How to Search for a Scholarship

As you plan to continue your education after graduation from high school, it is important for you to begin to explore how you will pay for your college education. Do not delay. There is financial aid available. Several scholarship sponsors report that there are surprisingly few applicants for their scholarships each year, especially at the local level. Do not fall into this trap by thinking your are not "scholarship material." Do not miss the opportunity because you do not make time in your busy schedule to complete the necessary application process.

Here is your checklist:

• Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is available during the months of November and December. The FAFSA is a "need analysis" - it determines what contribution your family can make to your future educational expenses, the Expected Family Contribution.
• The FAFSA may not be mailed in for processing or completed on their Internet site until January 1. You will need at least estimated tax information from the previous year to complete the FAFSA (2007 information if you are applying for aid in 2008). There is no charge for this processing. You will need to provide the results of the FAFSA to the financial aid office at the school(s) you would like to attend. Those schools will then respond with an offering of a financial aid "package." This financial aid "package" is designed to bridge the gap between the cost of your education and the "family contribution" as determined by the FAFSA.
• The financial aid package can be a combination of scholarships/grants, loan and/or work study program. If there are special circumstances that the financial aid officer needs to know, please make certain that you have communicated with him/her so that your "package" will truly address your financial needs.
• An institution where the expenses are higher may be able to offer you more financial aid than an institution where the expenses are less. Therefore, do not hesitate to apply to any institution because of the cost. Look at the "bottom line" after the financial aid picture is in place.
• Scholarship books and applications are available in many high school counselor’s offices. You then contact the specific source regarding the scholarship in which you have an interest.
• Use the Internet. It is the fastest way to process the FAFSA and an additional resource for searching for scholarships (FAFSA.ed.gov).
• Write a letter to the Financial Aid Office at the college or univeristy to which you have applied. State in the letter that you have an application on file in the Admissions Office and are interested in financial aid information. Do not assume that the Admissions Office and Financial Aid Office communicate effectively at the institution. Checking the box on the application indicating interest in financial aid information will not be sufficient in gaining the required information.
• If you have a special talent (music, drama, sports) or plan to major in a specific area (engineering, business), contact the department chairperson or coach regarding your interest in financial aid. Sometimes that individual knows of financial aid for those with your special interest/talent. Check the personnel office at your parent/guardian’s place of employment, your church and any civic organization to which you or your parent/guardian belongs. These are often a source of financial aid that are unknown to the school. Check with your employer - funds might be available.
• Read the newspaper. Scholarship opportunities are frequently published in the paper. You may then contact the source indicated for further information.

Deadline dates on some scholarships may change so always check the application or Web site and don't wait until last minute to send in your application or requested information.

Source: Barrie Etling, Guidance Counselor (Retired).