Updated: February 9, 2022
Scholarships are important for most college students; even partial scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. Many partial scholarships don’t have restrictions on how many you can qualify for, so it’s wise to apply for as many as possible.
While some scholarships have an intense application process, there are plenty of options that are far more accessible. We’ve compiled a list of no-essay scholarships that don’t take more than a few minutes to apply for. Some of these easy scholarships are intended for students at any education level, including any high school student, undergraduate, or graduate student.
Every opportunity on this list has a short application with no essay questions. These scholarships don’t have minimum GPA requirements, and most are open to students at every level: high schoolers, undergrads, and graduate students. Take a few minutes to browse the options and apply for the ones you qualify for. You could end up with a much lower tuition payment and a happier bank account!
The Best Easy Scholarships to Apply for in 2022
Here are a few examples of easy scholarships that students can apply to. Some of these scholarships are open to students at any academic level, including one loan forgiveness award for anyone with student debt.
“Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
As students join the Bold.org platform, they get the opportunity to showcase their goals, achievements, and drive to scholarship panels via their student profile. The $25,000 “Be Bold” award is a no-essay award that will be given to the applicant with the boldest profile. For bold.org, the boldest does not mean “best” or “most accomplished.” Instead, bold.org believes that the boldest means to be earnest, determined, and moving. This award will be given to the student whose profile closely matches these characteristics.
- Deadline: The application deadline is June 1, 2022.
- Award Amount: $25,050
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: November 30, 2022
Nitro Pay For College No-Essay Scholarship
Nitro is a leading financial aid and loan resource platform, guiding students on everything from FAFSA to best practices for federal and private loans. By applying, students will be automatically registered for Nitro. This sets students up for success in funding their education in the most effective way. This award will be given to the applicants who get the most out of the Nitro platform.
- Deadline: The application deadline is June 1, 2022.
- Award Amount: $10,000
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: December 1, 2022
Forget Your Student Debt No-Essay Grant
The Forget Your Student Debt Grant is open to anyone with student debt. Adults who have started their careers and are no longer in school are fully eligible. The only criteria is that you have student debt payments to make.
- Deadline: The application deadline is June 1, 2022
- Award Amount: $10,000
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: December 1, 2022
Informed Consumer Scholarship
The Informed Consumer Scholarship will be awarded to one student in any field of study who is interested in making the smartest financial decisions possible as they fund their education. To apply, students will be introduced to a favorite money-saving tool. Applicants who display excellent habits as informed consumers will have a better chance of winning this award.
- Deadline: The application deadline is June 1, 2022
- Award Amount: $1,000
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: February 1, 2023
Verto Semester Abroad Scholarship
With Verto, students can start their college experience abroad in an epic destination while staying on track to graduate in four years. Students can also use their Verto app to gain admission to Verto’s 70+ partner colleges, where course credits will transfer seamlessly. For this award, all high school seniors who have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and a strong interest in studying abroad are eligible to apply.
- Deadline: The application deadline is June 1, 2022.
- Award Amount: $1,000
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: July 1, 2022
Lifelong Learners No-Essay Scholarship
The Bold Lifelong Learners No-Essay Scholarship exists to support lifelong learners that want to acquire a new skill that will be transformative in their lives, whether it be learning to code, digital marketing, writing, or whatever will have a lasting impact on their lives. All students who have a passion for learning are eligible to apply for this scholarship opportunity.
- Deadline: The application deadline is May 29, 2022.
- Award Amount: $500
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: June 29, 2022
Pay it Forward No-Essay Scholarship
One of the many ways people give back is by paying it forward; giving an act of kindness to someone in hopes that they will carry the torch onward to someone else. To promote kindness and to encourage students to continue paying it forward, the Bold Pay it Forward No-Essay Scholarship will be awarded to one student from any field of study who is committed to pay it forward.
- Deadline: The application deadline is May 28, 2022.
- Award Amount: $500
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: June 28, 2022
Women’s History Scholarship
In order to offset the wage gap and help women break into male-dominated fields, such as engineering, government, and tech, it’s critical that women have the necessary resources to follow through on their goals. This award seeks to support female students so they can complete their degrees and go on to promising careers. Any high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student who identifies as female may apply for this award.
- Deadline: The application deadline is August 31, 2022.
