Applying for scholarships as a high school senior will help you get a head start on paying for college. 

One good place to start is to check whether you qualify for any local community foundation scholarships. 

Your high school's guidance counselor, the financial aid office of the colleges you’re applying to, and the Mos app are all great places to find the right opportunities for you. 

Make a list of scholarships that are open to high school students and that match your interests, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities. Once you have your list:

1. Write the scholarships’ deadlines on your calendar so that you don’t forget to apply on time.

2. Read the application instructions carefully. Scholarships might have specific requirements for how to format or submit your application.

3. Get together any documents you need to apply, like transcripts or letters of recommendation. 

4. Write your essay or personal statements. Make sure to tailor the things you highlight about yourself to the scholarship you’re applying for. 

5. Have a parent, teacher, or friend check your applications. They can give you helpful feedback on your essay and catch mistakes you might not notice on your own. 

6. Apply according to the instructions on the scholarship’s website. 

7. After you apply, keep an eye out for any follow-up requests or notifications about your application status. 

8. If you win, email a thank-you note to the scholarship provider! 

Tip: In addition to your scholarship applications, make sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as you can. FAFSA is a great source of grant money and other forms of financial aid.

For more help, join Mos to see the best scholarships for you, apply fast, and get personalized advice throughout the entire financial aid process.