Often, students who attend community college decide they want to continue their education at a four year college or university after they’ve received their Associate degree. While you can still apply for FAFSA and may be eligible for some grants, you may be wondering if there are scholarships available to you. The short answer is: there are! Here’s what you need to know about transfer scholarships.
You Can Still Apply For “Regular” Scholarships
Even though you’re transferring, you may still be eligible for a number of “regular” scholarships that are available to all students. These can be granted for academic achievements, heritage, interests, the color of your hair, career goals, location, or other reasons. There are thousands out there that even sophomores and juniors in college can apply for – and as a transfer student, that likely includes you.
To find these scholarships, you can talk to your community college and future college, but you also want to use databases. These tools will take down information about you and narrow down scholarships that you qualify for, doing all the legwork. It takes the stress out of the equation and makes it much easier to apply to each award.
And You Can Apply for Scholarships Designed for Transfer Students
Just like there are scholarships geared towards people of a certain hair color, there are scholarships that are awarded solely to transfer students. A few examples would be
The Tau Sigma Honor Society Scholarship
This national honor society awards transfer students. Awards can range between $500 and $5,000. Individuals should work with the chapter adviser to ensure applications are filled out completely by the deadline. Learn more at this link.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergrad Transfer Scholarships
If you’re a community college graduate looking to get into a four year university or college and have a 3.5 GPA, this award may be just what you need. Students who win can receive up to $40,000 per year and any area of study is eligible. Find out about applications, deadlines, and other requirements here.
Lebanon Valley College’s Transfer Scholarships
Transfer scholarships can also be specific to schools. The Lebanon Valley College (LVC) in Annville, Pennsylvania, for example, offers a number of transfer scholarships to their incoming students. The award you’re eligible for depends on your GPA and other factors. The money granted can range from $1,000 to $30,000. You also don’t have to apply for this scholarship from LVC – your counselor automatically submits your application for the merit scholarships. Keep reading on their website about eligibility and requirements.
Transfer Scholarships for Community College
Changing up schools, no matter your reason, does mean you have to rethink your finances. Thankfully, there are plenty of scholarships that are available to transfer students. There are even ones that serve students coming from community college to a four-year. These three scholarships can point you in the right direction, but make sure to also do your own research.
