Last updated on March 18, 2024

The Best Merit-Based Scholarships with Upcoming Deadlines in 2024

The Best Merit-Based Scholarships with Upcoming Deadlines
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SCHOLARSHIPS FEATURED BY:
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150 SCHOLARSHIPS
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  1. Cover image for "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship

    "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship

    Funded by
    Bold.org
    The world will be shaped by the bold—the fighters, the risk-takers, the earnest overachievers who won’t take no for an answer. The $10,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile.
    Funded by
    Bold.org
    The world will be shaped by the bold—the fighters, the risk-takers, the earnest overachievers who won’t take no for an answer. The $10,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile.
    All students are eligible
    Amount:$25,040
    Deadline is Approaching! 13 days left
    One Click Apply
    1
  2. Cover image for Concrete Rose Scholarship Award

    Concrete Rose Scholarship Award

    Funded by
    The Concrete Rose Foundation
    This scholarship's mission is to help women of color reach their potential to achieve their dreams, making a significant contribution to a more inclusive and prosperous world for all.
    Funded by
    The Concrete Rose Foundation
    This scholarship's mission is to help women of color reach their potential to achieve their dreams, making a significant contribution to a more inclusive and prosperous world for all.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Gender: Women
    • GPA: 2.0
    • Race/Ethnicity: BIPOC
    • Education Level: High school senior or Undergraduate
    Amount:$2,300
    Deadline:May 24, 2024
    One Click Apply
    2
  3. Cover image for TEAM ROX Scholarship

    TEAM ROX Scholarship

    Funded by
    Stapleton
    This scholarship aims to support students who have exhibited the skills and values of helping others become their best selves.
    Funded by
    Stapleton
    This scholarship aims to support students who have exhibited the skills and values of helping others become their best selves.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: Undergraduate student
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Background: Volunteering experience
    Amount:$1,500
    Deadline:May 22, 2024
    One Click Apply
    3
  4. Cover image for Patriots Path Scholarship

    Patriots Path Scholarship

    Funded by
    Navy Yacht Club Long Beach
    This scholarship aims to support JROTC and ROTC participants by making college more affordable and accessible.
    Funded by
    Navy Yacht Club Long Beach
    This scholarship aims to support JROTC and ROTC participants by making college more affordable and accessible.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
    • Involvement: ROTC or JROTC
    • GPA: 3
    Amount:$5,000
    Deadline:May 01, 2024
    One Click Apply
    4
  5. Cover image for Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship

    Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship

    Funded by
    Walking in Authority International Ministry
    This scholarship will support a student who is passionate about making a difference in their community.
    Funded by
    Walking in Authority International Ministry
    This scholarship will support a student who is passionate about making a difference in their community.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate
    • Experience: Volunteering
    • GPA: 2.5 or higher
    Amount:$550
    Deadline:Nov 08, 2024
    One Click Apply
    5
  6. Cover image for Dimon A. Williams Memorial Scholarship

    Dimon A. Williams Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Arlecia Threbits
    This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Dimon A. Williams by supporting students from single-parent families who are pursuing higher education.
    Funded by
    Arlecia Threbits
    This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Dimon A. Williams by supporting students from single-parent families who are pursuing higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Family: Single-parent household
    • Education Level: High school or undergraduate student
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Background: Volunteering experience
    Amount:$590
    Deadline:Jul 26, 2024
    One Click Apply
    6
  7. Cover image for Loreen K. Odemu Memorial Nursing Scholarship

    Loreen K. Odemu Memorial Nursing Scholarship

    Funded by
    Shawn Da Silva
    This scholarship honors the life of Loreen K. Odemu by supporting the next generation of nurses.
    Funded by
    Shawn Da Silva
    This scholarship honors the life of Loreen K. Odemu by supporting the next generation of nurses.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Field of Study: Nursing
    • GPA: 3.0
    • Education Level: High school senior, Undergraduate or Trade school
    • State: California
    Amount:$700
    Deadline is Approaching! 22 days left
    One Click Apply
    7
  8. Cover image for EJS Foundation Minority Scholarship

