Typically, merit-based scholarships are the scholarships a school offers to top students regardless of that student’s financial need. It’s essentially free money — and who doesn’t like free money? These scholarships are used by colleges to lure highly qualified applicants to campus. Keep in mind, though, that not every school offers merit-based scholarships. Harvard, for example, does not need to offer merit scholarships to fill its class. Still, a number of private and public colleges, including several top-tier schools do offer merit scholarships to a select group of admitted students.

Of the schools offering merit-based scholarships, several will automatically consider any applicant submitting an application. Other schools will ask for a unique application, an interview or an additional essay to be considered. Finally, some schools will request that students fill out financial aid forms such as the FAFSA or the CSS Profile to be considered. NYU, for example, requires all scholarship applicants to fill out and submit the CSS Profile regardless of whether an applicant is applying for federal financial aid. So, what’s the best way to make sure you are covering your bases? When you have your college list, visit each school’s financial aid and scholarships website and read about whether merit scholarships are offered and any additional required materials. This way you know you have done everything needed to get full consideration!