What's the best kind of money for college? Free money! Which is exactly what a scholarship is: Merit-based assistance for your college costs, which you never have to pay back.
There are literally millions of scholarships out there - and they're got more than $3.5 billion to reward to students just like you. We've got the low-down on finding college scholarships, applying for scholarships (and getting them!) and even tips for writing scholarship essays!
Many scholarships are earmarked for students with some kind of talent - whether it's musical, athletic or otherwise – or an outstanding academic record. Some scholarships require applicants to demonstrate financial need, while others are looking to help students from a specific geographic area - even a certain high school.
And then there are those scholarships that want someone truly unique. Like the person who'll wear a prom dress made entirely out of duck tape. (You could earn $3K for your trouble.) If you're a surfer, skater, south paw or regular straight arrow, you'll definitely want to scan our list of the Top 10 Most Unusual Scholarship Programs.
Now go get yourself some free money for college!