Submitted by Nathaniel Smith
Even though the fall semester has just started, for many high schoolers
and parents (and some college students), now’s the time to
look for college scholarships. What few people realize is that not all
scholarships are on the up-and-up. Scammers would find away to prey on college students?
Crazy, right? Well, if there’s a way to scam a vulnerable group, someone will figure
it out. When it comes to college students, there’s a plethora
of scams devised.
Welcome to the first part in the college scam warning series! Here’s a
scholarship... PSYCH!
First and foremost, no legitimate scholarship application is guaranteed.
All real grants or scholarships will have some kind of qualifications. They
usually include performance, GPA, belonging to a club, or participation in
extracurricular activities.
If
someone that claims they have exclusive information or expertise, then beware.
You can find free scholarship information everywhere. School libraries, all
levels of government, the internet, and private companies all have free
information on scholarships available to anyone who asks, so don’t be afraid to
ask! Also, talk to your school counselor.
Any claims that you have earned, been selected for, or are a finalist
for a scholarship or grant that you’ve never applied to, it’s another red
flg.
A scholarship doesn’t
just fall into your lap! Even the lottery requires you to go out and get
a ticket, why would a scholarship be any different? Grants and scholarships
have to be pursued, go out and get ‘em!
Basically, do your homework.
Get information from trusted sources and feel free to contact your local
BBB at bbb.org or the
Federal Trade Commission at 202-FTC-HELP (202-382-4375)
Do you have any questions or concerns? Anything to contribute to the
conversation? Feel free to leave a comment! And stay tuned for the next
installment: Den of Identity Thieves or The Stolen Identity!
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