Lesser Known Scholarships Every Parent Should Know About
When it comes to paying for college, most families know about the big-name scholarships tied to GPA, athletics, or standardized tests. But what many parents don’t realize is that there are hundreds of lesser known scholarships that reward creativity, unique skills, and determination. These opportunities often have fewer applicants, which means your student’s chances of success can be much higher.
We’ve gathered a few you may not have heard of but could be the perfect fit for your teen.
Creative Scholarships
Sometimes the most memorable scholarships are also the most fun. If your student enjoys thinking outside the box, these are worth exploring.
Stuck at Prom Scholarship
Students design and wear prom attire made entirely out of duct tape for a chance to win up to $15,000.
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Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship
Students submit an original greeting card design, with the winner receiving up to $10,000.
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Book Lovers Scholarship
Students write about a book they believe everyone should read. This award offers $500.
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Signature Hat Scholarship
Students submit their dream hat design for the chance to win $500.
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Science and Creativity Contests
For students with an interest in STEM, some scholarships blend academics with imagination.
NSS Space Settlement Contest
Students design a free-floating space settlement. Winners can present at the International Space Development Conference and compete for scholarships up to $5,000.
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Need-Based National Scholarships
Beyond the quirky opportunities, there are also large-scale awards available to students who demonstrate resilience and financial need.
Horatio Alger Scholarships
One of the nation’s largest scholarship programs, Horatio Alger offers awards ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 to students who have overcome adversity and shown determination.
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Final Thoughts for Parents
Encouraging your student to apply for scholarships beyond the “usual suspects” can open doors you may not have considered. The more unique the scholarship, the fewer the applicants, which increases the odds of winning.
At Tutors & Friends, we don’t just help students excel in the classroom, we also love connecting families with resources that make the journey to college a little easier.
If you’d like more guidance on preparing your student for the next stage of their academic career, visit www.tutorsandfriends.com or contact Alex at 619-206-0286.
