Ways to Search for Local Scholarships Not Listed in the Major Search Websites

So you have heard that there are tons of local companies, foundations, and organizations that give away scholarship money to deserving students.  Since many are not listed on the large scholarship search engines like the College Board’s Scholarship Search, Scholarships.com, and Fastweb, the question remains “How do you find these local scholarships?”  Well these 3 suggestions will help you to track down these local scholarship opportunities.

Check with Your High School College Counselor

High school guidance counselors have a wealth of information about college planning and paying for college.  Many keep track of local companies, foundations, and organizations that sponsor scholarships.  In fact, some may have the scholarship forms in their office or create a webpage to list local and state scholarship information like the scholarship webpage from Moscow High School in Idaho.  Reach out directly to your high school college counselor to ask or check on the counseling office’s webpages to see if they have created their own list.

Connect Local Organizations Directly

Every community has their own local or regional bank, credit union, utilities, foundations, service organizations, and hospitals.  Often, these companies, foundations, and organizations want to help students in their community to afford college education.  Some organizations even join forces to give away scholarship funds.  For instance, the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation works with the local Lions Club to fund a $1,000 scholarship each year.  So check out their website and contact the leadership of these groups to find out if they have a scholarship and how to apply. 

Have Your Parents and Grandparents Ask Their Employers

Tons of employers want to support their employees’ families by sponsoring scholarships.  Major corporations like CVS, Burger King,  Cracker Barrel,  Intel, Humana, Phillips 66 and Pacific Gas & Electric have scholarships to administer their scholarships via their charitable foundations.  In addition, many professional and support organizations related to your parents' career sponsor scholarships like Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund,   American Bus Association, Air Line Pilots Association, and the National Propane Gas Association.  Have your parents or grandparents ask their local human resource personnel or association representative to find out more.  Also, you can do some leg work yourself by checking on the employers’ or associations’ websites.

If your parents have served in the military, they may be able to explore their Veterna Benefits to help pay for your college.  Plus, you may be eligible for some of the military support organization scholarships from groups like Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, Air Force Association, Army Women’s Foundation, and the Coast Guard Foundation.

Pro Tip:  Start searching for scholarships early.  These means don’t just wait until your senior year in high school.  Although many local scholarships have deadlines between January and March, some have deadlines in the fall or accept them year round.  By searching for scholarships early, you can spread out completing scholarship applications to put your best foot forward.