private scholarship from any award they give you. This is called 'displacement.' And because this practice is so prevalent, it often leaves students with no net financial benefit, despite the effort they invested in submitting an application."

Jennifer Ledwith:

"Unlike scholarships from schools, private scholarships can be used at multiple universities. Furthermore, unlike grants from schools, private scholarships don't have to follow federal or institutional financial aid methodology. Consequently, students can receive private scholarships without regard to other financial aid awards. Furthermore, some private scholarships send the money directly to the student, allowing greater flexibility in using the funds."

Should you always consider scholarships before loans? Are there any scenarios you should pick a loan?

Christopher Rim: 

"No, you should never pick a loan over a scholarship! You always have to pay back loans. Students should bear in mind that they may have their scholarship rescinded if they don't meet the terms and conditions. They should be absolutely sure to read the terms of their scholarship thoroughly to understand the possible consequences if they fail to meet the set conditions."

Ryan Wangman:

"You'll need to repay the money you borrow from any lender, so it's never a good idea to choose a loan over a scholarship, which is money you don't have to pay back. There aren't any scenarios I can think of where it is better to pick a loan than a scholarship. 

How do you know what scholarships you're qualified for?

Rim : 

"Many websites will allow students to filter through their databases to find scholarships they are eligible for. Others ask students to create a profile and then match them based on demographic information. Once students find the scholarships on databases, they should be sure to cross check eligibility requirements on the sponsoring organization's website."

Vallab : 

"Private scholarships will usually have a qualifications section in their description. Some colleges may publish a scholarship grid showing the GPA and test scores required for certain levels of eligibility. Not all merit scholarship information is published however."

What's the best way to track what scholarships you've applied for and are waiting to hear back from?

"Students should keep a spreadsheet to track their scholarship application status."

"Like Jennifer mentioned, a spreadsheet is usually the best way to track application status. Make sure you note how far along you are in each process, as well as any awards you have received — both private and from the schools you've been accepted to.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the 10 easiest scholarships to apply for.

Financial Aid

Scholarships are awesome resources if you're checking out different ways to pay for college. It's free money after all—what's not to love?

As it turns out, most scholarship programs have application processes that aren't exactly lovable. Students generally have to submit a lot of information about themselves: transcripts, GPAs, test scores, resumes, community service activities, and so on. There might even be a few essays and grade requirements thrown in as well. You don't want to complain—because, again, free money—but these applications sure are tedious when you're working on college apps, high school courses, and financial aid applications all at the same time.

The following easy scholarships have application processes that are a bit more manageable. Some ask you to write short essays, while others don't require any essays at all! The awards might not be as large as some other scholarships out there, but when the application process is so easy, you really don't have much to lose. I'll start off with some words of warning before getting into the good stuff: essay and no-essay scholarships that are so easy to apply for, you might end up applying to all of them!

Caveat: If a Scholarship Seems Too Good to Be True ...

Unfortunately, there aren't too many legitimate "easy" scholarships out there. If a scholarship application sounds too good to be true, be cautious—you don't want to fall victim to a scholarship scam!

Here are some things to look out for:

• A scholarship application that asks for personal information that isn't relevant to the award: Many top scholarship programs ask for personal information (transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and even financial information for need-based scholarships); however, this info is all relevant to candidate evaluation. If you're ever uncomfortable providing personal info for a scholarship program, dig deeper. Can you verify that the program is legitimate? Does it have its own website, or can you only find info about it through a third party? Try Googling "[award name] scam" to see whether anything suspicious pops up.
• A scholarship that asks you to make payments to enter or win: Scholarship programs are in the business of giving money to students, not taking it. A scholarship program is likely just a scam if the application asks you to make a payment—especially if it asks you to enter credit card information.

Now that we've got that out of the way, it's time to get to the good stuff: all the best easy essay and non-essay scholarships and how to win them!

Essay Scholarships

The scholarships in this section ask students to submit short essays with their applications. Even though you'll have to write an essay, the rest of the application (and the essay itself) should be easy and manageable for all these awards. In fact, most of these applications shouldn't take more than one to two hours to complete.

Bachus & Schanker, LLC Scholarship

This scholarship program is a bit different from most of the other awards included in this post—it's funded by a private law firm in Colorado. Students compete for a $2,000 award by writing an essay (at least 800 words) about the 7th Amendment and how it affects their lives. Scholarships are awarded twice a year, to be paid toward tuition for the upcoming semester.

• Eligibility: High school seniors who have been accepted to a four-year university and university students with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Deadline:  July 30 (to win a scholarship for the fall semester) and November 30 (to win a scholarship for the spring semester)

Courage to Grow Scholarship

This $500 award is given out to one lucky student every month. To compete for the award, applicants must explain in 250 words why they think they deserve the scholarship, intended to support students who found “courage to forge ahead when sometimes it would be easier to give up.” Past recipients’ essays have discussed overcoming obstacles from bullying to breast cancer.

• Eligibility: US high school juniors and seniors and college students with a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Deadline: Last day of every month 

Odenza Marketing Group Scholarship

Odenza Marketing Group gives away two $500 scholarships each year, once in the spring and again in the fall. To compete for this award, applicants must like the Odenza Facebook page and write two short essays of about 500 words each. Each scholarship must have a clear thesis statement, offer supporting evidence in paragraph format, and be grammatically correct. In other words, these essays should follow the argumentative essay format you've learned in English class.

• Eligibility: Current high school students (US or Canadian citizens) aged 16-25 or students who have at least one year of college remaining. Applicants must also have a minimum 2.5 GPA.
• Deadline March 30 for spring, November 15 for fall

Some of these applications won't take you longer than a few minutes.

No-Essay Scholarships

When it comes to easy applications, you can't get much easier than the following scholarship programs. You'll still have to submit some information about yourself (and, in some instances, complete some brief activities or tasks), but you won't have to write any essays to qualify.

AFSA High School Scholarship

For this scholarship, all you need to do is complete an entry form and answer an eight-question quiz. Five $1 ,000 awards are given out each year. Winners are randomly selected by a computer-generated drawing. Your odds of winning are based on the total number of entries received. Essentially, it’s a scholarship raffle, and you get one ticket per “draw.”

• Eligibility: Current high school seniors (US citizens or legal residents)
• Deadline: June 30, 2023

Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship

This scholarship has one of the easiest applications out there: just fill out a few questions, and you're done! A $1,000 scholarship is awarded every three months. Winners are selected randomly.

• Eligibility: Current high school, college, and graduate students studying in the US
• Deadline: The last day of every March, June, September, and December

The Annual Haiku Society of America Haiku Award in honor of Harold G. Henderson

This scholarship program gives out three prizes of $200, $150, and $100 , but the application process is fun and easy. Students qualify by simply writing and submitting up to five original haikus. If you win, your haiku also gets published in an anthology and on the HSA website! Note: There is a small fee to apply, but the site is indeed reputable.

• Eligibility: All students in grades 7-12
• Deadline: Open June 1 - July 31

"No Essay" College Scholarship

This $2,000 award is given out monthly. To apply for this scholarship, submit an application that includes basic identifying information, your GPA, and your SAT/ACT scores. Winners are randomly selected, and you can submit a new application every month.

• Eligibility: High school students, adults heading back to school, current college students, and anyone else looking to attend college or graduate school within the next year

Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Do you have a creative side and an eye for fashion? Students can compete for the grand prize of $10,000 (one each for the dress and tux categories) by designing and wearing prom outfits made out of duct tape. Check out the website for fun pictures of past winners!

Eight $500 prizes are given to runners-up (four for dresses and four for tuxes).  Applicants can enter as individuals or as part of a couple. Submissions that get the most votes win prizes, so be sure to recruit your friends to vote for you!