    EJS Foundation Minority Scholarship

    Funded by
    The EJS Foundation
    This scholarship aims to support students who have had to overcome obstacles to pursue higher education.
    Funded by
    The EJS Foundation
    This scholarship aims to support students who have had to overcome obstacles to pursue higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: Undergraduate or graduate student
    • State: Arizona
    • GPA: 3.5 or higher
    • Background: Community service experience
    • Identity: Underrepresented minority
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline:May 15, 2024
    One Click Apply
    8
  9. Cover image for C.L. Scholarship of Black Women in Engineering

    C.L. Scholarship of Black Women in Engineering

    Funded by
    Chantelé Lewis
    This scholarship seeks to support Black women who are passionate about breaking into the field of engineering so they can have the resources necessary to complete their education.
    Funded by
    Chantelé Lewis
    This scholarship seeks to support Black women who are passionate about breaking into the field of engineering so they can have the resources necessary to complete their education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Race: African American
    • Gender: Female-identifying
    • Field of Study: Engineering
    Amount:$1,475
    Deadline:May 31, 2024
    One Click Apply
    9
  10. Cover image for Minority Women in LAS Scholarship

    Minority Women in LAS Scholarship

    Funded by
    Friends of Amabel
    This scholarship seeks to honor Amabel by supporting students from immigrant backgrounds who have conquered challenges to get to where they are today.
    Funded by
    Friends of Amabel
    This scholarship seeks to honor Amabel by supporting students from immigrant backgrounds who have conquered challenges to get to where they are today.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: Undergraduate or trade school student
    • Gender: Female
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Field of Study: Law, science, or arts
    • Identity: Immigrant or the child of immigrants
    • Race: African American
    Amount:$2,000
    Deadline:May 02, 2024
    One Click Apply
    10
  11. Cover image for New Jersey First Generation Scholarship

    New Jersey First Generation Scholarship

    Funded by
    Diaz Family
    This scholarship seeks to help two first-generation college students from New Jersey pay for college.
    Funded by
    Diaz Family
    This scholarship seeks to help two first-generation college students from New Jersey pay for college.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • GPA: Must be 3.5 or above
    • Education Level: Must be a high school senior or undergraduate student
    • Background: Must be first generation
    Amount:$5,690
    Deadline is Approaching! 29 days left
    One Click Apply
    11
  12. Cover image for De Los Santos Family Scholarship

    De Los Santos Family Scholarship

    Funded by
    De Los Santos
    This scholarship seeks to support Filipino-American students who are passionate about overcoming obstacles in order to achieve academic and professional success.
    Funded by
    De Los Santos
    This scholarship seeks to support Filipino-American students who are passionate about overcoming obstacles in order to achieve academic and professional success.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • Identity: Filipino-American student
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    Amount:$3,000
    Deadline:Jun 15, 2024
    One Click Apply
    12
  13. Cover image for Hispanic Achievement Scholarship

    Hispanic Achievement Scholarship

    Funded by
    Garcia
    This scholarship aims to support Hispanic students who are preparing to transition from high school to college so they can have all the tools for success.
    Funded by
    Garcia
    This scholarship aims to support Hispanic students who are preparing to transition from high school to college so they can have all the tools for success.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • State: New York
    • Identity: Hispanic
    • Background: First-generation college student
    • Citizenship Status: U.S. citizen, permanent legal resident, or DACA recipient
    Amount:$2,025
    Deadline:May 15, 2024
    13
  14. Cover image for Mary Alice Kramer Aspiring Nurse Scholarship

    Mary Alice Kramer Aspiring Nurse Scholarship

    Funded by
    Liane Foerder
    This scholarship aims to honor the life of Mary Alice Kramer by supporting students who are following in her footsteps and pursuing nursing.
    Funded by
    Liane Foerder
    This scholarship aims to honor the life of Mary Alice Kramer by supporting students who are following in her footsteps and pursuing nursing.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school or undergraduate student
    • Field of Study: Nursing
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • State: Resident of IL
    Amount:$1,200
    Deadline:Apr 30, 2024
    One Click Apply
    14
  15. Cover image for Rev. Herman A. Martin Memorial Scholarship

    Rev. Herman A. Martin Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Chauncey Jones
    This scholarship is open to all high school seniors in Arkansas who want to use their studies to make the world a better place.
    Funded by
    Chauncey Jones
    This scholarship is open to all high school seniors in Arkansas who want to use their studies to make the world a better place.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Location: Arkanasas
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Education Level: High School Senior
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline:Apr 19, 2024
    One Click Apply
    15
  16. Cover image for Chris Ford Scholarship

