1. The Secret to Scholarships

2. DID YOU KNOW? DID YOU KNOW? According to the National Commission on Student Financial Assistance, $7 billion is available for students to fund their education, but only $400 million of it is claimed.

3. 3 TYPES OF SCHOLARSHIPS Merit Based Scholarships Given to those students who meet rigorous criteria usually based on GPA and/or test scores Need Based Scholarships- Given to those students who demonstrate financial need based on their FAFSA information Private Scholarships Sponsored by private companies, religious organizations, or civic groups who establish their own criteria

4. Be a Scholarship Worthy Student Find the Scholarship Apply for the Scholarship STEPS TO GET A SCHOLARSHIP

5. BE A SCHOLARSHIP WORTHY STUDENT! Maintain a good G.P.A (above a 3.0). Involve yourself in school clubs and organizations. Accept leadership positions within those clubs and organizations Involve yourself in the community.

6. FIND THE SCHOLARSHIP INTERNET WEB SITES Google www.fastweb.com COUNSELING OFFICE LIBRARY BOOKSTORES EMPLOYERS RELIGIOUS OR CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS

7. INTERNET WEB SITE RECOMMENDATIONS www.fastweb.com www.collegenet.com www.scholarships.com www.collegescholarships.com www.collegefunds.net www.weeklyscholarshipalert.com www.chegg.com Word of advice: Create an email to use JUST for scholarships!

8. THE SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY Be sincere because it will show. Be clear and concise. Answer the prompt. Don’t make it too long. Have a teacher check your work. Print it on high quality paper, if necessary

9. LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION It is best to get letters of recommendation from varying sources but follow guidelines! Some good choices are letters from teachers, counselors, employers, or club leaders AVOID friends or family members

10. SENDING IN YOUR APPLICATION Make sure to keep track of deadlines and send it on time. Watch for “postmark” or “received by” dates Make sure everything is printed on the same high quality type of paper. Print the address on the envelope if possible. INCLUDE POSTAGE!

11. IF YOU RECEIVE A SCHOLARSHIP Be sure to read the award letter carefully for follow up instructions that may affect your receipt of the scholarship. Write thank you letters to the scholarship donors! This is a courtesy and also shows professionalism!

12. GOOD LUCK ! (Keep track of scholarships won and report that information on your senior honors night invitation! We happily announce all outside scholarship winners!)