In simple terms, scholarship scholars are students or people who have been awarded scholarships to further their education. These scholars are typically high-achieving students who have demonstrated some level of academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to their community.
Scholarship scholars receive financial assistance to help cover the costs of their education, including tuition, books, and living expenses, especially in cases where they are unable to cater to their finances fully.
A beneficiary is another term you can use to describe a scholarship scholar. Usually, they come from a variety of backgrounds and fields of study. Some scholars may be pursuing degrees in STEM fields, while others may be studying the arts or humanities. Regardless of their chosen field, these scholars are expected to maintain a high level of academic performance in order to retain their scholarship.
In addition to their academic responsibilities, these beneficiaries are often involved in extracurricular activities and community service. That’s why you would find a lot of students on scholarships in the sports teams and playing leadership roles for community service.
Many scholarship programs also require scholars to participate in leadership development programs, mentorship opportunities, and other activities that help them develop the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.
Thinking of Becoming a Scholarship Scholar?
Being a scholarship scholar can open up a world of opportunities for you. Not only does it provide financial support for your education, but it also connects you with a network of other scholars, alumni, and mentors who can help guide you on your academic and professional journey.
As a scholarship scholar, you often have access to exclusive events, internships, and job opportunities that can help you further your career goals. Although sometimes, being awarded a scholarship doesn’t mean you cannot pay for the tuition fees, it could still go a long way to alleviate your stress when it comes to finances.
Scholarships for College Students
Many students and their families are turning to scholarships as a way to help offset the financial burden of attending college. Scholarships are a type of financial aid that does not need to be repaid and are typically awarded based on merit, need, or a combination of both.
There are a wide variety of scholarships available to college students, with some being offered by colleges and universities themselves, while others are provided by private organizations, foundations, or businesses. Scholarships can be awarded for academic achievement, athletic ability, community service, leadership qualities, or specific areas of study.
Merit-based Scholarships for Scholars
One of the most common types of scholarships is merit-based scholarships, which are awarded to students based on their academic performance, test scores, extracurricular activities, and other achievements. These scholarships are typically highly competitive and can cover a significant portion of a student’s tuition and fees. Here are a few merit-based scholarships for college students:
- The Coca-Cola Scholars Program: This Coca-Cola Scholars scholarship program is open to high school seniors who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, and community service. Each year, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards 150 scholarships worth $20,000 each to help students pursue their college education.
- The Gates Millennium Scholars Program: This Gates Millennium Scholars Program scholarship program is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and is open to African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American students. The program awards scholarships to high-achieving students who demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to community service.
- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship: This Jack Kent Cooke Foundation scholarship program is open to high-achieving community college students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university. The program awards scholarships worth up to $40,000 per year to help students cover the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
- The National Merit Scholarship Program: This National Merit Scholarship program is open to high school seniors who score well on the PSAT/NMSQT exam. The program awards scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service.
- The Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarship: This Most Valuable Student Scholarship program is open to high school seniors who are United States citizens. The program awards scholarships worth up to $50,000 to students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership qualities, and financial need.
Need-based Scholarships for Scholars
Another type of scholarship is need-based scholarships, which are awarded to students based on their financial need. These scholarships are typically awarded to students who demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other financial aid forms.
- Federal Pell Grant: The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant provided by the U.S. Department of Education to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. The amount awarded is based on the student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and can change each year depending on financial circumstances. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for the Pell Grant.
- Horatio Alger Scholarship: The Horatio Alger Scholarship is a need-based scholarship for high school seniors who have faced adversity and demonstrate financial need. The scholarship provides up to $25,000 to cover college expenses for students who show determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming challenges. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate financial need to be eligible for this scholarship.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another need-based scholarship program funded by the federal government. Administered by participating colleges and universities, the FSEOG provides additional financial assistance to undergraduate students with exceptional financial needs. Priority is given to students who receive Pell Grants and have the lowest expected family contributions. Like the Pell Grant, FSEOG awards do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable source of funding for eligible students.
- Fullbright Foreign Student Scholarship: The Fulbright scholarship is another need-based scholarship for college students that provides funding for international educational exchange programs. This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence, allowing them the opportunity to study abroad and gain valuable cross-cultural experiences.
- Chevening UK Government Scholarships: The Chevening UK Government Scholarship program offers need-based scholarships for college students looking to further their education in the United Kingdom. This prestigious scholarship provides financial support to individuals who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence. By providing this assistance, Chevening aims to make higher education accessible to students from all backgrounds, ensuring that talent and potential are not hindered by financial constraints.
In addition to merit-based and need-based scholarships, there are also scholarships available for students pursuing specific areas of study, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields, the arts, or healthcare. These scholarships are often sponsored by organizations or companies looking to support students pursuing careers in these fields.
Overall, scholarship scholars are a talented and diverse group of individuals who are dedicated to their education and making a positive impact in their communities. Although most times, these beneficiaries receive the scholarship award to allow them to afford the tuition and other resources, they represent the future leaders of tomorrow, and their hard work and dedication deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
