A scholarship is money awarded to support a student's education. It does not have to be repaid. Scholarships come from universities, governments, private foundations, and individual donors. They range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition, room, and board.

Some scholarships reward merit: high grades, test scores, athletic ability, or artistic talent. Others target need, helping students who could not otherwise afford school. Many consider both. Some are tied to specific fields, backgrounds, or locations. A scholarship for first-generation college students in Ohio looks different from one for future engineers.

Applying takes work. Essays, recommendation letters, and deadlines pile up. Students who treat the search like a part-time job often win more. Small awards add up. A $500 scholarship pays for books and a bus pass.

Common types

• Merit-based
• Need-based
• Athletic
• Field-specific
• Minority or first-generation