College can be expensive. Getting a scholarship is one way to help offset the costs. A scholarship is an award given to an individual for the purpose of furthering their education by providing financial aid. Scholarships are awarded on a number of criteria ranging from financial need, or academic or athletic achievement, to nationality, ethnicity or public service. In order to get a scholarship, you need to make yourself stand out from everyone else applying for the same scholarship.

There are a variety of scholarships available from a variety of sources. Scholarships awarded through colleges include athletic, academic and departmental. Other private organizations that offer scholarships include corporations, religious organizations, unions, school districts or high schools, Chambers of Commerce or the military.

You begin the process for applying for a scholarship much like applying to a college. Start with a list of possible choices that match what you are looking for. Then send out applications supported by your achievements, essays, letters of recommendation and interviews. The more time you spend researching scholarships and the earlier you start, the more options you will have. If you have any questions about your eligibility for a particular scholarship, be sure to contact its sponsor.

As you are applying for scholarships, be sure to organize all your application material. Keep track of application deadlines and follow-up appointments. In addition to the scholarship application, you may be required to send a combination of the following material:

• Transcripts

• Standardized test scores

• Parent’s financial information (including their tax returns)

• Financial aid forms

• Proof of eligibility

• One or more essays

• One or more letters of recommendation

When sending in the requested information, don’t submit anything that isn’t requested or go over the length limit set for the essay. Make sure your application is legible (type or print it). It is a good idea to make copies of everything you send in, in case you need to resend any information. Double-check your application to make sure everything is filled out and filled out correctly. Don’t forget to sign and date your application. Have someone read your essay and check for spelling and grammar errors.

There are numerous scholarship opportunities available for anyone willing to maneuver through the maze of choices and take the time to fill out the applications and supply the necessary information. Your chance for getting one is good.