Scholarship Finder

Top Scholarships for 2026

Here are some of the most valuable and widely-available scholarships for the current academic year. Bookmark this page and check back regularly as new scholarships are added.

Tips for Winning Scholarships

• Apply early and often: Many scholarships have rolling deadlines. The more you apply to, the better your chances.
• Tailor each application: Customize your essays and responses to match each scholarship's specific criteria and values.
• Get strong letters of recommendation: Ask professors or employers who know you well and can speak to specific qualities.
• Check with your school: Many colleges have internal scholarships with less competition than national ones.
• Do not pay to apply: Legitimate scholarships never charge application fees. If they ask for money, it is likely a scam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do scholarships affect my financial aid?

Outside scholarships may reduce your financial aid package, particularly the loan or work-study portion. Contact your financial aid office to understand how scholarships interact with your specific aid package. In most cases, scholarships replace loans first, which is beneficial.

When should I start applying for scholarships?

Start as early as your junior year of high school. Many scholarships open applications 6-12 months before deadlines. For current college students, check for scholarships specific to your major, year, and institution throughout the academic year.

Can international students get scholarships?

Yes. Many private scholarships are open to international students, and some are specifically designed for them. Check each scholarship's eligibility requirements carefully. Most federal and state-funded scholarships, however, require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

Scholarship Search Partners

In addition to our built-in scholarship finder above, these trusted platforms offer extensive scholarship databases:

Already Have Student Loans?

If you already have student loans, explore our refinance rate comparison to see if you can lower your rate, or use our repayment plan calculator to find the best federal plan for your situation.