A college scholarship is money awarded to enrolled college students to help pay for educational expenses. They can be based on specific criteria, such as academic achievement, athletic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or other specific talents. The best aspect of scholarships is that there is no repayment required.  

Topic: Scholarships

Scholarships can be found from a variety of sources, such as schools, nonprofit organizations, public companies, religious organizations, and government programs. One good way to find scholarships is to start by asking school counselors who may know local organizations that offer them. Also, websites like rischolarships.org make it easy to find and filter for opportunities that match your profile. 

Topic: Scholarships, Scholarship Search

Although scholarships are awarded only to enrolled college students, they can be applied for by high school students, current college students, and, in some cases, a college student’s parents. Eligibility may vary based on academics, interests, background, and financial need. 

Topic: Scholarships, Applying, Eligibility

The earlier, the better. Many students start in their senior year of high school, but scholarships are available year-round—even during college. 

Topic: Scholarships, Applying

Not always. While some scholarships are merit-based, others focus on community service, leadership, talents, or financial need. 

Topic: Scholarships, Requirements

No—legitimate scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them one of the best ways to reduce college costs. However, be cautious of any scholarship that requires you to pay for eligibility or provide confidential information, as it may be a scam. Your name, address, and proof of enrollment should be all that is needed to award a scholarship. 

Topic: Scholarships, Fees, Scams

No. Some scholarships require essays, but many—like sweepstakes-style awards—have little to no application requirements.

Topic: Scholarships, Essays, Requirements

Awards vary widely—from a few hundred dollars to full tuition. Applying to multiple scholarships increases your total potential funding.  

Topic: Scholarships, Scholarship Award Amounts

Absolutely. In fact, applying to multiple scholarships is encouraged to maximize your chances of earning more money for college. 

Topic: Scholarships, Applying

In most cases, scholarship funds used for tuition and required expenses are not taxable, but funds used for non-qualified expenses may be. 

Topic: Scholarships, Scholarship Awards

A college scholarship is money awarded to enrolled college students to help pay for educational expenses. They can be based on specific criteria, such as academic achievement, athletic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or other specific talents. The best aspect of scholarships is that there is no repayment required.  

Topic: Scholarships