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How to Find the Right Scholarship

Are you looking for scholarships but don't know where to start? Finding the right scholarship for your situation can be a very tricky business. There are millions of them out there, and it is up to you to do your research and find the ones that apply to your status of course of study. You will need to approach this process with patience and determination.

The first step in finding the right scholarship is knowing how scholarships vary from one another. All scholarships will fall into one of four sources: federal government, state government, post-high school institutions, and private funders. Knowing which scholarship to go after and when, will allow you to organize your search process into a more structured experience.

The next step in the process would be to come up with some possible sources for each category. For the federal and state scholarships, check out sites like FinAid.org or fafsa.ed.gov for an extensive list of scholarship options. If you're like most students however, filling out the FAFSA is going to be the extent of your government scholarship/grant experience. The remaining categories, institution and private funders, are more likely to capture your attention, so make sure you don't cut any corners! Make a list of businesses, clubs, and organizations that either you or your family are connected to. Churches, jobs, parents' companies, recreation centers, community service clubs, and fraternal organizations, all hand out millions of academic dollars every year. Within the actual schools, don't forget to check scholarships offered on both the campus wide level as well as departmental financial support. Many scholarships are exclusively available for specific majors and minors, not to mention first year freshmen.

Your academic record - specifically your GPA will be one of the biggest factors in whether or not you will be qualified for a scholarship. If your grades weren't tip top, make sure you include any interests and extracurricular activities in you application. Many scholarships look for qualifications other than GPA. Some seek candidates who are involved in community service, social groups, music, or even specific clubs. Most importantly, make sure your essay specifically pertains to the scholarship that you are applying for, and that your application is 100% complete.

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    At University of Phoenix, we believe everyone deserves access to higher education.

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    Location:
    Phoenix: , Phoenix AP
    University of Phoenix
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  • Virginia College

    Set your career in motion at Virginia College.

    Programs

    • AS - Paralegal Studies
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    Location:
    Birmingham: 300 River Hills Business Park, Birmingham AL 35242
    Virginia College
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  • DeVry University

    We're with you, from start to finish.

    Programs

    • Graduate Certificate-Electronic Commerce Management
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    Location:
    Chicago: , Chicago IL
    Calgary: , Calgary AB
    DeVry University
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  • Keiser University

    For over 30 years, Keiser University eCampus Online has provided student-centered, quality career education.

    Programs

    • Homeland Security, AA (Online)
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    Location:
    Fort Lauderdale: , Fort Lauderdale FL 33309
    Keiser University
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  • South University Online

    South University offers excellence in education, online convenience, and more than 100 years of tradition.

    Programs

    • Psychology (BA)
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    Location:
    Savannah: 709 Mall Boulevard, Savannah GA 31406-4805
    South University Online
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  • Ultimate Medical Academy Online

    Boost your career with an education from Ultimate Medical Academy Online.

    Programs

    • Pharmacy Technician Diploma
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    • Medical Billing and Coding - Associates
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    Location: Online

    Ultimate Medical Academy Online
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  • Everest University Online

    Manage your career and your life while earning your degree online.

    Programs

    • Accounting (Bachelor)
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    Location:
    Santa Ana: , Santa Ana CA
    Everest University Online
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  • Allied Health Institute

    Allied Health Institute is a post-secondary vocational school offering a variety of Diploma and Associate Degree programs in the field of Allied Health. By utilizing online learning, students have the flexibility to continue their education from the convenience of their own home. Our virtual classrooms will enable students to attend classes and communicate with instructors and classmates. Students can complete some programs without leaving their current employment or sacrificing family time.

    Programs

    • Medical Assisting
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    Location: Online

    Allied Health Institute
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  • Animal Behavior College

    Interested in a career as a professional dog trainer? Animal Behavior College is the place to start.

    Programs

    • Veterinary Assistant
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    Location:
    Northridge: 9249 Reseda Blvd, Northridge CA 91324
    Animal Behavior College
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  • Post University

    Earn your degree online or on campus and accelerate your life.

    Programs

    • Forensic Accounting
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    Location:
    Waterbury: 800 Country Club Rd., Waterbury CT 06723
    Post University
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