    Chris Ford Scholarship

    Funded by
    Chris Ford
    This scholarship aims to support students who show advanced learning capabilities but have limited resources to afford the cost of higher education.
    Funded by
    Chris Ford
    This scholarship aims to support students who show advanced learning capabilities but have limited resources to afford the cost of higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • Race: Black
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Field of Interest: Business
    Amount:$11,000
    Deadline:Apr 22, 2024
    One Click Apply
    16
  17. Cover image for Daniel R. Torres "Complete Your Dream” Memorial Scholarship

    Daniel R. Torres "Complete Your Dream” Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Torres Family
    This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Daniel R. Torres by helping students finance their pursuit of higher education.
    Funded by
    Torres Family
    This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Daniel R. Torres by helping students finance their pursuit of higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • State: Idaho
    • Education Level: High school senior
    • GPA: 2.5 or higher
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline:Jun 15, 2024
    One Click Apply
    17
  18. Cover image for Ubuntu Scholarship

    Ubuntu Scholarship

    Funded by
    Melissa Sandoval
    This scholarship will support minority high school seniors pursuing postsecondary higher education.
    Funded by
    Melissa Sandoval
    This scholarship will support minority high school seniors pursuing postsecondary higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High School Senior
    • Location: Harlem, New York
    • GPA: 3.0
    Amount:$650
    Deadline:May 21, 2024
    One Click Apply
    18
  19. Cover image for RJ Memorial Scholarship

    RJ Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Kachina Edmisten
    This scholarship aims to honor the life of RJ by supporting students in Arkansas who are pursuing higher education.
    Funded by
    Kachina Edmisten
    This scholarship aims to honor the life of RJ by supporting students in Arkansas who are pursuing higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school or undergraduate student
    • State: Arkansas
    • Religion: Christian
    • GPA: 2.0 or higher
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 10 days left
    One Click Apply
    19
  20. Cover image for Earl Pascua Filipino-American Heritage Scholarship

    Earl Pascua Filipino-American Heritage Scholarship

    Funded by
    John Vincent Deniega
    This scholarship will support Filipino-American graduate students pursuing a degree in STEM or history.
    Funded by
    John Vincent Deniega
    This scholarship will support Filipino-American graduate students pursuing a degree in STEM or history.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: Undergraduate or Graduate
    • Major: STEM or History
    • Race/Ethnicity: Filipino-American
    Amount:$500
    Deadline is Approaching! 11 days left
    One Click Apply
    20
  21. Cover image for Inguz Memorial Scholarship

    Inguz Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Taylor Family
    This scholarship aims to support students who will be pursuing careers in animal science, veterinary medicine or other related fields so they can go on to make their mark in the field.
    Funded by
    Taylor Family
    This scholarship aims to support students who will be pursuing careers in animal science, veterinary medicine or other related fields so they can go on to make their mark in the field.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Field of Study: Animal science, veterinary medicine, or other related fields
    Amount:$500
    Deadline is Approaching! 12 days left
    One Click Apply
    21
  22. Cover image for “Equal Opportunity” Scholarship

    “Equal Opportunity” Scholarship

    Funded by
    Calvin Rosser
    This scholarship exists to support two students who want to improve their life and the lives of the people around them.
    Funded by
    Calvin Rosser
    This scholarship exists to support two students who want to improve their life and the lives of the people around them.
    All students are eligible
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 12 days left
    One Click Apply
    22
  23. Cover image for D’Andre J. Brown Memorial Scholarship

    D’Andre J. Brown Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Cindy Brown
    This scholarship aims to honor the life of D’Andre J. Brown by supporting students who have overcome adversity or hardship in their lives.
    Funded by
    Cindy Brown
    This scholarship aims to honor the life of D’Andre J. Brown by supporting students who have overcome adversity or hardship in their lives.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • State: California
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    Amount:$2,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 13 days left
    One Click Apply
    23
  24. Cover image for Julie Adams Memorial Scholarship – Women in STEM

