How to Find Scholarships That Match Your Profile. Searching for the correct scholarships might be difficult, but you will improve your chances of being awarded if you focus on those that most closely align with your interests, background, and personality. Focussing on scholarships that match your unique set of skills will help you stand out in a crowded field. We will lead you through practical methods in this guide to help you locate scholarships that fit your profile and maximise your time and energy.

1. Use scholarship search engines first.

Search engines for scholarships are one of the simplest ways to locate scholarships that fit your profile. You can use these platforms to sort scholarships according to your region, degree level, academic subject, and personal history, among other criteria.

• well-known search engines
  • Scholarships.net
  • Quickweb
  • ScholarshipPortal.net
  • Cappex
  • College Board’s Scholarship Search

These search engines let you create a personal profile with your academic achievements, interests, and background, and then generate a list of scholarships that fit your criteria.

2. Look for University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities offer scholarships specifically for their students, which often have less competition compared to national or international awards. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, leadership, or even a specific field of study.

• Check your university’s financial aid office: Visit the website or contact the office directly to inquire about available scholarships. Some universities have dedicated scholarship portals for both prospective and current students.
• Departmental scholarships: If you’re majoring in a specific field, many academic departments offer scholarships for students excelling in that subject. Be sure to reach out to your department to see what’s available.

University-specific scholarships are often tailored to support students who align with the school’s values, academic standards, or future goals.

3. Search for Scholarships by Field of Study

If you already know what subject you want to major in or have a specific career goal in mind, focus on field-specific scholarships. These scholarships are typically offered by industry associations, corporations, or foundations that support students in particular academic fields or career paths.

• STEM Scholarships: For students studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, many scholarships are available through organisations like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or Society of Women Engineers (SWE).
• Business and Finance Scholarships: Look for scholarships from companies or professional organisations like the National Association of Black Accountants or the CFA Institute.
• Arts and Humanities Scholarships: If you’re pursuing degrees in fine arts, writing, or the humanities, check with organisations like the National Endowment for the Arts or specialised programmes like the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.

By narrowing your search to scholarships related to your future career or academic interest, you can apply to scholarships designed for students just like you.

4. Explore Scholarships for Under-represented Groups

Many scholarships are designed to support under-represented groups, such as ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ students, or first-generation college students. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and help students from marginalised backgrounds access education.

• Ethnicity-based scholarships: Organisations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, and the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund offer awards for students from specific ethnic backgrounds.
• Women-focused scholarships: Groups like the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund offer financial support for women pursuing higher education.
• LGBTQ+ scholarships: The Point Foundation and other LGBTQ+ advocacy organisations offer scholarships to support students from the LGBTQ+ community.

These scholarships often focus on personal background, leadership within the community, or advocacy for social justice.

5. Check with Professional organisations and Corporations

Many professional organisations and corporations offer scholarships to students pursuing degrees related to their industry. These scholarships are often tied to career development and may even offer networking or internship opportunities in addition to financial aid.

• Industry-specific organisations: For example, the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) offers scholarships for accounting students, while the American Medical Association provides financial aid for medical students.
• Corporate scholarships: Large companies like Google, Coca-Cola, and Dell offer scholarships to students who meet certain criteria, such as academic merit, financial need, or an interest in their industry.

By aligning with these organisations, you’ll not only access funding but also build connections within your chosen field.

6. Look for Local and Community-Based Scholarships

Local and community-based scholarships often have fewer applicants than national or international awards, making them easier to win.

• Visit your local community foundation: Many towns and cities have community foundations that offer scholarships to students in the local area. These scholarships may focus on community service, academic achievement, or financial need.
• Check with local businesses: Some businesses sponsor scholarships for local students, especially those pursuing degrees related to their industry.

Local scholarships are a great way to reduce competition and find financial support closer to home.

7. Leverage Your Extracurricular Activities

• Athletic scholarships: If you’re a student-athlete, you can look for scholarships offered by the NCAA or specific colleges that recruit for sports teams.
• Art and music scholarships: Many organisations, like the National YoungArts Foundation, offer scholarships for students with talent in the performing or visual arts.
• Volunteering and community service: Scholarships like the Prudential Spirit of Community Award reward students who have shown a commitment to community service and leadership.

By focusing on your extracurricular activities, you can find scholarships that value your contributions outside of academics.

8. Use Your Personal Characteristics to Find Niche Scholarships

• First-generation college student scholarships: Scholarships like the Gates Millennium Scholars Programme support students who are the first in their families to attend college.
• Scholarships for students with disabilities: Organisations like the American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD) offer scholarships for students with disabilities pursuing higher education.
• Hobby-based scholarships: If you have a unique hobby or talent (like playing video games, knitting, or even duck calling!), there are scholarships designed for students with similar interests. Websites like Unigo offer lists of quirky or niche scholarships.

These niche scholarships often have less competition and can be easier to win if they align with your personal characteristics.

Conclusion

Seeking out scholarships that fit your profile is crucial to improving your chances of being awarded. You can target scholarships where you are most likely to succeed by using scholarship search engines, looking into university and field-specific scholarships, and making use of your background, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. Make sure to apply to scholarships that fit your interests, goals, and strengths by keeping your search organised and proactive. You can obtain the financial assistance you require to fulfil your academic aspirations if you employ the appropriate approach.