Do you have a child who’s starting the search for a college to attend after high school graduation? And at the same time are you also trying to figure out how to pay for it all?

You’re not alone. Parents across the country are helping their children navigate the application process and figure out the financial aspect of things. 

One way to help cover the cost of college is to have your son or daughter apply for scholarships. 

And, while your school guidance office may share resources, it’s never a bad idea to have some resources of your own to help. Here are a few books you might ask about at your local library or pick up to add to your own collection.

1. The Ultimate Scholarship Book 2021: Billions of Dollars in Scholarships, Grants, and Prizes: Information on 1.5 million scholarships, grants, and prizes is easily accessible in this revised directory with more than 300 new listings that feature awards indexed by career goal, major, academics, public service, talent, athletics, religion, ethnicity, and more. Each entry contains all the necessary information for students and parents to complete the application process, including eligibility requirements, how to obtain an application, how to get more information about each award, sponsor website listings, award amounts, and key deadlines. With scholarships for high school, college, graduate, and adult students, this guide also includes tips on how to conduct the most effective search, how to write a winning application, and how to avoid scams.
2. How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay: 30 Essays That Won Over $3 Million in Scholarships: Examining the two basic components of scholarship competition—essays and interviews—this vital guidebook offers practical advice and real-life examples to guide students through the entire application process. A roundtable panel of judges and applicants supply inside information regarding the winning qualities sought after by award-giving organizations and tips for finding scholarships by using books, the internet, personal connections, and sources in the community. With insight into the judges’ criteria for a successful application, 30 previously awarded scholarship essays are thoroughly analyzed, from choice of topic to writing style. Revealing unique strategies for preparation and overcoming nervousness, this definitive resource also includes sample interview questions and answers.
3. Scholarships 101: The Real Guide to Getting Cash for College: In the next five years, sixteen million high school students will graduate, making up the largest group of high school graduates in this country’s history. Those students who are fortunate enough to be on the honor roll or the star quarterback of the football team will have access to the best scholarships. But what will happen to the rest of them–those students who have the potential for a great college career, but not necessarily the financial backing to attend the school of their dreams? Author Kimberly Stezala passionately believes that every student should have access to a quality education. Now, she shows parents and their kids how to approach the scholarship process like a pro. Filled with inspiring advice from successful students and scholarship providers, Scholarships 101 shows aspiring college students how to: apply for those scholarships that are the best match for their profile and skills * create a scholarship application that will stand apart from the rest and impress the judges * find the buried treasure of scholarships that aren’t necessarily available on common websites * build a team of supporters in their scholarship quest Straightforward and savvy, this book provides the extra boost many students need to plan for their futures and receive the education they deserve.

If your child is considering applying for scholarships to help cover the cost of college, take a look at these books for some advice. Your child can learn the ins and outs of applying and writing a killer essay.

(*All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon)