January of the Senior Year

If you’ve applied in the fall as recommended, January is going to be scholarship essay time. Colleges begin assigning scholarship funds quickly quickly after they admit students. Of course, they don’t just hand you checks so they ask you to write a scholarship essay. These can be valued anywhere from $1000 to $10,000 or more. When the award letters come out in the spring or later, this will be included in the final cost of a year of college.
There may also be scholarship weekends offered where students are asked to compete with other prospective students. Activities may include formal events, interactive group events and just plain fun.
Take advantage of these opportunities. They will cut your student loans and improve your lifestyle after graduation.