Asian super star girls , Examining Different Scholarship Types

Examining Different Scholarship Types

When thinking about paying for college you need to know what types of aid are out there to apply for. There are many different types of scholarships and grants out there so it's important to know what type you are going after and what the criteria are for each one.

Merit Based Scholarships & Grants:

A Merit Scholarship or Grant is one that is given out to students or potential students based on their academic achievements. These types of scholarships and grants generally go to those who have earned strong academic marks (generally a B average or better) in their prior education; be that high school or previous college.

There are some other factors that play into these awards, like extracurricular activities or difficulty of the courses being considered. However, these factors are generally used only as extra info if needed to choose between candidates. Anyone with a strong academic record should apply for these.

Need Based Scholarships & Grants:

A Need Based Scholarship or Grant is exactly what it sounds like, one that goes to students based solely on their financial need. Prior grades, extra-curricular activities, potential major - whatever it may be - doesn't factor in. These are a great way to provide access to higher education for many people who wouldn't ordinarily be able to attend. Anyone who thinks they will have trouble paying for any aspect of school should apply for these.

Institutional Scholarships & Grants:

These are the scholarships and grants that you have the least control over. The schools that you are attending each have their own formula and criteria for giving out these awards so there isn't a whole lot you can do to help your chances of getting one. However, you want to make sure that you are considered for these awards (the vast majority of schools automatically consider all students) so speaking to the financial aid office isn't a bad idea.

Demographic Based Scholarships & Grants:

This category of Scholarships & Grants is the biggest and potentially most rewarding for many people. There are a lot of different scholarships for various specific groups of people available - single mothers, African-Americans, men, women, athletes, people from a certain state or city - the list is almost endless. Looking at scholarship websites will be a good place to search for whichever of these types of awards apply to you personally. This is where you can really rack in a lot of extra, free money for school, so make sure to take advantage.

For additional info on paying for school, finding financial aid, consolidating loans o

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