Top 20 Scholarship Websites in 2025

Finding scholarships can be a real headache, but it doesn’t have to be. In 2025, there are plenty of websites out there that make the search easier and more efficient.

Whether you’re a high school senior or a college student, these platforms can help you discover financial aid opportunities that fit your needs. Here’s a rundown of the top 20 scholarship websites to check out this year.

Key Takeaways

• Scholarship websites can save you time and money in your search for financial aid.
• Many sites allow you to filter scholarships based on your unique criteria like location, major, and demographics.
• It’s smart to use multiple scholarship platforms to maximize your opportunities.
• Always check the credibility of the scholarships and the websites offering them.
• Staying organized and keeping track of deadlines is crucial for a successful application process.

Scholarships.com

Scholarships.com uses a system to connect you with scholarships you might be able to get, and they have tons of them. To get the system working for you, you have to make an account and put in things like what grade you’re in, your birthday, where you live, and your email.

You can also look through their list of scholarships yourself, using filters like what you’re studying, your grades, and if you’re connected to the military. The best part is that using the website doesn’t cost anything. It’s a really good place to start your scholarship search.

Scholarship websites are not just for finding opportunities. Many will also help you apply for scholarships and track the progress of your applications.

Fastweb

Fastweb is one of the older players in the scholarship search game, kicking things off way back in 1995. The name’s actually an acronym: Financial Aid Search Through the Web. They aim to connect students with financial aid, college info, and even job opportunities.

Fastweb does have some drawbacks. Some users have reported being matched with scholarships that are outdated or no longer available. Plus, you have to create an account just to see the scholarship details, which can be a bit annoying. It’s like, let me browse a little before I commit, you know?

Fastweb also throws a lot of ads your way, which can be distracting when you’re trying to focus on finding money for school. It’s like walking through a store, and every aisle is trying to sell you something different.

Despite these issues, Fastweb can still be a useful resource, especially if you’ve already checked out some of the other big scholarship sites. It’s worth a look to see if anything new pops up that fits your profile. They claim to have over 1.5 million scholarship opportunities, so there’s a chance you might find something good. It’s free to use, so you might as well give it a shot, right?

Bold.org

Bold.org is a platform that connects students with exclusive scholarships, grants, and fellowships. They partner with donors to create opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a pretty cool idea, and the interface is actually nice to use.

You can filter scholarships by category, which is super helpful. Need easy scholarships that don’t require essays? They’ve got a toggle for that. Looking for something specific, like scholarships for nursing students, women, or students from Texas? Bold.org has dedicated sections.

Bold.org is a great resource to supplement your scholarship search. It’s not a one-stop-shop, but it’s worth checking out for its exclusive opportunities and user-friendly interface. Just remember that the awards can sometimes be on the smaller side.

Here’s what makes Bold.org stand out:

• Exclusive scholarships not found on other platforms.
• A sleek and efficient user interface.
• Categorized scholarships for targeted searches.
• The option to search for scholarships without essays.

Big Future by CollegeBoard

CollegeBoard, mostly known for running those college entry exams and AP programs, also has a scholarship finder. Their BigFuture site has over 6,000 scholarships listed.

Once you sign up, you can filter your search. They have scholarships for all kinds of students. For example, kids of divorced parents, non-citizens, and members of certain groups can find specific aid. It’s free to use, which is a plus.

BigFuture is a solid option if you’re just starting your scholarship search. It’s easy to use and has a lot of options to explore.

GoingMerry by Earnest

GoingMerry, now part of Earnest, aims to streamline the scholarship search. It was created to address the challenges of finding and applying for financial aid. The platform lets students create a profile and then uses that info to match them with relevant scholarships.

GoingMerry also offers some cool features, like a “Smart Planner” that puts important education-related tasks on a calendar. It also has a college browser where students can save colleges they’re interested in.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A large database of scholarships.
• Tools to help with the college application process.
• A mobile app for on-the-go access.

While GoingMerry has a lot to offer, some users have reported that not all scholarships are up-to-date, and the matching system isn’t always perfect. It’s still a useful tool, but it’s a good idea to double-check the details of each scholarship before applying. It’s a good idea to look into local awards too, which may be harder to find on other scholarship websites.

