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Scholarships can be a great way to get help paying for college, but unfortunately the competition for these awards can be intense. Many college scholarships require writing an essay as a part of the application process.

Writing an exceptional college scholarship essay stand out is just one thing that can help set your application apart from the rest. Continue reading for tips on crafting a strong college scholarship essay.

1. Plan Ahead

Let’s start with one of the most practical tips for writing a scholarship essay. The first step to success when writing a college scholarship essay is to not procrastinate. Plan ahead to make sure there is plenty of time to write the essay, review it, and edit it.

It’s also important to write down the deadline and to set reminders as that deadline nears. If you’re applying for multiple scholarships consider setting up a tracker with important deadlines and application requirements so you can stay on top of the needs for each application.

Allowing enough time to write and edit can help you improve the quality of the essay, instead of trying to cram at the last minute.

2. Write to Your Audience

All scholarship providers are looking for students who meet certain criteria. Often this criteria includes students who have experiences or interests that match the mission of their organization.

Spending some time researching the organization offering the scholarship can help give essay writers the ability to customize their essay to their unique audience. If their writing can illustrate an alignment of values, their essay may be more memorable.

3. Read the Instructions and Follow Them

Before starting an essay, students should take their time to carefully read all application instructions and make a plan to follow them. No matter how strong an essay is, if the applicant fails to follow the instructions they may find themselves disqualified from the competition.

4. Pick a Topic You Care About

Because scholarship application essays can feel like a lot of work, it’s helpful if the writer chooses a topic they are really passionate about. Their essay will come across as more genuine and meaningful if they care about what they are writing about which will make a stronger impact on the scholarship committee than if they chose to write about a more generic topic.

5. Crafting a Strong Introduction

The introduction is the first chance the student has to capture the attention of their essay reviewer. It’s a good idea to spend some extra time crafting a compelling introduction so that the reader is interested, and excited, to finish the essay.

6. Pay Attention to Style

College scholarship essay reviewers will be more impressed by essays that take spelling, grammar, and general style into account. Read and re-read your essay to ensure that the tone of voice is consistent and there are no grammatical errors. Get some other opinions on the writing too. Consider asking teachers, counselors, or trusted friends or family members to review the essay before submitting it. A second set of eyes can go a long way in catching spelling, grammar, or style issues.

7. Follow a Pre-Planned Structure

To avoid having a messy essay, starting with an outline can help. Sit down and create a pre-planned structure before starting to write the actual essay. It can be helpful to think about how to incorporate the following messages into the outline.

•  Who are you? And why are you who you are?

•  What have you accomplished?

•  What are you hoping to accomplish in school and after school?

•  Why do you need a scholarship?

•  How will a scholarship make a difference?

8. Show, Don’t Tell

Another key scholarship application essay tip is to show, not tell. What do we mean by that? Instead of telling the reader exactly what they need to know, show them what they need to know.

For example, if a student wants the reader to know they are committed to their community, instead of saying “I am committed to my community” they can show this by saying, “I volunteer at my local dog shelter and beach clean up organization to help improve the life in our community for all residents and pets.”

9. Sell Yourself

It’s important to use the space in a college scholarship application to highlight achievements and how the scholarship will make it possible to achieve future goals. Pick a few select accomplishments or traits to focus on so the essay isn’t too heavy handed, but don’t shy away from being complementary.

10. Reread and Spell Check, Spell Check, Spell Check

We mentioned paying attention to spelling and grammar earlier, but as a friendly reminder don’t forget to do one last spell check at the end. This is one of the most important scholarship essay writing tips to keep in mind.

Our eyes get used to seeing what we type, so print out the essay and review it on paper to catch typos you may have missed on the screen. This is another time it’s a good idea to ask for a second set of eyes to look at the essay and to flag any errors. Be especially careful to double check the spelling of the name of the scholarship or organization.

Alternatives to Scholarships

Scholarships generally don’t need to be repaid and finding this free money for college can be an incredibly helpful resource for students trying to pay for college. Spending time applying for scholarships is well worth it. In addition, students may also rely on alternative funding sources to pay for college.

Some common funding sources include grants, federal student loans or private student loans. To apply for federal financial aid, students will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year. This application will allow students to find out if they qualify for federal grants, scholarships, work-study and federal student loans. Some colleges use information provided on the FAFSA to determine institution-specific awards. Continue reading for more information on alternatives to scholarships.

Grants

Similar to scholarships, recipients of grants don’t usually need to pay back the money they’re given. Students can check with their college’s financial aid office to learn more about available grants and can fill out the FAFSA annually to see if they qualify for any grants.

Financial Aid

Alongside grants and scholarship, students can also consider pursuing other types of financial aid such as work-study jobs designed to help students earn money to pay for school. Those who served in the military or are the spouse or child of a veteran may be eligible for aid and students who are studying internationally may qualify for unique types of financial aid.

As mentioned, to apply for federal financial aid students will need to fill out the FAFSA each year they are in school.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans come from a variety of different financial institutions and they can help fill any financial gaps left after using financial aid and federal student loans to pay for college. To apply, students will need to file applications directly with the private lenders.

