When you say the word “scholarships,” you probably think of the big-timers: the Gates Scholarship or the National Merit Award. But do you know that many top liberal arts colleges quietly offer hidden scholarships that can actually make your education more affordable? These aren’t advertised on flashy websites—you have to search a little harder. Fortunately, we’ve dug the dirt for you. Let’s explore the underground universe of scholarships you probably haven’t even heard about.
Why Secret Scholarships Exist
Schools Want Diverse and Talented Students
Diversity—not racial or nationality diversity, but diversity of experience, ability, and interests—is highly valued by leading liberal arts colleges. They often create specialty scholarships to attract unique students who might otherwise not apply.
- First-generation college students
- Students from specific areas or states
- Gifted music, art, or English students (even if they’re not majors in languages)
- Students with quirky hobbies or exciting life experiences
These tend to fly under the radar to ensure that they’re reaching the very same types of students the college is most eager to.
They Are Strategic About Budgeting
Some colleges prefer granting institutional aid that is not promoted publicly. This allows them to control their budgets for financial aid while still awarding outstanding applicants. Institutions set aside these monies for applicants who show interest by applying early, visiting the campus, or going through interviews.
Hidden Scholarships at Leading Liberal Arts Colleges
1. Davidson College – The Belk Scholarship
The Belk Scholarship covers full tuition, room, board, and fees at North Carolina’s Davidson College—and still has money available for special projects. It is highly competitive and has to be nominated by your high school counselor, though. Few students are aware of it because it’s not advertised as part of regular college marketing.
2. Amherst College – Research-Focused Awards
At Amherst College, students who plan to undertake academic research are eligible for quiet but generous grants and awards. These scholarships are often awarded to students who have a good research background even before coming to college. You only find out about these after receiving your acceptance letter.
3. Claremont McKenna College – Regional Scholarships
Claremont McKenna offers secret scholarships to students from underrepresented states. For example, students from rural Midwest areas have a greater chance of receiving regional aid packages that are never publicly marketed on the official scholarship page.
4. Williams College – Travel-Based Scholarships
Planning a big summer project abroad? Williams College provides scholarships specifically for students who want to travel internationally for research, language study, or service work. These scholarships are often announced internally once you’re enrolled.
- How to Find These Hidden Gems
- Do Your Homework
- Don’t just rely on the main financial aid page. Instead:
- Read the college’s course catalogs (they sometimes sneak scholarships into the fine print)
- Call the office of financial aid in person and inquire about hidden scholarships
- Take part in virtual information sessions or alumni interviews during which hidden scholarships may be asked about
Receive a Strong Recommendation
Some of these awards request a nomination on the part of a high school counselor, coach, or community leader. Have your recommenders have early enough notification so that they can arrange for any specific nomination deadlines.
Colleges often reward students who show they’re serious about going. Tour campuses (virtually or in person), talk with professors, or take online workshops. Demonstrated interest can occasionally tip the scale in favor of secret merit aid.
FAQs About Secret Scholarships
Are secret scholarships need-based or merit-based?
Depends. Some secret scholarships are purely merit-based, while others combine merit and demonstrated financial need.
When should I start looking for these scholarships?
Start early! Best during high school’s junior year so that you have some time to emerge as a qualified candidate.
Can transfer students earn hidden scholarships?
Yes, although fewer scholarships normally are offered for transfer students. However, liberal arts colleges like Smith College and Mount Holyoke are renowned for offering hidden help to transfer students and non-traditional ones.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out
The world of hidden scholarships is enormous and surprisingly wide open if you know where to look. With a little more research and persistence, you can unlock tens of thousands of dollars in hidden support at some of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts schools. So don’t just apply and hope—dig deeper, ask questions, and find the scholarship designed especially for you.