Applying for scholarships - expectations?

jjcddg
Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:04:26 +0000

By CC standards my son is below average, but in the “real world” his stats would be considered above average but not spectacular.

He applied to over 40 scholarships prior to freshman year. I have to admit that I did a lot of the searching and would forward him the info so that he could complete the applications. This process started in the summer before his senior year, as many scholarships have Sept and Oct deadlines.

THe results, a $200 local scholarship, a $2000 one time scholarship and a $6000 renewable scholarship. The scholarships he received were really based more on his community service than merit (although I think his stats were also considered)

We had already agreed that he would contribute to his personal expenses and books at school, that he would contribute $1000 towards his tuition and would take out any loans offered (He works a lot and earned over $4800 in 2007 and 2008). When the scholarships came in we agreed that once the loan amounts and work study amounts were eliminated we would apply 50% to his remaining contribution towards tuition. Basically he ended up with no loans and only had to contribute $500 towards tuition.

THis worked out great and he continues to look for scholarships.