• Eligibility: High school students in the US and Canada (excluding certain states and territories—refer to the official rules for details)
• Deadline: The submission window is generally open from March through June, and winners are announced in July. Check the website for exact dates. 

U.S. Bank Student Union Scholarship

Multiple awards are available through this scholarship. To qualify, you'll need to create an account and complete learning modules about financial education. The more modules you complete, the more money you're eligible to earn. 

One first prize winner and one second prize winner are randomly selected during each of two entry periods. Winners can receive up to $20,000 , depending on how many learning modules they complete 

• Eligibility: Current US undergraduate students
• Deadline: Spring and fall of each year. Check website for more details.

Because College is Expensive Scholarship

This $500 scholarship is awarded to one student four times a year (March, June, September, and December) .If you want to enter, all you have to do is fill out the form on the Cedar Lending website.

• Eligibility : High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors; current college students; anyone else looking to attend college or grad school
• Deadline : March 31st, June 30th, September 30th, and December 31st. One winner is selected by the 15th of each month. 

3 Tips for Winning Easy Scholarships

Just because a scholarship is easy to apply for, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easy to win. Since these scholarship applications are so simple to complete, you'll probably have a lot of competition. Here are some strategies to help you submit your best applications possible:

#1: If you have to write an essay, you'll have a better shot at success if your views align with those of the organization awarding the scholarship. To prepare, do some research about the company or charity's mission statement. For instance, don't write an essay about how much you love fossil fuels if the scholarship is offered by an environmental organization! 

#2: Make sure your application is polished. You won't have the opportunity to make more than a first impression (remember, these apps are short and sweet!), so double-check for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors.

#3: Last but not least, be sure that your application is complete and on time!

What's Next?

These scholarships are excellent options if you want to churn out as many applications as possible. As you might've noticed, though, the award amounts are a bit underwhelming (though keep in mind that several smaller awards can be just as helpful as one big award!). Larger scholarships and grants are often available through colleges directly and applying for financial aid using the FAFSA .

You'll have to spend more time on your applications if you're gunning for a top scholarship, but the payoff can be more than worth it. To learn more about some of the best scholarships out there, check out our guides to the top scholarships for high school juniors and seniors .

Francesca graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and scored in the 99th percentile on the SATs. She's worked with many students on SAT prep and college counseling, and loves helping students capitalize on their strengths.

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Top 20 Scholarships for College Students in 2024

Discover 20 incredible scholarship opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Unlock your potential and achieve your dreams with these life-changing awards.

Derek Pankaew

May 28, 2024

Scholarships

Looking for scholarships to help make college more affordable?

Here's our streamlined guide to the top 20 scholarship programs offering exceptional financial aid for a multitude of strengths and circumstances in 2024.

Cut through the confusion and target the top scholarships, that match your academic and extracurricular achievements, paving the way to a more affordable education.

20 Scholarship Opportunities for Exceptional Students

These scholarships recognize exceptional achievement and provide substantial financial aid to support the next phase of your educational journey.

1. National Merit Scholarship Program

The National Merit Scholarship Program is open to high-achieving students for scholarships based only on their PSAT/NMSQT scores. This program is for high school students who have excelled in the classroom and on this standardized test, providing merit-based scholarships on the path to college education.

High school juniors aspiring to be among the nation’s scholastic champions can find a prestigious opportunity for recognition and financial aid for their dream college during the academic year through this program.

2. Coca-Cola Scholars Program

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is an achievement-based award for graduating high school seniors. Coca-Cola Scholars excel academically and demonstrate leadership in extracurricular activities and community service.

150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected annually to receive a $20,000 scholarship paid over four years of undergraduate study at an accredited U.S. college or university. The application opens in August with an October deadline.

Eligibility requirements include:

• Current high school senior
• U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, refugee, asylee, Cuban-Haitian entrant, or humanitarian parolee
• Planning to pursue a degree at an accredited U.S. post-secondary institution
• Demonstrates academic excellence
• Exhibits leadership skills in school and community activities
• Actively involved in community service

3. AXA Achievement Scholarship

The AXA Achievement Scholarship awards $25,000 to 52 students nationwide - one from each state, Washington DC, and Puerto Rico. Applicants must be high school seniors who plan to enroll full-time at a two- or four-year college or university in the U.S. for the entire academic year following high school graduation.

They must demonstrate ambition and self-drive as evidenced by outstanding achievement in an activity in school, the community, or the workplace. The scholarship is sponsored by the AXA Equitable Foundation.

• Plans to enroll full-time in an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the U.S.
• Must enroll for the entire academic year following high school graduation
• Demonstrates ambition and self-drive through outstanding achievement in an activity in school, the community, or the workplace
• Only the first 10,000 applications will be accepted

4. Gates Scholarship

The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for exceptional, Pell-eligible, minority, high school seniors. It provides funding for the full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid and the expected family contribution, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or the methodology used by a scholar's college or university.

The scholarship is available to African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American students with outstanding academic records. The program aims to help these students reach their educational goals and maximum potential.

• A high school senior
• From at least one of the following ethnicities: African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American
• Pell-eligible
• A US citizen, national, or permanent resident
• A minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
• Enrolling full-time, in a four-year degree program, at a US-accredited, not-for-profit, private or public college or university

5. Horatio Alger Scholarship

The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program provides $25,000 scholarships to high school seniors who have overcome significant obstacles. Eligible students must demonstrate critical financial need, have a minimum 2.0 GPA, and be involved in co-curricular and community service activities.

Scholars gain access to resources such as counseling, career exploration, and alumni connections. Since 1984, the program has awarded over $235 million to more than 35,000 students. It is named after author Horatio Alger Jr., known for writing about honesty, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

• High school senior
• Demonstrate critical financial need ($55,000 or lower adjusted gross family income)
• Minimum GPA of 2.0
• Involvement in co-curricular and community service activities
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
• United States citizenship

Easily pronounces technical words in any field

6. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship Program

The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship provides $30,000 four-year scholarships to minority high school seniors demonstrating leadership potential and financial need. The Foundation offers support services including career guidance, internship placement, mentoring, and leadership development.

Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors planning to attend an accredited four-year U.S. college. They must show leadership potential, dedication to community service, financial need, U.S. citizenship, and a minimum 1,000 SAT score (math and critical reading) or 21 ACT composite score.

• Minority high school senior
• U.S. citizenship
• Plan to attend an accredited four-year college within the United States
• Demonstrate leadership potential
• Show dedication to community service
• Present evidence of financial need
• Minimum SAT score of 1,000 (math and critical reading combined) or ACT composite score of 21

7. Fulbright Scholarships

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides research, study, and teaching opportunities in over 140 countries to recent graduates and graduate students. It is the largest U.S. exchange program, offering more than 2,200 grants annually across all fields of study.

The program promotes cultural exchange through direct interaction in various settings. Fulbright alumni have achieved distinction in many fields, including Nobel Prize and Pulitzer Prize winners, as well as heads of state and government. Senator J. William Fulbright founded the program in 1946, and it is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

• U.S. citizenship at the time of application (permanent residents ineligible)
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent before grant starts
• Language proficiency for the host country
• Good health
• J.D. holders are eligible, but not Ph.D. holders
• Disclosure of prior felony or misdemeanor convictions
• Capacity for independent study/research and knowledge of host country

8. Global Scholars Program at Clark University

The Clark Global Scholars Program offers a four-year, full-ride scholarship to 10 exceptional first-year applicants to Clark University. The scholarship covers tuition, room and board, and mandatory fees. Students from any country can apply.

Clark Global Scholars receive individualized mentorship, professional development, a capstone experience, and funding for living expenses, books, and personal items. To be considered, students must apply to Clark University by the November 15 Early Action scholarship deadline only.

The program is for students with strong academics, leadership abilities, and potential to drive transformational change.

