What is your idea of weird? Most of you reading this blog will likely find the following scholarships a bit odd — but hopefully a great deal of help as well.
This week, we take a look at some nontraditional scholarships you may not have known existed and help you continue the search for free money for college. To start, don’t forget the basics of searching for scholarships: starting early and applying often; following the rules to the letter; and staying organized and following up.
[Get tips for before, during and after the scholarship search.]
The above rules are still going to apply here, but students can further ensure they are separating themselves from the pack by considering scholarships that are less conventional and perhaps a little less competitive due to their “odd” requirements. Are you creative or weird enough to actually win them? You’ll have to decide that for yourself, but some of these are worth at least giving a try.
1. Duck Brand Stuck at Prom Scholarship: This scholarship contest pays big money, but it does require a considerable amount of work. Have you ever made your own clothes? How about out of tape? Basically, that is all this particular scholarship is.
Each couple enters by creating their attire for that special night at prom at least partially out of Duck Brand tape and then they are judged on the results of their efforts. The first prize is worth $10,000 per person, second is worth $5,000 per person and third place nets $3,000 a person.
Runners-up are awarded a $500 prize and there are honorable mentions by category — no cash, though — for Best Singles Category, Best Detail Work, Best Theme and more. The contest begins in mid-March and ends on or around June 1 each year.
The winners for 2015 used 39 rolls of tape and committed 90 hours to the process.
[Target these 10 unique college scholarships.]
2. Union Internationale de la Marionnette-USA Scholarship: This puppetry scholarship is aimed at Americans who wish to study puppetry outside the U.S. Applicants must have some professional experience in the field, a university degree in puppetry or the ability to show a deep commitment to the art form.
How’s that for off the beaten path? If you are into puppetry you can win $1,000 to put toward your studies. The deadline for applications is November 30.
3. Our World – Underwater Scholarship Society Rolex Scholarship: This scholarship is quite unique and offers the opportunity for travel and lots of underwater adventure. If you enjoy scuba diving or are already an underwater enthusiast, check this one out and see if it fits your schedule, skills and interests.
One scholar is selected from each of three regions — North America, Europe and Australia — and spends around a year working and traveling with leaders in underwater fields of study. The maximum amount for the North American award is currently $25,000.
[Find scholarships that reward creativity and offbeat interests.]
As a heads up, you must be at least 21 to enter and no older than 26 at the time of application, which is due December 31. You must also be certified as a rescue diver or the equivalent, with a minimum of 25 logged dives in the past two years. Don’t worry if you aren’t old enough yet, though. Just make a note and come back and apply when you are.
These are just a few of the weird ways you may qualify for scholarships. Sure, there are scholarships for the brainy students and jocks out there, but you might be surprised just how many others have reasonable academic or athletic requirements.
If you think you don’t qualify for any scholarships, you probably haven’t searched enough yet. There is something for everyone out there, so devote some time to see how you can find free money for your education.
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Check Out 3 Weird and Unusual College Scholarships originally appeared on usnews.com
