The Big Encyclopedia of Scholarships: Find, Apply and Win Billions in Scholarships and Grants

The Big Encyclopedia of Scholarships

Find, Apply and Win Billions in Scholarships and Grants

Martha Folsbee

Copyright © 2024 Martha Folsbee

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embedded in critical articles or reviews.

Every effort has been made in the preparation of this book to ensure the accuracy of the information presented.  However, the information contained in this book is sold without warranty, either express or implied. Neither the author(s), nor Cactus Publishing or its dealers and distributors, will be held liable for any damages caused or alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by this book. 

No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of the publisher.

Trademarks: All brand names, product names and services used in this book are trademarks, registered trademarks or tradenames of their respective holders. The author is not associated with any college, university, product or vendor.

Disclaimer: The essays included in this book are provided as examples of successful Ivy League college application essays. While these essays have helped their authors gain admission to Ivy League schools, they should not be copied or used verbatim. Each college applicant should strive to create their own unique and authentic essays that reflect their personal experiences, achievements, and aspirations.

The content and advice presented in this book are intended for informational purposes only and do not guarantee acceptance into any Ivy League or other higher education institutions. Admission decisions are made based on a variety of factors, and individual results may vary.

The authors and publishers are not affiliated with any Ivy League institutions, and this book is not endorsed by any colleges or universities. The names and identifying details of essay authors have been changed to protect their privacy.

I would like to dedicate this book to my beloved grandparents. They hold a special place in my heart, and Your love and dedication inspire me every day.

REVIEWS

As a college counselor with over 15 years of experience, I found 'The Encyclopedia For Scholarship Success' to be a comprehensive resource for students navigating the complex world of scholarships and grants. The author provides clear, step-by-step guidance on finding and applying for financial aid opportunities. While some sections could benefit from more detailed examples, overall this book is an invaluable tool for any student looking to fund their education.

★★★★☆ Sarah T., College Counselor

This book was a game-changer for me! Before reading 'The Encyclopedia For Scholarship Success', I was overwhelmed by the scholarship application process. Now, I feel confident and prepared. The tips on essay writing and interview preparation were especially helpful. I've already secured two scholarships using the strategies outlined in this book. Highly recommend to all college-bound students!

★★★★★ Michael R., High School Senior

As a parent helping my child through the college application process, I found this book incredibly helpful. It breaks down the daunting task of finding and applying for scholarships into manageable steps. The section on budgeting and managing scholarship funds was particularly insightful. My only criticism is that the book could use more information on scholarships for trade schools and vocational programs.

★★★★☆ James F., Parent

I can't praise this book enough! Thanks to 'The Encyclopedia For Scholarship Success', I was able to secure enough funding to attend my dream university debt-free. The advice on tailoring applications to specific scholarships was invaluable. This book doesn't just tell you what to do; it shows you how to do it effectively. A must-read for any student serious about winning scholarships!

★★★★★ Emily W., Scholarship Recipient

The Big Encyclopedia of Scholarships provides a wealth of information on scholarships and grants. The author's passion for helping students is evident throughout the book. However, I found the title somewhat misleading - while comprehensive, it's not truly encyclopedic in nature. Additionally, some of the strategies suggested may not be feasible for all students, particularly those with limited time or resources. Nonetheless, it's a valuable starting point for understanding the scholarship landscape."

★★★☆☆ Prof. Robert K., Education Researcher

As a first-generation college student, I was completely lost when it came to finding ways to pay for college. This book was a lifesaver! It explained everything in simple terms and gave me the confidence to apply for scholarships I never thought I'd qualify for. The chapter on writing compelling personal statements was particularly helpful. Thanks to this book, I've secured enough funding to cover my first year of college!

★★★★★ Maria G., First-Generation College Student

I've recommended ' The Big Encyclopedia of Scholarships to numerous students, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The book offers a good mix of general advice and specific strategies. I especially appreciate the sections on less-known scholarships and grants. One area for improvement would be including more information on international scholarships. Overall, it's an excellent resource that I'll continue to recommend to my students.