• Apply to Clark University by November 15 Early Action deadline
• Strong academic credentials
• Leadership abilities
• Potential to be an agent of transformational change
• First-year applicant to Clark University
• Open to students from any country
• No separate scholarship application needed

9. Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship

The Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) offers two $5,000 scholarships annually to graduating U.S. high school students who have promoted vegetarianism in their schools and/or communities.

Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, or fowl. Vegans also do not use other animal products like dairy or eggs. Applicants are judged on compassion, courage, and commitment to promoting a peaceful world through a vegetarian lifestyle.

The application requires an essay on how the applicant has promoted vegetarianism, including challenges, successes, and future plans. Applicants must also submit two or three recommendations. The deadline is typically around February 20 each year.

Requirements:

• Graduating U.S. high school student
• Promoted vegetarianism in school and/or community
• Vegetarian (no meat, fish, or fowl) or vegan (no animal products)
• Shows compassion, courage, and commitment to a vegetarian lifestyle
• Submit an essay on promoting vegetarianism, including challenges, successes, and plans
• Provides two or three recommendations
• Applies by deadline, typically February 20

10. Adobe Design Circle Scholarship

Adobe research women-in-technology scholarship.

Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship recognizes outstanding undergraduate female students studying computer science. The scholarship supports future leaders in the field of computer science and creates a more diverse technology industry.

Recipients receive a $10,000 award, a Creative Cloud subscription membership, and a potential internship opportunity at Adobe. The application typically opens in September and closes in November each year.

Adobe CyberScholar Scholarship

The Adobe CyberScholar Scholarship, in partnership with Purdue University, supports undergraduate students studying cybersecurity with a focus on women and underrepresented minorities.

The scholarship aims to address the skills gap in cybersecurity and increase diversity in the industry. Recipients receive a $15,000 award, a Creative Cloud subscription membership, and potential internship opportunities at Adobe. The application period is typically from January to March each year.

11. Burger King Scholars Program

The Burger King Scholars program, offered by the Burger King McLamore Foundation, awards scholarships to high school seniors, Burger King employees, and their dependents.

The program is designed to help students offset the cost of attending college or post-secondary vocational/technical school. Scholarships are awarded in the amount of $1,000 to $50,000, and the application window typically runs from October to December each year.

Recipients are chosen based on their grade point average (GPA), work experience, extracurricular activities, and community service. The program has awarded more than $50 million in scholarships to over 33,000 students since 2000.

• High school senior, Burger King employee, or dependent of a Burger King employee
• Plan to enroll full-time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school
• Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Be passionate about serving the community, and demonstrate financial need

12. Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Competition

The Elks National Foundation's Most Valuable Student (MVS) scholarship is a highly competitive award for high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding leadership, academic achievements, community involvement, and financial need.

The MVS scholarship is awarded in three levels: 500 four-year scholarships ranging from $4,000 to $50,000, 20 top finalists invited to an in-person leadership weekend to interview for six awards of $30,000 to $50,000 and two top winners who receive private scholarships of $50,000 each.

The application period typically runs from August to November each year. Applicants must be current high school seniors who are citizens of the United States, do not need to be related to a member of the Elks, and must apply through their local Elks Lodge.

• U.S. citizen
• Demonstrate outstanding leadership, academic achievements, community involvement, and financial need
• Do not need to be related to an Elks member
• Apply through the local Elks Lodge
• Applications typically open from August to November

13. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation's College Scholarship Program is a highly selective scholarship for high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation's best four-year colleges and universities.

Each award is intended to cover a significant share of the student's educational experience, including tuition, living expenses, books, and required fees. Awards vary by individual, based on the cost of tuition as well as other grants or scholarships the student receives.

The application process is rigorous, and the scholarship is awarded annually based on academic ability, persistence, and leadership experience, and service to others. In addition to financial support, Cooke scholars receive ongoing advising and access to the thriving community of fellow scholars. The application period typically runs from September to November each year.

• Graduating high school senior
• Cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.5 or above
• SAT combined critical reading and math score of 1200 or above or ACT composite score of 26 or above
• Demonstrate significant unmet financial need (typically Pell-eligible)
• Intend to enroll full-time in an accredited four-year college or university
• Applications typically open from September to November

14. STEM Scholarships

STEM scholarships are designed to support students who plan to pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields. These scholarships are offered by a wide range of organizations, including corporations, professional associations, universities, and other private organizations and foundations. The eligibility requirements, award amounts, and application deadlines vary depending on the specific scholarship.

• AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellows Program
• APS/IBM Research Internship for Undergraduate Women
• National GEM Consortium - GEM Fellowships
• National Space Club Keynote Scholarships

To apply for these scholarships, students typically need to meet specific academic requirements, demonstrate financial need, and in essay scholarship to showcase their passion for and commitment to their chosen STEM field. It's essential to research each scholarship individually to understand its unique requirements and deadlines.

15. Future Educators Scholarships

The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) offers the Future Educators Scholarship to support high school seniors and current college students who aspire to become K-12 teachers. The scholarship awards $1,000 to four recipients annually.

The application is open to NSHSS members worldwide who demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching and a record of academic success. Applicants must submit an essay discussing their motivation for pursuing a career in education, their personal experiences that have influenced their decision, and how they plan to make a positive impact as a future educator. The application period typically opens in early November and closes in mid-December each year.

• NSHSS member (high school senior or current college student)
• Plans to pursue a career as a K-12 teacher
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to teaching
• Has a record of academic success
• Submit an essay discussing motivation, experiences, and plans related to teaching
• Application typically open from early November to mid-December

16. The Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship Award

The Hertz Fellowship, offered by the Fannie and John Hertz Foundation, supports outstanding PhD students in applied sciences, mathematics, and engineering. The fellowship provides five years of funding, including a $34,000 annual stipend and full tuition support. Hertz Fellows join a community of leaders and innovators with access to networking and professional development opportunities.

Applicants must be college seniors or first-year graduate students committed to making their skills available to the U.S. during national emergencies. Selection is based on exceptional academic achievement, creativity, innovation, and potential for future impact. The application is typically open from August to late October.

• College senior or first-year graduate student
• Pursuing a PhD in applied sciences, mathematics, or engineering
• Exceptional academic achievement
• Creativity and innovation
• Potential for significant future impact
• Willing to assist U.S. during national emergencies
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Application open August to late October

17. The Boren Scholarships

The Boren Awards, an initiative of the National Security Education Program, fund U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests.

These regions include Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East. The program aims to build a pool of U.S. citizens with foreign language and international skills.

Boren Scholars and Fellows are highly motivated individuals who wish to work in the federal national security arena. In exchange for funding above scholarships, recipients commit to working in the federal government for at least one year after graduation.

Boren Scholarships provide up to $25,000 for undergraduates, while Boren Fellowships provide up to $30,000 for graduate students. The application deadline is typically in late January or early February.

• Undergraduate or graduate student
• Studying a less commonly taught language in a critical world region
• Committed to federal government work for at least one year after graduation
• Application deadline typically in late January or early February

18. The AICPA Scholarship

The AICPA Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students provides financial assistance to minority students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in accounting or related fields. The scholarship aims to encourage diversity in the accounting profession.

Eligible students can receive the scholarship funding up to $5,000 per year for up to three years, totaling $15,000. The scholarship is open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are ethnic minorities, including Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, or Asian American. Applicants must be either enrolled full time full-time students at an accredited U.S. college or university.

• Ethnic minority (see above)
• Full-time undergraduate or graduate student in accounting or related field
• Enrolled at an accredited U.S. college or university
• Strong academic performance
• Leadership skills
• Committed to an accounting career

19. The DoD SMART Scholarship

The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program, funded by the Department of Defense (DoD), supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing STEM degrees. The scholarship covers full, tuition fees, annual stipends, internships, health insurance, personal expenses, and book allowances.

