Obtaining scholarships can be a challenging and time-consuming process. One of the main struggles that students face when trying to obtain scholarships is competition.
Many scholarships receive a large number of applications, and only a small percentage of applicants are selected as recipients. This means that even highly qualified students may not be chosen for the scholarship.
Another struggle that students may face when trying to obtain scholarships is the application process itself.
Many scholarships require students to submit an application, which may include an essay, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other materials. Putting together a strong application can be a lot of work, and it can be difficult for students to stand out in the competition.
We’ve compiled a list of seven overlooked scholarships that you might not have heard of before.
- The Horatio Alger Association Scholarships
- The Golden Door Scholars Program
- The QuestBridge National College Match
- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
- The Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- The AstraZeneca Medical Scholarship
These scholarships are often overlooked or underrated, but they can be a great way to pay for your education. So don’t miss out on this opportunity – keep reading to learn more about these amazing scholarships that no one talks about!
The Horatio Alger Association Scholarships
This type of merit-based scholarship is awarded only to students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and have overcome significant personal challenges.
This type of scholarship is merit-based, basically, these scholarships are awarded to students who are able to demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and also, that have overcome significant personal challenges.
These are the Scholarship Programs offered:
- State Scholarships
- Career & Technical Scholarships
- Targeted Scholarships
- National Scholarships
One of the main pros of the Horatio Alger Association Scholarships is that they provide financial support to students who have overcome adversity. These scholarships are specifically designed for students who have faced challenges such as poverty, abuse, neglect, homelessness, or the death of a parent.
By providing financial assistance to these students, the scholarship program helps to level the playing field and give them a better chance of succeeding in college.
Another pro of the scholarship program is that it recognizes and rewards students who have demonstrated a commitment to community service. The scholarship application process includes an essay component in which students are asked to describe their service activities and how they have made a positive impact in their communities.
This gives students the opportunity to showcase their leadership skills and dedication to service, which can be an important factor in their college applications.
One potential con of the Horatio Alger Association Scholarships is that they are highly competitive.
The scholarship program experiences a high volume of applications annually, making the selection process highly competitive. With only a small fraction of applicants being chosen as recipients, even highly qualified students may not secure the scholarship.
To sign up for the Horatio Alger Association Scholarships, students must first meet the eligibility requirements:
- Being a high school senior
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Demonstrating financial need
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Additionally, during the application, students must also include an essay and transcripts.
The scholarship application process typically opens in the fall
Find more information on the program’s website.
Overall, the Horatio Alger Association Scholarships are a valuable resource for students who have faced adversity and have demonstrated a commitment to service.
While the competition for the scholarship is intense, it is definitely worth applying if you meet the eligibility requirements and are committed to making a positive impact in your community.
The Golden Door Scholars Program
This is a scholarship program that was established to support immigrant students who are interested in pursuing higher education.
The scholarship is named after the poem “The New Colossus,” which is inscribed on the Statue of Liberty and includes the line “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”
The scholarship program aims to extend support to immigrant students who have triumphed over notable obstacles and are dedicated to creating a positive impact in their communities.
One of the main pros of the Golden Door Scholars Program is that it provides financial support to immigrant students who may not have the means to pay for college on their own.
The scholarship covers the cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for the duration of the student’s undergraduate program. This means that recipients of the scholarship can focus on their studies without worrying about how they will pay for their education.
The scholarship application process includes an essay component in which students are asked to describe their service activities and how they have made a positive impact in their communities.
Application cycle:
- Apply
- Phone Screen
- Final Round
- Awards
This gives students the opportunity to showcase their leadership skills and dedication to service, which can be an important factor in their college applications.
One potential con of the Golden Door Scholars Program is that it is highly competitive. The scholarship program receives thousands of applications each year, and only a small percentage of applicants are selected as recipients. This means that even highly qualified students may not be chosen for the scholarship.
To sign up for the Golden Door Scholars Program, students must first meet the eligibility requirements.
- All the applicants must have TPS, DACA, or be undocumented
- Demonstrate financial need
- Must be a High School Senior or recent High School graduate
- Have obtained a General Education Development certificate from a U.S Program
In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements, students applying to the Golden Door Scholars Program are required to demonstrate financial need and complete an application that includes an essay and letters of recommendation.
The application process usually begins in the fall, and students can find comprehensive information on the program’s website.
The Golden Door Scholars Program serves as a significant asset for immigrant students aspiring to pursue higher education.
It offers essential financial assistance and support, enabling students to thrive in college. However, it is worth noting that the competition for scholarships within the program is fierce.
With numerous qualified applicants vying for limited spots, students must prepare diligently and present their strongest qualities during the application process.
