Scholarships are one of the most underutilized resources in the college funding world. Every year, millions of dollars go unclaimed simply because students and families don’t know where to look or how to apply.
At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we help families cut through the confusion and build winning scholarship strategies. Here’s your step-by-step guide to finding, qualifying for, and winning scholarships.
Understanding the Types of Scholarships
Scholarships come in many forms, each with different eligibility requirements and award structures:
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
Awarded based on academic, athletic, artistic, or leadership achievements.
- GPA and standardized test scores often required
- Some automatically awarded based on application
These are often renewable for four years, provided students maintain academic performance. Some colleges offer tiered merit packages depending on GPA/test score bands.
2. Need-Based Scholarships
Awarded based on financial need, often determined by FAFSA or CSS Profile.
- Typically offered by colleges or nonprofit foundations
- Can be combined with merit awards
Families with fluctuating incomes or multiple students in college may benefit significantly from these awards. Many schools also offer “institutional grants” that function similarly to scholarships.
3. Niche or Private Scholarships
Awarded by private organizations based on specific criteria.
- Examples: religious affiliation, ethnicity, intended major, unique hobbies
- Usually require essays or special projects
These scholarships can range from $250 to $20,000. They may be offered by national groups, local businesses, or industry associations.
4. Identity-Based Scholarships
These target specific communities such as:
- First-generation college students
- Veterans or military family members
- LGBTQ+ students
5. Major or Career-Based Scholarships
Organizations in STEM, healthcare, journalism, and education often fund students pursuing those fields. Many require commitment to work in the industry post-graduation.
6. Creative and Artistic Scholarships
For students with talent in areas like music, visual arts, dance, or creative writing. Often require portfolios or performance videos.
7. Community Service Scholarships
Designed for students who have made meaningful contributions to their communities. These can enhance a student’s resume and personal story for other applications as well.
Where to Find Scholarships
School-Based Resources
- Check each college’s financial aid and departmental websites
- Inquire about automatic vs. application-based scholarships
Honors programs, alumni associations, and specific departments (like engineering or arts) often have their own awards.
Community and Local Sources
- Rotary Clubs, religious groups, cultural organizations
- Employers (parent and student)
- Local foundations and chambers of commerce
Many local scholarships are less competitive and can be combined with national awards.
CBRG Webinar: Scholarships Focus
Every month, CBRG hosts a deep-dive webinar into scholarship strategies, including:
- Live walkthroughs of top databases
- Essay coaching for competitive awards
- Timeline planning from junior year forward
How to Build a Winning Scholarship Strategy
Start Early
Begin researching in sophomore or junior year to identify renewable awards and prep required materials.
Early preparation also helps students discover prestigious opportunities like the Coca-Cola Scholarship, QuestBridge, and Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.
Get Organized
Create a spreadsheet to track:
- Application deadlines
- Requirements (GPA, essay, letters of recommendation)
- Award amounts and renewability
Use color-coding to indicate high-priority deadlines or recurring submissions.
Focus on Fit
Apply to scholarships that align with your strengths, goals, and background. Casting a wide net is good, but targeted effort wins more often.
CBRG helps families filter out poor-fit scholarships to focus effort efficiently.
Write Strong Essays
- Reflect on real challenges and growth
- Answer the prompt directly
- Show, don’t just tell
- Have someone (like a CBRG coach) review your work
Example Prompt: “Describe a time when you overcame adversity and what you learned.” Effective Answer: A personal story that highlights resilience and links to future goals.
Reuse and Repurpose
Create a bank of essays and application responses. With slight tweaks, one essay can serve many applications.
CBRG provides templates and reviews for common prompts like “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” or “Describe your career goals.”
Stand Out with Your Resume
Many scholarship applications include a resume. Make yours count by:
- Including leadership roles and community service
- Highlighting awards and achievements
- Using bullet points to clearly communicate accomplishments
CBRG coaches students on how to format and polish their resumes for maximum impact.
Practice for Scholarship Interviews
If you’re applying for high-value or prestigious scholarships, expect an interview. CBRG helps students rehearse with mock interviews, tips on common questions, and confidence-building strategies.
How CBRG Supports Scholarship Success
We go beyond generic lists. Our expert guidance includes:
- Customized scholarship matching based on academic and financial profiles
- Essay brainstorming and editing
- Application timeline coaching
- Access to monthly planning calls and expert Q&A
We also advise families on:
- Award stacking rules
- Whether scholarships reduce need-based aid (called “displacement”)
- Tax implications of scholarship awards
Our approach is strategic, realistic, and built on years of helping students secure awards from small local sponsors to national foundations.
“The college planning webinar gave us a clear plan. My daughter applied to six scholarships that month—and won three.”
Avoiding Common Scholarship Mistakes
Missing Deadlines
Create calendar alerts and start applications early.
Ignoring Small Awards
$500 scholarships add up—and often have less competition. A student winning four small awards could cover a semester’s books or fees.
Using Generic Applications
Tailor each essay to the organization’s mission and values. Mentioning specific initiatives or past recipients shows genuine interest.
Failing to Follow Directions
Many scholarships disqualify applicants for exceeding word counts or missing required documents. Double-check each submission before sending.
Not Practicing Interviews
Some high-value scholarships include interviews. Practicing with a mentor or coach can greatly improve confidence and performance.
Overlooking College Portal Scholarships
Many students forget to revisit their college’s scholarship portal after admission. New opportunities often open midyear or after FAFSA review.
Forgetting to Renew
Many scholarships require recipients to maintain certain GPAs, submit renewal forms, or provide updates. Missing these steps can result in loss of funding.
Your Scholarship Game Plan Starts Now
Scholarships are real, accessible, and worth your time. With the right approach, you can turn your efforts into thousands of dollars in free money for college.
Don’t wait until senior year—start your scholarship journey early, stay organized, and get expert support when needed. CBRG is here to help every step of the way.