SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships are awards you don’t have to pay back. They can come from colleges, community organizations, companies, nonprofits, and more.
How to Find Scholarships
Local sources
Some schools in our area offer scholarships that seniors can apply for, check with your academic counselor!
Check local businesses, banks, religious organizations, and clubs (Rotary, Kiwanis, etc.)
Online scholarship search tools
Tip: You don’t have to be a senior to apply for scholarships!
There are many scholarships that are open to students in all grades. As you can see from my favorite college scholarship site, there are even scholarships available to students in middle school.On Raise Me, students can keep a running list of their high school achievements, including grades, attendance, serving as an officer of a class or club, and earn merit scholarships from participating colleges (if they decide to attend that school).
Amanda Miller’s Guide to Scholarships
Understand what scholarships are out there, your odds, and what makes sense to apply for. Having a strategy and being realistic is key to success, and will avoid disappointment.
College Bound is a great scholarship and resource program for seventh and eighth graders in Washington State who are low income or in foster care.
Scholarships to Check Out
Immigrants Rising: Transforming Lives Through Education
Scholarships that do not require proof of citizenship or legal permanent residency.Cameron Impact Scholarship
The Bryan Cameron Education Foundation awards four-year, full-tuition, merit-based undergraduate scholarships to exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service. The Cameron Impact Scholar is unique among their high-achieving peers in their desire to make an impact on their communities and in the world at large.Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation enables high-ability middle and high school students with financial need to realize their full academic potential.Colleges that Change Lives Scholarship
Available to students attending schools on the Colleges that Change Lives list (including Willamette, Whitman, University of Puget Sound, and Reed). Available to transfer students.Coolidge Scholarship
The Coolidge Scholarship is a full-ride presidential scholarship that covers tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study and leadership training.Horatio Alger Scholarships
Low income Idaho students who have overcome adversity can apply for the Horatio Alger scholarship.American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC)
Want $2500 a year for college? Just follow the guidelines and complete Form 8863 to qualify for the AOTC. You can get money back even if you don’t owe any taxes!
Loans
Loans are borrowed money that you must repay, usually with interest. They can be a helpful tool, but it’s important to borrow only what you need and understand the terms.
Types of student loans
Federal student loans: These loans are provided by the U.S. Department of Education and are the best option if you need to borrow money. They have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options. To apply for federal loans, submit the FAFSA.
Subsidized loans: Based on financial need. The government pays the interest while you’re in school.
Unsubsidized loans: Not based on need. You are responsible for all interest, even while in school.
PLUS loans: For parents or graduate students. Higher interest and credit check required.
Private student loans: Offered by banks or private lenders. These often have higher interest rates and fewer protections than federal loans. Always compare terms and read the fine print.
Resources
Determining Your Financial Fit - College Essay Guy
How Much Student Loan Debt is Too Much? - Earnest
10 Steps to Minimize College Loan Debt - US News