Your senior year of high school is busy – you’re reaching the end of an era, trying to do well in your finals while also applying to colleges and universities. Those college applications are time-consuming and studying for finals is a top priority so finding space to search for scholarships may be a bit low on the list. High school seniors have a lot to consider as they prepare for college, and scholarships can be an important part of the equation. Scholarships can help students reduce their cost of attendance, allowing them to pursue higher education without taking on large amounts of debt. In addition to providing financial assistance, scholarships also provide recognition and motivation for high-achieving students. Winning a scholarship is an accomplishment that will look good on resumes and college applications, thus giving those who receive one a leg up in the admissions process. For all these reasons, it’s important for high school seniors to actively seek out available scholarships when planning their future endeavors.
High school seniors have many opportunities to apply for scholarships that can help pay for college — most organizations are looking for incoming freshmen. These scholarships are typically merit-based and range from covering full tuition to just a portion. Many organizations, civil groups, and corporations offer numerous scholarships specifically designated for high school seniors. Additionally, there are many national scholarship programs available each year that specifically target high school seniors as well. Many colleges award merit-based scholarships based on a student’s grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities. You should take advantage of every opportunity to apply for a scholarship, as it can make a huge difference when paying for college.