Lesser Known College Scholarships Worth Checking Out

It’s an unfortunate reality that many students’ dream colleges are out of reach—not due to their academic performance but due to the prohibitive cost of tuition. For many students, attending college would not be possible without scholarships that help reduce the financial burden of yearly fees and student loans.


In my time as a high school teacher, I found out about a number of scholarships that aren’t on the radar of many teachers, parents, and students. Below are a few that I want to make more widely known.


Doodle for Google

More info here: https://doodles.google.com/d4g/

Google has been offering a yearly scholarship for students who submit an original artwork to their website using the Google Doodles application.

What’s included?

  • $30,000 for college and an additional $50,000 technology award for school

Key info:

  • Deadline for each year: March 4
  • Designed for US Citizens enrolled in a US-based K-12 School (including homeschool) or a school in Puerto Rico, Guam, or the U.S. Virgin Islands

How Can I Prepare?

Start learning to draw art using Google Doodles Application.

The Gates Scholarship

More info here: https://doodles.google.com/d4g//anxiety-ridden-high-schoolers-why-parents-and-schools-are-part-of-the-problem/

This scholarship is given through the Gates Foundation and is another lesser-known scholarship specifically geared toward students of color from families with lower incomes.

What’s included?

  • Full cost of attendance including books, room and board, and living costs that are not covered by other sources. This award also potentially covers some of the costs of Graduate School depending on the student’s choice of major.

Key info:

  • Application Dates: July 15 – September 15
  • Designed for seniors who are US Citizens, nationals, or permanent residents from one of the following ethnicities: African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and/or Hispanic American
  • Students must plan to enroll in a full-time four year accredited not-for-profit college
  • Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.3 out of 4

How can I prepare?

Have the following documents ready if you are a senior: Recent transcripts, headshot photo, resume, financial aid award letter, and a letter of admission to a four-year bachelor’s degree program

National Merit Scholarship Program

More info here: https://www.nationalmerit.org/s/1758/interior.aspx?sid=1758&gid=2&pgid=424

Many students and parents were not aware that students who do well on the PSAT are eligible for different scholarships. This is one awarded to students who score very well.

What’s included?

  • $2500

Key info:

  • Deadline for each year: October 5
  • Designed for juniors or seniors taking the PSAT

How Can I Prepare?

Start studying for the PSAT! Contact us to get matched with an academic coach who can help you prepare.