Prospective applicants should ensure they meet the eligibility requirements and devote ample time and effort to craft compelling essays and secure impactful letters of recommendation.
By giving their utmost in the application process, students increase their chances of being selected as Golden Door Scholars and unlock the doors to a transformative educational journey.
The QuestBridge National College Match
This scholarship program serves as a bridge between accomplished, financially disadvantaged students and esteemed colleges and universities.
Its primary objective is to enhance access for low-income students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue education at top-tier institutions.
One of the main pros of the QuestBridge National College Match is that it provides financial support to students who may not have the means to pay for college on their own.
Another pro of the scholarship program is that it connects students with top colleges and universities.
To apply for this scholarship, you will need to submit several components as part of your application:
- Information on your academics, financial background, activities, and household
- Two essays and short answers
- Two teacher recommendations
- School Report from your current high school counselor
- School Profile
- Current high school transcript and additional transcripts
- Any available standardized test score reports (i.e. SAT, ACT)
Participating in colleges and universities including some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, and being selected as a QuestBridge scholar can be a great way for students to gain admission to these schools.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Be a high school senior or recent graduate.
- SAT score > 1260
- ACT composite score >27
- Demonstrate financial need. (family income below $65,000)
- Be accepted to one of QuestBridge’s partner colleges.
- and more…
Check the additional criteria on their website
The scholarship application process typically opens in the fall, and interested students can find more information on the program’s website.
Overall, the QuestBridge National College Match is a valuable resource for high-achieving, low-income students who are interested in attending top colleges and universities.
It provides financial assistance and support to help students succeed in college, but the competition for scholarships is intense. Students who are interested in applying should make sure they meet the eligibility requirements and put their best foot forward in the application process.
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program is a renowned scholarship initiative dedicated to providing financial support to exceptional low-income students with a strong desire to pursue higher education.
A major advantage of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program is its comprehensive financial support for students who lack the means to finance their college education independently. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, books, and living expenses throughout the recipient’s undergraduate program. This enables scholars to focus on their studies without the burden of financial concerns.
Moreover, the program recognizes and rewards the accomplishments of high-achieving, low-income students who have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to academic excellence.
The application process includes an essay component where students can showcase their achievements and goals, offering them a valuable opportunity to strengthen their college applications.
Additional details on how to apply to this program.
However, it is important to note that the program is highly competitive. With a large number of applications received each year, only a select few are chosen as scholarship recipients. Consequently, even exceptionally qualified students may not be awarded the scholarship.
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Be a high school senior or recent graduate
- Have a GPA of at least 3.5 or above
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be from a low-income family (family income below $95,000)
Overall, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program offers invaluable support and financial assistance to exceptional low-income students pursuing higher education.
Aspiring applicants should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and present a compelling application to maximize their chances of being selected as scholarship recipients.
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program, established in 1999 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is a highly competitive scholarship program dedicated to supporting outstanding minority students in their pursuit of higher education.
Pros of The Gates Millennium Scholars Program:
- Financial Support: The program provides full financial support, covering tuition, fees, books, and living expenses, which alleviates the financial burden for selected students and allows them to focus on their studies.
- Access to Education: The program aims to increase the number of minority students attending college and earning a degree, providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to access higher education.
- Prestige and Recognition: Being a Gates Millennium Scholar carries significant prestige and recognition, which can open doors to additional academic and professional opportunities.
- Networking and Support: Scholars become part of a supportive community of like-minded individuals, fostering valuable connections, mentorship, and support networks.
- Leadership Development: The program offers various leadership development initiatives, empowering scholars to enhance their leadership skills and make a positive impact in their communities.
Cons of The Gates Millennium Scholars Program:
- Highly Competitive: The program receives a large number of applications each year, making it extremely competitive. Even highly qualified students may not be selected as recipients.
- Limited Number of Scholarships: The program has a limited number of scholarships available, resulting in many deserving applicants being unable to secure funding.
- Eligibility Requirements: The program is specifically targeted toward minority students who meet specific eligibility criteria. This means that students who do not meet these criteria are not eligible to apply.
- Application Process: The application process can be rigorous and time-consuming, requiring students to submit essays, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.
- Restricted to Participating Institutions: The scholarship is only applicable to participating colleges and universities, limiting the choices for recipients in terms of the institutions they can attend.
It’s important to note that the scholarship program is highly competitive, with numerous applicants vying for limited spots. Consequently, even highly qualified students may not be selected as recipients.
