10 Most Common Types of Scholarships for College

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, especially with tuition costs on the rise. But did you know there are countless scholarship opportunities that can help lighten the financial load? From academic achievements to unique talents, there's a scholarship out there for almost everyone. Let's dive into the 10 most common types of scholarships for college and see how you can maximize your financial aid.

Key takeaways

• Many scholarships are available to help fund college and reduce financial burden
• Scholarships cater to different talents and backgrounds; apply for those matching your skills and circumstance
• To maximize aid, start applications early, personalize essays, stay organized, and don't overlook small or unusual scholarships.

1. Merit-based scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are all about recognizing students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, or other areas. Have you excelled in your studies or led a successful project?

These scholarships often consider high grades, impressive test scores, or notable achievements in fields like athletics, arts, or community service. Programs like the National Merit Scholarship and the Presidential Scholarship are prime examples that honor outstanding student performance.

2. Need-based scholarships

If paying for college seems out of reach financially, need-based scholarships might be your ticket. These scholarships assess your family's financial situation, including income, assets, and expenses, to determine eligibility.

They aim to make higher education accessible regardless of financial background. Federal Pell Grants are one popular financing tool offered by the government to students in need.

TuitionHero Tip

Pell Grant: A federal need-based grant that provides financial assistance to eligible undergraduate students.

3. Athletic scholarships

Are you a standout athlete with dreams of playing at the college level? Athletic scholarships are offered to talented student-athletes who can contribute to a college's sports teams. These scholarships can be full or partial and often require maintaining certain GPA and performance standards.

Fun fact: Believe it or not, the NCAA Division I and II schools award over $3.6 billion in athletic scholarships annually!

4. Artistic scholarships

For people with talents in music, visual arts, theater, or dance, artistic scholarships can help turn your passion into a career. Do you have a portfolio of artwork or a history of performances? Scholarships like the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards recognize and support budding artists pursuing creative arts degrees.

5. Ethnic or cultural scholarships

Ethnic or cultural scholarships promote diversity on college campuses by supporting students from various backgrounds. Organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) provide scholarships specifically for African American students. These opportunities not only offer financial support but also foster inclusive educational environments.

6. Career-specific scholarships

If you already know what career path you want to pursue, career-specific scholarships can provide targeted support. These scholarships are awarded to students entering fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). For instance, the Society of Women Engineers offers scholarships to aspiring female engineers.

Compare private student loans now

TuitionHero simplifies your student loan decision, with multiple top loans side-by-side.

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "component", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "component", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop

Compare Rates

7. Community service scholarships

Have you made significant contributions to your community through volunteer work? Community service scholarships recognize students who are making a positive impact. The Rob Brown Scholar Program, for example, honors students who have demonstrated exemplary community service.

8. Leadership scholarships

Leadership scholarships are aimed at students who have shown exceptional leadership abilities, whether in school clubs, organizations, or community initiatives. If you're someone who steps up and leads, scholarships like the Coca-Cola Scholars Program could be a perfect fit, combining recognition of leadership with academic excellence.

9. First-generation scholarships

Being the first in your family to attend college is a significant achievement, and first-generation scholarships are there to support you. These programs often provide more than just financial aid, including mentorship and resources to help navigate college life. The Kessler Scholars Program is one such initiative, offering comprehensive support to first-generation students.

TuitionHero Tip

Dell Scholars Program: Supports low-income college students with not just tuition assistance but also a comprehensive support program.

10. Study abroad scholarships

Dreaming of studying in another country? Study abroad scholarships can make that dream a reality by covering some or all of the costs associated with international study programs. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship helps students with limited financial means to gain invaluable global experiences.

TuitionHero Tip

Fun Fact: Did you know there are scholarships for left-handed students, tall people, or even for creating prom outfits out of duct tape? Scholarships come in all shapes and sizes, so it's worth exploring the unusual ones too!

Where to start your scholarship search

Begin by reaching out to your school's guidance counselor or financial aid office. Online scholarship databases, like Fastweb or Scholarships.com, are also valuable resources.

Remember to check out local organizations and businesses—they often offer scholarships to students in their community. And, of course, you can always use TuitionHero to help you find a ton of scholarships, all on an easy-to-use platform.

Dos and don'ts of applying for scholarships

Why trust TuitionHero

At TuitionHero, we're here to help you find scholarships that ease the cost of college. From merit-based awards to need-based aid, we connect students with funding options that fit their unique situations. Plus, we offer insights on refinancing, credit card benefits, and more to make college more affordable.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How many scholarships can I apply for?

As many as you want! There's no limit to scholarships you can apply for, so cast a wide net to increase your chances.

Do I have to pay back scholarships?

No, scholarships are a form of gift aid and don't need to be repaid.

Can I lose my scholarship once awarded?

Yes, scholarships often have renewal criteria, like maintaining a certain GPA or enrollment status. Be sure to understand the terms.

Final thoughts

Navigating the world of scholarships can seem challenging, but understanding the different types available is the first step in securing financial aid. Whether you're an academic achiever, a sports enthusiast, or someone passionate about community service, there's a scholarship opportunity waiting for you. So, why not take advantage of these resources and invest in your future?

Source

• The College Pod: Types of Scholarships
• Mometrix: Scholarships for College
• College Raptor: Different Types of Scholarship Opportunities
• Bold.org: Different Types of Scholarships
• NSHSS: What Are the Most Common Types of Scholarships?