Scholarships aren’t just for athletes and valedictorians

Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed November as National Scholarship Month in Wisconsin. The proclamation is part of a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the vital role that scholarships play in reducing student loan debt and expanding access to higher education.

“Every Wisconsinite deserves the opportunity to access a high-quality, affordable education, from early childhood to technical colleges and universities,” said Evers. “As the cost of higher education continues to rise, students and their families are faced with the ever-increasing burden of paying for their education.

Scholarships can reduce that financial burden, while celebrating students’ unique talents and helping them gain access to critical educational opportunities they might not otherwise be able to, without additional support.

“Many students end their college years, with thousands of dollars in student loan debt,” said Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “Although loans are sometimes necessary, students don’t want to graduate with the burden of excessive debt, so it’s important to take time now to research and apply for scholarships.”

The following tips will help students and families secure scholarships for higher education:

• Start with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In order to qualify for federal student financial aid, including scholarships, students and families should complete that as soon as possible.

• Scholarships aren’t just for athletes and valedictorians. There are scholarships for nearly every interest, hobby or background.

• Scholarships aren’t just for incoming freshmen. Many scholarships are for students already enrolled. Whether a high school senior, current college student or graduate school student, research and apply for scholarships each year.

• Every dollar counts. Not every scholarship is going to provide a full ride, but every little bit helps. Remember, every scholarship dollar used to pay for college, is a dollar that doesn’t need to come out of pocket or be borrowed. No scholarship is too small.

• Avoid the scams. Never pay for scholarships, be wary of “guaranteed” money, and don’t be lured in by sites or organizations that charge a fee to access scholarship applications.

For additional information on finding and applying for scholarships, college affordability and the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program, visit the DFI’s website at wdfi. org.

For information on Wisconsin’s financial aid, including scholarship, grant and loan programs, tuition reciprocity agreements and tuition capitation contracts, visit heab. wi.gov.