MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), together with the Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB), announced Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed the month of November as National Scholarship Month in Wisconsin. The proclamation is part of a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the vital role scholarships play in helping students and families make education after high school more affordable, reduce financial barriers, and minimize the amount students may need to borrow.

“Higher education should be attainable and affordable for every Wisconsinite who chooses to pursue it, and scholarships help ensure students across our state can pursue their goals and dreams,” said Gov. Evers. “During National Scholarship Month, I encourage students and families to explore scholarship opportunities and take advantage of the resources available to help make their educational and career goals a reality.”

“Scholarships can add up to make a real difference when families are planning how to pay for education after high school,” said DFI Secretary Wendy K. Baumann. “Students shouldn’t assume they need to be a valedictorian or a star athlete to qualify. There are scholarships based on academic achievement, community involvement, career interests, talents, hobbies, and many other factors. Students should explore scholarship opportunities throughout their education, whether they are preparing to graduate from high school, starting their first year, or already enrolled in a college, university, technical college, or career training program. Taking the time to research opportunities and apply can help students reduce their education costs and the amount they may need to borrow.”

“Scholarships are an important form of gift aid because they do not have to be repaid,” said HEAB Executive Secretary Tammie DeVooght Blaney. “Students should look beyond the most well-known scholarship programs and explore opportunities offered by their schools, communities, employers, professional organizations, foundations, and other organizations. Wisconsin also offers a variety of state financial aid programs, and completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as the FAFSA®, is an important first step for students seeking federal and Wisconsin state financial aid.”

Gov. Evers, DFI Secretary Baumann, and HEAB Executive Secretary DeVooght Blaney offer the following tips to help students and families find and apply for scholarships:

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). The FAFSA® is an important first step in planning how to pay for education after high school. Students must complete the FAFSA® to be considered for Wisconsin state financial aid, including programs such as the Wisconsin Grant. The FAFSA® may also be required for institutional and other forms of financial aid. Students and families should complete the FAFSA® as early as possible each year.
  • Start searching early and keep searching. Scholarship opportunities are available throughout the year, and eligibility requirements vary. High school students should check with their school counselors and colleges or universities, while current college students should continue checking with their school’s financial aid office. Students can also explore scholarships offered by local businesses, community organizations, employers, foundations, professional organizations, and other groups.
  • Apply for more than one scholarship. A scholarship does not have to cover the entire cost of education to make a difference. Smaller awards can add up and help pay for tuition, books, supplies, fees, and other education expenses.
  • Look beyond grades and athletics. Scholarships may be based on academic achievement, but many also recognize community service, leadership, career interests, extracurricular activities, hobbies, talents, family or community connections, and other accomplishments. Students should look for scholarships that match their individual experiences and interests.
  • Beware of scholarship scams. Legitimate scholarship opportunities generally do not require students to pay a fee simply to apply, guarantee that an applicant will receive money, or pressure students to provide personal or financial information immediately. Students should research an organization before applying and be cautious of any scholarship offers that sound too good to be true.

For additional information on finding and applying for scholarships, college affordability, and the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program, visit the DFI’s college and career readiness​webpage.

For information on Wisconsin’s financial aid, including scholarship, grant, and loan programs, tuition reciprocity agreements, and tuition capitation contracts, visit HEAB’s website.