Easiest Scholarships to Get (and How to Actually Win Them)

When it comes to paying for college, scholarships can make a huge difference — but not all of them are easy to win. While some require perfect GPAs or standout essays, others are more accessible and designed to help everyday students cover their costs.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the easiest scholarships to get — and smart strategies to help you stand out, even if you don’t have a 4.0 GPA.

1. Local and Community-Based Scholarships

One of the best-kept secrets in the scholarship world? Local awards.

Community organizations, local businesses, and regional nonprofits often offer scholarships for students in their area. These tend to have fewer applicants than national programs, meaning your chances of winning are much higher.

Pro tip: Check with your high school guidance office or local community foundation. You can also use the Kollegio.ai Scholarship Recommender to match with local scholarships that fit your background, interests, and location.

2. Scholarships Based on Hobbies or Interests

Not every scholarship is tied to academics. Many are awarded based on unique passions or personal stories — from photography and music to community service and gaming.

If you love writing, for example, consider scholarships from organizations like the YoungArts Foundation or Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

And if you’re applying to creative schools such as Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) or Cal Poly Humboldt, you’ll often find scholarships that reward your portfolio or creative potential rather than just grades.

3. No-Essay and Quick-Apply Scholarships

Yes, they really exist. Many scholarship platforms and private donors offer no-essay scholarships, which only require a quick form or social media entry.

While the prize amounts can be smaller ($500–$2,000), these are among the easiest scholarships to apply for and can add up fast if you win multiple.

Start here: Explore quick-apply scholarships on Kollegio.ai’s Your Scholarships tool — it curates no-essay and easy-entry opportunities just for you.

4. Scholarships for Specific Colleges or Majors

Colleges themselves are often the biggest source of funding. Many universities — such as University of Arizona, University of Vermont, and Cal Poly Humboldt — offer scholarships for certain majors, GPAs, or extracurricular involvement.

If you’re pursuing environmental science, engineering, or business, you’ll find plenty of major-specific awards that are automatically considered when you apply.

Make sure to check the financial aid page of your target schools for departmental and program-based awards.

5. Need-Based and First-Generation Scholarships

Many foundations and universities prioritize need-based scholarships, especially for first-generation students or those facing financial barriers.

Programs like the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation or Dell Scholars Program combine funding with mentorship — making them both accessible and rewarding.

Use the filters in Kollegio.ai’s Scholarship Recommender to find scholarships that match your academic level, financial need, and personal story.

6. How to Increase Your Chances

Even with “easy” scholarships, a few strategies can boost your odds:

• Apply early — many awards are first-come, first-considered.
• Tailor your answers, even for short forms.
• Keep your grades solid and your involvement consistent.
• Apply to multiple smaller scholarships instead of only large national ones.

Final Thoughts

Finding and applying for scholarships doesn’t have to be overwhelming — you just need the right tools.

Use the Kollegio.ai Scholarship Recommender to get personalized matches based on your goals, GPA, and interests. You’ll discover both easy-to-apply and high-value scholarships that fit you best.

Whether you’re heading to Cal Poly Humboldt, University of Vermont, or any college in between, there are scholarships out there waiting for you — you just have to know where to look.

By Ali Schiebel