The program aims to increase the number of civilian scientists and engineers at DoD laboratories and facilities. In return for full scholarships, recipients commit to working for the DoD for a period equal to up to four years or the length of the scholarship , usually one to five years.

• Pursuing undergraduate or graduate degree in approved STEM field
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Available for DoD summer internships
• Willing to work for DoD after graduation for period equal to scholarship length
• Application typically August to December

20. The UNCF/Koch Scholars Program

The UNCF Koch Scholars Program provides scholarships, mentorship, academic support, and networking opportunities to African American undergraduate students at state university. The program prepares students for successful careers by developing their skills, knowledge, and principles.

Scholars receive up to $5,000 per year for four years, totaling $20,000. The program includes mentorship, online learning, and an annual networking summit.

Eligible applicants must be African American high school seniors with a minimum 2.7 GPA, planning to pursue a full-time undergraduate degree at an accredited U.S. college or university. They must demonstrate financial need and strong academic and leadership potential. The application period is typically January to March.

• African American high school senior
• Minimum 2.7 GPA
• Pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree
• Attending an accredited U.S. college or university
• Financial need
• Academic and leadership potential
• Application usually January to March

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my chances of winning a scholarship.

Your chances of winning a scholarship depend on the number of scholarships you apply for, how well your application matches the eligibility criteria, and the effort you put into your submissions. Applying to multiple scholarships and tailoring your applications can enhance your chances of success.

How important are essays in scholarship applications?

Essays are crucial in scholarship applications because they provide a platform for the selection committee to see beyond your academic achievements and understand your personality, experiences, and aspirations. A well-written essay can greatly impact your application.

Can international students apply for scholarships to study in the U.S.?

Absolutely! International students can apply for many scholarships here to study in the U.S., including opportunities for local scholarships like the Fulbright Scholarships and the Global Scholars Program at Clark University. Good luck with your applications!

Should I apply for scholarships that require financial information?

Yes, applying for scholarships that require financial information can increase your chances of receiving need-based assistance for college.

Is it worth applying for no-essay scholarships?

Yes, it's worth applying for no-essay scholarships as part of your scholarship strategy, but it's important to balance them with more traditional scholarships to maximize your potential earnings. Applying for both types more scholarships can increase your chances of securing funding for your education.

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How To Write A Winning Scholarship Essay (with example)

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Scholarship essays are an inevitable part of most scholarship applications. Sadly, many qualified students see an essay requirement, think, “I’m not a good writer,” and decide not to apply. Don’t fall into that trap! Learn how to write a winning scholarship essay today!

As a former writing instructor, I know firsthand that anyone can write a winning scholarship essay if they devote the time and effort. Follow the steps below to write an excellent scholarship essay and dramatically increase your chances of winning scholarships!

Take your time

For most people, it’s not possible to write a stellar essay ten minutes before the application deadline. We recommend giving yourself a few hours to write the first draft of your scholarship essay. Ask a friend to read it over or just take some time away, then take another hour to proofread your essay, ideally the next day.

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Start with structure.

Remember, the reader is not in your head. A solid essay structure is needed to convey your ideas effectively. Before you begin writing:

Create an outline to map out your idea

Clear topic sentences

Plan for multiple paragraphs, with each paragraph headed by a clear topic sentence for that paragraph’s main point

Transition!

Use a transitional sentence or phrase at the end of each paragraph to connect one idea to the next

Answer the prompt

Nothing will set you back like not responding to the prompt provided. It screams “this person didn’t bother to fully read the directions,” or worse, “this person doesn’t care about what we are asking.”

Read the prompt, and then read it again. This is where giving yourself plenty of time to write comes in handy. Rather than immediately starting to write:

• Let the prompt sit with you awhile so that you come up with the best response
• Think of the prompt as a question to be answered
• Consider your audience while being your authentic self

Related:  How to answer scholarship essay questions about your career goals

Start with a hook

Your writing teachers were not joking about the importance of the introductory hook. There are a number of ways to hook the reader, including:

• Using startling statistics
• Opening with a moving sentence
• Making a strong statement

For an example of an engaging hook, say you are writing an essay about social media distraction. Perhaps you could open with:

It might sound odd, but I love my flip phone. In fact, I feel nothing but disdain for that moment stealing villain, the iPhone .

See how you’re already interested in reading on? Effective writing is all about telling an engaging story, and a strong hook is the first step!

Go Deeper: How to start a scholarship essay (with examples)

Don’t forget formatting

Be mindful of any required formatting. This might include a word count or page limit. The application may also specify single or double sentence spacing, using certain fonts, or using a certain format, such as MLA or APA.

Related: What’s the best scholarship essay format?

Show, don’t tell

Finally, no matter what, do your best to tell an engaging story! If given the opportunity, focus on a specific challenge you’ve faced or goal you’ve achieved. As you tell your story, the qualities that make you a great scholarship applicant–your drive, your passion, and your personality–will shine through!

In conclusion?

Speaking of conclusions, don’t end your scholarship application essay with “in conclusion,” which sounds robotic on the page. Instead, think about why what you wrote matters, and remind the reader of just that.

An effective way to bring cohesion to your essay is to refer back to your hook in the closing. For example, if you used that flip phone introduction, your closing might say:

So while some people have 100s of pictures of “experiences” that they were not truly present for, I have lifelong memories stored in my own mind, no extra cloud space required.

Notice how that ending wows? It wraps up your “story” and leaves the reader with a lasting impression of who you are as a person.

Key Takeaways

• Having to write an essay may feel intimidating, but we promise that you are more than capable of completing this step of your application
• Give yourself plenty of time to sit with the essay prompts and then draft your response
• Once you’ve written your essay, ask friends or family to read your work 
• Most importantly remember to take time to read all the directions about the essay and answer the questions that they are asking you

Final thoughts

For more in-depth instructions on how to conclude your scholarship essay, you can consult our guide on how to end scholarship essays . If you are looking for additional scholarship opportunities, check out our list of top writing & essay scholarships .    

Remember, writing scholarship essays is an opportunity to show who you are in a way that test scores and rankings never can. Don’t miss out on winning scholarship awards that you qualify for. Happy writing, all, and don’t forget to apply for all the scholarships you qualify for!

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Frequently asked questions about how to write a winning scholarship essay

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How to Start a College Essay: 5 Effective Techniques

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Impressionable Openers

Descriptions and demonstrations, show vulnerability, be authentic, stay personal, fun & quirky, common mistakes to avoid in your college essay.

• Ways to Overcome Writer's Block

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a College Essay

College essays are a huge part of your college career. If not huge, one of the biggest, and for someone who has been there and done that, I know the amount of pressure the beginning of a college essay, as well as the entire essay, can put on your shoulders.

Not only are you trying to juggle things like word count and grammar errors, but you're also trying to create the perfect college essay introduction that will attract admissions officers to your application or professors to your writing skills. And that, itself, can feel impossible, fill you with dread and self-doubt, but just breathe. I am here to help all present and future students know how to start a college essay.

Today is all about starting a college essay. I have come up with five easy and effective techniques that will help you create essays so good you're going to leave your readers wanting more , starting with your opening sentence! So, this is for all college students and college applicants. Stress no more! This guide was created to help you write a successful college essay. Let's get into it.

Visit our Scholarship Blog to learn how to create your free Bold profile , and start applying for scholarships designed to help you save BIG on your college education.

The beginning of your essay should, first and foremost, always have a strong opening sentence . This sentence sets the tone for not only your readers but for the entire essay. Having a wobbly, almost interesting opener can steer an admissions officer and/or professor away, so you want it to be strong. And it doesn't have to be complicated! Less is more in this situation. Here are a couple of ways you can accomplish this.

