Are you overwhelmed by the cost of college and the questions regarding how you will afford school? Though post-high school can be intimidating, there are resources to help Bloomington South Students. Whether you are looking for local scholarships or money opportunities that are open to a broader audience, there are a variety of options available.
There is one option for seniors who have been accepted into colleges already or are interested in certain colleges: look at the college’s website Many colleges have a tab specifically for scholarships and financial aid. Usually you will need to fill out the FAFSA forms for this, and if so, the FAFSA forms for the 2025-2026 school year is available on December 1, 2024.
1. “Hagan Scholarship Foundation”: $60,000
Description: “The Hagan Scholarship Foundation” stands as a nationwide beacon, a need-based merit scholarship specifically designed for high-achieving rural students. This scholarship opportunity is intended for those who graduate from public high schools situated in over 20 eligible states, specifically in counties with fewer than 50,000 residents.”
2. “Straight A Scholarship”: $5,000
Description: “This scholarship awards high school students who are pursuing Academic Excellence and Athletic Achievement, are Actively serving in the community while possessing strong Ambition, have a winning Attitude, and are able to overcome Adversity. All high school students, freshmen through seniors, with a minimum of a 3.0 grade point average and in the Anthony Muñoz Foundation’s Area of Impact can be nominated and recognized.”
3. First Amendment Freedoms Art & Essay Contest: $5,000
Description: “The First Amendment Freedoms Art & Essay Contest is an opportunity for students to express their creativity and understanding of First Amendment freedoms. Submit your entries online or by mail by 11:59 PM CST on December 31st for a chance to win this contest. Students residing in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Wisconsin are eligible.”
4. Indiana Trail Running Association: $500
Description: “If you’re passionate about trail running, we encourage you to apply for our scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded to a student who demonstrates an enthusiasm for trail running, trail and conservation volunteering, and academic standing. Candidates must currently be a high school student or prior graduate enrolling as a full-time student for the Fall semester at an accredited university, college, or trade school.”
For more information about the scholarships mentioned above and their deadlines and criteria, go to ‘scholarships.com’ and type in each scholarship name.
For those who are looking for local scholarships, here are a couple of scholarships that are locally available in Bloomington, Indiana:
1. Monroe County Ag Day Scholarship with an award of varied amounts.
Description: “Applicants must meet at least ONE of the following criteria: Must have been raised on a farm in Monroe County, Indiana (or) be a member/former member of the Monroe County 4-H program (or) be a current member of an FFA chapter in Monroe County. This scholarship is available through the Monroe County Ag Day Fund at the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County. It may be used for tuition, fees, books, and/or equipment necessary for coursework.”
2. Carl Deal Jr. Memorial Scholarship with an award of variented amounts.
Description: “To be eligible, applicants must have attended Bloomington North, Bloomington South, The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship, or Bloomington Graduation School. GED recipients are also eligible. Consideration will be given for academic as well as other achievements including extra-curricular activities or skills, and the student’s work record. Current college students are eligible. However, applicants not yet attending post-secondary school will receive first priority. Applicants must be past or current members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bloomington (this will be verified) and complete the online application.”
For more information about the scholarships listed above, please visit https://cfbmc.org/.
Finding and obtaining scholarships for post high school endeavors can be strenuous, especially with the stresses of waiting for acceptance letters and staying on top of school work. With a little time and effort put into scholarships and leaving space for self-care in your schedule, there is a good chance that you will earn the money you need to succeed.
