College-awarded scholarship opportunities are spelled out in the financial aid/scholarship tab of a college's website.

Some are automatic based on your admission application while some may require a separate application, always check!

Review requirements and deadlines. Many college scholarship deadlines are tied to fall or priority application deadlines.

Ask if they are renewable and if so, if there are renewal requirements such as minimum credit hours or GPA.

Ask what happens if you are awarded an outside scholarship.  Occasionally, schools decrease their scholarship awards by the amount of outside scholarships earned.

Merit Scholarships: Often based on academics (GPA and test scores). In addition to academic achievement, talent, skill, athletic ability and geographic diversity may also attract merit money. Departmental scholarships (usually selected by a professor) are occasionally available to incoming freshman but most are reserved for returning students, especially in the sciences. Check college websites for eligibility guidelines.

Need-based Scholarships: Often called “grants”. Funds awarded are based on the family’s financial profile obtained through the FAFSA and supplementary financial applications such as the CSS Profile.

The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a scholarship that may save you money at a public out-of-state college or university in 16 western states/US territories if you qualify. Go to http://wue.wiche.edu to see the list of participating institutions.

Purpose: Making your case starts with understanding the scholarship's mission.

Eligibility: Take note of any financial need, GPA, grade level, etc. specifications.

Requirements: Review exactly what items need to be submitted. Is there a scholarship evaluation rubric?

Due Date: When is it due and how will it be submitted.

Application: This will usually include contact numbers, grade level, personal background, college plans, intended major, etc.

Letters of Recommendation: Requirements will vary but expect to need two. Pick letters writers who know you well, give them plenty of time, and say thank you!

Transcript: Even if the scholarship doesn't have a minimum GPA, many providers will still want to see a transcript. Complete the Eastlake transcript request form.

List of activities: Describe and think "impact".

Essay: We hear from students all of the time how much they dislike writing essays, but the essay section is your chance to shine and distinguish yourself.

Financial Information: Most need-based scholarships require a copy of your FAFSA Student Aid Report or other documentation establishing your financial need.

Understand the scholarship's mission and audience

Pick a topic where you shine

Be authentic, gracious and proud

Show, not tell. Avoid repeating accomplishments listed elsewhere in your application.

Always have someone look at it. Does it sound like you?

Re-imagine essay materials from your college applications but don't cut and paste. Customize for the unique scholarship mission and essay prompt.

Just start. At a certain point, it's time to stop thinking and researching and start applying. Progress, even in small doses, can be inspiring.

Create a timeline or calendar to keep yourself moving.

Target your best odds scholarships first.

Set aside time each week. Success=working a little at a time.