Scholarships are financial aid awards designed to help students pay for a college degree. They differ from student loans in that they don't have to be repaid. Scholarships can be used to cover a variety of educational expenses, such as books, laptops, lab equipment, cases, and more. Some scholarships are one-time awards, while others are renewable and provide money to students each semester or school year.
Full-trip scholarships may also cover living and food expenses, while partial scholarships may cover only certain meals or rent. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved excellence in academics, athletics, or other areas. These awards can be used to pay for tuition, research fees, and other educational costs. Additionally, some scholarships may provide money directly to the student. When you receive a scholarship, it's important to consult your financial aid office for instructions on how to use the funds. They can provide guidance on what expenses can be covered by the scholarship money.
It's also important to remember that scholarship money is a great way to secure college funds because it doesn't have to be refunded at the end of your college degree. No matter how much scholarship money you are awarded, each scholarship will designate exactly what the money can be used for. If you're starting to get funding for your college education, scholarships are an excellent first step.