Scholarship Myths

Myth
You must be an "A" student to win a scholarship.

Truth:
Having an "A" average alone will not guarantee you a scholarship. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation conducts one of the largest corporate-sponsored scholarship programs in the United States. Although a good academic record is a contributing factor, having an "A" average exclusively will not qualify as a Coca-Cola Scholar. Coca-Cola Scholars are well rounded, unique, and independent individuals.

Myth
Billions of scholarship dollars go unused every year.

Truth:
Although some scholarship money is unclaimed each year, this money is often earmarked for students with very specific qualifications such as a particular last name or some unusual characteristic - the problem is that the qualified students don't always apply.

Myth
B or C students have little opportunity to win scholarships.

Truth:
B or C students still have opportunities for scholarships. If you are a B or C students and you have a history of participation and growth in volunteer activities as well as involvement in your community, you have an excellent chance of winning scholarships. Highlighting your participation and involvement in a student resume and an essay will help you be successful.

Myth
You cannot win a scholarship if you do not have financial need. Or, middle class students cannot get money for college.

Truth:
Middle class students can win money for college. Although they may not be eligible for some need-based scholarship programs, they still have numerous opportunities to win merit scholarships.

Myth
Credible scholarship resources will need a credit card number or bank account number to hold a scholarship you have won.

Truth:
Never give your credit card or bank number to hold a scholarship. Scholarships are free money to those who qualify and they schouldn't cost you anything to hold them. If you have legitimately won a scholarship, it schould be yours to claim based on your application and your meeting the requirements of the scholarship.

Myth
People can receive scholarships they have never actually applied for.

Truth:
To win a scholarship from a program to which you have never applied nor entered is rare. Most likely it is part of a scam and you should be very cautious about giving out any personal information if asked.