- Award Amount: $500
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: September 7, 2022
CollegeVine Dream School Scholarship
This award aims to simplify the college application process and help high school students get accepted to their dream colleges. To apply, students will need to sign up with CollegeVine to calculate their chances of getting into their dream school! Students will need to factor their extracurriculars, intended major, background, and more, then they’ll get custom recommendations for how to improve their odds-all for free. By signing up for CollegeVine, students get access to tools that help them discover schools, understand their chances, and get personalized guidance for every step of the admissions process.
- Deadline: The application deadline is June 1, 2022.
- Award Amount: $1,000
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: October 6, 2022
WiseGeek Community Service No-Essay Scholarship
When students find ways to support their community, they contribute to the virtuous cycle of giving that helps individuals and the entire community grow stronger. The WiseGeek No-Essay Community Service Scholarship exists to help current students who go above and beyond to support their school and broader community. This award is open to all students in any field of study.
- Deadline: The application deadline is August 16, 2022.
- Award Amount: $500
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
- Winner Announced: September 16, 2022
The Asian American/Pacific Islander Scholarship
Asian American and Pacific Islanders students are one of the most diverse and vibrant group of students at U.S. colleges and universities, representing families with roots in more than 50 countries and regions and every socio-economic status. While representation on U.S. campuses continues to grow, many AAPI students need help pursuing a college degree. Thebi-annual Asian American/Pacific Islander Scholarshipwas created to support those dreams and increase diversity at colleges and universities across the U.S.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$750
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
The Hispanic Empowerment No-Essay Scholarship
Students from Spanish or Latin American backgrounds are attending college in greater numbers than ever before, making up more than one-fifth of American college students. Many are among the first in their families to pursue a college degree and more than 60% of the students who identify as Hispanic need some level of financial aid to complete their studies. TheHispanic Empowerment No-Essay Scholarshipis meant to encourage students from Hispanic families to attend and stay in college by helping them pay tuition or repay student loans.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$750
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
The First-Generation College Students Scholarship
Being the first in their families to attend college makes first-generation students among the most motivated and dedicated at their schools. Academically prepared and highly talented, they often serve as role models for younger family members. To help prevent financial challenges from dashing the dreams of their parents and grandparents, theFirst-Generation College Students Scholarshipis dedicated to supporting current or aspiring students who are the first in their family to attend college or university.
- Deadline:The application deadline is Feburary 1, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
The Psychology No-Essay Scholarship
A degree in psychology can lead to a wide variety of careers in mental health and other kinds of counseling, social work, and teaching – careers that impact all of society. So it’s important that the diversity of students who major in psychology reflects the diversity of the communities they will serve.The Psychology No-Essay Scholarshipis meant to support and encourage diversity in the profession of psychology. It is open to current or aspiring psychology majors from all backgrounds.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
Entrepreneurship Matters Scholarship
Entrepreneurs challenge the status quo, come up with creative solutions to hard problems, and push advances in every field. And while being a successful entrepreneur can lead to being your own boss and having a career you’re passionate about, it can take a lot of hard work to get there. TheEntrepreneurship Matters Scholarshipis open to bold innovators who want to change the world.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
LGBTQ+ Awareness Scholarship
For decades, members of the LGBTQ+ community have been denied the rights and opportunities that others enjoy. While there have been advancements in equality, there are still members of the LGBTQ+ community who face prejudice and other challenges. Designed to combat discrimination, theLGBTQ+ Awareness Scholarshipis open to all students who identify as members of this community.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
WiseGeek Disability Scholarship
In many cases, those with mental and physical disabilities are limited not by their conditions, but by discrimination and lack of opportunities. It’s vital to ensure that every individual has equal rights and access to the same academic and professional options. Students of all grade levels and fields of study are eligible to apply for theWiseGeek Disability Scholarship.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
Recent Immigrants Scholarship
Immigrants built the United States and have been responsible for some of the country’s most profound accomplishments. Unfortunately, many immigrants still face discrimination and stigmatization, making it harder for them to access the same academic and professional opportunities as those born in the county. TheRecent Immigrants Scholarshipis intended to support and encourage immigrants to reach their career goals.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
WiseGeek Nurse Appreciation Scholarship
