Scholarships

Scholarships Matter

Scholarships can make higher education affordable.

Unlike loans, they’re free money—you don’t have to pay them back. Key benefits of scholarships include:

Career and Networking Opportunities – Some scholarships include mentorship, leadership programs and networking events that boost career prospects.

Less Student Debt – Scholarships minimize or eliminate the need for student loans, which can help you avoid long-term financial obligation.

Access to Quality Education – Scholarships allow you to choose schools based on academic fit rather than cost, and potentially gain access to prestigious institutions.

Support for Underrepresented Groups – Many scholarships target students from low-income backgrounds or underrepresented communities, which promotes equity in education.

More Time for Academics – The financial relief that scholarships provide allows you to focus on studies instead of juggling multiple jobs.

Types of Scholarships

Scholarships come in many forms—some of the most common categories include:

  • Merit-Based – For academic excellence or special talents.
  • Need-Based – Awarded according to financial need, often requiring a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application.
  • Athletic – For student-athletes who excel in sports.
  • Identity-Based – For women, minority students, first-generation college students, etc.
  • Field-Specific – For applicants pursuing specific fields of study.
  • Community Service – For applicants with strong volunteer backgrounds.

How to Find and Apply for Scholarships

A good starting point for pursuing scholarships is to search online.

There are many websites dedicated to connecting students with scholarship opportunities—some of the most trusted and widely used include:

Fastweb
Scholarships
Bigfuture
Bold
Scholarships360
Goingmerry
Petersons
Niche
Unigo

Scholarship America

Are you an ASCEND graduate? If so, click here for more information on applying for the ASCEND Scholarship

ASCEND Scholarship Program – Scholarship America

Tips for Applying

Once you find scholarships that align with your academic goals, you’ll start the application process.

Here are some tips for giving yourself the best chance at success:

  • Stay organized and keep a calendar of deadlines.
  • Gather letters of recommendation, your academic transcript and a resume that details notable extracurriculars and volunteer work.
  • Submit thorough, authentic applications—don’t skip anything they ask for.
  • Tailor each personal statement or essay to each scholarship’s mission.
  • Apply for multiple scholarships—the more you pursue, the better your chances.
  • Avoid scams—legitimate scholarships never require payment to apply.

GED

Scholarships

FAFSA

Educational Resources

GI Bill

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