Finding scholarships can make the journey to college more affordable and accessible, yet with the numerous options out there, knowing where to look can be overwhelming. This article delves into the top websites for finding scholarships, providing a roadmap for students aiming to secure financial aid to fund their education. Each platform brings unique features, extensive databases, and resources to help students maximize their chances of success.
For more information on how to increase your chances of winning a scholarship, be sure to check out our guide on 10 Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship.
1. Scholarships.com
Launched in 1998, Scholarships.com is one of the most comprehensive scholarship resources available. By creating a free profile, students receive customized scholarship recommendations based on their academic achievements, personal background, and interests. Scholarships.com has a database of over 3.7 million scholarships, representing approximately $19 billion in financial aid opportunities.
In addition to its scholarship database, Scholarships.com offers tools for college search, financial aid information, and career planning, making it a holistic resource for students. Interested in graduate scholarships? See our Ultimate Guide to Finding Scholarships for Graduate School.
2. Fastweb
Fastweb is another well established platform that matches students to scholarships based on their profiles. After signing up and completing a profile, students receive a tailored list of scholarship opportunities. Fastweb also includes information on internships, financial aid, and student life, making it a multifaceted resource for college bound students.
3. College Board’s BigFuture
The BigFuture tool by College Board is designed to help students make informed college choices, including financial planning. The scholarship search tool allows users to filter opportunities by criteria such as academic interest, location, and demographics. BigFuture hosts a large scholarship database, offering access to around $6 billion in funding.
If you’re curious about the difference between types of scholarships, consider reading Understanding the Difference Between Merit Based and Need Based Scholarships.
4. Chegg Scholarships
Known primarily for textbook rentals, Chegg also offers a scholarship search tool with thousands of opportunities. Users can filter scholarships by GPA, location, and major, among other criteria. Chegg also includes resources for internships and part time jobs, making it an essential platform for students looking to balance school and work.
5. Peterson’s
Peterson’s provides an extensive scholarship database, allowing students to browse opportunities based on various factors. Known for its college preparation and test resources, Peterson’s also offers guidance on standardized tests, admissions, and financial aid, giving students a well rounded approach to college planning.
Writing a compelling application can make a huge difference. Read our guide on How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay for tips to make your application stand out.
6. Niche
Niche not only offers a scholarship search tool but also provides reviews of colleges and universities. Students can filter scholarships by their background, major, and interests. Niche offers its own scholarships as well, such as the “No Essay” Scholarship, which requires minimal effort to apply, making it a great option for busy students.
7. Cappex
Cappex is a platform where students can search for scholarships and read reviews on various colleges. Users can build profiles that match them with scholarships suited to their academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Cappex also includes a college search tool that allows students to find institutions aligning with their academic and financial needs.
For international students, be sure to explore our list of Top 10 Scholarships for International Students in 2024.
8. Unigo
Unigo hosts a wide range of scholarships, including many exclusive opportunities. By completing a profile, students receive scholarship matches tailored to their background and interests. Unigo also provides resources on college applications, internships, and career planning, which can be helpful for students beyond their scholarship search.
9. ScholarshipOwl
ScholarshipOwl simplifies the scholarship application process by allowing students to apply to multiple scholarships with one profile. The platform automates the application process, saving time and effort. ScholarshipOwl offers a free trial, but continued access requires a subscription.
To learn more about various scholarship options, including those for women in STEM fields, check out Scholarships for Women in STEM.
10. Bold.org
Bold.org offers exclusive scholarships created by private donors. The platform is unique in allowing students to create profiles that align with specific scholarship requirements. Bold.org’s scholarships include unique, custom opportunities, making it an ideal platform for students looking for options beyond traditional programs.
11. Going Merry
Going Merry not only offers scholarship searches but also allows students to apply to multiple scholarships through a single application. Going Merry’s platform matches students with scholarships, including school specific and local awards. The platform also includes resources on financial aid and college admissions.
12. RaiseMe
RaiseMe offers an innovative approach to scholarships by awarding students micro scholarships for achievements throughout high school. By logging achievements, students can earn scholarships for academic, extracurricular, and community involvement. RaiseMe partners with various colleges, offering students an alternative path to securing scholarship funds.
Need a more detailed approach? Visit our How to Apply for Scholarships: A Step by Step Guide for a full breakdown of the scholarship application process.
13. Scholarship America
Scholarship America is a nonprofit organization focused on administering scholarships for companies, foundations, and community organizations. The platform includes scholarships funded by corporations and nonprofits, providing numerous options for students seeking financial support.
14. CareerOneStop’s Scholarship Finder
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop’s Scholarship Finder includes scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Students can filter opportunities by factors such as study level, award type, and state. In addition to scholarships, CareerOneStop also offers career resources, making it useful for students planning their future careers.
Avoid common pitfalls by reading our article on How to Avoid Common Scholarship Scams and Stay Safe Online.
15. ProFellow
ProFellow provides a platform for students and professionals seeking fellowships for graduate study and career development. It’s an excellent resource for students who want to explore opportunities beyond traditional scholarships.
For more insight into choosing the right educational path, consider our guide on Choosing the Right Career Path: A Guide for High School Graduates.
Final Thoughts on Scholarship Websites
Each website listed offers valuable tools to simplify the scholarship search process, and using these resources strategically can increase your chances of winning scholarships. For more career advice and educational resources, explore some of our other articles:
- Top Careers for Creative Thinkers
- 10 Signs It’s Time for a Career Change and What to Do Next
- Why Time Management Skills Are Essential for Career Success
Using these tools and guides, students can optimize their search and make informed choices in their scholarship journey, ultimately reducing the financial strain of higher education and setting the foundation for a successful academic career.