Eligibility criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Be a high school senior or recent graduate
- Have a GPA of at least 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
- Demonstrate financial need
- and more…
Prospective applicants can find further details on the program’s website, and it is advisable to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements and present a strong application to maximize their chances of selection.
In conclusion, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program offers valuable financial assistance and support to minority students pursuing higher education.
While the competition for scholarships is intense, eligible students should seize the opportunity and present their best selves during the application process.
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is a highly prestigious scholarship program offered by the University of Toronto in Canada. Named after the former Prime Minister of Canada and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Lester B. Pearson, this scholarship aims to recognize and support exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
One of the key advantages of the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is its comprehensive coverage.
The scholarship encompasses the costs of tuition, books, incidental fees, and comprehensive residence support throughout the entirety of a four-year undergraduate program at the University of Toronto. This financial assistance allows recipients to fully immerse themselves in their education and engage in a transformative university experience.
Scholars become part of a diverse and vibrant community of fellow scholars, engaging in leadership development programs, mentorship initiatives, and various extracurricular activities.
This enriching environment fosters personal growth, cultural exchange, and the development of lifelong connections.
However, it is essential to note that the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is highly competitive. Only a select number of students are awarded this prestigious scholarship each year, making the application process rigorous and challenging.
Eligibility Criteria
- International Student Status: Applicants must not hold Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
- Final Year of Secondary School or Recent Graduates: Applicants must be currently enrolled in their final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June 2023.
- Strong Academic Record: Applicants should possess a strong academic record, with a minimum GPA of 3.8 on a 4.0 scale.
- Leadership Potential: Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential through their involvement in school, community, or extracurricular activities.
- Commitment to Positive Impact: Applicants must exhibit a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the world through their future endeavors or activities.
To apply for the scholarship, eligible students must be nominated by their secondary school and submit an application to the University of Toronto.
Check the Dates:
- School nomination deadline: November 30, 2023
- Student OUAC admission application deadline: December 15, 2023
- Student scholarship application deadline: January 15, 2024
The selection committee assesses Candidates based on their outstanding academic achievements, exceptional leadership qualities, active engagement in the community, and their potential to positively impact society.
Overall, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is a remarkable opportunity for exceptional international students to pursue their academic dreams at one of Canada’s most renowned universities while receiving comprehensive financial support and participating in a vibrant community of scholars.
LIFE Lessons Scholarship Program
The LIFE Lessons Scholarship Program is an esteemed initiative that offers financial support and educational opportunities to students who have experienced the loss of a parent or guardian.
The program acknowledges that losing a parent or guardian can have a profound impact on a student’s life, emotionally and financially.
By providing financial aid, the LIFE Lessons Scholarship Program aims to alleviate some of the burdens these students face and empower them to focus on their education and future aspirations.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age between 17 – 24 years
- Legal Resident of the U.S or Puerto Rico
- Have encountered the loss of a parent or legal guardian due to death
- Will be enrolled in an institution of higher education, such as a college, university, or trade school, in the United States or Puerto Rico for the upcoming fall semester.
- and more…
Check the additional eligibility requirements on their site.
Next application date: February 1, 2024
One of the notable benefits of the LIFE Lessons Scholarship Program is the comprehensive support it offers. Beyond the financial assistance, recipients have access to a network of resources and mentorship programs.
This support system not only helps them navigate their educational journey but also provides guidance and encouragement as they navigate the challenges of life after loss.
Additionally, the scholarship program emphasizes the importance of resilience and the ability to turn adversity into strength.
It recognizes the unique experiences and stories of each applicant, fostering a sense of community and understanding among recipients.
The program encourages students to share their personal stories and lessons learned through the application process, providing an opportunity for healing, self-reflection, and growth.
One potential challenge for applicants is the competitive nature of the program. With a limited number of scholarships available, the selection process is rigorous.
However, this aspect should not discourage eligible students from applying, as each applicant’s story and circumstances are given careful consideration.
To complete the application process, it is necessary to meet the specified eligibility requirements and submit either an original 500-word essay or a 3-minute video.
The essay or video should delve into the profound financial and emotional impact that the loss of your parent or guardian has had on your life.
Check here the official rules of the program.
In conclusion, the LIFE Lessons Scholarship Program provides crucial financial support and resources to students who have faced the loss of a parent or guardian. By recognizing their strength, resilience, and potential, this program empowers recipients to pursue their educational goals and build a brighter future.
Hope you enjoy this article, if you will like to read other posts on scholarships make sure you visit this link.
Before diving into the realm of scholarships, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and gather the necessary information.
Consider seeking professional guidance and, if feasible, explore opportunities for financial assistance.
Wishing you a rewarding research journey and the best of luck in your endeavors!