• Look within and be relatable
• Use your real life for inspiration
• Think about ways to evoke emotion

Here are some examples of impressionable openers:

• Example 1: When I was 11 years old, my mother told me she had cancer over breakfast.
• Example 2: Maybe yellow isn't my favorite color.
• Example 3: I sat next to this girl in class who made me feel stupid.

DISCLAIMER : your opener should ALWAYS adhere to the essay prompts. These are just a few examples that can capture your reader's attention almost immediately.

In order to keep readers interested, visuals are key . Image-based descriptions will not only add value to your writing, it will give your readers front seats to your essay's journey. These descriptions let actions speak for themselves.

Here is an example of a description and demonstration in an essay:

• Example 1: "I was sitting on a bar stool when the word 'cancer' hit me like the smell of her coffee brewing on the stove. The Rice Krispies were popping in my cereal bowl, and MTV Jams was playing in the background, yet all I could hear was the sound of doom all around me. The lips of my mother were moving, but I was frozen, crumbling on this stool like my mother's health. She was sick, and I didn't know how sick or what that even meant, and that terrified me."

Why This Works:

Here you can clearly feel the writers emotional state: shocked, still, scared. Not only is this moment at breakfast traumatic, you feel frozen in time with the writer. Using descriptions like this will evoke so much emotion and leave your reader wanting more.

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Something one of my teachers told me in high school was any good essay will have personal elements in it, no matter the topic. That always stuck with me and became the way I approached my college essays. Showing vulnerability in your writing will always guarantee interest. It also evokes emotion.

You can show vulnerability by:

• Being honest
• Explaining what's going on inside underneath the exterior
• Describe what's going on around you at the moment
• Letting go of the fear of being seen
• Connecting with the topic
• Being transparent about mistakes/flaws

Examples of showing vulnerability:

• Example 1 : My mother telling me she had cancer over breakfast was not on my bingo card this year.
• Example 2 : I never thought losing someone I love would change me.
• Example 3: I had to lose everything in order to gain everything.

I know being vulnerable can be tough for some , but showing this side of you to college admissions officers and/or professors will not only make you stand out, but it can also help free you of things that might be weighing on your mind. Not to sound corny, but it can be therapeutic and make you a better writer . Just make sure you are staying on track with the essay prompt, and you're set!

Whether it's believed or not, an admissions officer wants to see pieces of you in your personal statement, so starting your essay by showing authenticity is a major major key. Along with being vulnerable, there are a few ways you can achieve this.

• Reflect : Take the time to reflect on your experiences, values, and beliefs that have shaped who you are today. Let your values, passions, and interests shine through in your writing.
• Mind Your Voice : Write in your own voice and avoid trying to sound like someone you're not. Authenticity comes from being genuine and true to yourself.
• Tell Your Story : Share personal anecdotes and insights that show your unique perspective.
• Be True to You : Focus on what matters to YOU (as long as you're on topic!). Write about what is meaningful and important to you rather than what you think admissions officers want to hear.

Above all, be open . Showing introspection and self-awareness in your essay will show any admissions committee who you are beneath the surface, as well as your personal growth.

You can also begin your essay being as random and silly as you'd like . It goes hand-in-hand with other important factors like vulnerability and authenticity. But don't get too crazy . Beginning your essay with something strange will definitely draw readers in. Let me show you what I mean.

• Example 1 : I start my mornings off in silence and solitude to keep people away from me.
• Example 2 : Sometimes, I like to circle big words in complex articles to learn new words. Yeah, but to also keep one in my back pocket for later use.
• Example 3 : Being the youngest child means getting away with everything you want, and that's exactly how I like it.

Do you see how each sentence draws you in? Not only are they light-hearted, but they also make you want to know why you want to keep people away in the morning and what kind of weapon you're forming against others with new words. And every youngest sibling will attest to feeling that exact same way. All of these examples are sure to make your essay fun, show who you are, and leave readers wanting more.

Years of writing college essays have taken me through every high and low of the process possible. And when they're good, they're great! But for some reason, my mistakes stick out more than anything. So, I've compiled a list of common mistakes to avoid when writing your college essay .

• Avoid Being Cliche - While you want to be captivating, you want to avoid overly used syntax and phrases that could potentially lose your reader's curiosity. For example, "in today's day and age," "follow my heart," "don't judge a book by its cover," etc. are all cliches that can be avoided by thinking outside of the box.
• Using Vocabulary to be Impressive - I know you want to impress the admissions committees, but it's important to stick to what you know and not what you can allude to. That is, use verbiage that resonates with your personality. Using extravagant words can work against you, and they can also sound forced. College admissions officers want to see the real you, so show it to them.
• Steer Clear of Controversy - Though it's not said enough, your college essay should tell your personal story and not touch on things that can stir the pot. For instance, talking about politics and religious beliefs may not be the route you want to take UNLESS it's called for in the college essay topic. And if so, stay on track with the essay prompts.
• Procrastinating : Waiting until the last minute to start writing your essay will bite you in the butt. You will feel rushed and end up writing a poorly crafted piece. Give yourself enough time to complete an essay draft, edit the draft, and repeat this two-step cycle until your essay is complete.
• Lack of originality : This goes hand-in-hand with avoiding cliches. Your college essay should exude a lot of your personality, so show admissions officers and teachers who you are! Include your cultural background, test scores that you're proud of, any future aspirations, etc. This all depends on the essay prompts, of course, but in my experience, every essay topic has room to show who you are.
• Ignoring the prompt : This is a major key. STAY ON TRACK. Make sure to carefully read and understand the essay prompt, and write your essay accordingly. The last thing you want to do is write a college essay that has nothing to do with the prompt. Reading is essential here.
• Lack of focus : If you want to know how to start a college essay, that means knowing how to stay focused. Find a quiet space, turn off electronics, hide your phone, and really nestle into how you want to capture your reader's attention. This will help you use your five senses clearly, keep your writing strong and not write an overly wordy essay. Focus is the tool here.
• Poor organization : Make sure your essay has a strong structure with clear transitions between paragraphs. An outline will work best to accomplish this. If you go into starting your college essay without a plan, be prepared to hit all roadblocks.
• Neglecting to Revise and Edit : Like procrastinating, don't fail to revise and edit your work. Always, always, always proofread your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors , as well as clarity and coherence.
• Not Seeking Feedback : Listen, I know that completing an essay is an accomplishment in itself, and you immediately want to submit it, but it's so beneficial to have others read your essay for feedback. You can only spot so many holes in your work when your eyes are constantly reviewing it, so a second, third, or even fourth set of eyes can help point out areas for improvement.

Above all, trust the writing process. Though I do want you to be aware of your jargon, don't get too wrapped up in thinking you're making a mistake. That's what editing is for! Once you complete your college essay, you should always revise and edit accordingly . What you thought sounded good might make you edit it to sound great. Just keep in mind that many colleges are looking for honesty and authenticity vs how well you can sound on paper . So, if you're aware of these factors, you'll be good to go.