Scholarship Search by Sallie

Sallie Mae’s Scholarship Search platform is now completely free to use. This site helps students find scholarships that match their qualifications. It gives each scholarship a score, so you can easily see which ones are the best fit for you.

Sallie Mae acquired Scholly in July 2023 and renamed the website Scholarship Search by Sallie. The original Scholly website gained a premier reputation after appearing on the hit show Shark Tank.

Previously, some premium features, including personalized scholarship matches, cost money to use, with pricing ranging from $4.99 for one month to $34.99 for a year subscription.

Here’s what you can expect to find:

• A huge database of scholarships.
• Personalized matching based on your profile.
• No more subscription fees!

Don’t forget to explore other resources like free search engines to maximize your chances of finding the right scholarships.

ScholarshipOwl

ScholarshipOwl is another platform that operates on a freemium model. You can use some parts of the site without paying, but to get the most out of it, you’ll need to subscribe. This includes things like having a personal account manager and having your applications automatically submitted for you.

ScholarshipOwl uses AI to try and help students get more scholarships. The premium version gives you tools like credibility scores for each scholarship, automatic resubmissions, exclusive scholarships, and info on how much competition there is for each scholarship. The cost of the premium service can be anywhere from $20 to $69 each month. The highest tier gives you access to college admissions webinars and an expert who will proofread one 500-word essay per month.

It’s worth noting that some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the scholarship listings on ScholarshipOwl, and their vetting process might not be as thorough as some other sites. So, it’s always a good idea to double-check the details before applying.

 ProFellow

ProFellow is a great resource, especially if you’re hunting for fellowships. It’s not your typical scholarship site; it’s more focused on professional and academic fellowships, which can be a game-changer for career development. I remember when Sarah was looking for something to do after graduation, and ProFellow was the only place that had something that fit her interests.

ProFellow really shines when it comes to finding those niche, high-impact opportunities that can significantly boost your resume.

It’s got a ton of listings, and they seem to do a good job of keeping things updated. Plus, they have guides and advice articles that can help you with the application process. It’s not just a list of fellowships; it’s more like a hub with resources to help you actually get one. Speaking of applications, don’t forget to check out the upcoming fellowship deadlines to stay on track.

I think the best part about ProFellow is that it caters to a slightly older, more experienced crowd. If you’re past the typical undergrad scholarship phase and looking for something more substantial, this is the place to be.

Here’s what you can expect to find on ProFellow:

• Fellowships for graduate students
• Post-doctoral opportunities
• Professional development programs

Appily

 

Okay, so Appily used to be Cappex, just so you know. It’s more than just a scholarship search engine; it’s like a one-stop shop for all things college. You can use it to find schools, figure out the whole application process, and even get a feel for college life. It’s pretty handy.

The scholarship part is super straightforward. You make a free account, and then you can search for scholarships based on stuff like where you live, your background, and how much money you need. If you find one you like, you can save it or just go ahead and apply. Appily also helps you discover and learn about different colleges.

Appily is a comprehensive platform for researching schools, understanding college applications, and adjusting to college life.

It’s got a database of colleges with info on costs, acceptance rates, deadlines, and what happens after graduation. Plus, they have quizzes to help you pick a major and articles that explain what different majors are all about, like social work majors. It’s all about helping you figure out what’s a good fit. Appily, like Fastweb and Going Merry, recommends colleges for students to apply to based on their profile.

Niche

Niche is a pretty cool site because it’s not just about scholarships. It’s also a place to check out different colleges and see what people are saying about them. It’s like a one-stop shop for figuring out your next steps after high school. You can look for scholarships based on different categories, or you can let Niche match you with scholarships you’re actually eligible for.

One of the best things about Niche is that you can filter for scholarships that are easy to apply for. This means you can find scholarships that don’t need a ton of essays or recommendations. Who has time for that, right? Plus, it’s totally free to use. I found a no essay scholarship on Niche last year, and it was super helpful.

Niche is a solid option if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the whole college and scholarship search. It’s got a lot of info in one place, and the easy-apply filter is a lifesaver.

Cappex

Cappex is a resource that students can use to find scholarships and explore different colleges. It’s designed to help you figure out where you might want to apply and how to pay for it. It’s like a one-stop shop for college-bound students.

