Why Scholarships are Important
Despite the encouragement of high school counselors, many students and parents fail to consider scholarships as a source of funds for higher education. While there are many grants for college students with financial needs, these grants do not typically cover the full costs of college. Meanwhile, a Forbes article from October 2022 reported that the annual rate of tuition inflation has decreased significantly since 2020, but the costs of college are still rising.
However, there are many benefits to scholarships outside of reducing student debt and the overall costs of college. All types of scholarships and education grants offer benefits to students even after they have earned their degrees.
1. Expand your opportunities.
Scholarships and grants for low income or at-risk youth can open doors for students in need and encourage academic adversity and equitable outcomes. There are a variety of NSHSS scholarships available to further these goals.
The main difference between these scholarships and education grants is that the latter is always based on financial need. Scholarships may take financial need into account, but they are not necessarily granted based on personal finances.
2. Enhance your learning with tech.
Laptops, tablets, Chromebooks, and apps to keep your organized are important for getting the most out of your college courses. Many people do not realize that items can be purchased with scholarships and grants to enhance student learning and improve outcomes. Keep in mind that each scholarship has its own limits on spending the funds.
3. Reduce stress and free up time to study.
Scholarships and college education grants can also be used to cover the cost of living on or off campus. This provides students with a stress-free educational experience because it removes the need for a job, giving you more time to study. There are several advantages to living on campus, including that you can study free of distractions. Both of these benefits free up time to study and make it more likely a student will stay in their degree program to completion.
4. Expand your network.
Many scholarships cover one semester or one year of study based on the average cost of college for that academic year. However, students can usually apply for the same scholarship for more than one year. This makes developing a rapport with members of the philanthropic organization important to your academic future. These contacts often lead to internships and entry-level positions as well.
5. Distinguish achievements on your CV.
Merit-based scholarships are an important consideration for college admissions and when seeking employment. Scholarships based on your academic achievements in your chosen field of study show that you have been recognized for your knowledge and academic accomplishments. Including these on your CV improve your chances of landing that all-important interview.
6. Improve your chances of acceptance to your first-choice university.
Academic scholarships related to specific achievements can increase your chances of acceptance to the college of your dreams. The scholarships show the university that you take your education and future seriously. Such determination makes students more likely to excel in college courses. Admission officers must consider such things so that the percentage of students completing a degree remains high.
When should you start applying for scholarships?
The best tip for applying to college is to begin looking for scholarship opportunities soon after entering high school. Many merit-based scholarships are not limited to graduating seniors. Scholarships and academic contests are available as soon as your sophomore year depending on the organization.
NSHSS strives to provide students with scholarship opportunities throughout their high school careers. Taking advantage of these opportunities gives students more time to build a financial aid package.