Busting 5 Common Scholarship Myths 

 Posted on December 29,2025 in Uncategorized

Figuring out how to pay for college in 2026 can be an intimidating process. Scholarships and financial aid can help cover the cost, but many students never apply because they believe things about scholarships that simply are not true. These myths stop thousands of excellent students from even trying. 

The truth is that scholarships come in all shapes and sizes. Some reward academic achievement, while others focus on community involvement or unique personal backgrounds. Understanding what scholarships really look like can open doors you did not know existed.

At OVC Scholarship Network, we have scholarships for every kind of student. We want to see you succeed. Learn some quick facts about scholarships and then see which of our scholarships have potential for you. 

You Need Perfect Grades to Win Scholarships

Many students assume that only valedictorians and honor roll students win scholarship money. That belief keeps countless deserving applicants from submitting applications.

The reality is that many scholarships do not focus on grades at all because scholarship sponsors look for all kinds of qualities in applicants. Some want to support students who have overcome challenges. Others reward volunteer work, leadership skills, or involvement in specific hobbies and activities.

Scholarships Only Go to Students Who Ace Their ACTs and SATs

The people and organizations who sponsor scholarships know that not every student is a good test-taker. In fact, many scholarship sponsors were not excellent at tests themselves – but they succeeded anyway. 

Here are some common factors that matter beyond your ACT and SAT scores:

• Community service and volunteer hours

• Leadership positions in clubs or organizations

• Unique personal experiences or backgrounds

• Career interests in specific fields

• Financial need

• Creative abilities like writing, art, or music

Your test scores only tell part of your story. Many scholarship committees want to hear about who you are as a person.

Scholarships Are Only for Athletes, Lawyers, and Doctors

Another common myth is that scholarships only go to star athletes or students pursuing certain careers like law or medicine. This could not be further from the truth.

Scholarships exist for students interested in almost every field you can imagine. Future teachers, artists, engineers, nurses, business owners, and countless others can find funding opportunities. Some scholarships focus on broad categories, while others get very specific. You can even find scholarships for students who love gardening, play chess, or plan to study environmental science.

The scholarships available through OVC Scholarship Network are national opportunities. This means students can apply from anywhere in the country. You do not need to live in a certain state or attend a specific school to qualify. And despite the network's connections to law firms, these scholarships are not limited to students who want to become lawyers. Many are open to students pursuing any career path.

Too Many People Apply to Scholarships for Me to Get Anything 

Many students never submit a single scholarship application because they assume millions of other people are applying to the same opportunities. Why bother if the odds are so slim? This thinking keeps students from receiving money that could have been theirs.

The truth is that many scholarships receive far fewer applications than you might expect. Some scholarship providers struggle to find enough qualified applicants to give away all their funds and even the federal government has more money for college than ever gets claimed. In fact, according to a report from the National College Attainment Network, the high school class of a recent year left an estimated $3.75 billion in Pell Grants on the table by not completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid! 

The fact is that competition varies widely depending on the scholarship. Large, well-advertised national awards might attract thousands of applicants. But smaller scholarships, local awards, and niche opportunities have much smaller applicant pools. A smart strategy includes applying to a mix of both large and small scholarships to maximize your chances.

It’s Too Late to Start Applying for Scholarships

Many students believe scholarship applications are only for high school seniors in the fall. Others think that small scholarships are not worth the effort. Both of these ideas are myths that cost students money.

Scholarship deadlines happen throughout the entire year. Some opportunities open in spring or summer. Others accept applications on a rolling basis. Starting your search early gives you more options, but it is never too late to begin looking.

Contact OVC Scholarship Network Today

Finding the right scholarships takes time and research, but we have tools that can help. OVC Scholarship Network connects students across the country with opportunities that match their unique strengths and goals.

Whether you are a straight-A student or someone with average grades but an amazing story, scholarships exist for you. Our team can help you find scholarships that fit your situation. Contact OVC Scholarship Network today to start your search and take the next step toward making college affordable.