★★★★☆ David L., High School Guidance Counselor

Acknowledgments

First and foremost , I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the students who generously shared their stories. Your willingness to provide a glimpse into your personal journeys has been invaluable. Without your openness and bravery in sharing your experiences, this book would not have been possible. Your stories are the heart and soul of this work, and I am deeply grateful for your contributions.

To my family, thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement throughout this process. Your love and belief in me have been my greatest source of strength. Your constant reassurance and understanding have kept me grounded and focused, especially during the most challenging moments. I owe a special debt of gratitude to my parents, who have always been my biggest supporters and have instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance. To my siblings, your humor and camaraderie have been a joyful distraction and a constant source of motivation.

A special thank you to my teachers and mentors, whose guidance and wisdom have profoundly shaped my writing and inspired me to pursue this project. Your dedication to education and your commitment to fostering a love of learning have been a constant motivation for me. To my high school English teacher, who first recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue my passion for writing, thank you for your endless patience and invaluable feedback. To my college professors, who challenged me to think critically and write with clarity and purpose, your influence is evident in every page of this book.

To my friends, thank you for your feedback, enthusiasm, and for always cheering me on. Your support has meant the world to me. Thank you for taking the time to read drafts, offer constructive criticism, and provide the encouragement I needed to keep going. Your belief in this project has been a driving force, and your friendship has been a constant source of joy and inspiration.

To my editorial team, thank you for your expertise, patience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Your meticulous attention to detail and insightful suggestions have elevated this book to a level I could not have achieved on my own. Your collaborative spirit and dedication to this project have been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for your contributions.

To the publishing team, thank you for bringing this project to life. Your professionalism and expertise in guiding this book from manuscript to publication have been remarkable. Thank you for believing in this project and for your tireless efforts to ensure its success.

To the countless individuals who provided support and encouragement along the way, thank you. Whether through a kind word, a helpful suggestion, or a simple gesture of support, your contributions have not gone unnoticed. Each of you has played a role in making this book a reality.

Finally, to the readers of this book, I hope we inspire and motivate you as you embark on your own college application journey. Remember to stay true to yourself and tell your unique story. The process of applying to college is not just about meeting requirements but about discovering who you are and sharing that with others. May this book provide you with the inspiration and courage to write your own story with authenticity and passion.

Thank you all for making this dream a reality.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgments

Introduction

How to Use This Guide

A Note on Mindset

Why This Book?

Chapter One

Common Scholarship Myths Debunked

Where to Find the Best Scholarships

Making the Most of Your Discoveries

10 Dos and Don'ts When Applying for Scholarships

Your College Application Essay

Seven Steps to Success

Common College Essay Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Your Recommendation Letters

Asking for a Recommendation

Following Up

The Power of Gratitude

When Things Go Sideways

Chapter Two

Acing Scholarship Interviews

Interview Questions

Tips for Virtual Interviews

How to Handle Group Interviews

Following Up After the Interview

PART 2

THE SCHOLARSHIP ENYCLOPEDIA

GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS

$1,000 Moolahspot Scholarship

AAU Karate Scholarship

Achieving Your Goals Scholarship

ACJA/Lambda Alpha Epsilon Scholarship

Air Force ROTC ASCP

Air Force ROTC In-College Program

Air Force ROTC SOAR Program

All-American Scholars (Cheerleading)

All-American Scholars (Football)

Americanism Essay Contest

AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC)

Armed Services YMCA Annual Essay Contest

Army Nurse Corps Association Scholarships

Army ROTC Advanced Course

Army ROTC Green To Gold Scholarship Program

Ashley Soule Conroy Foundation Scholarship

Barbizon’s College Tuition Scholarship

Bonner Scholars Program

Boomer Benefits Scholarship

Bright!Tax Global Scholar Initiative

Burger King Scholars Program

C.I.P. Scholarship

Car Covers $1,000 Scholarship

Caring Community Scholarship

Cashtelligent Financial Literacy Scholarship

Challenge Scholarship

Charles T. Stoner Law Scholarship

CIA Undergraduate Scholarship Program

Civic Expression Award

CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest

Clubs of America Scholarship Award for Career Success

Coast Guard College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative

Coast Guard Foundation Scholarship Fund

Coca-Cola Scholars Program

Collegiate Championship Award Program

Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program (CBYX)

