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Like many things, college applications have also been affected by the pandemic. For some students, the lack of SAT and ACT requirements has made it easier to apply for college. For others, the pandemic has made it financially challenging to pursue higher education. However, many students may not be fully aware of all the financial options available to them. Today, we’ll be talking all about how to find and apply for scholarships.

What scholarships can I apply for?

There are a wide range of scholarships available for students based on a variety of factors for eligibility: for instnace, subject studied, region, financial need, and/or background. Each type of scholarship has different types of eligibility criteria.

Scholarships usually are based around certain requirements. For instance, many scholarships with academic requirements require applicants to maintain a certain GPA or provide a certain threshold of a standardized test score (like an SAT/ACT score). Financial need-based scholarships ask for proof of income and other financial information, and may also depend on academic and extracurricular requirements, too. If you’re applying for a financial need scholarship, you also need to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Extracurricular-based scholarships may focus on your sports, arts, or other extracurricular involvement. They often ask for a letter of recommendation from the appropriate coach, teacher, or mentor.

Where can I find scholarships?

Most students start at their college or university, seeing what scholarships their institution might provide. Additionally, your high school may also have some suggestions for you, based on their knowledge of your strengths.

However, there are plenty of other resources out there: we have compiled a comprehensive directory as well as a shorter, up-to-date scholarship list that you can reference to find a scholarship that fits you! Our comprehensive directory includes requirements, deadlines, amounts, and application links.

Furthermore, we also post slides summarizing some current scholarships, as well as share any internships or summer programs we become aware of, on our Instagram account. Follow us at @mundoacademy to keep up-to-date with all these resources!

What if I don’t know where I am going to college?

Each scholarship will have its own requirements. If college acceptance is a requirement, the scholarship will ask you to submit proof of enrollment before they release the funds. Some scholarships will send the funds directly to your school, while others will give you the award to use for school supplies, living expenses, and tuition.

When should I apply for scholarships?

Most scholarships start accepting applications in January, with the majority being due in March or April. We recommend that you start early to identify scholarships for which you qualify. Consider creating a calendar with the due dates, requirements, and essay topics you may need to address. In many cases, you can use parts of your college essays! Don’t forget to check for scholarships given by local organizations and businesses.

How do I apply?

The application process for each scholarship will vary. In general, most ask for certain documents to confirm your eligibility, some grades/transcripts, as well as an essay. Similar to college application essays, scholarship essays will often center on topics that you may have written about previously. You can definitely recycle an essay you’ve written for a college application. When you do, make sure you make any edits needed to properly tailor that essay for the scholarship topic! Keep your audience in mind and proofread carefully. Finally, try to make or keep copies of all materials that you turn in, just in case anything goes wrong.

As always, feel free to reach out to us here at Mundo Academy for any other help regarding how to find and apply for scholarships!