How to avoid scholarship scams

5 key takeaways about avoiding scholarship scams

• Watch for red flags like upfront fees, guaranteed awards, or requests for personal information.
• Never provide sensitive details like social security numbers or bank account information in scholarship applications.
• Use trusted scholarship tools like Scholly Scholarships - including Sallie's $2,000 No Essay scholarship.
• Verify if a scholarship is legit before applying.
• Be aware of scammer tactics such as “urgent” deadlines or guaranteed money to lure you in.

Learn how to avoid scholarship scams

When searching for scholarships, it’s exciting to think about how the right opportunity could help pay for your education. But just as there are many awesome scholarships you could win, there are also scholarship scams designed to take advantage of students. Don’t let that scare you from going after that free college money! With our tips, you’ll be able navigate your search safely and spot the red flags of scholarship scams.

Let’s break down the common tricks scammers use and ways to make sure you're applying for legitimate scholarships.

What are common red flags of scholarship scams?

Scammers often use a few common tricks to deceive students and families. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Upfront fees: Scholarships should never require you to pay to apply. If an organization asks for money before providing information or processing your application, that’s a major red flag. Real scholarships are meant to give money, not take it!
2. “Guaranteed” scholarships: Be cautious of claims like “guaranteed money” or “your scholarship is waiting for you.” Scholarships aren’t automatic. No one can guarantee you'll win a scholarship before you apply or meet specific criteria. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Requests for confidential or sensitive personal information: Beware of any scholarship that asks for sensitive personal details like your social security number, bank account information, or passwords. Scholarship applications typically require things like transcripts, essays, or recommendation letters—not personal data that could be misused.
4. Unclear or vague eligibility criteria: Legitimate scholarships usually have clear, specific criteria for who can apply. If a scholarship seems like anyone can win without effort, it’s worth a second look. Scammers often use vague eligibility to cast a wide net.
5. Pressure tactics: Scammers might tell you that you need to act fast or risk losing the scholarship. But legitimate scholarships have set deadlines and won't pressure you to make hasty decisions.

How to safely search for legit scholarships

Finding scholarships doesn’t have to feel risky when you’re armed with the right tools and knowledge. Here are some handy tips to help you search safely:

• Use trusted scholarship search tools. 
  One of the safest ways to find scholarships is by using Scholly Scholarships. This reliable search tool lets you filter scholarships by major, GPA, state, interests, types, and more, giving you access to opportunities that match your qualifications. It’s free to use and you don’t even have to register!
• Verify sources. 
  Always verify the legitimacy of the scholarship organization or source. Look for contact information, check the organization’s website, and make sure it’s affiliated with reputable institutions or foundations. If something feels off, trust your gut and stay clear.
• Check with your school counselor.
  School counselors are a valuable scholarship resource. They often have insight into scholarships that are legitimate and worth your time. They can also help verify any unfamiliar opportunities you come across.
• Research online.
  A quick online search can reveal a lot about the legitimacy of a scholarship. If the scholarship name is followed by a string of negative reviews, it’s probably a scam. Check forums or review sites to see what others have experienced.

What are common tricks scammers use?

Scammers often use these approaches to lure students and their families:

1. "You’ve been selected!": Scammers may contact you claiming you’ve been "selected" for a scholarship you never applied for. Beware! Legitimate scholarships require you to submit an application before you can be considered.
2. Fake scholarship services: Some scam services will claim they can help you “find hidden scholarships” for a fee. Remember, you don’t need to pay to access legitimate scholarships—there are plenty of free resources available like Scholly Scholarships.
3. Phishing emails: Be careful of spam-like emails or messages claiming to offer scholarship opportunities. These often include links that lead to phishing websites designed to steal your personal information.

Keep searching and stay safe

Winning scholarships can be a big part of achieving your education goals. Just remember stay on your guard and protect yourself from scams. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask questions, verify sources, and rely on trusted tools like Scholly Scholarships to make sure you’re applying for real, legitimate scholarships. With a little caution, you can navigate your scholarship search confidently—and focus on finding real opportunities that will help you succeed.