Where do I even start to look for ways to earn scholarships?

Paying for College
1

<p>I want to start looking for ways to earn scholarships. The problem is... I don't even know where to start looking. Where are some places I can start to look? What are some good scholarship ideas? Are there scholarships I can earn before making a decision on which college I plan on attending?</p>

<p>My ACT score: 31
My GPA: 4.1 Weighted and 4.0 Unweighted</p>

<p>I do not qualify for financial aid; therefore, merit scholarships are my only option.</p>

2

<p>Are you a junior or a senior who needs the money in the next 4 months? Either way there are a number of websites that list scholarships that you can apply for. Many need essays. Your guidance counselor should have a list of local scholarships.</p>

3

<p>fastweb.com</p>

<hr>

<p>many more websites that have national scholarships.
your counselor might have a website where she/he posts all the local scholarships.</p>

4

<p>I see you are a junior. I would look at the “Schools that give good merit aid” thread at the top of the Financial Aid Forum. There are private schools listed there. Institutional Merit aid may give you more than the outside scholarships, but do both.</p>

<p>Now, is the time to talk to your parents about how much they are able/willing to pay. Ask about college savings. Run your FAFSA to see if you are eligible for any aid. Let your parents know the EFC before you start applying. </p>

<p>With your scores you could probably get a full ride at one of the lower tier publics. Find one you can like and apply. If the economy tanks further, or something awful happens you can still have the option to attend college. The $50.00 application fee can be worth the peace of mind.</p>

5

<p>Look at the threads pinned to the top of this board.</p>