Connecticut Domestic Violence Information Center's Good Samaritan Scholarship

Corporate Culture Scholarship

Courage to Grow Scholarship

CPI Champion of Service Award

Create Real Impact Contest

Daedalian Foundation Scholarship Program

Delete Cyberbullying Scholarship Award

Dell Scholars Program

Dollars for Scholars Scholarship

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

DoSomething.org Monthly Scholarships

Earl Anthony Memorial Scholarships

Easton/NFAA Scholarship Program

Education Accessibility Scholarship

Equitable Excellence Scholarship

Explore America Travel Scholarship

Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund

First Cavalry Division Association Scholarship

Foot Locker Scholar Athletes

Foreclosure.com Scholarship Program

Fraternal Order of Eagles Memorial Foundation Scholarship

Free Speech Essay Contest

Fulbright Grants

George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest

George S. and Stella M. Knight Essay Contest

Gift for Life Scholarships

Global Citizen Scholarship

GMR Transcription Academic Scholarship

Golden Door Scholars

Google SVA Scholarship

Grungo Colarulo Giving Back to the Community

H&P Veterans Helping Veterans Scholarship

Hagan Scholarship

HD Hogan Rodeo Scholarship

Heisman High School Scholarship

High School Scholarship

Individual Scholarship Program

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program

Jeanne E. Bray Memorial Scholarship

Kevin Higgins College Scholarship

LA Tutors Innovation in Education Scholarship

Leifert & Leifert Right to Privacy Scholarship

LenovoEDU Scholarship

Markley Scholarship

Marshall Memorial Fellowship

Marshall Scholar

Memorial Fund Scholarships

Metro Youth Football Association Scholarship

Military Award Program (MAP)

Military Family Scholarship

Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty

Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve

Montgomery GI Bill Tuition Assistance Top-Up

Most Valuable Student Scholarships

NABF Scholarship Program

NACOP Scholarship

National College Match Program

National Marbles Tournament Scholarship

National Merit Scholarship Program and National Achievement Scholarship Program

National Oratorical Contest

National Scholarship Program

Navy College Funds

Next Gen Scholars Award

NROTC Scholarship Program

Odenza Marketing Group Scholarship

Oleg Fastovsky Outstanding Citizenship Scholarship

One Earth Award

Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

Pilot Pen G2 Overachievers Student Grant

Prudential Emerging Visionaries

Pursuing a Positive Impact Scholarship

Race Entry Student Scholarship

RealtyHop Scholarship

RentHop Apartment Scholarship

Return 2 College Scholarship

Rhodes Scholar

Sallie Mae No Essay Sweepstakes

Sarah Josephine Langstaff Memorial Scholarship

Scholarship America Dream Award

Scholarship for International Students

Scholarships for Student Leaders

Scholastic Honors Team

Sleeknote Scholarship

Sodexo STOP Hunger Scholarship

Sports Unlimited Scholarship

Stamps Scholars

Stokes Educational Scholarship Program

Stop-painting.com Scholarship

Student Activist Awards

Student Paper Competition

Student Transportation Video Contest

Summer Graduate Research Fellowships

Travel Scholarship

Travel Video Contest

Truth Impact Scholarship

U.S. Bank Scholarship Program

United Daughters of the Confederacy Scholarships

United States Hispanic Leadership

Unpakt College Scholarship

USA Roller Sports Scholarship Fund

USAR Scholarship

USBC Alberta E. Crowe Star of Tomorrow

USBC Annual Zeb Scholarship

USBC Chuck Hall Star of Tomorrow

USBC Youth Ambassador of the Year

Voice of Democracy Audio Essay Contest

Wade Trophy

Watson Travel Fellowship

Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Player Awards

We The Future Contest

WiseGeek Easy Scholarships

Women Divers Hall of Fame Scholarships and Grants

Zale Parry Scholarship