Scholarships for high school seniors are here again. With all the hustle and bustle of senior year, it’s not hard to forget to apply for some scholarships for high school seniors.
However, it’s an excellent idea to make time between your college applications, extracurriculars, and schoolwork to apply for scholarship opportunities.
Whether you are applying for merit-based or need-based scholarships, there are plenty of opportunities for high school seniors.
Whether you are looking for opportunities in the fall, winter, spring, or summer, numerous organizations will accept applications.
Types of Scholarships for High School Seniors
There are numerous types of high school senior scholarships that you can apply for. Some scholarships are based on your academic achievements, while others consider your extracurricular activities, community service, or even your financial needs.
Here are some of the most common college scholarships for high school seniors:
- Academic Scholarships
- Athletic Scholarships
- Merit-Based Scholarships
- Need-Based Scholarships
- Minority Scholarships
- Community Service Scholarships
It’s worth looking into each program individually because not all may be available at any given time, but knowing what type they offer could help when it comes down to deciding whether this opportunity suits you or not.
10 High School Senior Scholarships for 2024
We’ve curated a short list of college scholarships for high school seniors in 2024. Apply by the application deadline, and make sure you meet the entire eligibility requirement.
- The Horatio Alger Scholarship Program
- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
- The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Scholarship Program
- The Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- The Golden Key International Honor Society Scholarship Program
- The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
- The National Merit Scholarship Program
- The Posse Foundation Scholarship Program
- The QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship Program
- The Ronald McDonald House Charities Scholarships
How Do You Find High School Senior Scholarships?
In order to find scholarship opportunities for high school seniors, you may want to look at local, state, and national sources. Military, private organizations and nonprofits may also offer scholarships for seniors.
Local
If you are beginning with a local search, you may want to ask your high school counselor or see whether any student organization offers college scholarships for high school seniors.
Your place of worship, community center, or local businesses may extend scholarships to eligible denizens.
Schools
During your senior year, you’re probably searching for and applying to your best college. While you’re searching, you might reach out to the financial aid office of these prospective schools.
Many may offer scholarships for college students once they are admitted. These tie to feat achievement and grade point average.
Military
Do you come from a military family or are you interested in pursuing a military career? There is a wide range of colleges that partner with ROTC programs.
For example, Army ROTC scholarships are for high school students attending a four-year college program. You may also serve in the Army full-time. Some military awards could also be for children of active-duty service members or veterans.
Scholarship Organizations
Do you have particular interests or are you a minority student? There are numerous professional organizations like The Elks that offer scholarships to high school students.
You actually need to be an exclusive member. Many minority organizations, like UNCF, also fund scholarships to make higher education more affordable.
Businesses and Nonprofits
Many businesses and nonprofits provide annual scholarships. These may be open to high school seniors who intend to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
You may also display qualities of leadership and advocate for a good cause. If your parent works for a big company, they may also provide scholarships as a benefit to employees’ dependents.
