Things to NOT consider when researching scholarships:
* Your personal opinions or biases. Focus on objective criteria like eligibility requirements, deadlines, and award amounts.
* Rumors or hearsay. Stick to official scholarship information from reputable sources.
* The prestige of the scholarship provider. While a prestigious provider might be good, focus on scholarships that truly match your needs and eligibility.
* Whether you think you'll "win". Apply for every scholarship you qualify for, regardless of how competitive it seems.
Things to consider when researching scholarships:
* Eligibility requirements (GPA, major, residency, etc.)
* Application deadlines
* Award amounts
* Renewal criteria (if applicable)
* Essay requirements
* Financial aid office resources (they may have lists or application assistance)
* Scholarship search websites (e.g., Fastweb, Scholarships.com, Unigo)
Remember: Don't let fear or doubt hold you back from applying! The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of receiving financial aid.