As graduation approaches, so does the start of college, and for many, that means a heavy burden of student loans. A lot of scholarship money has already been given out, but if you haven’t applied for any already there are still chances to get money.

According to counselor Jennifer Sherman, the best websites to find scholarships that fit your accomplishments are fastweb and cappex.

While filling out scholarship applications, Sherman says it is important that you are honest, meet the deadline and complete the essay.

According to Sherman, students should also start planning their activities early  in high school so that they can be eligible for the most scholarships senior year.

“The best ways to make yourself eligible for scholarships is to work hard in school,” Sherman said via email. “In addition, getting involved and demonstrating a commitment to extracurricular activities is a great way to find some specific scholarships around those activities.”

Sherman said, that above all, the most important thing is to continue trying and eventually you will succeed.

“Each year, there are scholarships and money that goes unclaimed,” Sherman said. “Applying for scholarships is hard work, but if you put the time in to applying, every little bit of money helps pay for college.”

Jane Austen Society of North America Essay Contest – May 20, 2018

http://www.jasna.org/programs/essay-contest

This scholarship is open to students who are interested in the life and works of Jane Austen. Entrants do not need to be members of JASNA. Scholarships include awards of $1000, $500 and $200 for first, second and third places, respectively.

Women in Defense Junior Horizon Award – Michigan Chapter Scholarship

http://wid-mi.org/programs/horizon-awards/ha-jr-horizon-awards

The requirements for applying for this scholarship include being a full time high school senior, who has demonstrated achievements in STEM fields, and interest in pursuing a career related to national security or defense, who participate actively in school or the local community, and who maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.25.

Freedom From Religion Scholarship Essay Contest

https://ffrf.org/outreach/ffrf-student-scholarship-essay-contests/

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is sponsoring the William J. Schulz High School essay competition that each offers $8450 in awards split between multiple winners. The topic of the essay is why you personally reject religion and its promise of afterlife. The scholarship is open to high school students entering college in Fall 2018.