Nurses are essential to the healthcare system, both in the United States and abroad. Despite good job stability and open positions throughout the country, there is a significant shortage of nurses. TheWiseGeek Nurse Appreciation Scholarshipis designed to encourage students to consider this career by providing financial support to nursing students.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
The Diversity in Law Scholarship
Lawyers form the backbone of freedom and justice in the U.S., and we believe that diversity in the legal sector is the key to protecting the rights of all Americans. Unfortunately, the legal industry is one of the least diverse professional areas in the U.S. We want to support and encourage minority students who are pursuing legal careers.The Diversity in Law Scholarshipprovides financial assistance to law school students of a racial minority.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
”Fight for Equality” Women in STEM Scholarship
Women are significantly underrepresented in the STEM workforce, and we want to help change that. Diversity in any career field is important, and it’s especially vital in STEM industries where different experiences and perspectives can lead to innovative problem-solving. WiseGeek wants to encourage women to pursue degrees and careers in science, technology, engineering, and math with our”Fight for Equality” Women in STEM Scholarship.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
Mental Health Well-Being Scholarship
While awareness of mental health issues continues to grow in the U.S., it can still be hard for students to find the support they need to deal with emotional challenges, academic pressure, and new responsibilities. It can be especially hard to dedicate time and resources to mental health treatment during college, when schedules and finances are tight. TheMental Health Well-Being Scholarshipis designed to help students who have faced these issues.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
Military Appreciation Scholarship
As Americans, we rely on the men and women in the U.S. military to protect our freedoms and keep us safe. However, it can be easy to forget that serving in the military is a tough job. Service members often have to put their personal goals and educational plans on hold during training and deployments. TheMilitary Appreciation Scholarshipis intended to honor, support, and thank those who have chosen to serve. It’s open to current, former, and future members of all U.S. military branches.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
- Winners Announced:May 16, 2022
WiseGeek Nursing No-Essay Scholarship
Nurses have never been more essential. They care for patients at every stage of life, delivering our babies, easing our pain and getting us back on our feet after illness and injury, and comforting our families in the darkest of times. It is one of the toughest – and most fulfilling – careers anyone can choose. To encourage high school students to pursue a nursing career and help while in school, theWiseGeek Nursing No-Essay Scholarshiphelps current and aspiring nurses pay for tuition or repay their student loans.
- Deadline: The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount: $500
- Time to Apply: 2 minutes
WiseGeek Community Service No-Essay Scholarship
Community service strengthens our society by improving lives, building connections, and tearing down barriers. The volunteers who give so much back to their communities deserve all the support we can give them, including help paying for a college education. TheWiseGeek Community Service No-Essay Scholarshiprecognizes the invaluable contributions of high school and college students who commit their time and energy to lift up their neighbors and neighborhoods.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
WiseGeek Cosmetology No-Essay Scholarship
All of us want to look our best for our big events and in our everyday personal and professional lives. The hairstylists, barbers, and estheticians who help us keep our look on point put in thousands of hours of hard work to learn and perfect their craft and to earn the cosmetology licenses they need to work in the beauty industry. Each year theWiseGeek Cosmetology No-Essay Scholarshiphelps a dedicated beauty professional offset some of the costs of that intensive training.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
WiseGeek Law No-Essay Scholarship
Earning a law degree requires top-notch organizational, analytical, and communications skills – and a lot of help. Most new lawyers come out of school with a significant amount of debt, which can make it harder to launch their hard-earned careers. TheWisegeek Law No-Essay Scholarshipis awarded each year to new or aspiring lawyers to help offset some of the costs of pursuing a Juris Doctor degree.
- Deadline:The application deadline is April 16, 2022.
- Award Amount:$500
- Time To Apply:2 minutes
This list is just a sample of some of the free scholarships you can find. As you’re making plans to start or continue your college education, take a few minutes to apply for scholarships. Minimizing the financial stress of college can ensure a better educational experience and give you the foundation you need to achieve your goals.
What qualifies as an easy scholarship?
Generally, easy scholarships have no specific criteria for winning, and they only require minimal effort to apply for. The online application process is quick and simple. Some of these awards can be worth hundreds of dollars, which is a substantial payout for a few minutes of your time. These awards can help students planning to pursue an undergraduate degree in the future, current undergraduate students, and current graduate students looking for ways to pay for college.
No requirement to do anything new
One key aspect of an easy scholarship contest is that it doesn’t require you to do anything new to apply. For awards with no essay, you don’t need to spend hours crafting a paper or a personal statement.
