How to find and earn scholarships: A guide for students and parents

Key takeaways

• Scholarship money is available for students to help pay for college, however a lot goes unclaimed simply because students don’t apply.
• The FAFSA is one of the most important things you can do start your scholarship search as completing the form opens the door to grants, aid, and many scholarship programs at once.
• Starting early and applying for a few scholarships each week adds up faster than you’d think, and smaller awards are just as worth pursuing as big ones.

Finding and earning scholarships comes down to two things: knowing where to look and actually applying. The good news is that there’s a lot of financial aid out there. Some estimates suggest that close to $100 million in scholarships goes unclaimed each year, often because not enough students apply. Federal aid shows a similar opportunity. According to NCAN, the class of 2024 left over $4.4 billion in Pell Grants unclaimed simply by not filing the FAFSA.

With the right approach and a little consistency, students at every level can find and win scholarships. Parents can be a valuable part of that process too, helping with research, deadlines, and proofreading without taking over the work that needs to come from the student.

How to find scholarships

Before submitting a single application, students need to know what’s out there. Here’s where to start:

• Use a scholarship search tool: College Raptor’s Scholarship Search is one of the fastest ways to find awards you actually qualify for. It takes just a few minutes to set up and pulls from thousands of scholarships based on your profile.
• Talk to counselors and financial aid offices: School counselors and college financial aid offices often know about scholarships that never make it online. Ask specifically about local, departmental, and community-based awards.
• Look locally: Local scholarships are often overlooked resources. Community foundations, local businesses, civic organizations, credit unions, and religious institutions regularly offer awards with far less competition than national scholarships.
• Use your network: Friends, family members, neighbors, employers, and community organizations are all potential connections to scholarship opportunities. Ask around.

What are the different types of scholarships?

How to apply for scholarships

Once you have a list, here’s what next.

• File the FAFSA every year: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the foundation of your financial aid package and is required by many scholarship organizations before they will consider an applicant. File as early as possible each year.
• Keep your grades up: Not every scholarship is merit-based, but many are. Strong grades expand the pool of awards you can apply for and make your applications more competitive across the board.
• Read application directions and eligibility requirements. Before you apply for a scholarship, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. If you don’t meet them, don’t apply and search for others that you are eligible for. If you are eligible, make sure you carefully follow directions and submit everything the scholarship asks for.
• Apply consistently and often: Volume matters, so submitting a few applications each week rather than putting all your energy into one or two could improve your odds of winning. Remember, smaller awards add up and are often less competitive, so don’t overlook them.
• Get a second pair of eyes on everything: Before any application goes out, have someone you trust review it. A parent, teacher, counselor, or mentor can catch errors, flag unclear sentences, and help you put your best foot forward. This is one of the most practical ways to improve your chances.

Tips for staying on track

The scholarship process is ongoing, not a one-time push. A few habits that help:

• Keep a running list of scholarships you plan to apply for with their deadlines.
• Set aside dedicated time each week for searching and applying.
• Track which applications you have submitted and which are still in progress.
• Ask for proofreading help before submitting anything important.
• Celebrate small wins. Getting an application in on time is worth acknowledging.

Start searching, start winning

Scholarship searching is a process, not a one-time task. The students who put in consistent effort tend to come out ahead. Use College Raptor’s Scholarship Search to start building your list, and check out our Financial Aid Comparison tool to make sure you are getting the best deal on the schools you are considering.

Frequently asked questions

How early should students start searching for scholarships?

As early as possible. Starting in freshman or sophomore year gives you more time to build a strong profile and apply for more awards before the senior year rush.

How many scholarships should a student apply for?

More is generally better. Applying for a few each week throughout the school year adds up to dozens of applications by year’s end. Consistency beats waiting for the perfect opportunity.

What makes a strong scholarship essay?

The best essays are specific, honest, and personal. They explain why something matters and what it says about who you are and where you are headed. Real stories and genuine reflection stand out far more than polished but generic writing.

Does a student need perfect grades to earn scholarships?

No. There are awards based on financial need, community service, athletic ability, creative talent, intended major, and background. Plus, there are scholarships available for students at every academic level.

Can parents help with scholarship applications?

Yes, in a supporting role. Parents can help identify opportunities, keep track of deadlines, proofread essays, and offer encouragement. However, the application needs to be from the student and reflect their own voice and effort.