Cappex, now known as Appily, aims to make the college search process easier. It provides a bunch of tools to help you find the right school and scholarships.

Here’s what you can do with Cappex:

• Get matched with scholarships based on your profile.
• Research colleges, including info on net price and acceptance rates.
• Take quizzes to explore potential college majors.

Cappex also has articles that explain different majors, so you can get a better idea of what to expect in college. It’s all about giving you the information you need to make smart choices about your future.

Cappex also offers a monthly scholarship to students who are 13 years or older.

Chegg Scholarships

Chegg is more than just a textbook rental service; it also boasts a pretty solid scholarship search function. It’s a well-known name in the education space, which can give some students a sense of security when using their platform. You’re probably already using Chegg for homework help, so why not check out their scholarship options too?

Chegg’s scholarship database is pretty extensive, and they try to personalize the results based on your profile. It’s worth a look, especially if you’re already a Chegg user. Just remember to always double-check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship before you spend time applying. There are many opportunities for students to save on education, regardless of their grade point average or their standardized testing score. As a result, there are many opportunities for students to save on education, regardless of their grade point average or their standardized testing score.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of scholarships out there. Take your time, be organized, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your guidance counselor or a trusted teacher.

Unigo

Unigo is another solid option in the scholarship search game. It’s been around for a while, and it’s got a pretty big database of scholarships. What I like about Unigo is that it also includes reviews of colleges, so you can get a feel for what other students think of different schools. It’s not just about the money; it’s about finding the right fit, right?

Unigo also has some unique scholarship opportunities, like the “$10K Scholarship” scholarship applications with an August 30th deadline. It’s worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for something a little different. They also have college rankings and articles about college life, so it’s a pretty well-rounded resource.

I remember using Unigo back when I was applying to colleges. It was helpful to see what current students were saying about their experiences. It definitely helped me narrow down my choices and find a school that was a good fit for me.

Here’s a quick rundown of what Unigo brings to the table:

• Large scholarship database
• College reviews and rankings
• Articles about college life

Unigo is a good place to start if you want a mix of scholarship info and college advice.

College Board Scholarship Search

College Board is known for administering the SAT and AP exams, but they also offer a scholarship search tool. It’s a pretty solid resource, especially if you’re already using their site for college planning.

• The College Board’s scholarship search is free to use.
• It lets you filter by different criteria.
• You can find scholarships for various backgrounds and interests.

College Board’s scholarship search is a good starting point, especially if you’re already using their other college planning tools. It might not have every scholarship out there, but it’s a reliable place to begin your search.

RaiseMe

RaiseMe takes a different approach to scholarships. Instead of a giant database, it focuses on micro-scholarships. The idea is pretty cool: you earn small amounts of money for achievements throughout high school. Think good grades, club involvement, and other extracurriculars. It’s like getting rewarded for doing well all along the way, which is a nice change from the usual scholarship grind.

RaiseMe only lists its own opportunities. All of these opportunities are legitimate, so you won’t have to spend any time rooting through expired or illegitimate scholarships. However, they only have a limited number of opportunities, so RaiseMe should only be one part of your scholarship search — it is not a one-stop shop. You should also keep in mind that most of the opportunities have a very low prize, so it’ll be an incremental process to fund your education.

It’s worth noting that not all colleges participate, so you might need to be flexible with your college choices to take full advantage. Each micro-scholarship has its own list of participating schools, so you’ll need to check the details for each one.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Micro-scholarships for achievements
• Partner colleges only
• Amounts vary, but are generally smaller

College Greenlight

College Greenlight is all about helping students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, find their best-fit college. It’s not just a scholarship website; it’s more of a college search platform that connects students with colleges that are actively looking for students like them. I think that’s pretty cool, right?

The platform focuses on matching students with colleges based on their interests, academic achievements, and personal backgrounds. It’s designed to make the college search process less overwhelming and more personalized. You can find scholarship opportunities for Central 301 students here.

Here’s what I like about College Greenlight:

• It’s free to use.
• It has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.
• It offers a personalized college search experience.

College Greenlight also provides resources and support to help students navigate the college application process, including tips on writing essays and preparing for interviews. It’s a great resource for students who need extra guidance in their college search.

