It’s true, college can be expensive. Fortunately, PSU has an extensive database of scholarships called Scholarship Universe, which lists hundreds of scholarships available through the school, as well as more than 15,000 external scholarships that are sponsored and managed by individuals and organizations that are not affiliated with PSU. Each of these scholarships has been rigorously reviewed and represent great opportunities for PSU students to win even more money to pay for school!
Scholarships are usually based on merit (good grades) and financial need and require an application.
HOW IT WORKS
When you log onto Scholarship Universe, you will be asked a series of questions. Your answers to these questions will be used to match you with scholarship opportunities specific to you, your interests, and your experience. Once you have a list of scholarship opportunities, you can apply for as many scholarships as you want.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND
Each scholarship in the database lists the requirements to apply, including if you have to be in a specific program, have a certain GPA, etc. Most of PSU’s scholarships are available to both domestic and international students. The database will also tell you how much money you can get for each scholarship. We recommend you start a document to keep track of the scholarships that apply to you so you have all the information you need. Remember, some scholarships have a separate application process.
WHEN TO APPLY
Scholarship Universe is open from November 1 through 11:59 pm on February 1. Awarding will begin on March 1. Since scholarships will be awarded for the following academic year, you’ll need to apply nearly a year in advance of when you’ll start college. Get your application together early, especially because some scholarships require letters of recommendation and essays. Once you submit your application, you will be notified around mid-March if you’ve been awarded any scholarships.
HOW TO APPLY
- Create an account and log in
- Set up your account and application
- Apply for scholarships!
More detailed instructions can be found at the PSU Scholarship Universe web page.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Schedule an appointment with a Student Financial Aid counselor, who can help you plan your scholarship strategy. These slots fill up pretty quickly, so make sure you schedule in advance. Get your resume in shape for your Scholarship Application with help from PSU’s Advising and Career Services. Get help from the PSU Writing Center on your personal essay, no matter what stage in the writing process. Also, visit our other post about writing scholarship essays. Search for other scholarships online. The PSU Scholarship Database and Scholarship Application only apply to PSU scholarships, but there are tons of local and national scholarships you could apply for. Here are some resources to help you find scholarships:
- Office of Student Access and Completion
- Bigfuture.collegeboard.org
- Fastweb.com
- Scholarships.com
- Sallie Mae Scholarships
Learn more about getting scholarships and financial aid at PSU on our website.