How do I find scholarships as a Hispanic or Latino student in the U.S.?

You’ve survived high school and thrived! Your college goals are set, and you’re ready to excel. You've got what it takes — you just need the financial resources. Because, let's face it, ramen noodles only get you so far!

The average federal student loan debt balance is $37,853.

Worry not! Roll up your sleeves and get ready to karate chop that debt before you even start your college journey.

Unlike student loans, scholarships provide money for college expenses without the need to pay it back.

Scholarships can fund:

• Tuition (the money you pay to attend school)

• Books

• Housing

Scholarships can be:

• A one-time check

• Be renewable each semester

Scholarships can be based on different types of criteria:

• Grades (merit)

• Sports

• Demographics

• Career specific

• Need-based (financial)

Think of a scholarship as a way to say THANK YOU to yourself for all your hard work!

As a growing demographic the opportunities for educational advancement are in abundance!

Check out some of these scholarships available for Hispanic and Latino students:

Hispanic Heritage Foundation Youth Award:"Honors Latino high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community" and for their focus in various fields such as business, healthcare, and STEM.

LULAC National Scholarship Fund (LNSF):Sponsored by the League of United Latin American Citizens, this fund provides scholarships for Hispanic students.

The Gates Scholarship: "A highly selective" full-ride scholarship for "outstanding, minority, high school seniors from low-income households."

Start with these steps:

1. Research and make a list of the scholarships you qualify for.

2. Write your personal statement and draft essays based on your scholarship requirements.

3. Reach out to your teacher(s), coach, boss... etc for letters of recommendation.

4. Mark your calendar with those deadline dates!

Tip: use a spreadsheet to organize and track scholarships. Check out Fiveable.com for free resources.

Scholarships require an official acceptance by you.

Read through the award letter carefully as it will contain info such as:

• The amount awarded

• How it will be disbursed

• Requirements you need to meet to maintain the scholarship

• How to officially accept the scholarship

Most importantly, keep searching and applying for scholarships!

Check out this trailblazer!

Sonia Sotomayor

• Received a full scholarship to Princeton University

• Awarded a scholarship to Yale Law School

• Went on to become the first Latina Supreme Court Justice in the United States

Vamos!