As a high school senior, you may have past work that qualifies for some programs, so you don’t have to do anything else. For example, if you already have 50 hours of community service documented, applying for a scholarship with that criteria doesn’t require you to make any further effort.
A minimal application process
A minimal application form is one of the hallmarks of an easy scholarship – you shouldn’t need to provide a lot of paperwork or other materials. Most of these awards just ask you for basic information, such as your name. Sometimes can be automatically entered by creating a free profile on the organization’s website.
Some quick and easy scholarships cater to specific groups, such as bachelor’s degree students or those pursuing a culinary career. For these applications, you may need to provide transcripts or other evidence that you meet the eligibility requirements.
The award is available for what you’re already doing
Some scholarship applications that don’t include essays may require you to submit other materials, such as a poem, video, or report about a historical figure. But you may already have something to submit thanks to your current interests and hobbies.
Did you spend your time as a high school freshman writing songs or doing science experiments? You might have everything you need for the application. Look for programs related to your hobbies, and submit your application for the chance to get paid for what you enjoy doing.
A small pool of applicants
Other scholarships give you a better chance of winning through sheer probability. For example, there are over 1.5 million high school students hoping for a shot at the National Merit Scholarship, but many students with spectacular grades and test scores will not end up winning the money.
However, many awards have less competition, even those open to all college students. By applying for these, you have a good shot at winning just based on the fact that you are competing with fewer people.
How to apply to easy scholarships
In most cases, applying is very straightforward:
Get organized
Make a list of all the awards you want to apply for along with their due dates. It’s never too early to plan for college – even high school freshmen can start thinking about scholarship applications.
Make a plan
Because there are so many scholarships, it’s essential to plan your time so you can meet the deadlines of all the programs you want to apply for. By casting a wide net, you have the best chance of getting a lot of your tuition covered.
Use your time wisely
Most awards don’t take long to apply for, so you can get a lot of them done at once. Essay-required programs will probably take more time. It’s best to start with the time-consuming applications first and leave the easy ones for later when your brain is ready for a break.
By the time you’re a grad student, you’ll have a very efficient process for applying for scholarships.
Tips for winning easy scholarships
Here are some top tips for getting money to cover your education-related expenses.
1. Pay attention to deadlines.
Deadlines for scholarships can vary wildly, though spring is generally considered the “high season.” Keep track of deadlines, so you don’t miss out on any money due to a late application.
2. Read the entire application.
Even if the award you want has a minimal application form, it’s always good to make sure you understand the entire process. You don’t want to waste time applying for scholarships you aren’t eligible for, and you don’t want your application to get rejected because you missed a step when you were filling it out.
3. Keep checking for new opportunities.
Scholarship opportunities pop up all the time, so it’s a good idea to search for new awards every month on thebest scholarship websites. Even after you’ve filled out your fall and spring applications, keep an eye open for some “late” awards with deadlines in the summer. Check your school’s scholarship winners page for information on additional opportunities.
4. Apply to as many as possible.
There is no limit to the number of awards you can apply for or get, so it’s good to apply for as many scholarships as possible. This is especially true for easy no essay scholarships with applications that don’t usually take more than a few minutes to complete.
5. Work with a private tutor.
Areprivate tutorsreally worth the money? Is it better to study by yourself than take private lessons? What are private tutors doing that you can’t do on your own? These are questions many students ask themselves, especially when they see how expensive private tutoring is. But do not be fooled – private lessons are definitely worth it. They will teach you the skills you need to succeed at GCSE and A-level exams, as well as help you learn more effectively, which is why private lessons are one of the best ways to boost your grades to increase your chances of winning scholarships.
How to avoid scholarship scams
There are plenty of legitimate opportunities available, but there are also some fraudulent sites. Here are some tips for avoiding scholarship scams.
1. Watch for phishing.
Most easy scholarships require you to provide basic personal information: name, contact info, and date of birth. Be wary of sites that ask for a lot of sensitive details, such as old addresses, parental information, and bank account data. These types of questions are usually designed to facilitate identity theft.
2. Don’t pay to submit your application.
Scholarship programs are all about giving money away, not taking it. If you have to pay a fee to submit your application, chances are it’s not a legit scholarship opportunity.
3. Keep your Social Security number private.
While it may seem like you have to write your SSN on a lot of different forms, you shouldn’t need to give it to most scholarship providers. If the application does ask for your Social Security number, be wary.
4. Avoid companies that offer to “find” opportunities for you.
Along with fake awards, there are also fraudulent companies that make money by selling unnecessary scholarship “services.” There are no legitimate organizations that have access to programs you can’t find on your own. Don’t pay a fee to any company that says it can find and apply for “secret” scholarships that you can’t access yourself.
Frequently asked questions about easy scholarships
Find answers to some of the most common questions about easy college scholarships.
How many scholarships should I apply for?
There is no limit to the number of awards you can apply for, so it’s wise to submit as many applications as possible. Maybe set aside time for a monthly scholarship application session.
How can I improve my chances of winning easy scholarships?
The best way to improve your chances of winning scholarships is to apply! There are countless prizes out there for eligible students. The more you can apply for, the better your chances of winning some of them.
Are no essay scholarships legit?
Yes. There are plenty of legitimate scholarships without essays. Some awards are as simple as a random drawing.
Are there any drawbacks to applying for easy scholarships?
One potential downside to applying for a no essay scholarship is that you may not end up winning it. However, if the application is simple, you don’t have to worry about wasting time, even if you don’t end up winning.
In many cases, easy scholarships award less money than programs with detailed application requirements. If you have a limited amount of time, use it to apply for a wide range of opportunities.
What is the best strategy for applying for easy scholarships?
Organization and efficiency are two critical strategies for applying for scholarships. Once you have an idea of all the easy scholarships you want to apply for, make a list of the due dates so you can prioritize which ones to go for first.
Websites make it easy to use your time efficiently – with just a few clicks, you can apply for a lot of no essay scholarship awards quickly. Sometimes, you can create a free account to apply for scholarships automatically.
How easy is it to get a scholarship?
It depends on the scholarship contest. To get a full-ride athletic or academic scholarship, you need to be at the top of your game or your class. However, scholarships without essays are easier to get because you don’t have to ace standardized tests or break state football records.
How to find easy scholarships?
The internet is the best source of information on free money for college. Along with the awards you can find through an online search, it’s worth looking at a few other potential sources:
- Your employer
- Your parents’ employers
- Your church or religious community, especially if you plan to attend a Bible college
- Your chamber of commerce
- Local charities or community organizations
You can also contact your university directly to see if they have anyscholarships for high school seniors, current college students, or graduate students. Use the library to get information on local scholarship winners, like high school athletes or musicians.
Are scholarships taxable income?
In most cases, scholarship money is tax-free. According to the IRS, there are only a few circumstances when you need to include scholarship funds in your gross income:
When you use the money for incidental expenses, such as travel and equipment
If you pay for room and board with the money
If the money comes from teaching, research, or other services that you must perform to keep the scholarship
Generally, scholarship funds are tax-free if you use them to pay tuition at an accredited college or university.
What’s the difference between a grant and a scholarship?
Both grants and scholarships are “gift” types of financial aid, which means that you don’t have to pay them back (unlike student loans). However, while scholarships are usually based on merit, most grants are awarded based on financial need.
When to apply for scholarships?
There are three application “seasons”: fall, spring, and summer. Most programs with fall deadlines are for the following school year. For example, a scholarship with a deadline of October 31, 2021, would most likely provide money for the 2022-2023 school year. High school seniors planning to attend college next year should start looking at scholarships in the fall.
Spring is the most crucial time for high school students to look for scholarships – most of these awards have a deadline of May 31. The money applies to the school year starting in the fall.
Additionally, there are some scholarship programs with deadlines over the summer. While these can provide money “immediately” (for the upcoming school year), the application process can feel rushed, especially for students getting ready for their freshman year.
In general, it’s best to apply for scholarships as soon as possible. High school juniors can use the spring and summer before their senior year to start researching the available programs. Current college students can continue to apply for new awards each year.
How many scholarships can I get?
There’s no limit to the number of scholarships you can get. The more gift money you receive, the less student debt you need to take on. However, if you are planning to use financial aid to pay for school, getting a lot of scholarship money can impact the amount of aid you qualify for. If this happens, it shouldn’t affect how much you have to pay for school – it just means that the financial aid money is replaced by the scholarship funds.
Are scholarships just for high school seniors?
No, there are many scholarships for students at any education level, including undergraduate and graduate students. There are also many easy scholarships for high school students that are juniors, sophomores, and freshmen.
FAQs
Has anyone won a no essay scholarship? ›
Many students find no essay scholarships to be one of the easiest ways to land free money for school. And yes, students do actually win them. But no essay scholarships shouldn't be the only type of scholarship you apply for.
What are the chances of winning a no essay scholarship? ›Your odds of winning are about 1 in 140,000—not too bad considering there is no essay required and sign up is quick.
Can you get a scholarship without writing an essay? ›One of the biggest misconceptions about scholarships is that they all require an essay. This is not true. In fact, there are many great scholarships that don't require an essay at all.
Is it too late to apply for scholarships for fall 2023? ›Is it too late to apply to scholarships? No! There are SO many scholarships out there available to students of all ages, years in school, major, and more! It's never too late to find money for college, so consistently searching for scholarships is key.
What not to say in a scholarship essay? ›Don't use words like “finally”, “in sum” or “in conclusion”. Don't repeat or sum up in any way. Don't start too many sentences with the word “I”. Don't tell the reader explicitly, “I am a unique and interesting person.” Instead, let the reader glean this from your unique and interesting essay.
What is the $2000 no essay scholarship? ›The $2,000 No Essay Scholarship is an easy scholarship with no essay required! The scholarship can be used to cover tuition, housing, books, or any education-related expenses.
Can you get denied a scholarship? ›In reality, scholarship rejection reasons can run the gamut, but they aren't a judgment of a student's worth or character. Instead, they typically involve other factors, such as another student having a greater need or sharing a unique experience that happened to resonate with that specific scholarship committee.
What is the hardest scholarship to get? ›- Rhodes Scholarship.
- Fullbright Scholarship.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
- Princeton Scholarship.
- Mitchell Scholarship.
- Churchill Scholarship.
- Marshall Scholarship.
- Jardine Scholarship.
Odds of Winning a Scholarship
Only about 1 in 8 college students wins a scholarship, and the average amount used to pay for college is about $4,200 a year. Very few students win $25,000 or more in scholarships each year (only about 0.1%). Among the students who win scholarships, 97% win $2,500 or less.
To be eligible for the "No Essay" Nitro Scholarship you must be:A) A student who is currently enrolled as a high school senior or in an accredited college or university located within the United States;B) A parent who currently has a child enrolled in an accredited college or university located within the United States ...
Do you start a scholarship essay with your name? ›
A standard scholarship essay heading should include your name, your contact information, the name of the scholarship, and the date. While not necessary, it can be helpful to include a title or the essay prompt at the top of your essay as well.
What do colleges look for in scholarship essays? ›Colleges look for three things in your admission essay: a unique perspective, strong writing, and an authentic voice. People in admissions often say that a great essay is one where it feels like the student is right there in the room, talking authentically to the admissions committee!
What is the best time to apply for fall 2023? ›Most applications will open August 1 for students applying for fall 2023 enrollment. College deadlines most often fall between November and February. Early admission means submitting your application sooner, usually by November. Applying regular decision gives you more time to work on application essays and take exams.
Am I too old to get a scholarship? ›Unless you've graduated college and started a career with no intention of returning to school, you're never too late to apply for scholarships.
What year is best to apply for scholarships? ›You can start applying for some scholarships before junior or senior year too. Earlier is generally better as long as you can meet the criteria. So younger students should not be timid about applying early. Filling out scholarship applications can be intimidating if you don't know what school you are going to.
What are two things you should never do when applying for a scholarship? ›- Starting Research Too Late. ...
- Missing Deadlines. ...
- Filling Out a Scam Application. ...
- Ignoring Scholarship Requirements. ...
- Bypassing Smaller Scholarships. ...
- Leaving an Application Incomplete. ...
- Making Errors on an Application.
Students should never give out personal details or banking information when applying for a scholarship. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Warning Signs To Be Aware Of: Promises for a Low-interest Student Loan for a Fee.
What can stop you from getting a scholarship? ›- Paying for scholarship assistance. ...
- Failure to meet the application deadline. ...
- Failure to follow directions. ...
- Failure to send in a complete application. ...
- Failure to write legibly. ...
- Failure to proofread their application.
Some Division 1 programs, for example, may offer athletes less than 11.7 scholarships. This is because not all teams are fully-funded, meaning the athletic department at the school does not give them the full allotment of scholarships allowed at their level.
What is the easy money scholarship? ›Students of any age in college can apply. Applications are due April 1, and the scholarship amount ranges between $1,000-$10,000. All college students also are eligible for the Cappex Easy Money Scholarship. There's no GPA minimum or essay requirement to apply — just create a Cappex account and apply.
How rare is a full scholarship? ›
How hard is it to get a full ride scholarship? Less than 1 percent of students get full ride scholarships, showing just how difficult it is to earn one. However, with the right background, proper planning and by knowing where to look, your chances of landing a full ride scholarship can increase.
What happens if you accept a scholarship and don t go to college? ›Many times if the student has not enrolled in classes during those 12 months, it expires. In almost all cases, scholarships are put directly towards your college's tuition and expenses, rather than a check sent to you. If you choose not to go to school, it will not be put in a savings account for later use.
How long does it take to hear if you got a scholarship? ›How long does it take to get approved for a scholarship? After scholarship deadlines, it often takes one to three months before a scholarship winner is announced. This is due to the time it takes to go through scholarship applications.
What is a good reason for applying for a scholarship? ›Scholarships are an incredible source of financial assistance for college students. Unlike loans, scholarship funds are free money. That means you don't have to pay them back over time — an assurance that can vastly reduce financial stress and help you focus more on your studies.
What is the lowest GPA to get a scholarship? ›Some scholarship committees only consider applicants whose GPA meets a certain threshold. Minimum requirements range from around 2.0 on the lower end to 3.75 or higher for competitive academic scholarships. Generally speaking, a 3.0 GPA or higher will give you a decent shot at qualifying for a variety of scholarships.
What are the two most common scholarships? ›Common types of scholarships for college are merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and athletic scholarships. However, within these categories are sub-categories of scholarships based on specific eligibility factors.
What is the 5 strong scholarship? ›5 Strong Scholarship Foundation, Inc. The mission of the 5 Strong Scholarship Foundation is to increase the retention and graduation rates at partnering Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) by assisting in the enrollment and success of academically promising student leaders until graduation.
How much scholarship money does the average student get? ›Scholarships statistics
The average scholarship award was $6,041 in 2022 — a 22 percent decrease from last year. During the 2021-22 academic year, 60 percent of American families used scholarships to pay for college.
What happens to leftover scholarship money. If you earned scholarships and grants that add up to more than your total cost of attendance, your school may send you a refund of the leftover scholarship money. Keep in mind, you may have to pay taxes on that amount.
How do you answer what qualifies you for this scholarship? ›Letting your passion show through in your answer allows the committee to see your dedication. You deserve this scholarship based on your love of learning, your enjoyment of your field, or your passion for growth.
What is the Dream scholarship? ›
TheDream.US National Scholarship Program is for undocumented students who are eligible for in-state tuition at one of our National Partner Colleges. This scholarship is for up to $16,500 for an associate's or up to $33,000 for a bachelor's degree at one of our National Partner Colleges.
Can you live off scholarships? ›Just as you can use scholarships to pay for tuition, you can use scholarship money for living expenses as well. What some students may not realize is that room and board can oftentimes be just as expensive as tuition – if not more.
What should be the first sentence of a scholarship essay? ›What is a good introduction sentence for a scholarship essay? The best choice is to write an attention-grabbing sentence. It should be something persuading or intriguing that will make a person continue reading your essay with great interest. Avoid long explanations or introductions.
What is a good hook for a scholarship essay? ›You can use two types of quotes here: literary citations and inspirational quotes from famous people or influencers in the field. A literary quote would be a perfect hook for your application essay, while quoting influencers helps to support an argument you represent in your paper.
How do you write a personal statement for a scholarship? ›- Start on your personal statement early. ...
- Be clear. ...
- Get personal. ...
- Make it authentic. ...
- Be careful with humor and clichés. ...
- Be reflective. ...
- Use specific examples to illustrate your ideas.
Conclusion
Wrap it up with a simple sentence or two. You can include how your education to date has made a difference to you. End with a “thank you for allowing me the opportunity to apply.”
When introducing yourself in a scholarship essay, start by introducing yourself and your educational status. Then, discuss how the scholarship will help your educational pursuits and how your education can help your career.
