Financial Aid

1.3 million scholarships and

over $3.4 Billion waiting!

What are Scholarships?

Scholarships are free money or other gift aid granted to a student, because of merit, need or both to assist in paying for college.  Generally scholarships are merit-based.  Scholarships often times focus on academic achievement but some are available for a variety of talents and situations.  For example, you can receive a scholarship for pursuing a program of study, for writing a great essay, or for being a child of a veteran.  Apply to every scholarship for which you're eligible.  Don't count on a scholarship paying for your entire education.  It happens, but to the smallest percent of students. 

Where should I look for Scholarships?

Start with the obvious.  Many local communities and organizations offer scholarships that go un-awarded each year.  Try these places during your scholarship search:

• Employers /Unions
• Volunteer and Community Organizations
• Churches
• Chambers of Commerce
• Local Library (Alvernia's Library has 3 great scholarship books!)
• Financial Aid Offices

Can I find Scholarships on the Web?

This is one of the best places to look for scholarships. But, be prepared to spend a lot of time surfing the net and looking at a variety of scholarship sites. Free money doesn't come easy. There are many free membership scholarship search websites, try some these to get started:

• www.fastweb.com
• www.scholarships.com   
• www.scholarshipexperts.com
• www.findtuition.com
• www.gocollege.com
• www.careersandcolleges.com
• www.schoolsoup.com
• www.studentawards.com
• www.clubaward.com
  

Scholarship Essay Advice

• www.scholarshiphelp.org
• www.collegeadmissionsessays.com

Project Scholarship Scam

• www.ftc.gov.scholarshipscams
• www.freschinfo.com