Going back to school is a financial commitment, even for an online degree. With a mortgage and car payments, scholarships are worth looking into to help lighten the financial load. Unlike loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid. There are many options, and they aren’t limited to on-campus students.
Scholarships in All Shapes and Sizes
Just like the money available differs with each scholarship, so does the recipient. Scholarships aren’t just for high school students or superstar athletes. There are many funds available to match all sorts of criteria, even working adults.
Here are some types of scholarships worth looking into:
- UNC Greensboro general grants and scholarships are available for both newly admitted and continuing students. Most UNCG scholarships require that students complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for eligibility. Students should complete the form by January 15 for full consideration of all available funds. Application requirements for funds vary. For example, Adult Scholarships have a separate application process. Check UNCG Admissions for details. Current UNCG students can apply online for scholarships through the Spartan Scholarship System (S3) January 15 – March 1.
- Individual departments and offices at UNCG offer scholarships. Check with your department of interest to check on availability and eligibility requirements. Keep in mind that some scholarship criteria are very specific. For example, the Division of Student Affairs lists scholarships and eligibility requirements on its website.
- Look for external scholarships. You may find scholarships through employers, professional associations, civic organizations, churches, nonprofits, and elsewhere in your community. UNCG’s Financial Aid Office has a list of searchable scholarship sources, including Peterson’s, the College Board, and Sallie Mae.
You’ve Found a Match — Apply!
Applying for scholarship money may require a little digging, but online searches make it pretty convenient. In many cases, a separate application isn’t required. It’s worth it to look for any money that can go toward tuition that you won’t have to repay.
Remember these important guidelines:
- Students should have a FAFSA completed by January 15 to be considered a priority application.
- Departmental scholarships may require separate applications, so check with the department for guidelines and deadlines.
- Some scholarships outside UNCG have separate applications and deadlines, so make sure to check and meet those requirements.
- Some scholarships don’t renew each year. See if you need to look for new scholarships for the upcoming year so you don’t overlook funds you could be eligible for.
- You don’t want to lose scholarship money after you’ve worked hard to earn it. To maintain eligibility, students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy standards, including minimum grade-point average and minimum credit hours completed per semester.
- Availability for all scholarships is subject to change.
Ready to Learn More?
Contact UNCG’s Financial Aid Office.
