Middle of the Pack

Many people assume that if you come from a middle class family, you can afford to go to college, but this may not be the case. College costs have skyrocketed in the last few decades. Even well-off families may struggle to save up money for college. Fortunately, there are many different scholarships that you can apply for that are open to students from a middle-class background.

Different colleges have different cut-off points for financial aid. You may not consider yourself poor, but it doesn’t mean that you won’t qualify for aid. Depending on your parents’ income and whether or not you have siblings in college, you may even qualify for federal aid. Don’t just assume that you won’t get any money. Apply anyway. You have nothing to lose.

The second option is to apply for merit-based scholarships that take achievement, rather than need, into account. Your college may offer merit-based grants to attract top students. Alternatively, take a look at some outside sources.

For example, the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program is federally funded and recognizes exceptionally able high school seniors. If you excel academically, you can get a grant of up to $1,500.

The National Science Scholars Program offers up to $5,000 to 40 students who excel in physical, life and computer sciences, as well as mathematics and engineering.

Another option is to apply for specialized scholarships that have nothing to do with financial need or your academic ability. Some employers offer college scholarships for employees and their children. For example, if you work part-time at McDonald's, you may be eligible for their college scholarship program. You may also qualify for grants that are targeted to Hispanic students, or students from a certain area.