SEARCHING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS: A GUIDE TO FINDING SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The process of obtaining scholarship dollars is much like trying to find a job; first, you must find out about a particular opportunity, then you must sell yourself to the organization providing the opportunity.

Because some private awards may require you to demonstrate financial need, you should file the Free Application for Federal Aid [the FAFSA], even if you think you won’t qualify for grant money.

One of the most important things for you to do in your search for scholarship dollars is networking: simply talking to people and letting them know you are looking for scholarship opportunities. For example, you should see if you [or your parents] have an affiliation with an employer, union, or special organization that might provide scholarship opportunities. In many respects, it’s who you know [not what you know] that will lead you to scholarship opportunities.

Sources of private scholarships include 4-H Clubs, the Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees, National Honor Society, and American Legion. Inquire directly to these organizations about application procedures.

RESEARCHING SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

To find out about private scholarship opportunities, we suggest you start at the college library. For example, you will find library reference books and a binder of local opportunities that list scholarship sources and information about application procedures. If you need help, reference librarians are a wonderful source of information.

Computer databases of private scholarship information can be searched to match particular scholarship donors to students meeting specific scholarship criteria. Free services now available on the Internet may be able to assist in finding scholarship opportunities. Computers connected to the Internet are located in the college library and in the open computer lab. Start your Internet search at www.fastweb.org.

If you have any questions, call or stop by the Financial Aid Office.

Regular Office Hours
Monday, 8am - 6pm; Tuesday - Friday, 8am - 5pm;
[765] 269-5616 or toll-free in Indiana [800] 669-4882, ext. 5616.