There are plenty of traditional scholarships, but if you dig a little you can find unique scholarships. In many instances you don't even have to have a specific GPA or write an essay. So think about everything that makes you you and start applying for college money.
Identification
Scholarships that fall outside the typical requirements for funding, such as intended major, high school GPA or community service, are available for those who may not be the best students. These scholarships can be based on qualifications such as your last name, your dominant hand or whether you're a vegetarian, according to Unclaimed Scholarships. The Tea Council of the USA offers a $15,000 scholarship annually to tea lovers.
Types
High school students who didn't earn a high GPA may need to think creatively as they search for scholarships, according to Student Source. Some weird scholarship qualifications include being the descendant of a confederate Civil War soldier, operating a ham radio or speaking Klingon. Skaters with a GPA of at least 2.5 can qualify for scholarships from the Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship. This organization awards four scholarships each academic year, with the highest being $5,000.
Features
Weird scholarships focus on an unusual aspect or hobby, allowing you to capitalize on your pursuit of a hobby like skateboarding or a physical trait. For instance, little people can qualify for a scholarship from the Little People of America. Applicants have to be 4 feet, 10 inches or smaller. These students can win awards from $250 to $1,000. High schoolers who caddied at their community's golf course are eligible to qualify for the Evans Scholars Foundation, which pays for your housing and tuition bills.
Significance
College is expensive. Students who are seeking as many scholarships as they can qualify for can reap the reward by taking advantage of the traits and interest that make them who they are. One stand-out example is the Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest. High school seniors who are able to duck-call can compete, and the first place winner receives a $1,500 scholarship and a jacket. Graduate students planning to major in agriculture with a focus on sheep-related graduate studies can compete for a $1,500 scholarship from The Sheep Heritage Memorial Foundation.
Considerations
Not every student participates in the traditional high school clubs, such as band, and a wide range of foundations, groups and organizations offer scholarships. The David Letterman Scholarship in Telecommunications focuses on the applicant's creativity instead of grades. As Letterman says, "be creative and get ten grand just like that."
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