College Planning
Scholarships
Where to look, how to track applications, and how to keep the momentum going all year.
Where to look
- Your high school counseling office — local scholarships have the least competition.
- The colleges themselves — merit aid is often automatic or one short form away.
- Community organizations, employers, and faith or cultural groups.
- Reputable databases like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Going Merry.
Keep a simple tracker
Momentum matters more than any single application. A one-page tracker keeps deadlines from slipping.
01
Log every opportunity
Name, amount, deadline, and what it requires (essay, transcript, recommendation).
02
Sort by deadline
Work the nearest dates first and set reminders a week ahead.
03
Reuse your materials
Adapt one strong essay across multiple applications instead of starting fresh each time.
04
Track results
Note submitted, awarded, or declined so nothing falls through the cracks.
Habits that win money
- Apply for smaller, local awards — they add up and have better odds.
- Never pay to apply; legitimate scholarships are free.
- Keep applying after senior year begins — many deadlines run through spring.
- Have a proofreader review every essay before you submit.
Small awards add up
Five $500 scholarships put $2,500 toward tuition. Consistency beats chasing one big prize.
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