How long does it take for a college to accept or reject you? ›The average turnaround time for an admissions decision for schools with rolling admissions is four to six weeks, though in some cases students might have to wait longer. For regular decision candidates, the wait is more like eight to 12 weeks. Students handle that waiting period differently, experts say.
When should seniors apply for college? ›Most colleges begin accepting applications in early August. If you know you'll have a busy senior year ahead, consider gathering your materials over the summer so you can start the process in August and September.
What is the hardest type of scholarship to get? ›An athletic scholarship may cover some or all of your tuition costs, depending on the school. Athletic scholarships are some of the hardest to receive.
Can a 50 year old get fafsa? ›
Is there an age limit for receiving federal student aid? No, there's no age limit. Almost everyone is eligible for some type of federal student aid. The adult student still needs to complete the FAFSA form, and make sure not to miss any deadlines, just like any other student.
When should you start worrying about scholarships? ›You're likely to find that most scholarship deadlines will be from September through May. However, you can take advantage of the extra time on your hands during the summer to begin researching the possibilities.
What is the deadline for most scholarships? ›May 1 is usually the scholarship deadline date for many colleges and universities. You should start determining the colleges and university financial aid packages you will accept. (see chapter 28 in Winning Scholarships for College – “Making Choices – You've Been Awarded …Now What Do You Do?”)
What is the difference between a scholarship and a grant? ›In general, grants are given based on financial-need, while scholarships are merit-based and awarded to students based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, field of study, and more.
What grade should you start applying for college? ›We recommend beginning the application process during the summer before your senior year. Starting in the summer gives you plenty of time before a majority of deadlines near the beginning of winter. If you want to be more proactive, you can even begin some college applications during your junior year.
Is the niche $50,000 scholarship legit? ›Niche is 100 percent legit and people really do win each month. While you definitely should be on the lookout for scholarship fraud (better safe than sorry), rest assured that Niche scholarships are the real deal.
Is the Coca Cola scholarship no essay? ›Unlike many scholarship applications, the Coca Cola Scholars application doesn't require any essays in the first-round of the application process. Any application for which you don't have to write an essay must be an easy application, right?
How rare is it to win a scholarship? ›Full-ride scholarships are awarded to only about 0.1% of students (Wignall, 2021). Nearly just as rare are full-tuition scholarships, which are awarded to only 1.5% of students (ThinkImpact, 2021). A regular high school student may have the qualifications for as many as 50 to 100 scholarships (Dickler, 2021).
What is the scholarship that pays for everything? ›What is a full ride scholarship? A full ride scholarship is an award that covers all expenses related with college. This includes tuition, books, fees, room and board, and possibly even living costs.
How do I know if my college scholarship is legit? ›- Charging a fee. Most scholarship scams charge some kind of fee. ...
- Requesting unusual information. ...
- Asking for your bank account number. ...
- Telling you that you won a scholarship, but you never applied. ...
- Claiming to be a foundation or tax-exempt charity. ...
- Sends you a scholarship check.
How do you know what scholarships are legit? ›
Legitimate scholarships:
Require essays or at least a few short-answer responses. Require additional support such as transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and recommendation letters. Most have minimum G.P.A requirements – though there are some exceptions to this.
Eligibility for the Coca-Cola Scholarship
You must be: • A current high school senior, attending a school in the U.S., homeschooled or select DoD schools, who will graduate at the close of the 2022 – 2023 school year.
Every year, out of the thousands of students who apply, Coca-Cola awards only 150 prospective students with the $20,000 scholarship. It is estimated that only 1% of applicants get chosen by the Foundation. Do not let this dishearten you, though; your chance is just as good as any other student applying.
Does Pepsi offer scholarships? ›Pepsi Cola international offers many scholarship programs worldwide to help college students with rising tuition costs and expenses. Following is a summary of the Pepsi scholarships that are awarded to the students in the U.S. Last updated on May 21, 2023 by College Financial Aid Advice.
What is the #1 way to increase your chances for a scholarship? ›If you apply to more scholarships, you will increase your chances of winning a scholarship. Often students dislike smaller scholarships and essay competitions. But these scholarships are less competitive, so they are easier to win. Small scholarships do add up and may make it easier to win bigger awards.
What is a good amount of scholarship money? ›The average scholarship amount is $5,000 to $10,000 annually. These scholarships are typically available through the college you are planning on attending. Community partners and professional organizations offer them as well.