is it ever to late to apply for scholarships . If yes,when is it to late?
Im a sinior at highschool at the brink of graduation and untile recently, I have been increasingly worried about my past decisions to not apply for scholarships erlyer in fear that I may not be able to attend college this fall. #scholarshipfears
2 answers
Jordan’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team
Great question Nahom. I'm sorry no one's answered it yet! It is definitely NOT TOO late to apply for scholarships! As long as you are still a Student, you should be applying for scholarships! I applied for scholarships up until my last semester as a Student. I received one that last semester, and I used it for when I started paying off my student loans.
I thought I'd share a few links to other relevant Q&A on CareerVillage.org that should be super helpful for you to read through in regards to scholarships. I've included tips in the "next steps" section below a list of trustworthy sites you should create accounts on if you haven't already (that have good scholarships!). Here are tips that could help you in your preparation of finding and submitting for scholarships:
- Dedicate a minimum of 1 hour a day for a few weeks to applying for scholarships and it'll go a long way.
- Be thoughtful about your entries, just doing the bare minimum isn't going to land you any scholarships. It's better to spend more time on each entry to ensure it's well thought out than to rush through to try to enter a bunch. Quality over quantity!!
- I recommend writing one STELLAR essay. Chances are you'll use it for every scholarship application (potentially only having to make minor edits dependent on what the prompt is). Tell a story that clearly represents who you are and what's important to you. The goal of the essay should be to let the reader in to your life. If you can do that in a genuine and meaningful way you'll be considered, I promise! A couple of ideas: Write about the hardest thing you've had to go through in your life or what makes you so passionate about something. Be sure to include lessons you've learned and what you hope to do with that knowledge/experience later in life.
- Spend more time finding scholarships that directly pertain to YOU so it cuts down the competition. Look for scholarships in your local community, or that are just for young women, for example. Know what career path you want to pursue? There are probably dozens of scholarship opportunities that are only for students aspiring to follow a specific career path (e.g. STEM, entertainment, sports, design, etc. etc.)
Relevant Q&A on CareerVillage.org you should read:
What financial support can I find to help me pay for college?
Jordan, CareerVillage.org Team recommends the following next steps:
Bridgett’s Answer
It's definitely never too late to apply for scholarships. I suggest you continue to search for scholarship even while in college. There are so many opportunities available. Some companies have scholarships and summer programs that could lead to a scholarship. There are scholarships available for current college students as well as adult students returning to complete their education. I mention that to help give you a broader scope. As Jordan mentioned above, take time out of your day and search and apply for legitimate scholarships for college students or what suits you as an individual. Hope this helps!