Dear Parents,
If you’ve ever typed “college scholarships” into Google, you already know how overwhelming it can be: dozens of tabs, outdated pages, vague promises, and hours of precious time wasted. As a parent, it’s tough to know what’s worth your attention or how to help your student cut through the clutter.
That’s exactly why Red Kite exists. This month’s newsletter is all about making the scholarship search easier, faster, and way less stressful even if you’re just getting started.
4 Keys to Smarter Scholarship Searching
1. Fit Over Flash
Not all scholarships are created equal and that’s a good thing.
Instead of applying to every big-name award, focus on scholarships that match your student’s unique background, location, or interests. These “best fit” opportunities are more attainable and often overlooked.
Start your search with:
- Local scholarships (community foundations, local businesses)
- Programs tied to your student’s major or activities
- Scholarships for specific heritages, service work, or military families
2. Start Earlier Than You Think
Most families wait until junior or senior year to look for scholarships and that’s often too late. Some of the most valuable (and least competitive) scholarships open up as early as freshman year of high school.
Red Kite’s timeline tool helps families understand what’s open now, what’s coming up, and which applications stay open year-round so you’re always one step ahead.
3. Even Small Scholarships Add Up
A $500 award might not sound life-changing, but it adds up fast. Small scholarships can cover books, transportation, or even application fees. Better yet, they often have fewer requirements and faster decisions.
Red Kite makes it easy to track, organize, and apply to multiple scholarships without losing your mind (or your bookmarks).
4. Stay Safe: Know the Red Flags
Not all “opportunities” are legit. Watch out for scholarships that ask for fees, request unnecessary personal info, or promise “guaranteed” money.
Red Kite connects you with credible scholarship opportunities so you can spend less time sorting through questionable offers and more time applying for the ones that fit you.
What Can I Do Next?
- Log in to Red Kite and update your student’s profile to get personalized matches.
- Bookmark one new scholarship this week, even a small one.
- Make a shared checklist with your student to track deadlines and documents.
Encourage your student to start applying now, each application is a step closer to reducing future college costs.
The Red Kite Team
