How to Get Scholarships

Schooling and tuition costs can add up and potentially lead to student loan debt in the future. These loans can seem like a never-ending cycle for some, but if you do some research, you may be able to avoid it. Keep reading to find out how scholarships can help ease some of the payment and for some tips on how to get started.

What are Scholarships

The first step is to understand what a scholarship is. A scholarship is defined as, “a grant or payment made to support a student’s education, awarded on the basis of academic or other achievements.” Essentially, a scholarship is ‘credited money’ to put towards your education based on your achievements and the requirements the scholarship outlines. Unlike student loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid, no matter how much money is awarded.

Types of Scholarships

There are different types of scholarships that have several unique conditions. Some are based on financial need; Organizations will seek out individuals who require financial assistance and award a scholarship based on their situation. Other scholarships are granted based on merit. These types of scholarships require the applicant to meet certain criteria set by the group giving the scholarship. Things like grades, extracurricular activities, talent, and achievements can be included in the requirements. Additional scholarships are awarded to specific groups such as military families, women, or people from diverse cultures or communities. One thing to note is that some scholarships cover your full tuition costs while others only cover part. Either way, ‘free money’ is always great to have to go towards your tuition needs.

Looking for Scholarships

Numerous places offer scholarships, such as schools, privately owned businesses, nonprofit organizations, religious groups, communities, and social or professional organizations. You can start your search by checking to see if the school of your choice offers a scholarship. Some places of employment offer scholarships as well, so be sure to check in with your employer. If you’re still in high school, start your research early and find out what requirements you need to meet to obtain a scholarship. And don’t limit yourself to only one scholarship! You can apply to multiple scholarships and combine them to cover the cost of your schooling.

Applying to Scholarships

This can be tricky, as scholarships have many different deadlines. Some deadlines can be as early as one year before your semester starts. For high school students, the earlier you investigate scholarship requirements, the better. For others, research scholarships the moment you know you want to go back to school and find out which ones you can apply to. Once you have found the scholarships you qualify for be sure to apply to them as early as you can. If you did your research but have missed your window to apply, do not worry! You can always look into other options or see if there is another entry date.

There you have it. For more information on our Scholarship Match program click here: https://www.centuracollege.edu/admissions/financial-aid/scholarship-match-program/.

About Centura College

Centura College has been part of an organization dedicated to helping individuals develop careers since 1969. The schools connect students to local communities and career fields through training in healthcare, technology, business, and trades. Centura College offers professional facilities, knowledgeable instructors, day or evening classes, job placement assistance, and provides the students the opportunity to gain certifications with American Welding Society, Environmental Protection Agency, OSHA-10, American Medical Technologist (RMA), and more. Centura College is an accredited member of Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). To learn more, visit www.CenturaCollege.edu or like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centura.edu.