I think it’s a great resource, especially if you’re feeling lost in the whole college application thing. It’s worth checking out!

My College Options

My College Options is another platform designed to connect students with colleges and scholarships. It’s been around for a while, so it’s a pretty established player in the college search game. I remember using it way back when I was applying to schools!

It’s not just about scholarships, though. The site also provides resources for college planning and career exploration. It aims to help students figure out what they want to study and where they might want to go to school.

One thing I appreciate about My College Options is that it tries to give you a more holistic view of the college process. It’s not just about the money, but also about finding the right fit.

Here’s what you can expect to find:

• College search tools
• Scholarship listings
• Career assessments
• Information on different degree programs

Zinch

Okay, so Zinch used to be a pretty big name in the scholarship game. I remember back in the day, everyone was talking about it. But honestly? It’s not quite the powerhouse it once was. It’s still around, but it’s more of a supplemental resource these days rather than a primary one.

I think the main thing is that other sites have just gotten so much better at matching students with scholarships. Zinch still has a decent database, but the user experience feels a little dated, and the scholarship listings aren’t always as up-to-date as you’d hope. It’s worth checking out, but don’t rely on it as your only source.

Think of Zinch as a backup option. It’s like that old jacket you keep in the closet – not your favorite, but it might come in handy someday.

Here’s the deal, if you’re a high school student looking for funds, you should check out Zinch, but don’t expect it to be the only place you look. It’s just one piece of the puzzle.

 StudentScholarships.com

StudentScholarships.com is another site aiming to connect students with financial aid opportunities. It’s been around for a while, and while it might not have the flashiest interface, it gets the job done. The site boasts a large database of scholarships, and they try to update it regularly, which is a plus.

One thing I appreciate about StudentScholarships.com is that they also include some helpful articles and resources about the college application process in general. It’s not just a list of scholarships; they try to provide some context and guidance, which can be really useful, especially for first-generation college students.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A fairly straightforward search function.
• A decent number of scholarships for college students.
• Some extra resources related to college prep.

Scholly and more

Finding scholarships can feel like a full-time job, so any tool that streamlines the process is a win. Scholly, now part of Sallie Mae, aims to do just that. It gained recognition after appearing on Shark Tank, and it’s designed to match students with scholarships based on their profile.

Scholly works by having users input their interests and qualifications. Then, it generates a list of scholarships that might be a good fit. The platform updates its database frequently, adding thousands of new scholarships each month. This means even if you’ve been using Scholly for a while, you can still find new opportunities.

Scholly isn’t the only player in the game. Other platforms like Mos also offer scholarship matching services. Mos, for example, uses short quizzes to understand your major, GPA, and interests, then matches you with relevant scholarships. Some even offer premium memberships for personalized support, like help with applications and financial aid advice.

Here’s a quick comparison of Scholly and Mos:

Feature	Scholly	Mos
Matching Method	User-provided info	Quizzes
Database Updates	Thousands of new scholarships per month	Claims $160 billion in financial aid
Premium Support	Not specified	Available for personalized aid and advice

Ultimately, the best platform depends on your individual needs and preferences. It’s worth exploring a few options to see which one works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are scholarship websites?

Scholarship websites are online platforms that help students find financial aid for college. They list different scholarships that students can apply for to help pay for their education.

How do I use these scholarship websites?

To use a scholarship website, you usually need to create an account. Then, you can fill out your profile with information like your school, interests, and grades. This helps the site match you with scholarships that fit you.

Are scholarships free money?

Yes, scholarships are considered free money because you don’t have to pay them back. They help cover your school costs without adding to your debt.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?

Yes! You can apply for as many scholarships as you want. Just make sure to meet the deadlines and follow the rules for each one.

What types of scholarships can I find?

You can find many types of scholarships, including those based on your grades, your background, your major, or even special talents or interests.

Do I need to pay to use scholarship websites?

Most scholarship websites are free to use. Be careful of sites that ask for money; they might not be trustworthy.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the top 20 scholarship websites for 2025. These sites can really help you find the money you need for school. Whether you’re a high school student or already in college, there’s something here for everyone. Just remember, applying for scholarships can take time and effort, but it’s worth it. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t win every time. Keep applying, and you’ll increase your chances of landing some funding. Good luck out there, and happy scholarship hunting