The Washington Financial Aid Association (WFAA) offers the following tips to assist students in their efforts to finance their educational costs.

Please do not limit your resources for financial assistance to this website. As college costs continue to rise, students must become more creative in seeking out available funding opportunities. WFAA encourages students to contact the financial aid office at the institution they plan to attend to assist them with applications processes for scholarships and federal, state and institutional financial aid. Students should also use friends, family, employers, high school counselors, churches and community organizations as resources for scholarship information.

Applying for scholarships is time consuming; therefore, students must allow sufficient time to complete the application process. Listed below are some helpful hints in applying for scholarships.

1. Read the eligibility criteria and determine whether you meet the application requirements.
2. Carefully read and follow the application instructions.
3. Applications should be neat, clean, concise, and preferably typed.
4. Fill out the application completely - answer all questions.
5. If an essay is part of the application, make sure that your essay covers the information requested and check your spelling, grammar and punctuation.
6. Request letters of reference from people who know you and are able to give you positive recommendations.
7. Provide only the requested information on the application.
8. Have someone review and proofread your application.
9. Submit your completed application packet before the deadline.

The awarding of a scholarship represents not only a significant source of financial assistance, but also recognition of your special achievements and an investment in your potential. Please take the time to write letters of appreciation to the donors of any scholarships you receive to thank them and let them know what being selected means to you.

Best of luck and may you have a successful college experience!