I’m sure many of you haven’t thought about starting scholarship applications yet. However, it’s best if you start early!
Below are several options for where to find scholarships and some helpful tips:
New Student Scholarships Available Through UW-Stevens Point
First-year & Transfer Scholarships are for new students applying for admission into the 2018-2019 school year. They are awarded through UWSP’s Admissions Office. These scholarships are based on merit and not on financial need. Priority consideration is given to students who have submitted their application for admission and the new student scholarship application by December 15. Please note: scholarships are awarded independently of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You can also see a complete list of merit-based scholarships with more details.
Department Specific Scholarships at UW-Stevens Point
Many academic departments offer new and continuing student scholarships. Most UW-Stevens Point departments award their scholarships in the spring, meaning many of these scholarship applications are active now. Keep in mind some scholarships are faculty nominated, while others require an application. If the scholarship requires an application, any student who is eligible to apply will be notified via their university email. We encourage new Pointers to check out the full scholarship directory to learn more about opportunities.
For current students in the College of Natural Resources, the 2017-2018 scholarship deadline is coming up fast! Applications are due by noon on October 30, 2017.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t forget to apply for scholarships through your local or hometown community foundation. Here are a list of area community foundations in Wisconsin.
- The UW-Stevens Point Foundation won’t release any scholarship dollars until a thank-you note has been written to the appropriate individual. In addition, use the scholarship reporting form to notify the Financial Aid Office of any scholarships you receive. This may affect the amount of aid you receive from the university. Scholarships typically serve as a replacement for the least desirable form of aid.
- Scholarships that sound too good to be true usually are. Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from common scholarship scams.
- If your scholarship application requires letters of recommendation, give your letter writers at least a month to complete it. Providing them with a list of your activities and involvement will help them write a great letter. Also, make sure to thank them for putting the time in to write your letter!
- Most scholarship applications are due by late winter and early spring. With that said, start writing your essays early. The more time you put into it, the more it shows! This way you’ll have plenty of time to revise and make your application stand out.
With these tips, you’re ready to tackle those scholarship applications. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to stop by UW-Stevens Point’s Financial Aid Office, located in room 106 of the Student Services Center. If you don’t have time to stop by, you may send us an email at finaid@uwsp.edu. We are happy to help!