    Julie Adams Memorial Scholarship – Women in STEM

    Funded by
    Eric Adams
    This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Julie Adams by supporting women who are pursuing higher education in STEM.
    Funded by
    Eric Adams
    This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Julie Adams by supporting women who are pursuing higher education in STEM.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Field of Study: STEM
    • Gender: Female-identifying
    Amount:$2,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 13 days left
    One Click Apply
    24
  25. Cover image for Hearts on Sleeves, Minds in College Scholarship

    Hearts on Sleeves, Minds in College Scholarship

    Funded by
    Payal Mehta
    This scholarship seeks to support BIPOC students with big dreams for the future so they can afford to pursue higher education.
    Funded by
    Payal Mehta
    This scholarship seeks to support BIPOC students with big dreams for the future so they can afford to pursue higher education.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Financial Status: Low-income
    • Race: Black/Native American
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 13 days left
    One Click Apply
    25
  26. Cover image for Monroe Justice and Equality Memorial Scholarship

    Monroe Justice and Equality Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Louis Strickland
    This scholarship will support high school seniors.
    Funded by
    Louis Strickland
    This scholarship will support high school seniors.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • GPA: 3.0
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 13 days left
    One Click Apply
    26
  27. Cover image for New Kids Can Scholarship

    New Kids Can Scholarship

    Funded by
    Teylor Emch
    This scholarship aims to support high school students who have been new students at some point in their high school careers.
    Funded by
    Teylor Emch
    This scholarship aims to support high school students who have been new students at some point in their high school careers.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Background: Has been a new student at least once during high school
    Amount:$1,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 17 days left
    One Click Apply
    27
  28. Cover image for Desiree Jeana Wapples Scholarship for Young Women

    Desiree Jeana Wapples Scholarship for Young Women

    Funded by
    Albert Wapples
    This scholarship aims to support female high school students in Virginia so they can be financially prepared for college.
    Funded by
    Albert Wapples
    This scholarship aims to support female high school students in Virginia so they can be financially prepared for college.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior
    • Gender: Female
    • State: Virginia
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    Amount:$500
    Deadline is Approaching! 24 days left
    One Click Apply
    28
  29. Cover image for Solomon Vann Memorial Scholarship

    Solomon Vann Memorial Scholarship

    Funded by
    Juanita Inman-Vann
    This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Solomon Vann by supporting students in Alabama who have encountered mental illness.
    Funded by
    Juanita Inman-Vann
    This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Solomon Vann by supporting students in Alabama who have encountered mental illness.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
    • State: Alabama
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    • Field of Interest: Business, computers, engineering, music, or psychology
    • Background: Indirect and/or direct experience with mental illness
    Amount:$2,000
    Deadline is Approaching! 24 days left
    One Click Apply
    29
  30. Cover image for Friends of Ohm Labs Scholarship

    Friends of Ohm Labs Scholarship

    Funded by
    Hariom Biyani
    This scholarship seeks to support deserving students who need financial assistance to achieve their career goals.
    Funded by
    Hariom Biyani
    This scholarship seeks to support deserving students who need financial assistance to achieve their career goals.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Education Level: Undergraduate student
    • Field of Study: STEM, finance, or business
    • GPA: 3.0 or higher
    Amount:$500
    Deadline is Approaching! 29 days left
    One Click Apply
    30
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Students are constantly searching for ways to fund their higher education. One popular and effective avenue to consider is applying for merit-based scholarships. These scholarships, awarded based on a student's achievements and potential, can greatly alleviate the financial burden of attending college or university.

We will explore the best merit-based scholarships available, provide guidance on how to apply for them, offer tips to increase your chances of success and answer frequently asked questions regarding these scholarships.

Here at Bold.org, you can apply for exclusive scholarships. Sign up here and check which scholarships you are eligible to apply for right now.



Best Merit-Based Scholarships

When it comes to merit-based scholarships, there are several prestigious options available for deserving students. Here are a few of the top scholarships that you should keep in mind:

There are many different types of merit scholarships that seek to help talented, hardworking students afford the costs of a college education. The amount varies for each merit award, ranging from $500 to $75,000, but even small awards can make a difference and are worth considering.

Many merit-based scholarships are rewarded based on demonstrated academic excellence. Academic achievement can be demonstrated in several ways, including your grade point average or your test scores.

