A Smart Scholarship Search Strategy for RI Students

Start Local

Rhode Island, as you know, is a small state. Use that fact to your advantage. Local scholarships traditionally do not have the large number of applicants that national scholarships typically do. Often local scholarships have fewer requirements, making them easier to obtain. The dollar amounts may not be as large as other scholarships, but every free dollar is one less you have to save, earn, or borrow to pay tuition. Anything you can do to reduce your need to borrow is a wise move. Where do you find these local "nuggets of gold"?

Your high school guidance office

RIScholarships.org website or mobile app

RISLA’s Knowledge for College Scholarship

Family members and friends’ places of employment

The local library

Local organizations such as Elk’s Club, Lions Club, and/or your church

Hometown newspaper

Your college

Invest The Time

You must do your research and find which scholarships you are best matched for. It takes a bit of time, so plan for it.

Start your search early – now is the perfect time

Set aside time 2 to 3 times per week, 30 – 60 minutes to do your research

Make a list of the scholarships with the best matches for you, including the submission deadlines, according to the scholarship requirements. For example, some scholarships are only for certain majors, have GPA minimums, focus on volunteerism, etc.

Start drafting your essays and collecting any additional paperwork required, such as a transcript or recommendation letters

KEEP TRACK OF YOUR DEADLINES!

Get and stay organized, and save copies of everything you submit, as some requirements, like transcripts, could be requested in more than just one scholarship application

Increase Your Odds

Don't be fooled by the myths: only straight-A students or star athletes get scholarships. The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of reaping rewards. Remember, every dollar will make a difference in helping to pay that tuition bill. If you have exhausted all of the local options listed above, broaden your search. Additional search sites shown below may help to get you started:

Lastly, if you are seeking help funding your college career, chances are you don't have money to throw away. With all of the free resources to help locate scholarships, there is no logical need to have to pay to apply or search for scholarship opportunities.

Best of luck!