Ways to Overcome Writer's Block

Take it from someone who has suffered from chronic writer's block, it's a pain to get through . Imagine being on a writing streak so good that when you stop, the entire essay writing process stops as a whole. It's definitely a challenge, but after 10 years of writing essays and really honing my craft, I learned a few things that have helped me get through even the thickest of writer's blocks, and I want to share them with you. Check them out:

• Take a break : This works every single time. Take a short break and step away from your computer to clear your mind and come back with a fresh perspective. For me, 15 minutes is all I ever need. If you need more time, that's okay. Just try not to make your break a rest.
• Freewriting : Sometimes, I'd start writing without worrying about my structure or grammar to get the ideas flowing, and surprisingly enough, I found my essay taking a pleasant turn.
• Change your environment : Move around. Don't underestimate the effects of a different location or workspace to stimulate creativity. Try coffee shops, bookstores, a park, or a new room in your house. New environment, new energy.
• Set small goals : This one is actually the most important. Some people get overwhelmed with the word "essay" for things like lack of proper writing skills, pressure to write a great essay, etc. But if you try breaking down your writing task into smaller, manageable chunks to make it less overwhelming, it can help. For example, set a goal of three paragraphs one day, take a day to edit those paragraphs, two more the next day, and so forth. Find a formula that works for you.
• Brainstorming : Write down all your ideas--everything. No matter how small you think the idea is, write it down. Even if these ideas seem unrelated, they will help you generate new thoughts and connections.
• Read or listen to music : It took me a while to realize this helps, but engaging in other forms of art can inspire new ideas and break through mental blocks. And new creativity can lead you to impress admissions officers.
• Talk it out : As a writer, it's hard to let people in on the creative process, but discussing my ideas with a friend, family member, or colleague helped me gain new perspectives and insights.
• Relax and Meditate : Hear me out: it works! Practice deep breathing and/or meditation to reduce stress and anxiety that may be contributing to writer's block.

I won't sugarcoat it: the college application process can be intimidating , but it doesn't have to throw you off your game. When it comes to college essays, I see them as opportunities to be fun and expressive. Trust me when I say if you have fun with it, you'll attract the reader's attention , paint vivid details, and write an essay that will leave the admissions officer wanting you at their school. So, take it one step at a time and watch your personal statement come to life.

How can I make my college essay stand out to admissions officers?

Simply put, be yourself. As long as you stay on track with the essay's topic, showing pieces of yourself will allow admissions officers to know more about who you are. Essays are meant to show readers who you are, how you feel, and what you think naturally, not robotically, so be authentic in your writing, and you'll be sure to stand out amongst the rest.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a college essay?

Some common mistakes to avoid in your essay are using cliches and boring wording. You also want to avoid procrastinating, wasting time, not focusing, not editing, etc. When writing your essay, you want to make sure you give your writing the time and attention it deserves, so make sure you're aware of what is pulling you away from your writing. This will help you stay focused. If you have any other doubts, refer to the section about mistakes in this article and let it guide you to success.

How important is the college essay in the admissions process?

Your college essay is key in the admissions process . It's an admissions committee's first impression of you as a writer and potential student, so it should be taken very seriously. Trying to cut corners or rush through the writing process will be obvious, and it will stand out more than things like test scores, academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any other positive influence you've had in your life. So, don't take the easy way out and really work on your essay.

Feeling confident in your college essay skills and want to explore some other essay content? Explore our blog on the comma splice to enhance your technical writing skills!

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35 Common Scholarship Interview Questions (with Answers) – 2024

May 24, 2024

If you’re applying to college, you undoubtedly know that tuition prices have only been rising in recent years. Between moving, room and board, and student fees, attending college can cost a small fortune! [i] As such, scholarships are one way that you can mitigate some of the costs of attending college. [ii] There are several types of scholarships that you can find , including merit-based scholarships , fellowships, leadership scholarships, community and local scholarships, identity-based scholarships, professional scholarships, and competitive scholarships. [iii] Each will have different requirements and strategies for qualification: some are automatically granted by financial need, test scores , or place of residence. Some will require scholarship essays , recommendation letters , or lengthy application forms. And finally, many of the most competitive scholarships require an additional step: an interview. These will include many common scholarship interview questions, and in this article, we’ll detail how you can best prepare to answer these questions.

Preparing for How to Answer Scholarship Interview Questions

There is no single correct way to answer scholarship interview questions, but before you begin, make sure you’re following these five guidelines:

Have confidence in yourself

If you’ve made it to an interview, it means that the scholarship decisions committee has already decided you are a promising candidate for the award, and that your application has beat out other applicants’ submissions. Studies have actually shown that interviewees who self-promote tend to perform better in interviews. [iv] But even if you’re not naturally self-assured, take heart! The following tips on how to answer scholarship interview questions can provide a general framework for success and help you practice before your upcoming interviews. [v]

Practice makes perfect

With a parent, friend, school or application counselor, or other trusted advisor, spend time going over these scholarship interview questions and your potential responses. Remember that you want your responses to seem natural (not like you’ve memorized them or are performing them!). [vi]

Do your research

Learn everything you can about the scholarship to which you’ve applied. Does the scholarship have a particular mission statement? Who are some previous scholarship winners and what made them stand out? What precise amounts are being given away by this scholarship? This is also a good moment to think about “fit.” Specifically, based on the criteria for this scholarship’s winners, why are you the best candidate to receive this grant?

Common Scholarship Interview Questions (Continued)

Your interview time may be very short, and you want to provide as much information about yourself as possible with the timeframe you have. During rehearsals, try the “Bottom Line Up Front” ( BLUF ) strategy as you craft your responses to all of these scholarship interview questions.

Don’t panic – pivot

You may be wondering, “What happens if I can’t answer a question or haven’t practiced it?” Never fear! The good news is that most scholarship interview questions can be sorted into general categories by similar topics, with comparable strategies on how to answer each question within a category. For instance, if you practiced answering, “Tell us about one of your personal achievements,” but the interviewer asks, “What are some of your biggest accomplishments?” you should be able to pivot fairly quickly and answer the actual question with the same strategy you practiced for a different question. Below, we’ve split the top 35 common scholarship interview questions into eight categories for just this reason!

For each category of scholarship interview questions below, we’ve provided a few strategies for brainstorming robust answers. Make sure you can provide answers and examples for each individual question, but even more importantly, remember the successful moves that accompany each question category. Good luck!

Category 1: Very Open “About Me” Scholarship Interview Questions

1) Tell us about yourself.

2) Describe yourself in three words. / How would you describe yourself?

3) What is something unique about you? / What is something about you that no one else knows?

4) Tell us a few things about yourself that didn’t appear in your application materials.

You’re almost guaranteed to get one of these hyper-general interview questions as your interviewer begins questioning you. These questions may take the longest to prepare for because they are so open-ended. As you prepare, remember the three C’s: concision, color, and confidence.

• Concision : It can be soooo tempting to keep on answering this type of question for hours. Don’t! Instead, have some particular examples or biographical details ironed out, polished, and ready to list quickly and concisely. These can be facts about your work or school experience, your cultural background, and any passions or extracurriculars that are important to you. Another quick way to think of a list might be “past, present, and future.” Where have you been? What are you up to now? And where would you like to see yourself in the future?
• Color : Provide rich details that make you stand out as a unique candidate. “I really like debate,” isn’t nearly as vivid as, “I’ve been the president of my high school debate team for two years, and I believe this experience has fostered within me the desire to study pre-law.”
• Confidence : General opening questions aren’t a great moment to paint yourself in a negative light. Unless you’ve overcome a major trauma or are part of a marginalized community (more on this below), focus on achievements, milestones, and big-picture aspirations.

Category 2: More Specific “About Me” Scholarship Interview Questions

5) Who has been a role model for you? Who do you look up to?

6) What is your favorite book and why?

7) What subject is your favorite in school?

8) What is a meaningful experience or class you’ve had in school?

9) What is something important you’d like us to know about your background?

These questions are moments to focus on the details. Again, prepare by making lists of facts about yourself that are memorable, flattering, and well-considered. As you brainstorm for this category, remember: make connections and choose special examples.

Choose examples that can make connections

For instance, your ultimate favorite book of all time might actually be Twilight . And if that’s a crucial part of your core identity, we won’t tell you to lie about it. But if Jane Eyre is in your top five and you plan on minoring in gender studies, Jane Eyre might be the better example to provide connections between who you are as a person and who you hope to be, once you’ve been granted this scholarship.

