What are Scholarships?

Grants and scholarships are often called “gift aid” because they are free money—financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid. Grants are often need-based, while scholarships are usually merit-based. While it is typically in the form of money, it can include computers, cars, books, or other education related materials

What are Scholarships used for?

They can be used to pay for any type of education as long as it meets the scholarship criteria. Scholarships are available for 4 year colleges, post-graduate work, technical colleges, career certifications, on the job training, as well as enrichment and travel opportunities as early as the age of 7 (although those are more rare). Depending on the scholarship, the money can be used for tuition, room & board, or other education related expenses.

What is the difference between Scholarships and Financial Aid?

Financial Aid is an umbrella term covering all types of monetary assistance used for education, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work study. Scholarships are a specific type of financial aid that does not need to be repaid, can come from a variety of sources, and used for different things depending on the scholarship criteria. More information is available at https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types

Where can I find Scholarships?

Grants and scholarships can come from the Federal Government, your State Government, your College or Career School, or a Private or Non-Profit Organization. Do your research, apply for any grants or scholarships you might be eligible for, and be sure to meet application deadlines!

A good list of different scholarship databases is at: http://www.college-scholarships.com/free-scholarship-searches/

Or check out the the U.S. Department of Labor’s Free Scholarship Search Tool

How can I get a Scholarship?

You have to search for scholarships that you meet the criteria of and then apply. Obtaining scholarships can be competitive, and it can be frustrating. Each scholarship has its own requirements. The scholarship’s website should give you an idea of who qualifies for the scholarship and how to apply. Make sure you read the application carefully, fill it out completely, and meet the application deadline. Careful planning and preparation will lead to more success.

What happens when I get awarded a Scholarship?

That depends on the scholarship. The money might go directly to your college, where it will be applied to any tuition, fees, or other amounts you owe, and then any leftover funds given to you. Or it might be sent directly to you in a check. The scholarship provider should tell you what to expect when it informs you that you’ve been awarded the scholarship. If not, make sure to ask.

When should I apply?

That depends on each scholarship’s deadline. Some deadlines are as early as a year before college starts, so if you’re in high school now, you should be researching and applying for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior years, if not earlier. If you’ve missed that window, don’t give up! Look at scholarship information to see which ones you can still apply for now. Some scholarships can be applied for in middle school, so you should always be looking.

What is this site for?

On this site you will find scholarships specifically for students at Nathan Hale that are not listed on other sites. Typically these come from local organizations here in our community that work with the school to match students with the award. You will also find some of the resources and materials we use with our students and parents.