Many parents and students neglect to search within their own state for scholarships for college. These lists should help you find state-specific scholarships for need or merit-based.
Scholarships.com
Scholarship.com’s scholarship database houses a variety of state scholarships. State scholarships may be offered by state schools, community-based organizations and state-based career initiatives, among others. Students who have lived in one state their entire lives can easily qualify for a state scholarship, and students looking to attend college in a particular state may also be able to win state scholarship awards.
Just like any other scholarships, state scholarships will be both merit and needs-based. Merit scholarships will recognize high school academic achievements and standardized test scores, while needs-based scholarships examine finance and individual ability to pay for college.
CollegeScholarships.org
Popular state scholarship categories often mirror those present at the federal level. Shared educational objectives at each level of government promotes local programs that support national efforts, and some state financial aid dollars are actually matched through federal initiatives. Widespread state scholarships are issued within diverse student categories like these:
- State scholarships for academically talented students are often funded by state lottery profits and property tax contributions. Low-income students who excel in secondary school qualify for state-subsidized education scholarships that reward good grades and civic participation.
- Scholarships for unique student populations – Minorities, women and students with physical or intellectual disabilities are eligible for special classes of state scholarships that are designed to lift-up particular student groups and increase access to higher education for under represented segments of the student body. Merit scholarships for minorities reward high-achievers who come from ethnically diverse backgrounds.
- Career-specific state scholarships – Companies fund scholarships that help educate subsequent generations of industry professionals. Within your academic major, you’ll find tailor-made funding resources that are only available to other students in your field of study. For example, students pursuing educational credentials related to emerging technology are rewarded with special scholarships designed to bolster innovation and scientific advancement. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) scholarships are originated by state governments and forward-thinking private funding sources. Corporate funded state scholarships also open doors to internships and long-term employment.
- State scholarships support students pursuing high-need fields of study. Scholarships for nurses and student teachers represent public and private efforts to recruit students into particular professions. When vocational demand outstrips the supply of qualified graduates, generous free-money programs provide attractive financial aid packages for students willing to fill high-need employment roles. Scholarship-for-service agreements provide student assistance that is repaid through work commitments following graduation.
- Scholarships for non-traditional students and community college enrollees provide assistance for less conventional approaches to higher education; including financial aid for adult students who are balancing educational responsibilities with work and family commitments.
NASFAA.org
Almost every state education agency has at least one grant or scholarship available to residents, and many have a long list of student aid programs. Eligibility is usually restricted to state residents attending a college in-state, but that’s not always the case. There are annual deadlines for most programs (if you miss a deadline, be sure to try again next year). Select your state to find out what financial aid programs may be available to you through your state education agency. Also check out state and regional tuition exchanges and keep in mind that other state-sponsored aid may available through non-profit organizations in your area.
Edvisors.com
Each state may offer its own grants and scholarships, often based on financial need, academic performance, or specific career goals like teaching or nursing.
Most require the applicant to file the FAFSA by a specific state deadline. Some states have additional application forms and requirements.
Bold.org
Find state-specific scholarships on Bold.org. Search for opportunities in your area and see which scholarships you can apply for right now.
Sallie.com
State scholarships are financial aid programs created by states to help students pay for college. They’re often designed for residents of that state and can be based on academics, financial need, or specific fields of study. Each state has its own unique options, so there’s likely something that’s the right fit for you.
State scholarships make college more affordable by giving students free money that doesn’t need to be paid back. They often prioritize local students, so you have a better shot at winning one. Plus, they can connect you to resources and networks within your state, setting you up for long-term success.
JVCollegeCounseling.com
One way to increase your chances at winning a scholarship is to apply to scholarships that have a narrower applicant pool. One way to narrow down the applicant pool is to look at scholarships that are open to students in specific locations.