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Scholarships are the best way to pay for college. It’s a good idea to spend a few hours every week to search and apply for scholarship opportunities. You can find thousands of scholarships offered by large and small businesses, non-profit organizations, religious groups, schools, and also even individuals. There are national level and even local scholarships. A quick search online will show up thousands of scholarships of varying award amounts. While they may seem plenty to start with, many of these opportunities are hugely competitive. Instead of putting in so much time and energy applying to highly competitive scholarships, try changing your search tactics. Here’s how to find local scholarships:
Why Look For Local Scholarships?
Local scholarships tend to be less competitive. This is because they are offered by local businesses and residents. To qualify, you have to be a local resident or a member of the community. By this criterion itself, only a few students will qualify for a local scholarship, increasing your chances of winning. Though there may not be as many local scholarships, it’s still worth applying to because you’re more likely to win.
Here’s where to discover local scholarships that are not listed online:
Your High School Counselor Office
Asking your high school counselor is the easiest way to find local scholarships but surprisingly, this seems to be the least-used resource. Counselors are a fantastic source of all types of information related to college applications. Whether you are looking for information on internships or scholarships, they should be the first person you should turn to.
Many local businesses and organizations also reach out to high schools every year to inform them about their scholarship opportunities. They also add all scholarships won by past students. All it takes is a few minutes of your time to visit your high school counselor and find out about these amazing, lower-competition scholarship opportunities. Additionally, keep an eye out for any local scholarship announcements or boards your high school puts up.
Your Parents’ Employers
Many organizations also set aside scholarship funds every year to offer their employees’ dependents. The only way to find out is to ask the management or the HR office as they would be reliable sources of information.
Scan the Local Newspaper
Local businesses may not advertise their scholarships online but they will publish the information in the local newspaper. Take a few minutes to scan through your local newspaper every day. You may just stumble upon a great opportunity that you are well qualified for.
Check with Your Religious Center
There are several faith-based scholarships offered by religious organizations. Some of these are applicable to all members of that faith regardless of where they live, while others are more localized. If your family belongs to a particular religious community it is worth asking if they have any funds set aside to offer as scholarships.
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| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
5.34%-15.96%* Variable
3.99%-15.61%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
4.92% - 15.08% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
4.50% - 17.99% Variable
3.49% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
5.50% - 14.56% Variable
3.69% - 14.41% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
4.99% - 16.85% Variable
3.47% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
5.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
