Types of scholarships:
Merit based scholarships- These are awarded to students who excel in a particular area, such as academics, athletics, leadership, or community service. Merit scholarships recognize achievement and typically don’t consider financial need. They often reward consistent effort, exceptional talent, or notable accomplishments and can help make college more affordable without requiring proof of financial need.
Need based scholarships - These are often referred to as "grants". These awards are given to students who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility is determined through forms like the FAFSA or other financial aid applications. They help make college more affordable for families who qualify for assistance.
Specific criteria scholarships- These scholarships are awarded based on particular qualities, experiences, or affiliations a student may have. Examples include scholarships tied to a student’s major, background, or personal interests, often with academic requirements as well.
Where do scholarships come from?
Institutional Awards- Colleges may offer merit-based scholarships at the time of admission, while need-based grants are typically awarded through the financial aid package. Merit scholarships often don’t require a separate application, though some schools may have additional forms. Most merit scholarships are renewable each year if students meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a specific GPA or participating in athletics. Grants are generally reviewed and adjusted each year based on your financial circumstances. Not all colleges offer merit scholarships or grants, so it’s important to check each school’s financial aid website.
Outside Scholarships- These come from businesses, community organizations, charities, and other private sources. Students must actively search and apply by the deadlines. Outside scholarships are usually one-time awards and rarely renewable. Award amounts can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. While many are for high school seniors, some are open to students at all grade levels. Use the scholarship search resources below to find opportunities that fit your profile.
www.nhcf.org/how-can-we-help-you/apply-for-a-scholarship/ - The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation has hundreds of scholarships for NH students and you only have to fill out the application once to be eligible for all of them. The application is available online in January for seniors. Be sure you use the correct application, there are different scholarship applications for students going into trade schools, community colleges, and 4-year colleges.
https://graniteedvance.org/cover-the-cost/search-for-scholarships/- Granite Edvance offers scholarships for NH students entering 4-year college, community college, and trade schools.
www.fastweb.com and www.scholarships.com- Fastweb and Scholarships.com are the most well-known national scholarship databases. Create your profile to get matched with available scholarships.
bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-directory - The College Board has their own searchable scholarships database.
www.goingmerry.com - Going Merry is another national scholarship database. Create your profile and get matched with available scholarships.
Available in February 2026