Finding College Scholarships

Author: Hallidae Thomason

Whether you are a senior in high school or a parent whose teen is about to graduate, there is no doubt that you are in the middle of the process of trying to choose a college that is best. Is the process overwhelming you and your family? Are you finding it hard to find a school that fits all of the things you and your family are hoping for? There are countless issues to consider when searching for colleges, not the least of which is money. I'm confident that you are well aware that college is going to be expensive no matter how you look at it, but have you taken the time to consider what college scholarships might mean for you?

For many people, choosing the college they would like best is hindered simply by the expense of going there. Life is expensive and sometimes parents and teens cannot come up with enough to make it happen. College scholarships can be the answer for many families and they do not even know it.

If you or your teen is in the midst of searching for colleges that might fit well, make search that inquiring about college scholarships that are offered is a top priority in your search. Most schools offer at least a few college scholarships each new year. Sometimes these scholarships are based on a student's high school grades. But - fear not - not all college scholarships are based on grades! You will be surprised at how many different kinds of college scholarships are given for a variety of reasons.

So, your first step to finding financial relief from the huge expense of college is to research, research, research. Take your time and be thorough. Call counselors at each prospective school and see what college scholarships may not be advertised in their information. Visit a local library or do an internet search and you will be shocked at the amount of information that is available about college scholarships. College scholarships can be given through the college or your choice of through a variety of other institutions and organizations, so do not be too discouraged if your top choice does not have a lot to offer. Look for ways to earn college scholarships from every source you can think of. There are often local businesses that will partner with students in a work-and-study kind of deal. Some employeers will even offer college scholarships to the children of their employees, so be sure to check that out.

In your search for the perfect college some schools may end up too expensive to consider. But, if you take the time to really research college scholarships, you may be surprised at what kind of school you can afford to attend. Your top choice might be just a couple of college scholarships away!

Scholarships For Single Mothers

By Kelly Kennedy

Are you a single mother in debt trying to make your way through school hoping to attain a better education so you can support your family? If so you should consider applying for a scholarship.

What is a scholarship?

A scholarship is a grant of financial aid awarded to a student, as for the purpose of attending a college.

Scholarships are beneficial because it allows a student to cover all or a fraction of his/her college expenditures without having to pay the money back. The majority of scholarships come from federal funds, with the remaining balance coming from private organizations. As a student takes a step forward in his/her education and chooses a career path, more opportunities will become accessible. Scholarships can be based on: region, academic performance, religious affiliation, sports, ethnic background, military status, intended major.

Where to find out more information on scholarships

As a single mother it's always best to investigate on known avenues, such as State Department for Higher Education for residents, a high school guidance office, an academic department or college's financial aid office, free internet searches or libraries. One area that is not searched as often but should is a parent's company, or even student employers, so if you are a single mother working and going to school contact your employer to see if there are scholarships available.

Scholarship for Single Mother

With so many scholarships being available it can often be difficult to choose which one is best for you. Narrow your search by which you believe best meets eligibility factors, and then take the time to devote persuasive applications that include transcripts, proof of eligibility, personal essays, recommendation letters, etc. Make sure to follow directions carefully, as well as giving yourself enough time to put together a great application opposed to something being done at the last minute. Follow directions, proofread your work, double check that, apply early and keep copies for your records. Scholarship for Single Mother: Beware of Scholarship Scams

There are entities that state that there's millions of scholarship dollars that go unused every year. This is incorrect, as the greater part of the funds comes from the federal government and the private scholarships come from organizations that are willing to let students utilize them. The Federal Trade Commission alerts families to beware of scams that encourage students to make a payment to hold the scholarship, or if the student has been selected for an unknown scholarship. Schools have a given amount of funds to make use of for students, and no one can change the system to get more money for scholarships than they are granted through the standard financial aid process.

Why Should I Apply?

As a single mother, don't let high costs be a reason not to go to school. Bettering your education should be a top priority because it will pay off in the future and you will be able to support yourself and your family. Apply today for a scholarship and it will be one less financial cost you will have to worry about, every little bit helps, right?

About the Author:

Kelly Kennedy writes for http://www.singlemotherresources.com, a great online source for single mothers and financial advice