Non Need-Based Scholarship Information
While many scholarships and grants are based on things like financial need, there are still many non need based scholarships available as well. There are other names for this type of scholarship. It is often called a merit scholarship, in other places it is referred to as an academic achievement scholarship. Statistically most need based scholarships are administered by the federal and state governments. And on the other side of the coin, most merit based and other non need based scholarships are administered by charitable organizations and companies in the private sector.
If you are a high school junior or senior, chances are you have heard of the National Merit Scholarships.
The Coca-Cola Scholars program awards 250 different scholarships to high school seniors. Fifty students receive $20,000 in scholarships. The rest receive $10,000 in awards. To be considered for this award, the student must be graduating high school with a 3.0 out of a possible 4.0 GPA. The Coca-Cola Scholars program also offers scholarships to students attending community colleges. These scholarships are based on merit, applicant must demonstrate academic excellence, be active in their community, and exhibit qualities of leadership. Over 100,000 students will apply.
The Intel Science Talent Search awards scholarships to the top winners in its yearly science competition. This is one of the most competitive awards students can apply for. The winners are chosen for their potential as future researchers and scientists. 300 semi-finalists will be awarded $1000 dollar prizes. Out of the semi-finalists, 40 students are chosen for the finalists round and are invited to Washington D.C.’s Science Talent Institute. This is where the finalists are selected and awarded their scholarships. First place receives a four year scholarship worth $100,000 dollars.
Being a runner up here isn’t so bad. Second place is awarded a $75,000 award. Third place gets $50,000 for school. Fourth through sixth place entitles the student to a $25,000 dollar award. Finishing between seventh and tenth places will bring in a $10,000 dollar award. The last remaining thirty students each receive $5,000 toward their studies, and all finalists receive new computers.
The electronics giant Siemens-Westinghouse holds a competition similar in scope to the Intel awards. To be considered for this award, students must pick a topic of scientific interest, or with scientific applications. Students then research this topic, and prepare an extensive report for the selection committee. Students are allowed to work on this project in groups or individually.
First prize for the individual, and first prize for a group is $100,000 in scholarship money. The second place through sixth place runners up can receive awards totaling up to $10,000 a year. This competition is judged and administered by the College Board. Prizes are offered by the company.
List of available scholarships for nursing students are available.