As the first quarter of the 24-25 school year is approaching its conclusion, scholarship season has arised for high school upperclassmen. Even when it feels as if the school year just began and graduation is a long way from now, the time to apply for scholarships is better now than ever!
But why is early scholarship application so important? What are scholarships, why are they important in general and how do they benefit students while in and out of high school? A scholarship is a form of financial aid for students who seek further education. This financial aid helps students manage tuition by granting payments awarded on the basis of academic or other achievements. By applying both early and completely, you’ve already put yourself ahead in the processes of education after high school graduation, as well as other students! Scholarships are most often explored and encouraged in the final year of high school, but the opportunity to research and apply is available each previous year.
John Adams offers a scholarship bulletin via email to the current juniors and seniors. This bulletin is made accessible to these classes, 2025 and 2026, a month after school begins in an effort of academic preparation. Majority of the scholarships listed on the JA Scholarship Bulletin have deadlines that are set a few months after the beginning of the school year, so it is important to be in communication with school counselors and resources. But, you will always benefit from doing your own research! Whether it’s looking online for scholarships, alumni advice, or even asking school staff in person what current information they have about the scholarships available to you. Not to scare, but scholarship research will eventually call for college or university research as well. Research is only a factor in the full experience of further education, and it will always be better knowing some of what you’re exploring rather than nothing!
With scholarship season approaching shortly after the beginning of the school year where the introduction of new teachers, subjects, and classmates are overwhelming, don’t feel pressured to cram research and applications where your time may not permit. This is where communication with your school counselor and the resources they offer come in to help and potentially ease the process. Scholarship applications continue to be available to applying students while in college, leaving the opportunity for more time dedicated to research and less time drowning in school tasks. However, it is always encouraged to begin your search, research, and explore endless opportunities of scholarships early!
