Who Is Qualified For Scholarships

There are many different kinds of scholarships out there. If you're not qualified to apply for one, chances are they may be another one out there that the right application package from you can win.

Ask Your Uncle -- Uncle Sam
The federal government could be the first stop you should make when looking into scholarships. A quick trip to the website www.fafsa.ed.gov will enable you to learn more about what types of federal monies are available to you. Once you've determined the types of grants you're interested in and eligible for, the fafsa website also provides all the necessary "paperwork" you need to fill out, meaning that you can complete all of the necessary forms online immediately rather than wait for application materials in the mail. Among the types of aid packages offered by the federal government are Stafford Loans for graduate studnets, as well as Pell Grants, Federal Work Study, and Perkins Loans.

Are You An Academic Wunderkind?
If you are the rock star of your given field, whether you're in high school looking for a scholarship to college or if you've been out of college for a while but are looking to pursue a graduate degree, there is probably somebody willing to pay to make your educational dreams a reality. There are a variety of merit-based scholarships for academically gifted individuals. You might start pursuing these opportunities by inquiring at the school you're considering applying to. Or, if you're a college graduate who's interested in getting an advanced degree, check with your alma mater and see if there's any funds available for alumni interested in pursuing your field of interest.

Are You A Gifted Member of a Community or an Association?
Maybe the books aren't your bag, but there is an area that you do really shine in. Schools are always looking to fill their campuses with people who contribute in a variety of ways. If you're a painter, check and see if there are any private scholarships available for which you can apply. The same holds true for people of many different specialized skill sets: musicians, athletes, singers -- you name it. If you are a specialist in an any area, do some homework -- chances are that there's a scholarship out there to encourage a person with your special gifts to pursue their education. This homework might be easier than you think, too. Think about the community activities you pursue, the groups and/or associations you belong to. It could be that one of them offers a scholarship for which you'd be qualified. Or, if not, someone in your group might know of avenues you could pursue.

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