Object reference not set to an instance of an object. Scholarships

Helping students plan

Helping parents plan

Planning wisely

Scholarships

Scholarships (or “free money”) are an attractive way to pay for college because neither you nor your child needs to pay them back.

Parent and child

Scholarships are offered by many organizations, including federal and state governments and private sources, such as:

  • Employers
  • Individuals
  • Companies
  • High schools and colleges
  • Religious groups
  • Professional associations

Scholarship eligibility

Each group has its own requirements, but scholarships are often based on:

  • Academic performance
  • Athletic achievement
  • Financial need
  • Religious affiliation
  • Minority status
  • Heritage
  • Community affiliation
  • Unique criteria that are important to the funding organization

Getting scholarships

Tools and resources

2Futuro

Register for the 2Futuro Scholarship.

Go local

When searching for scholarships, contact local businesses, associations, and houses of worship. Usually, these types of scholarships are not widely publicized. Fewer applicants = a better chance of winning.

Step one

Scholarships are step one in Sallie Mae's 1-2-3 approach to paying for college.

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