How to Apply for Scholarships Without FAFSA: A Guide for 9-Year-Olds

It can be tough trying to figure out how to pay for college — especially if you’re only 9 years old! As a 9-year-old, it can be hard to understand the ins and outs of financial aid and scholarships. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it seems. Here’s a guide to help you apply for scholarships without having to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Step 1: Know Your Options

The first step in applying for scholarships without FAFSA is to know what options are available to you. A great place to start is to look for scholarships offered at your school. Many schools offer scholarships for students who demonstrate academic excellence or demonstrate need. You can also look for scholarships offered by local businesses, community organizations, and religious institutions. Finally, there are a variety of online scholarship databases that can help you find scholarships that are specific to your interests and background.

Step 2: Gather Your Information

Once you know what scholarships you want to apply for, the next step is to gather all the necessary information. Start by creating a list of all the documents you will need to complete your application. This could include your transcript, a resume, letters of recommendation, and any other material that is specific to the scholarship you are applying for. Additionally, you will need to fill out an application form. Make sure to read the application carefully and answer all questions accurately and honestly.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have all the materials you need and you have filled out the application form, it’s time to submit your application. Make sure to double-check your application for any errors or omissions before submitting. Additionally, if the scholarship requires you to submit any additional materials, such as a portfolio or essay, make sure to include them in your submission. Finally, don’t forget to include your contact information so the scholarship committee can get in touch with you if you are selected.

Step 4: Follow Up

Once you have submitted your application, follow up with the scholarship committee to ensure that they have received your materials. It’s important to be persistent and polite when following up. If you don’t hear back from the committee, don’t be afraid to reach out again. Additionally, if you have questions about the application process, don’t hesitate to contact the committee for clarification.

Step 5: Celebrate

Once you have completed all the steps, it’s time to celebrate! Applying for scholarships without FAFSA is no small feat and you should be proud of yourself for taking the initiative. Keep your fingers crossed and take some time to relax and enjoy life — you’ve earned it! “Now that I’m done, the only thing left to do is put on my dancing shoes”.

Conclusion

Applying for scholarships without FAFSA can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of research and preparation, any 9-year-old can take the initiative and apply for scholarships to help pay for college. All you need to do is know your options, gather your information, submit your application, follow up, and celebrate when you’re done! Good luck!