Would Previous Scholarship Award Disadvantage Son's Application in Future Scholarship Competiton?

Paying for College
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<p>DS was awarded a merit scholarship that can be used toward education at any college of his choice. The total award amount is close to one half-year of a private college tuition. </p>

<p>DS is applying to more merit scholarships (some big and some small amount). He is also awaiting decisions from some colleges with merit scholarship awards. Since the scholarship he won is highly competitive and at national level, I thought it maybe a good idea to include this award in his future scholarship applications. I also think DS can send a follow up letter about the award to the schools he is still waiting for admission and merit scholarship decisions. I thought the award could enhance DS’ credential and make him a better candidate.</p>

<p>However, one person who is experienced with college admission/financial process told me not to showcase the scholarship DS has won. The thinking behind it is that such information might disadvantage DS application. In other words, the scholarship committee might think that DS does not need anymore scholarship and award it to other students. In our situation, DS does need more merit scholarship in order to attend his top choices. </p>

<p>Please share your advice or personal experiences.</p>

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<p>I agree with the friend. There are many who like to “spread merit around” and wouldn’t want to award to someone who already has a good scholarship.</p>

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<p>I would not let the scholarship agency know if you have won other scholarship. They don’t need that information for their evaluation. At the end, the FA office will contact the scholarship if the amount exceed CoA for adjustment or you may need to decline one.</p>

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<p>Thanks, @mom2collegekids and @billcsho, for your replies.</p>