Okay, so I’m applying for college next year and the thought of all the tuition money I need to find is stressing me OUT. I’m not like, a straight-A student or anything, and honestly, traditional academic scholarships feel super competitive. I was wondering if there were any scholarships out there that are more focused on hobbies and interests, because that’s where I really shine.
Thing is, I don’t want to spend a ton of time on really complicated applications. Are there any scholarships related to hobbies – like, maybe writing, photography, gaming, or even just collecting stuff – that are relatively “easy” to apply for? By “easy,” I mean maybe not requiring a super high GPA or a ton of essays and references. Bonus points if they’re not super well-known and less competitive! I’m looking for anything, even small amounts would help. What are my options?
Answer
While "easy to get" is subjective and depends on the competition pool and your individual qualifications, several scholarships cater to specific hobbies and interests. Here’s a breakdown:
Scholarships Based on Arts & Creativity:
- Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: This prestigious award offers scholarships to students in grades 7-12 for exceptional art and writing. Categories include drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, fashion, film, poetry, short stories, and more. Winning can lead to substantial scholarship money.
- National YoungArts Foundation: This program supports emerging artists in various disciplines, including visual arts, literary arts, performing arts, and design. Finalists participate in a week-long program and are eligible for scholarships and other opportunities.
- VSA International Young Soloists Competition: For musicians with disabilities, this competition awards scholarships and performance opportunities.
- The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are for aspiring songwriters and composers.
- Numerous college-specific art scholarships: Many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for students majoring in art, design, music, theater, and related fields. These often require a portfolio review or audition.
Scholarships Based on STEM & Technology:
- FIRST Robotics Competition Scholarships: Students involved in FIRST Robotics are eligible for scholarships from various colleges, universities, and organizations.
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships: SWE offers scholarships to female students pursuing engineering degrees.
- Google Scholarships: Google offers various scholarships for students pursuing computer science and related fields, particularly those from underrepresented groups.
- AFCEA Educational Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are for students pursuing STEM degrees with a focus on communications, electronics, and information technology.
- Science Ambassador Scholarship: For women studying STEM, requiring a video explanation of a STEM topic.
Scholarships Based on Writing & Journalism:
- The YoungArts Foundation: Offers scholarships to promising young writers.
- National Press Club Scholarships: These scholarships are for students pursuing journalism careers.
- Numerous college-specific journalism scholarships: Many journalism schools offer scholarships to talented students.
- The Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity Essay Contest: For students who write an essay on ethics.
Scholarships Based on Sports & Athletics:
- NCAA Scholarships: The NCAA offers athletic scholarships to student-athletes who compete at the collegiate level. The requirements are stringent and based on athletic ability and academic standing.
- Various sport-specific scholarships: Many organizations and colleges offer scholarships for specific sports, such as golf, tennis, swimming, and soccer.
Scholarships Based on Community Service & Leadership:
- Prudential Spirit of Community Awards: These awards recognize students who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteer work. Winners receive scholarships and other recognition.
- Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes: Awards young people making a positive impact on their communities or the environment.
Scholarships Based on Gaming & Esports:
- Numerous college esports scholarships: Many colleges and universities now offer scholarships for esports players. The level of competition is usually very high.
Scholarships Based on Unique Hobbies/Interests:
- Duck Brand Duct Tape Scholarship: Students create prom outfits made entirely of duct tape.
- Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship: This scholarship requires students to write an essay about surviving a zombie apocalypse.
- Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest: Students submit original greeting card designs.
Important Considerations:
- Eligibility Requirements: Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements, such as GPA, residency, major, and financial need. Read the requirements carefully before applying.
- Application Process: The application process may involve submitting transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, portfolios, or auditions.
- Deadlines: Pay close attention to deadlines and submit your application on time.
- Competition: Scholarship competitions can be fierce, so put your best foot forward and present yourself in the most compelling way possible.
- Local Scholarships: Look for scholarships offered by local organizations, clubs, and businesses. These scholarships may have less competition than national scholarships.
- Persistence: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t win every scholarship you apply for. Keep applying and keep improving your applications.
Resources for Finding Scholarships:
- Fastweb: A comprehensive scholarship search engine.
- Scholarships.com: Another popular scholarship search engine.
- College Board: Offers a scholarship search tool and information about financial aid.
- Peterson’s: Provides information about colleges, universities, and scholarships.
- Your high school guidance counselor: A valuable resource for finding local and national scholarships.
- Your college’s financial aid office: Can provide information about scholarships offered by the college.
Remember that while some scholarships may appear "easier" than others, all scholarships require effort and a well-crafted application. Focus on highlighting your strengths and demonstrating your passion for your hobby or interest.
