Introduction
Scholarships are a great way to reduce the financial burden of education, but with so many options available, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Whether you're a high school student, college applicant, or international student, there's likely a scholarship that fits your needs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of scholarships, their eligibility criteria, and how you can apply.
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
What it is: Awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, or extracurricular excellence.
Who qualifies?
Students with high GPA scores
Those with strong SAT/ACT scores
Students excelling in sports, arts, or community service
Examples:
National Merit Scholarship Program (U.S.)
Commonwealth Scholarships (U.K.)
How to apply:
Maintain strong academic performance
Build a well-rounded profile (extracurriculars, volunteering)
Submit recommendation letters and essays
2. Need-Based Scholarships
What it is: Designed for students from low-income families who need financial assistance.
Who qualifies?
Students from families with low household income
Those who qualify for financial aid programs like FAFSA
Examples:
Pell Grants (U.S.)
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program
How to apply:
Provide proof of financial need (tax forms, income statements)
Submit a personal statement explaining financial hardship
3. Athletic Scholarships
What it is: Given to student-athletes who excel in sports and plan to compete at the college level.
Who qualifies?
High school athletes with strong performance records
Students recruited by college sports programs
Examples:
NCAA Division I & II Scholarships
Olympic Solidarity Scholarships
How to apply:
Create a highlight reel showcasing athletic skills
Maintain good academic standing alongside sports performance
Get recruited by college coaches
4. Subject-Specific Scholarships
What it is: Awarded to students pursuing degrees in specific fields like STEM, humanities, or business.
Who qualifies?
Students enrolled in STEM programs, arts, law, medicine, or other specialized fields
Those with academic excellence in a specific subject
Examples:
Google Women in Tech Scholarship (for women in STEM)
CFA Program Scholarships (for finance students)
How to apply:
Research industry-specific scholarships in your field
Submit transcripts, essays, and project portfolios
5. Minority and Underrepresented Scholarships
What it is: Designed for students from diverse backgrounds, including racial, ethnic, and gender minorities.
Who qualifies?
Students from underrepresented ethnic groups
Women in male-dominated fields (e.g., STEM, finance, law)
Examples:
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
The UNCF (United Negro College Fund)
How to apply:
Provide proof of eligibility (ethnic background, gender)
Write a personal essay about diversity and inclusion
6. International Student Scholarships
What it is: Designed for students studying abroad or in a country different from their home country.
Who qualifies?
International students seeking higher education abroad
Those with strong academic records and financial need
Examples:
Fulbright Program (U.S.)
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (Europe)
How to apply:
Meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS)
Submit academic transcripts and recommendation letters
7. Employer and Corporate Scholarships
What it is: Companies offer scholarships to employees, their children, or the general public.
Who qualifies?
Employees or dependents of certain corporations
Students pursuing degrees in company-related fields
Examples:
Coca-Cola Scholars Program
Microsoft Tuition Scholarships
How to apply:
Check your parent’s employer benefits for scholarship programs
Apply through company-specific scholarship portals
Conclusion
Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of education if you know where to look. Whether you're a high-achieving student, an athlete, or in financial need, there’s a scholarship for you.
Need help applying for scholarships? Expert Buddy can guide you through the application process, essay writing, and more. Reach out today!