Get Organized
It's easier to apply to multiple scholarships if you are organized. As you begin your search begin keeping track of scholarships you qualify for by due date on a spreadsheet.Track the name, URL link, due date, and requirements. Once you have a list of scholarships you can sort by due date and work through the list as the deadlines approach.
For juniors this is a great way to get a jump on the scholarship process. Most scholarships have annual applications that are due around the same time each year. Make a list of scholarships you qualify for now, and once you're a senior you'll simply have to double-check the due dates and begin the applications.
Finding Scholarships
- First - apply for all the scholarships at each of the colleges you are applying to.
- Second - check with local resources - school counselors, family employers, church or civic organizations
- Third - search online. Visit www.icansucceed.org/scholarships for a list of good sources of scholarships, and check our the ICAN Scholarship Database.
- Fourth - check out the micro-scholarship program Raise.Me. Setup an account and earn money for actions you've probably already taken throughout high school to prepare for your next steps.
If you aren't already signed up for ICAN's Senior Alerts sign up. Throughout the year we send emails about scholarship opportunities. Register at www.icansucceed.org/signup.
Activities Resume
Make sure your activities resume is up to date and ready to go. This will help you in answering questions on different applications, and in some cases you may be able to attach the resume as part of your official submission. If you haven't started a resume yet, download the template from the ICAN website - www.icansucceed.org/activitiesresume.
Essays
Take your time when writing an essay. It is ok to use the same essay for multiple submissions, but make sure to edit the essay to make it fit each individual scholarship. Submitting an essay that is clearly being reused is an easy way to get disqualified.
When writing your essay, make sure you save enough time for editing. Never submit your first draft. Read it out loud and ask someone to proof read it for you as well.
Letters of Recommendation
If you haven't already, now is the time to get letters of recommendation requests out. Ask someone who knows you well but it's family. A teacher, counselor, pastor, coach, or community-member is a good choice. Give them 2-3 weeks, a copy of the scholarship(s) you are applying to and a copy of your activity resume. The more information and time you provide to the writer, the better the letter will be.
As seniors, scholarships should be your new part-time job. Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. Even the small ones add up and can make a big difference toward you overall college costs.
Good luck with your scholarship search!
Brittania - ICAN Hiawatha Center
