As the cost of higher education continues to grow, obtaining scholarships has become more important for many undergraduate students. Fortunately, there are several free scholarships available to aid with the financial load of education. In this tutorial, we will go over everything you need to know about how to find free scholarships for undergraduate students.
Â
Understanding Free Scholarships
Free scholarships are financial prizes that do not demand repayment, making them an ideal alternative for students seeking financial help.
Universities, government agencies, non-profits, and private foundations are among the many entities that often grant such scholarships.Â
They may pay for tuition, fees, books, and even living costs, depending on the scholarship’s stipulations.
Â
Types of free scholarships:
 1. Merit-Based Scholarships:
These scholarships are given based on academic performance, such as GPA, standardized test results, and extracurricular activities.
2. Need-Based Scholarships:
These scholarships are given based on a student’s financial need, which is commonly calculated via the FAFSA i.e. Free Application for Federal Student Aid or equivalent forms.
3. Athletic scholarships:
Athletic scholarships are given to student-athletes depending on their athletic achievements and abilities.
4. Ethnicity-Based Scholarships:
Some scholarships are reserved for students from particular ethnic or cultural backgrounds.
5. Major-specialized grants:Â
These grants are designed for students studying specialized areas of study, such as STEM, humanities, or arts.
Where to Find Free Scholarships?
 1. College Websites:Â
Many colleges provide free scholarships to students. Check with your college’s financial assistance office or website to see what options are available.
2. Scholarship Search Engines:Â
Websites such as Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and College Board’s Scholarship Search enable you to find free scholarships based on your profile and interests.
3. Government Programs:Â
Federal, state, and municipal governments often provide free scholarship programs. Investigate options including the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and state-specific scholarship webpages.
4. Nonprofit Organizations:Â
Nonprofits and charities, such the Gates Foundation and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, provide free scholarships to qualified students.
5. Professional Associations:
 Many professional groups provide scholarships to students seeking jobs in their disciplines. For example, the National Society of Black Engineers provides scholarships to engineering students.
