It pays to get to know the Scholarship Center

Still looking for additional resources to help with educational expenses? Get in touch with Western's Scholarship Center.

A scholarship is free money for college that doesn't need to be repaid. The total amount of scholarships awarded to Western students from all sources exceeds $8 million annually; almost $4.5 million of this is awarded as institutionally funded Western Washington University scholarships.

The Scholarship Center maintains a website at www.finaid.wwu.edu/scholarships listing available WWU scholarships as wells as scholarships from private donors. And make sure you register for a free scholarship clearinghouse sponsored by the Washington Scholarship Coalition at www.thewashboard.org.

Students should also be aware that scholarship applications for the 2012-2013 academic year will be available starting in February 2012. Most WWU Scholarships will have applications available in February and March with varying deadlines from February through April.

Prepare during fall and early winter quarter by creating a scholarship folder that includes current letters of recommendation, an updated resume, volunteer activities and a list of honors/awards.

By preparing this basic scholarship portfolio early, applying for scholarships will be simpler and less time-consuming.