Every year, students can access an estimated 1.58 million scholarships. This means that, for every eight students in college, one gets a scholarship. The vast majority of students — 97%, to be exact — get $2,500 in scholarships. Less than half a percent of students get scholarships valued at $25,000 and up.
Considering these numbers, you might be wondering why you should apply for scholarships or how to get a scholarship for college. For starters, you usually don’t have to repay them. And seeing as the average cost of college tuition is over $36,000, every little bit helps.
Even better, you can receive more than one scholarship at a time, so these amounts can quickly accumulate, reducing your overall tuition and assisting with your college funding.
Now that you understand the importance of scholarships, you’re probably wondering when to apply for scholarships for Fall 2024. You should also familiarize yourself with the different types of scholarships available and learn how to find college scholarships.
Different Types of Scholarships Available
Before you apply for scholarships, it’s important to understand the different types available. This helps you understand how to get college scholarships in the first place.
One type of scholarship is a merit-based scholarship. These scholarships are based on your academic performance, as well as achievements in art or other fields. This scholarship is often awarded based on talent and if you can use your craft to impact the world around you.
Another type of scholarship is a need-based scholarship. These scholarships are awarded to students who have a low income and work to ensure students from a diverse background gain access to college, and at an affordable rate.
More and more low-income students can attend college, and scholarships are one way of making this possible. In 2000, 26.7% of students were low-income, but in 2016, this percentage increased to 43.1%. If this pertains to you, be sure to look for qualifying scholarships and apply on time, something we’ll discuss more soon.
International students also qualify for scholarships, as more students are coming to America to pursue higher education. Since 5.6% of students are international, it’s important to have scholarships available to assist them.
In addition to international students, there are also scholarships for underrepresented groups. These might be students with disabilities, first-generation students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and more.
If you have a special focus, you might also find scholarships available in your field. It’s important to discuss with your school all the scholarships you qualify for so that you can apply. Your institution most likely has its own scholarships available, so be sure to ask plenty of questions about what they offer.
But when should you start applying for scholarships for fall 2024? And what about grants?
Scholarships and Grants
You need to understand how to apply for scholarships and grants. Each scholarship lists its specifics, but grants come from completing the FAFSA.
However, some colleges and universities require you to complete the FAFSA to qualify for scholarships, so you should fill it out regardless.
From there, your institution will decide what grants you qualify for, but always speak to them about specifics in case there are additional steps you need to take or other forms/applications for you to complete.
So when do scholarships open for fall 2024? Let’s take a look.
When to Apply for Scholarships for Fall 2024
There are tons of different scholarships available, and the ones through your specific college or university will come with their own guidelines. However, if you choose to apply for other scholarships — something all students should consider — most deadlines for Fall 2024 are in the spring of 2024.
As you ask yourself, “When should I start applying for scholarships?” you should start looking into the specific scholarships that interest/pertain to you.
For starters, the Sally Mae “No Essay” Scholarship offers $2,000 and has a deadline of April 30, 2024.
The Be Bold Scholarship has a deadline of May 1, 2024, but offers $25,000. The winners must show how they’re earnest, determined, and moving.
Another large scholarship is the Niche $25,000 Scholarship. Its deadline for application is May 31, 2024.
The ScholarshipOwn No Essay Scholarship offers students $1,000 and has a deadline of April 29, 2024. The SP Scholarship is for $2,500 and has a deadline of April 30, 2024.
Another $1,000 scholarship is the 10 Words of Less Scholarship. It has an April 15, 2024 application deadline. The Brower Youth Award is for $3,000 and has an April 8, 2024 application deadline.
Another large scholarship is the Comcast NBCUniversal-SVA Scholarship. This scholarship awards students with $12,000 and has a deadline of April 12, 2024.
The Stockholm Junior Water Prize Competition is valued at $15,000 and has a deadline of April 15, 2024. This scholarship is specific to an area of study — water research.
The National Dairy Shrine Scholarships are worth $3,000 and have a deadline of April 15, 2024.
The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heros is valued at $10,000 and has an April 15, 2024 deadline. This scholarship aims to assist students from diverse backgrounds who’ve made a tremendous impact in their community.
A smaller scholarship is the Life Parts Express Scholarship. It’s worth $500 and has a deadline of April 30, 2024.
The Shawn Carter Scholarship is valued at $2,500 and has an April 30, 2024 application deadline. The LM Scholarship Program is worth $500 and students must apply by May 1, 2024.
These are only a few of the scholarships available, so be sure to take a look at others you can apply for.
Where Can I Apply for Scholarships?
As you ask yourself, “When do scholarships open for fall 2024?” it’s important to learn more about other ways of applying and locating scholarships.
Where to apply for scholarships, along with how to get scholarships for college, are more popular questions that students and their families have.
You could also look to see if any local Women’s Clubs are awarding scholarships. Sometimes these organizations provide local students with a scholarship to help offset the cost of college.
Additionally, you should look for scholarship websites that list what’s available, or contact your institution’s financial aid or admissions office. Some popular websites are Scholarships.com, College Board, and ScholarshipOwl.
Applying for Fall 2024 Scholarships
Now that you know more about when to apply for scholarships for fall 2024, you may have more questions. Even as you apply for fall 2024 scholarships, you might want to learn more about the college application process.
This is where College Funding Professionals come into play. We have the knowledge and expertise to assist you with your academic journey, explaining everything about scholarships and more.
So if you’re still wondering, “When should I apply for scholarships?” we can help. Read our informative blog entries or reach out to one of our qualified counselors today. Join our free online Facebook Group to gain access to the best college planning advice anywhere.