Scholarships Based on GPA

One way you can demonstrate academic excellence is through your GPA. For high school students who haven't yet taken any standardized test scores, leveraging an impressive GPA can be critical in earning merit scholarships.

There are many scholarship opportunities with GPA requirements on Bold.org, some with more competitive requirements, such as 3.5 or higher.

Scholarships Based on SAT

On Bold.org, you have the option of reporting your standardized test scores. You can make these scores private or public based on your privacy needs. The SAT is scored on a range of 400-1600 with an average score is 1068. High scores can be useful to include on your profile as they can catch the eyes of donors and make your application stand out.

In addition to scholarships available on Bold.org, there are other resources that students with impressive test scores should check out.

The National Merit Scholarship Program rewards students with outstanding PSAT and SAT scores. The process is competitive and has many tiers, including commended students, semifinalists, finalists, and finally, scholars.

Only those who are deemed scholars receive National Merit Scholarships, but commended students and finalists still benefit by reporting their status on college applications. You can find out more about the process here!

Scholarships Based on ACT

The ACT is a standardized test similar to the ACT, with a perfect score of 36. The test is made up of multiple sections related to different subjects and the national average score in 2020 was 20.6.

If your score is higher than average, it will not only help you get into top colleges but can also help you win scholarships and merit-based aid. You can take the ACT multiple times, so don't worry if your first score wasn't as high as you hoped.

The Rhodes Scholarship

Founded in 1902, the Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most renowned international scholarship programs. Each year, this scholarship selects exceptional students from around the world to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Offering full funding for two to three years of study, the Rhodes Scholarship provides not only financial support but also an unparalleled academic experience.

According to recent statistics, the acceptance rate for the Rhodes Scholarship is less than 1%. However, don't let this discourage you. If you have a strong academic record, leadership skills, and a commitment to making a positive impact in your field, you may have a chance of being awarded this prestigious scholarship.

The Gates Scholarship

Created by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Scholarship aims to enable outstanding minority students to pursue a college education without financial obstacles. This scholarship covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and transportation.

It is worth noting that the Gates Scholarship is highly competitive, with approximately 300 scholarships awarded annually out of thousands of applicants. Nevertheless, with a rigorous selection process focusing on academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement, this scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for deserving students striving to make a difference.

What Is the Difference Between Merit-Based Scholarships and Need-Based Scholarships?

While merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and other factors unrelated to financial need, need-based scholarships are specifically provided to students with demonstrated financial need.

How Do I Get a Merit Scholarship?

High school seniors and undergraduate students, including out-of-state students, can leverage merit-based scholarships to access their university undergraduate program, reducing the financial burden of their education.

Not all merit scholarships are the same, and due to a high demand for financial aid, scholarships can be competitive. Luckily, there are many different merit scholarships offered on Bold.org, giving you lots of opportunities to win one.

To stand out and catch the donor's interest, make sure you're submitting a unique application. Whether the scholarship requires an essay, a video of you, or a portfolio, make sure that you put time into your submission and make it special and detailed.

You can also utilize your profile to your advantage by adding detail to your bio, making sure you have relevant experience added, and ensuring that your profile reflects your interests and background.

How Do I Use Merit Aid?

Merit-based scholarships will be sent to the financial aid office at your college to help cover your tuition or other costs. If you win a scholarship while still in high school, don't worry! We'll hold your award money for you until you enroll in a college.

Certain scholarships are also open to recent graduates who have student debt. If you win one of these scholarships, you'll be able to apply the money directly to your loans.

How to Apply for Merit-Based Scholarships

Applying for merit-based scholarships requires careful planning, attention to detail, and showcasing your best qualities. Here are the steps you should follow:

Research

Begin by researching the different scholarships available that match your profile, interests, and academic goals. Many scholarships target specific fields of study, demographics, or regions, so make sure to tailor your search accordingly. Take note of eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and any supporting documents needed.

When conducting your research, don't limit yourself to just online resources. Reach out to your school's guidance counselor, who can provide valuable insights and recommendations. Additionally, consider attending scholarship fairs or information sessions where you can interact with scholarship providers and ask questions directly. By going the extra mile in your research, you may discover hidden gems that align perfectly with your aspirations.

