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Scholarship Scams

Students and parents should be aware that scholarship scams exist. 

Warning signs of possible scams include:

You are required to pay a fee.

There is a statement about a “money-back guarantee” or “guarantees” you will win an award.

You are asked to give personal financial information (such as credit card and bank account numbers) to “verify” or “hold” scholarships.

You receive notification you won an award for which you didn’t apply.

There is no valid contract information provided.

There are claims that the scholarship organization has a unique database.

There are statements that the scholarship organization, “will do all the work.”

Legitimate scholarships will:

Send information about scholarships when you request it.

Provide contract information upon request.

Does not guarantee you will win the award.

Will not direct you to make a payment.