Uncertain about your kid’s scholarship application process? You’re not alone. Many parents are unaware of the scholarship opportunities that are currently available for Black students. One of ScholarPrep Nation’s many goals is to demystify the scholarship and college application processes. Only then can we witness the positive effects of equity in education.
Faced with financial struggles, racism, and a lack of tools and resources, parents of African-American students may struggle to get organized and could end up in debt because of this. It’s a well-known fact that college graduates of color owe an average of $25,000 more in student loan debt compared to their white peers.
Systemic racism has got to end. How? By making parents aware of scholarship opportunities and informing them about the importance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Read on and get inspired by our 3 tips for the scholarship application process.
Tip #1: Considering Scholarship Opportunities Early On
College and scholarship applications require time, discipline, ambition, and persistence. Starting with eighth grade, Black students should become intentional about their future higher education path.
That way, they’ll have time to participate in extracurricular activities and community service, and also have plenty of time to gain awards, honors, and leadership experience. These things don’t just happen overnight. It’s not enough to rush through one’s senior year and go through intense bouts of stress and anxiety once the scholarship application deadline approaches.
To avoid this, parents must explore college and scholarship opportunities as early on as possible. When good grades and optimal standardized test scores are prioritized, the kids and their families will have plenty of time to pick the perfect scholarship for African-American students.
Tip #2: Finding the Right Scholarship for African-American Students
Academic achievement is sometimes not enough to secure free money. Current college students of color who are getting ready to graduate and kickstart their careers have one thing in common ─ they knew exactly where to look. Your child has every right to access a scholarship for African-American students. Here’s how.
First off, you need to become familiar with the top three scholarship databases for Black students.
Scholarships.com
With Scholarships.com, African-American students can browse and choose the scholarship they are eligible for. It’s important to do some research before applying, as there is a variety of criteria that will enable your kid to get awarded a scholarship. Academic achievement is a must-have.
Fastweb
A database that goes beyond the usual scholarship search, Fastweb provides families and teens with culturally affirming scholarships. Awarded by NAACP, UNCF, and other African-American organizations, the scholarships featured in their database will certainly catch your eye.
Cappex
The levels of college readiness among Black students need a definitive boost. Cappex recognizes the struggles of minority students. Underrepresentation, a lack of resources, and systemic racism can make the scholarship application process even more difficult than it already is.
Their database features many scholarships that will either minimize or eliminate the burden of student debt.
Tip #3: Filling Out the Scholarship Application with the Assistance of Experts
Before applying for any scholarships, you need to be financially prepared and aware of the next steps.
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) features some must-read resources about financial aid on their website. Student aid is essential since most scholarships require FAFSA information as a part of their scholarship applications.
All in all, the scholarship application process can be stressful, especially for future first-generation college students. As a parent, you need to seek out the expert help that only a culturally inclusive college access program can provide.
ScholarPrep Nation has a simple goal ─ to demystify the scholarship application journey. Our revolutionary and innovative approach is based on Afrocentric principles that will always stand the test of time. Here are the benefits of joining ScholarPrep Nation:
- Unlimited access to our online and nationwide network
- On-demand academic mentorship
- Expert advice from certified educational consultants
- Personalized scholarship search
- Personalized college essay writing
- Being paired with a ScholarPrep Navigator (coach)
- Completion of a personality assessment
- ACT/SAT prep & tutoring
- Monthly webinars
- Accountability Meetings
- …and so much more!
Win Full Scholarships with ScholarPrep Nation!
Our nationwide network of Black scholars is constantly evolving. We believe that your child deserves to get professional help for their scholarship and college applications.
Contact us now and let’s talk about your needs, concerns, and future goals!
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