Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about scholarships, applications, and more.
What is a fellowship scholarship?
A fellowship can be defined as a competitive, merit-based award. It is provided to students to support individuals with advanced study and research for a limited period.
While normal scholarship usually covers tuition fees, a fellowship may provide a stipend for living expenses and other costs, helping students focus fully on their projects.
What is a college scholarship?
A college scholarship is a financial award, grant, or payment given to a student to help cover the costs of higher education, such as tuition and fees. This money does not have to be paid back. Scholarships come from various sponsors, including colleges, private organizations, and foundations. They are usually awarded based on criteria like academic achievement, financial need, athletic ability, or artistic talent.
Characteristics of a college scholarship
Non-Repayable: Unlike student loans, scholarship money does not need to be paid back.
Variable Sources: Scholarships can come from many sources, including universities, religious organizations, community groups, corporations, and private donors.
Diverse Criteria: The reasons for receiving a scholarship can vary widely, including:
- Academic Merit: High grades, leadership, or specific test scores.
- Talent: Demonstrated athletic skill or artistic ability.
- Specific Interests: Particular fields of study, specific majors, or unique traits like ethnicity.
How College Scholarships Work
Application Process:
You usually apply for scholarships by submitting essays, letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, and other necessary documents.
Disbursement:
The scholarship funds may go directly to the student or to the college, often covering expenses like tuition, fees, and room and board.
Taxability:
In some situations, part of the scholarship funds used for non-educational expenses might be counted as taxable income.
Importance of College Scholarships
Reduce Debt:
Scholarships greatly lower the amount students and their families need to borrow through student loans.
iT makes higher education more accessible for talented students who might face financial challenges.
Scholarship sponsors support students in certain fields or from specific backgrounds. The aim is to create diverse and skilled workforces.
Use Scholarship Databases:
Visit websites like ScholarshipLit and International Scholarships to find and apply for available college scholarships.
How can I apply for a college scholarship?
Visit the scholarship provider's official website and review the requirements, criteria, and application process thoroughly.
Make sure you submit the required documents, eg, transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters.
Are there any scholarships available for international college students?
Yes, there are many scholarships for international students attending colleges worldwide, especially for students who demonstrate academic excellence or leadership quality
college scholarships cover which expenses?
It can cover tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, living costs, and sometimes travel expenses related to study programs or internships.
Can I get scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate studies?
Absolutely. There are scholarships designed for both undergraduate and graduate students across a wide range of fields.
Where can I find college scholarships?
You can browse available college scholarships on Scholarship Lit, which is organized by country, program level, and field of study.