It’s March Madness. Are you still in need of scholarships? Sixty percent of scholarship deadlines fall between February and April, so you are still in luck but the cycle is quickly winding down. Also, you should continue to look for deadlines that occur over the summer. Check out the following tips to save you time:
- Go to /scholarshopmom on facebook and “like” my fan page. I post scholarships for high school students, undergraduates and graduate students. I tweet the same info on Twitter @scholarshopmom.
- If you are registered on any scholarship search engines, update your profile. If you are not registered, I recommend Fastweb, Cappex or Scholarships.com
- Check with your high school Guidance Office for local scholarships.
- If you are not happy with your award letter, don’t be afraid to call the financial aid office and ask, “What else am I eligible for?” or “What else can you do for me?” If they want you the money will be there.
- If your financial situation has changed for the worse you need to send a Special Circumstance Letter to the director of financial aid at the institution you plan to attend. This letter may be found on the Financial Aid page or contact the office for procedures for submitting the letter. The letter needs to go to the Financial Aid administrator for the college. They have the power to make changes based on your circumstances.
- Check with the Financial Aid office after May 1 to see if there are other scholarships and grants available. More money is usually available because of students who did not choose to attend the college or university.
- Check with employer to see if they offer employee tuition assistance programs or scholarships.
- Look for on campus jobs.
- Remember, you are looking for the best academic and financial fit. Do not wait until the last-minute. Good luck.