External Scholarships

Current SUNY Cortland students and high school students thinking about attending college have a variety of resources to explore in search of outside scholarships (i.e. non- SUNY Cortland funded) to assist them in making college more affordable.

In general, all students should start the scholarship search on a state and local level first before searching nationally.  Your best chance of earning an outside scholarship will be through those resources closest to you.  Start with your employer(s) and your parent's employer(s) for tuition benefits and scholarships.  Check any local community foundations, clubs, memberships, unions, churches, and organizations to which you and your parents belong. 

Remember, do not sell yourself short. If you meet the basic criteria that the scholarship requires, you should submit an application. You won't know the outcome unless you apply.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

All scholarships received must be counted toward the student financial aid offer. Students are required to notify SUNY Cortland of any scholarships they have received. Be aware that scholarships and/or awards may impact your previously awarded financial aid and awards may be adjusted. 

Scholarship Search Engines

There are a variety of websites that provide a search tool to help you find scholarship opportunities. Many offer free on-line searches (for example - Fastweb Scholarships) so beware of any websites that require payment to find scholarships for you, most of them are scams. For more information on scholarship scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission's Scholarship Scam page

The list of links provided below are a handful of the hundreds of scholarship search engines that can be found on the Internet.  These websites are presented as a guide to assist your search; the Office of Financial Aid receives no benefit from listing these sites.  Remember; always be careful when providing personal information over the internet.

• CollegeBoard
• Fastweb
• CollegeNet
• FINAID

Tips for Completing Scholarship Applications

1. Apply only if you are eligible.  Seek opinions from others if you are not sure of your eligibility.
2. Be aware of and meet all deadlines.  Allow enough time to acquire letters of recommendation or transcripts.
3. Read and follow all instructions.
4. Complete the application.  Don't assume a question can be left blank unless you are specifically instructed.
5. Seek assistance if you feel you need it. 
6. Submit a clean and neat application.
7. If an essay(s) is required, submit a well-composed essay that makes a definite impression.  Have a teacher, professor, similar professional, or a parent look it over and give you feedback.
8. Give your application materials a final review.  Have a parent or relative review it as well.
9. Send your application to the proper address.  If using postal mail, be sure to have the proper postage affixed.  Follow up with the organization a week later to insure they have received it.