Applying to college is just the first step in your college journey. An important piece to explore early on in the process are the scholarship opportunities available to you. Here’s why:
- You may need to apply for some scholarships and that takes time — you don’t want to miss deadlines or end up having to rush to do everything last minute
- Colleges often start awarding scholarships before their application deadlines, so you may miss out if you come in later during their scholarship awarding process
- The earlier you start applying for scholarships, the more time you have to research other scholarship opportunities — which means you can maximize your possibilities
Make sure to fill out your FAFSA
No matter your personal financial situation, an important step when seeking out scholarships is making sure you also fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid).
Financial Aid offices at colleges will use your FAFSA as the basis on which to put together a letter for you outlining any grants you’re receiving along with other awards, including scholarships. This is true even for scholarships that aren’t based on financial need.
This financial package also helps you know what you and/or your family’s expected contribution will be.
Rather than waiting until that happens, it’s best to both fill out the FAFSA and apply for any scholarships that you qualify for. You won’t receive every one, but you also won’t miss out on ones where the deadline has passed or the funds have already been awarded.
Scholarships at Dunwoody
Each year, many of Dunwoody’s partners, alumni, and friends donate funds for the College to use for student tuition scholarships. These include both general scholarships don’t require an application and several that you would need to apply for.
Scholarship amounts range from $500 to $10,000 per year. Criteria for each scholarship varies. Common criteria includes GPA, area of study, and financial need.
If you are interested in receiving one of these scholarships, you must have a completed FAFSA on file with the Financial Aid Office.
In addition, your high school, local civic organizations, and other organizations often offer scholarships.
Scholarships could be open to you based on a wide variety of criteria, including your financial need, college major/career goals, ethnic background, geographic location, or inspiring story.
If you’re in high school, check in with your college counselor and see what resources they have for researching scholarships.
The following scholarship search sites can also help:
Finally: no matter what scholarships you qualify for, Dunwoody College will work with you to make sure you can afford to attend classes. And with more than 40 options to choose from, you’re sure to be able to find a major or program that suits your needs and career goals.