HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO HELP YOU STAND OUT IN ANY SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION:

• Take the time to write essays. Often, scholarships that require students to submit an essay have fewer applicants, meaning your chances of being selected are higher.

• Avoid scams. Be wary of any site that charges a fee to search its database of scholarships or sign up. There are lots of free sites that have access to the same scholarships.

• Avoid online writing services. Students who use paid services to write or edit their scholarship essays are less likely to be chosen because schools will notice a marked difference between their application and essay. These services also do not show the scholarship administrator a genuine version of who you are.

• However, DO ask a friend or teacher to read your essay and application for any mistakes that you may have missed.

• Talk to your guidance counselor about scholarships available through the school that you might qualify for.

• Follow all instructions carefully and make sure you are submitting all the required parts (including letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc.)

• Stay organized and know the deadline for each scholarship you are applying for.