Choose special examples

These examples should be unique to you and should make you a memorable candidate. Don’t just say that Amelia Earhart is your role model. Say that Amelia Earhart is your role model because you want to be an aerospace engineer and you got your pilot’s license as soon as you turned seventeen.

Category 3: Scholarship-Specific Scholarship Interview Questions

10) Why do you deserve this scholarship?

11) Why did you choose this school or program?

12) Why did you choose to apply for this scholarship?

13) Why should you be the one to receive this scholarship?

You will most likely receive a question about the scholarship itself and why you deserve it. This is the moment to do your research! Make sure you know the exact amount of the scholarship, the selection criteria for recipients, previous winners and their accolades (if possible), and the mission of the scholarship. After learning all of this, prepare for these questions by focusing on fit and promise.

What about this scholarship aligns with you as a candidate, in terms of your past, present, and / or future? It’s okay to use direct language from the scholarship description to describe why you are a perfect match. For instance, if you’re applying for an Ignatian scholarship from a foundation whose motto is “Men and women for others,” this could be an excellent moment to explain how you’ve been a “man or woman for others” in your specific public service, work, volunteerism, etc.

Next, promise

Tell the interviewer how you will put their scholarship to use in the best way possible. Think about the future here. Why are you the best candidate for this grant, based on your future goals and aspirations?

Category 4: Positive Scholarship Interview Questions

14) What is your greatest strength?

15) What activities are you involved in?

16) Tell us about one of your personal achievements.

17) What are your biggest accomplishments?

18) When have you demonstrated leadership skills? / Tell me about your leadership experience.

This is your moment to shine! For positive questions like these, prepare your answers with lists, details, expansion, and passion.

• First, lists . Similar to the general “about me” questions above, it’s good to have a ready-made list of extracurriculars and achievements that you can quickly and concisely rattle off to the interviewer.
• Second, details . Choose a short story or deeper example of your accomplishments that you can use to illustrate your answer to one or more of these questions.
• Next, expansion . Are there items on your CV or résumé that you’d like to explain more fully? This is your opportunity to do so!
• Finally, passion . Choose examples that you’re genuinely proud of, particularly those that align with the mission of the scholarship.

Category 5: Challenge and Adversity Scholarship Interview Questions

19) What is your greatest weakness?

20) Tell us about a mistake you’ve made in the past.

21) Tell us about your biggest regret.

22) What does “failure” mean to you?

23) Tell us about an experience wherein you overcame adversity.

As you prepare to answer “challenge and adversity” questions, two important words to remember are growth and emotion.

• First, growth . After you detail the challenge or adversity you’ve faced, be sure to describe how you learned from or best dealt with this particular problem (even if the interviewer doesn’t ask, it’s important to stay positive!). For instance, “When it comes to my schoolwork I can be controlling. In past group projects, I’ve tended to take over and do most of the work. One way I’ve tried to fix this is by working on clearly delegating responsibilities and seeking specific feedback from group members. These techniques allow me to maintain that sense of control but also necessitate that I’m interacting with group members, stepping back from their contributions, and not completing projects in ways that they may not want.”
• Next, emotion . You don’t need to cry during your interview, but if you’re going to share about a legitimate trauma or marginalization you’ve experienced, it’s okay to provide some detail: this kind of heartfelt illustration can paint a vivid picture for your interviewer and provoke an emotional and empathetic response.

Category 6: Scholarship Interview Questions About Your Personal Philosophies and Behaviors

24) What does your work process look like?

25) What motivates you?

26) What does an ideal college or university look like to you? Why?

27) How do you manage stress?

For this category of scholarship interview questions, focus on language and connections.

• Language can be key. While you shouldn’t directly copy, it doesn’t hurt to look up language from the school or scholarship to which you’ve applied to see if any of their philosophies match your own.
• Connections are also a good way to anchor these answers . For questions about motivation, work, and stress management, make connections between strategies (“I’m diligent in my work, habitually completing small, manageable portions of large tasks every day”) and illustrative goals (“and that’s how I wrote my first book and became the youngest-ever winner of the Houston Novelists Competition last September”).

Category 7: Scholarship Interview Questions that Look Toward the Future

28) What is your dream job?

29) What are your career goals?

30) How will this scholarship help you reach your goals?

31) Where do you see yourself in 5 years? How about 10?

32) How did you or will you choose your major?

33) How will you utilize this scholarship?

The most important move you can make with this category of question is to answer with specificity.

Use specificity

Especially in terms of the scholarship, school, or program you’re hoping to win or attend, and the academic and career goals you hold. It’s not enough to simply say, “I’ll use this scholarship to attend X university.” Explain your major and minor aspirations, courses you hope to take, internships you’ll apply for, your future career, and what timeline you’d like set for yourself over the next few years. Providing this specificity will tell your interviewer that you’re serious about the work you intend to do.

Category 8: Closing Scholarship Interview Questions

34) What questions do you have?

35) Is there anything else you want to add?

There are only a few notes for this type of closing question:

Ask a question

Even if you don’t really have any questions, it’s a good idea to ask one or two, as this demonstrates your eagerness about the scholarship. Are there elements of the award process you don’t understand? Do you have questions about previous winners and their accomplishments? Are you curious about the next steps in the selection process?

Don’t remain silent

Do you have any information you want the interviewers to know that didn’t yet come up? Now is the time to share it. Was there a scholarship interview question you prepared for that wasn’t asked at all? This is also an excellent moment to thank the interviewer for their time, to let them know you are available for further questions, and that you look forward to hearing back from them.

One more question… do you feel ready now? With a little practice, you certainly should! Good luck!

Additional Blogs of Interest

• 26 Most Expensive Colleges in 2026
• How to Win a Coca-Cola Scholarship 
• Automatic Scholarships Based on SAT/ACT Scores
• Best Scholarships for California Scholarships 

How to Answer 35 Common Scholarship Interview Questions – Works Cited

[i] Hanson, Melanie. “College Tuition Inflation Rate,” Education Data Initiative. 13 August 2023. https://educationdata.org/college-tuition-inflation-rate

[ii] Snider, Susannah. “Ways to Save Money in College,” U.S. News & World Report. 20 August 2019. https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/saving-and-budgeting/articles/ways-to-save-money-in-college

[iii] Kerr, Emma and Sarah Atwood. “13 Things to Know About Merit Aid Scholarships.” U.S. News & World Report. 26 April 2023. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/slideshows/things-to-know-about-merit-aid-scholarships?onepage

[iv] Paulhus, Delroy L., Bryce G. Westlake, Stryker S. Calvez, P.D. Harms. “Self-presentation style in job interviews: the role of personality and culture,” Journal of Applied Social Psychology. 10 September 2013. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jasp.12157

[v] Carl, Helen. “Nonverbal Communication during the Employment Interview,” the ABCA Bulletin, Vol. 43, Issue 4, December 1980. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/108056998004300410?icid=int.sj-abstract.similar-articles.1

[vi] Hansen, Katharine, Gary C. Oliphant, Becky J. Oliphant, Randall S. Hansen. “Best Practices in Preparing Students for Mock Interviews,” Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, Vol. 72, Issue 3, 20 May, 2009. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1080569909336951

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How To Get Academic Scholarships: An Easy Guide

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Introduction

The high cost of education has been the #1 factor in decreasing college student enrollment in the United States. Paying out of pocket is never easy, especially for middle—to lower-class groups. Fortunately, there are scholarship programs for all types of students. Wondering how to get academic scholarships? Look no further.

It’s important to note that with only 1.7 million average yearly scholarships awarded and 18.58 million college students in the US, the competition is fierce. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get academic scholarships to increase your chances of being one of the lucky ones. 

Why Academic Scholarships Matter

A college degree can help you achieve personal and professional growth. It can lead to higher earning potential, workforce success, and improved financial stability. 