Prepare your application materials

Once you have identified the scholarships that resonate with you, start gathering the necessary application materials. These typically include your academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement or essay, and any additional documentation required by the scholarship provider.

When preparing your application materials, pay attention to the details. Ensure that your transcripts are up to date and accurately reflect your academic achievements. Request letters of recommendation well in advance, giving your recommenders ample time to write thoughtful and compelling letters.

Craft a personal statement or essay that showcases your unique experiences, motivations, and goals. Remember, the more effort you put into preparing your application materials, the stronger your chances of standing out among the competition.

Make Your Application Stand Out

Now that you have your application materials ready, it's time to make your application shine. Tailor your personal statement or essay to each scholarship application, highlighting your achievements, goals, and how the scholarship will enable you to reach your full potential. Demonstrate your passion, dedication, and leadership skills in a compelling and authentic manner.

One way to make your application stand out is by showcasing your involvement in extracurricular activities. Highlight any leadership roles, community service initiatives, or projects that you have undertaken. Scholarship providers are often looking for well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to their communities.

Remember, the competition for merit-based scholarships is high, so ensure that every aspect of your application exudes excellence. Proofread your application to eliminate any errors or inconsistencies.

Seek feedback from mentors, teachers, or family members who can provide fresh perspectives on your application. By continuously refining and improving your application, you increase your chances of securing the scholarship that will help you achieve your educational dreams.

Tips for Applying for Merit-Based Scholarships

Applying for merit-based scholarships can be a time-consuming task, but you can enhance your chances of success by following these helpful tips:

Start Early

Don't wait until the last minute to begin your scholarship application process. Start researching scholarships and gathering application materials well in advance. By doing so, you can ensure that you have enough time to create a strong application and meet all deadlines.

Starting early also allows you the opportunity to tailor your applications to each scholarship, showcasing how your unique skills and experiences align with the specific criteria of each award. This personalized approach can significantly increase your chances of standing out among the pool of applicants.

Showcase Your Uniqueness

Highlight what sets you apart from other applicants. Emphasize your unique experiences, achievements, and aspirations. Scholarship providers are looking for individuals who demonstrate exceptional qualities and have the potential to make a positive impact on society.

Consider incorporating anecdotes or personal stories that illustrate your journey and the challenges you have overcome. Providing concrete examples of how you have made a difference in your community or excelled in academic pursuits can leave a lasting impression on scholarship committees.

Seek Recommendation Letters Wisely

Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your abilities, strengths, and potential. Provide them with any relevant information that will help them write personalized and impactful letters of recommendation. Remember to ask for recommendations well in advance to give your recommenders enough time to craft thoughtful letters.

When selecting recommenders, opt for individuals who can speak to different facets of your character and accomplishments. A diverse set of perspectives can offer a comprehensive view of your capabilities and further strengthen your application.

Additionally, consider providing your recommenders with a copy of your resume or a list of key achievements to ensure they have all the necessary information to advocate effectively on your behalf.

Stay Organized

Keep track of application deadlines, documents needed, and any other requirements specific to each scholarship. Create a calendar or spreadsheet to stay organized and ensure that you submit your applications accurately and on time.

Utilize technology tools such as reminder apps or online calendars to set alerts for important deadlines and submission dates. Breaking down the application process into smaller, manageable tasks can help you stay on top of requirements and prevent last-minute scrambles. By maintaining a systematic approach, you can present polished, well-prepared applications that reflect your dedication and attention to detail.

Additional Resources for Merit Students

Fulbright Program

This international educational exchange program, sponsored by the U.S. government, is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and those of other countries. It offers scholarships for U.S. citizens to study, conduct research, and teach abroad, as well as for non-U.S. citizens to do the same in the United States.

National Merit Scholarship Corporation

In the United States, NMSC conducts the National Merit Scholarship Program. High school students enter the competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) and can win scholarship awards based on their scores, academic record, and extracurricular achievements.

Learn more about national merit finalists and merit awards on NMSC's website.

Chevening Scholarships

The UK government's global scholarship program, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organizations, offers awards to outstanding graduate students with leadership potential from around the world to study for a master's degree in any subject at any UK university.

Create a Bold.org profile and use the scholarship search feature to access hundreds of exclusive scholarships.