As college creeps closer for students on the verge of graduating, the price tag that accompanies the transition starts to feel more real. Whether your student departs for college this fall or higher education is several years down the road, it's never too early to start planning and applying for scholarships to support his education.
While many scholarships are reserved for high school and college students, young learners can participate in scholastic competitions and save monetary awards for college. Sophomores and juniors might consider enrolling in College Planner to learn about financial aid, scholarships, grants, loans, and other aspects of college preparation. Upperclassmen that have committed to a specific college should check the school's website regularly for institute-related scholarships. And don't forget to explore opportunities available through both local and national organizations. To help you get started, we've compiled a list of national scholarships that are still open for application this year. Please visit each organization's website for official rules.
Glen Miller Scholarship
Grades: high school seniors, college freshmen
Contest Deadline: March 1, 2014
Students who plan to make music a central part of their future may apply this scholarship to any education-related expense. Based on audition CDs, ten instrumental and ten vocal finalists travel at their own expense to compete for scholarships in the amount of $4,000, $2,000, and $1,000 at the annual Glenn Miller Festival in Clarinda, Iowa on June 13, 2014.
Doodle 4 Google
Grades: K-12
Deadline: March 20, 2014
Create and submit a Google Doodle inspired by the theme "If I could Invent One Thing to Make the World a Better Place…" The top doodler receives a plethora of prizes, including a $30,000 scholarship to the school of his or her choice.
The National WWII Museum Annual Essay Contest
Grades: middle school, high school
Contest deadline: March 28, 2014
In commemoration of the 70th anniversary of D-Day on June 6, 2014, the National WWII Museum asks this year's writers to address the question, "How did you plan to achieve success in the face of the unknown?" The top three high school essayists receive $1,000, $750, and $500 prizes respectively. One essay from each grade in the middle school division will be selected to receive a $250 prize.
The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes
Ages: 8-18
Deadline: April 15, 2014
The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes recognizes 25 inspirational young people who have influenced their community or environment in a positive manner. Students must be nominated by an adult advocate. The top 10 winners receive several prizes, including a $5,000 cash prize to support their service work or higher education.