ULTIMATE GUIDE
The Ultimate Scholarship Guide: Tips, Tricks, Deadlines & Tracking Sheet
Welcome to your ultimate scholarship guide! Whether you're a high school senior, current college student, a returning adult learner, veteran or a international student, this guide will help you maximize your scholarship opportunities. From insider tips and proven strategies to a ready-to-view tracking sheet format, you’ll have everything you need to stay organized and win more scholarships!
Chapter 1: Understanding Scholarships
1.1 What Are Scholarships?
Scholarships are financial awards given to students based on merit, need, background, or a specific talent. Unlike loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them one of the best ways to fund your education.
1.2 Types of Scholarships
Merit-Based: Awarded for academic excellence, leadership, or talents (e.g., athletics, arts).
Need-Based: Given to students with demonstrated financial need.
Demographic-Specific: For students from certain backgrounds (e.g., minority scholarships, women in STEM).
Field-Specific: Awarded for studying specific majors or career paths.
Local & Community-Based: Offered by small organizations or businesses in your area.
Chapter 2: Where to Find Scholarships
2.1 Online Scholarship Databases
🔗Higher Edu Pro’s Scholarship Search
Fastweb
Scholarships.com
CollegeBoard’s BigFuture
International Scholarships
CAPPEX
2.2 Local & Community-Based Scholarships
High school counseling offices
Local businesses and organizations
Religious institutions
Employers (parent/guardian employers often offer scholarships)
Chapter 3: How to Apply for Scholarships Successfully
3.1 Organizing Your Applications
Keep a spreadsheet to track deadlines, requirements, and status (see tracking sheet example).
Prioritize high-value and easy-to-apply scholarships first.
3.2 Writing a Winning Essay
Follow the prompt and stay concise.
Tell a compelling story using personal experiences.
Proofread and ask for feedback from teachers or mentors.
3.3 Getting Strong Recommendation Letters
Ask early and provide details about the scholarship.
Choose recommenders who know you well (teachers, employers, coaches)
3.4 Avoiding Scholarship Scams
Never pay to apply for a scholarship.
Beware of offers that guarantee awards.
Verify organizations through official sources.
Chapter 4: Key Scholarship Deadlines
4.1 National Scholarship Deadlines
FAFSA: Opens October 1, priority deadline varies by state
Coca-Cola Scholars Program: October 31
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship: November
Dell Scholars Program: December
Gates Millennium Scholars: January
4.2 Monthly Scholarship Opportunities
January – Foot Locker Scholar Athletes
February – Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
March – Google Women Techmakers Scholarship
April – Horatio Alger Scholarship
May – Future Educators Scholarship
(Check scholarship sites frequently, as new scholarships appear throughout the year!)
Chapter 5: Scholarship Tracking Sheet
Use this example to formulate your own form to keep track of your scholarship applications:
Final Tips & Encouragement
Apply to as many scholarships as possible—small awards add up!
Stay consistent and dedicated—treat scholarship hunting as a part-time job.
Set aside time each week to work on applications.
Believe in yourself—your education is worth investing in!
