External Scholarships
External scholarships are provided by organizations and foundations not affiliated with 草莓社区. Some of the best opportunities can be found through groups you or your family are connected with, such as a parent’s employer, cultural or heritage organizations, the Elks Club, nonprofit volunteer groups, community organizations, or even your high school.
草莓社区
You can search for external scholarships through the . This list is updated daily, so check back frequently. If you are a current Loyola student, you may log in each spring to apply for additional Loyola scholarships for the following academic year.
Additional scholarship opportunities can be found through the following websites:
- (Scholarships available to DACA and international students)
Search Tips
Start your search early and get organized
- Begin early. Some scholarship deadlines can be as early as a year before the academic year starts.
- Create a system. Use a calendar or spreadsheet to track deadlines, requirements, and the status of each application. This helps you stay organized and prevents you from missing opportunities.
Expand your search beyond national databases
- While large, free online databases are an excellent resource, you should also look for scholarships with less competition.
- Tap into your local community. Check with your high school, undergraduate university, local businesses, community foundations, and service groups like the Rotary, Elks Club, or VFW.
- Explore affiliations. Many scholarships are awarded by organizations related to a particular field of study, ethnicity, or religious affiliation. Don't forget to check with your or your parents' employers and unions.
Make the most of your applications
- Read the instructions carefully. Take the time to fully understand what each scholarship is for and what the application requires. Tailor your submission to the specific mission of the organization offering the award.
- Highlight what makes you unique. Many scholarships are not based solely on grades. Emphasize unique experiences, personal growth, and passion in your essays. A compelling, personal story can help you stand out.
- Prioritize smaller awards. Small scholarships may seem insignificant on their own, but they add up quickly. They also tend to have a smaller applicant pool, increasing your chances of winning.
- Write a strong essay. Essay-based scholarships may attract fewer applicants. A well-written, error-free essay that connects with the scholarship's criteria can significantly improve your odds.
- Get strong recommendations. Foster positive relationships with teachers, coaches, and mentors who can speak to your character and abilities in their letters of recommendation.
- Maintain a professional online presence. Many scholarship providers review applicants' social media. Use a professional email address and remove any inappropriate or immature content from your online profiles.
Be vigilant against scholarship scams
- Never pay to apply. Reputable scholarship databases and organizations will not charge a fee to search for or apply for scholarships.
- Don't trust guarantees. Be wary of any offer that guarantees you will win a scholarship. No legitimate provider can make such a promise.
- Protect your personal information. Legitimate applications will not ask for sensitive information, such as your Social Security number, during the initial application process.
Understand the impact of outside scholarships
- If you win a scholarship, you must report it to the Financial Aid Office. It will be incorporated into your overall financial aid package.