To find these scholarships, you should search using keywords like:
* Need-based scholarships: This is the most common and broadest term. Many scholarships prioritize students from low-income families, which often correlates with high debt.
* Scholarships for low-income students: Similar to need-based, but often more explicitly focuses on income level.
* Scholarships for first-generation college students: Families struggling with debt often impact the ability of students to be the first in their family to attend college.
* Scholarships for students with financial hardship: This directly addresses the struggles caused by debt.
Where to look for these scholarships:
* FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): While not a scholarship itself, the FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants and loans, and many colleges and universities use this information to award their own need-based aid.
* College websites: Check the financial aid sections of colleges you're interested in. Many have their own merit-based and need-based scholarships.
* Scholarship search engines: Websites like Scholly, Fastweb, and Scholarships.com allow you to filter by criteria like financial need. Be sure to be specific in your search terms.
* Local organizations: Many community foundations, churches, and civic groups offer scholarships to local students facing financial hardship.
* Your high school guidance counselor: Your counselor is a valuable resource and can provide information about local and national scholarships relevant to your situation.
Important Considerations:
* Be thorough in your applications: Carefully follow all instructions and submit complete applications. This increases your chances of being awarded a scholarship.
* Apply to many scholarships: The more you apply for, the better your chances of receiving some funding.
* Prepare your financial documentation: You'll likely need documentation of your family's income and debts. Gather this information early in the process.
Finding scholarships for students from financially challenged families requires diligent searching and application. Don't be discouraged if you don't find a perfect match immediately. Persistence is key.