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However, with the rapid increase in college education costs, a degree can only be an investment if you don’t accumulate a mountain of loans. The higher your student loans are, the lower the return on investment. 

The rising student debts and loans are underscoring the importance of reevaluating the cost and value proposition of higher education. Many students find themselves saddled with significant debt burdens upon graduation. 

An academic scholarship is free money given to deserving students. Usually, schools, companies, or government groups give these scholarships to help students keep studying after high school or continue to grad school.

However, even for students with excellent academics, competing for a scholarship is hard. This is where knowing academic scholarship requirements becomes crucial. The more you know about academic scholarships, the higher your chances of obtaining one. 

Types of Academic Scholarships

Scholarships are not limited to students with top-notch GPAs or exceptional athletic abilities. They are, in fact, accessible to students from all backgrounds. The key is to understand the different types of scholarships available.

Let’s pause to discuss the various scholarship opportunities accessible to deserving college applicants.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Recognizing Academic Excellence

Merit-based scholarships recognize students for their exceptional achievements in their field. It aims to motivate others and create a competitive learning environment. They fall into four main categories:

• Academic Excellence Scholarships. Awarded for outstanding academic performance.
• Research Scholarships. Given to students with exceptional research abilities.
• Artistic Achievement Scholarships. Reserved for students excelling in artistic disciplines.
• Athletic Achievement Scholarships. Targeting students with exceptional sports abilities.

Need-Based Scholarships: Financial Assistance for Students

Need-based scholarships provide financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students. While demonstrating low income is essential, these scholarships may also consider merit-based criteria. They want to break the cycle of poverty and empower recipients to impact their communities positively. 

Common need-based scholarship requirements:

• Demonstrate low income.
• The second selection factor is often based on merit.

Specialized Scholarships: Pursuing Passion and Talent

This scholarship is often a combination of the two previously mentioned types. This scholarship can be categorized into three: 

• Location-specific. This targets students from a particular geographical area. 
• Subject-specific. This is given to students pursuing particular fields or subjects. It mainly aims to address shortages of skilled professionals in those domains.
• Program-specific. These scholarships are linked to specific academic programs or courses. They aim to attract talented students to innovative or unique programs by offering financial support.

Getting Started: Preparing for Scholarship Success

The first advice we will give you on how to get an academic scholarship in full is to ensure that the opportunity aligns with your personal profile. 

Assess yourself. 

Do you have a certain set of talents? Are you great at sports? Is your GPA high? What’s your parents’ combined income? These questions will help you determine what type of scholarship you have the highest chance of obtaining. 

Once you’ve evaluated your strengths, weaknesses, and eligibility criteria, you can narrow your focus to scholarships matching your profile. You may also use online databases or search engines for open entry programs. 

Research scholarship opportunities.

When researching for scholarships, do not limit yourself. Many students tend to focus only on FAFSA and institutional scholarships. Do not make this mistake. 

Always look into community organizations, foundations, and corporations. Apply to everything that you qualify for. While a high GPA to get a scholarship is often the primary criterion, you’ll also find opportunities with no restrictions. For example, Unigo and ScholarshipOwl offer academic scholarships of up to $20,000 based on a random draw. 

Here are a few pieces of advice: 

• Talk to local professionals to point you toward local scholarships.
• Apply to the small scholarships, too. A 500 award can help you pay for a few credit hours. 
• Look for scholarships based on qualities and experience.

Crafting a Winning Application

One of the most common questions asked during scholarship applications is, “What GPA do you need to get a full scholarship?” While the answer depends from program to program, the strongest GPA for a full academic scholarship is 3.75 on a 4.0 scale. There are, however, scholarships that accept 2.0 GPAs. 

GPAs are not the only requirement to secure scholarship opportunities. Essays, recommendation letters, and resumes play crucial roles, too. 

Tips for Writing Compelling Scholarship Essays

It’s important to tailor your essay according to the scholarship. Stay alert on specifications, including minimum length, word count, formatting, font size, and line spacing. This also includes submission deadlines and any other guidelines or instructions.

Here are some key tips for crafting a standout scholarship essay:

• Start Strong. Begin with a captivating introduction that outlines your essay’s topic and ends with a clear thesis statement.
• Show Your Creativity. Don’t shy away from being imaginative. Let your unique voice and personality shine through to make a memorable impression.
• Stay Consistent. Maintain a consistent tone throughout the essay. Use relevant anecdotes and examples to support your points.
• Align with Values. Demonstrate your alignment with the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
• End with Impact. Conclude your essay by emphasizing how the scholarship would benefit you and expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
• Focus on Quality. Ensure your essay is well-written, grammatically correct, and organized. Keep it focused and avoid unnecessary content.
• Address the Prompt Thoroughly. Respond thoughtfully to all aspects of the prompt, providing examples illustrating your points and highlighting your alignment with the organization’s values.
• Submit on Time. Be punctual with all required materials, as late submissions are typically not accepted.

Showcasing Your Achievements: Résumé and Letters of Recommendation

In addition to academic scholarship GPA requirements and essays, you should also work on your résumé and LORs. These papers will contribute insights into your character, academic abilities, and potential for success. Submit them only when they’re asked for. 

Here’s what to include:

• Personal info: Name, location, contact details.
• Education: Schools attended, GPA, class rank, test scores.
• Extracurriculars: Organizations, dates, leadership roles, impact.
• Outside activities: Work, volunteering, with details.
• Honors: High school awards only.

Recommendation letters are used to help committees gain a deeper understanding of who you are as a person and a student. When selecting individuals to write your LORs, consider people who know you well and can speak to your strengths, character, and potential. This might include teachers, coaches, supervisors, or mentors.

Navigating the Scholarship Application Process

Beyond asking, “What do I need to get a scholarship?” It’s also wise to ask for advice on creating a scholarship application timeline. While most deadlines fall between September and May, opportunities exist throughout the year, even in summer. 

According to FAFSA, students should start applying for scholarships the summer before their senior year of high school. Starting early can improve your chances of securing funding and help you understand the process better.

Ask your counselor about school-related scholarships you might miss otherwise. They can provide information on deadlines, especially for local scholarships.

Once you start, keep applying for scholarships throughout high school, college, and even graduate school. Starting early is best, but continue applying throughout your academic journey.

Here’s a quick timeline that may work for you: 

• Research months, or even a year, before college AY. 
• Start to gather documents as soon as you read the scholarship requirements.
• Prepare essays, resumes, and LORs at least two months before the deadline.
• Submit a week before the deadline.
• Interview Preparation (if applicable). 

Maximizing Your Chances

When crafting your scholarship application, do not include outdated information like middle school experiences. Focus on recent achievements to show your potential impact as a college student and alum. Highlight leadership and community involvement.  

If you are unsure what to include, ask friends or family for advice.

There are also scholarships where interviews are necessary. Here are a few commonly included topics in scholarship interviews: 

• Tell us about yourself.
• Share a challenge you’ve overcome, including strengths and weaknesses.
• Why should you get this scholarship?
• What is your proudest personal or professional achievement?
• What is your desired career?
• What is your vision for yourself in a decade?
• Who inspires you?
• What are your hobbies and fun activities?
• The last book you enjoyed?

To show more interest, you should also prepare at least two tailored questions for the interviewer or scholarship panel. Even if they don’t prompt you for questions, having them ready showcases your professionalism and engagement.

The cost of higher education in the United States is high, which is why it’s important to be strategic when paying for school costs. Scholarships are the most suggested educational assistance. Unlike loans, these don’t require you to repay the money you receive. 

Instead of being overwhelmed by the cost, take charge of your college dreams. Enhance your leadership experiences, prepare for interviews, and actively hunt for scholarship opportunities. With a wide array of scholarship programs available, we’re confident you’ll discover one that suits you!