A Detailed Guide to the Different Kinds of Scholarships

Introduction

Scholarships are a great way to reduce the financial burden of education, but with so many options available, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Whether you're a high school student, college applicant, or international student, there's likely a scholarship that fits your needs.

In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of scholarships, their eligibility criteria, and how you can apply.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

What it is: Awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, or extracurricular excellence.

Who qualifies?

• Students with high GPA scores

• Those with strong SAT/ACT scores

• Students excelling in sports, arts, or community service

Examples:

• National Merit Scholarship Program (U.S.)

• Commonwealth Scholarships (U.K.)

How to apply:

• Maintain strong academic performance

• Build a well-rounded profile (extracurriculars, volunteering)

• Submit recommendation letters and essays

2. Need-Based Scholarships

What it is: Designed for students from low-income families who need financial assistance.

Who qualifies?

• Students from families with low household income

• Those who qualify for financial aid programs like FAFSA

Examples:

• Pell Grants (U.S.)

• The Gates Millennium Scholars Program

How to apply:

• Provide proof of financial need (tax forms, income statements)

• Submit a personal statement explaining financial hardship

3. Athletic Scholarships

What it is: Given to student-athletes who excel in sports and plan to compete at the college level.

Who qualifies?

• High school athletes with strong performance records

• Students recruited by college sports programs

Examples:

• NCAA Division I & II Scholarships

• Olympic Solidarity Scholarships

How to apply:

• Create a highlight reel showcasing athletic skills

• Maintain good academic standing alongside sports performance

• Get recruited by college coaches

4. Subject-Specific Scholarships

What it is: Awarded to students pursuing degrees in specific fields like STEM, humanities, or business.

Who qualifies?

• Students enrolled in STEM programs, arts, law, medicine, or other specialized fields

• Those with academic excellence in a specific subject

Examples:

• Google Women in Tech Scholarship (for women in STEM)

• CFA Program Scholarships (for finance students)

How to apply:

• Research industry-specific scholarships in your field

• Submit transcripts, essays, and project portfolios

5. Minority and Underrepresented Scholarships

What it is: Designed for students from diverse backgrounds, including racial, ethnic, and gender minorities.

Who qualifies?

• Students from underrepresented ethnic groups

• Women in male-dominated fields (e.g., STEM, finance, law)

Examples:

• Hispanic Scholarship Fund

• The UNCF (United Negro College Fund)

How to apply:

• Provide proof of eligibility (ethnic background, gender)

• Write a personal essay about diversity and inclusion

6. International Student Scholarships

What it is: Designed for students studying abroad or in a country different from their home country.

Who qualifies?

• International students seeking higher education abroad

• Those with strong academic records and financial need

Examples:

• Fulbright Program (U.S.)

• Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (Europe)

How to apply:

• Meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS)

• Submit academic transcripts and recommendation letters

7. Employer and Corporate Scholarships

What it is: Companies offer scholarships to employees, their children, or the general public.

Who qualifies?

• Employees or dependents of certain corporations

• Students pursuing degrees in company-related fields

Examples:

• Coca-Cola Scholars Program

• Microsoft Tuition Scholarships

How to apply:

• Check your parent’s employer benefits for scholarship programs

• Apply through company-specific scholarship portals

Conclusion

Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of education if you know where to look. Whether you're a high-achieving student, an athlete, or in financial need, there’s a scholarship for you.

Need help applying for scholarships? Expert Buddy can guide you through the application process, essay writing, and more. Reach out today!