Private student loans don’t necessarily offer the same benefits as federal student loans — like deferment options or income-driven repayment plans. For this reason, students generally consider private student loans after thoroughly reviewing all other options.

Federal Student Loans

Whether someone is an undergraduate or graduate student, federal student loans — which are funded by the U.S. Department of Education — usually have better interest rates and terms than private student loans do and they come with unique federal protections like income based repayment plans.

The Takeaway

Scholarships are a great way to get some financial relief when paying for school, but students shouldn’t expect scholarships to cover all of their higher education expenses. Many students will use a combination of scholarships, grants, savings, and student loans to pay for their education.

When federal student loans and other sources of funding aren’t enough to fully foot the bill, private student loans can be an option to consider. SoFi private student loans have absolutely no fees and allow borrowers to select one of four flexible repayment plans.

FAQ

How do you start or address your scholarship essay?

To start off a college scholarship essay, it can be helpful to address: what, what, when, where, and why. This way the reader will know the basics of who the student is and why they are applying for the scholarship.

What is the most important thing to avoid in a scholarship essay?

Unnecessary mistakes are the most important thing to avoid when writing a scholarship essay. Double check for spelling or grammatical errors, make note of any key deadlines, and be sure you are fulfilling all application requirements.

How long should scholarship essays be?

All scholarship essays will have different length requirements. Double check the desired word count for the essay before submitting it.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOPS0322020

Both certificates of deposit (CDs) and money market accounts (MMAs) are types of savings accounts that tend to earn higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts. But there are some key differences between them.

An MMA allows you to withdraw money as needed (and even comes with checks or a debit card), though you may be limited to a certain number of transactions per month. With a CD, on the other hand, your money is locked up for a set period of time. In exchange for leaving your money untouched, however, CDs generally pay higher rates than MMAs.

Whether you should choose a CD or MMA will depend on your financial needs and goals. To help you make the right choice, here’s a closer look at how these two savings options compare.

Main Differences Between Money Market Accounts and CDs

Here’s a quick snapshot of the differences between money market accounts and CDs.

Money Market Accounts

A money market account (MMA) is a type of savings account offered by banks and credit unions that provides some of the conveniences of a checking account. Like a typical savings account, you earn interest on your deposits, often at a higher rate than what you could earn in a traditional savings account. In addition, these accounts typically come with checks and/or a debit card, making it easier to access your funds.

Money market accounts may come with withdrawal limits (such as six or nine per month), however, so they aren’t designed to be used as a replacement for a checking account. MMAs also often require you to keep a certain minimum balance in order to avoid fees or earn the advertised annual percentage yield (APY).

The money you deposit in an MMA is insured up to $250,000 by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), if held at an FDIC-insured bank, or by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), if held at an insured credit union. That means you can’t lose your money (up to certain limits) even if the bank were to go bankrupt or shut its doors.

Pros of Money Market Accounts

Here’s a look at some advantages of opening a money market account.

•   Higher interest rate: Typically, money market accounts have higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts.

•   Security: Because of the FDIC and NCUA insurance, the funds in a money market account are typically insured against loss.

•   Funds are liquid: You can withdraw your money when you need to (though you may be limited to a certain number of transactions per month).

•   Ease of access: It’s possible to access the funds in a money market account by withdrawing cash at an ATM, doing an electronic transfer, using a debit card, and/or writing checks.

Cons of Money Market Accounts

MMAs also have some disadvantages. Here are some to keep in mind.

•   Better rates may be available elsewhere: You may be able to find a high-yield savings account at an online bank that offers a higher APY than an MMA at a traditional bank (with potentially fewer restrictions and/or fees).

•   Minimum balance requirements: Banks often require a minimum deposit to open an MMA, as well as a minimum amount you must keep in the account in order to earn the top APY and/or or avoid a monthly maintenance fee.

•   Variable interest rate: APYs on MMAs are based on market interest rates at a given time. It’s difficult to predict how the market will perform and if this interest rate will rise or fall.

•   Limited growth potential: If you’re looking for long-term growth, you can potentially make more by investing your money in the market.

Certificates of Deposits (CDs)

A certificate of deposit (CD) is a type of savings account that offers fixed interest rate that is generally higher than a traditional savings account. A CD also comes with a fixed-term length and a fixed maturity date. This means you need to leave the funds in a CD untouched for a set term, which can range anywhere from a few months to several years. Generally, the longer the CD’s term, the higher the APY, but this is not always the case.

CDs don’t charge monthly fees, but will typically have an early withdrawal penalty, and you usually can’t add any additional funds after the initial deposit.

CDs are offered by banks and credit unions: at credit unions, they are often referred to as share certificates. Like regular savings accounts, CDs are typically insured by the FDIC or NCUA, so you get your money back (up to $250,000) in the unlikely event that the bank or credit union were to go out of business.

Pros of CDs

Here’s a look at some of the advantages that come with depositing money into a CD.

•   Potentially higher rates: CDs tend to offer higher APYs than regular savings accounts and money market accounts.

•   Guaranteed rate of return: Because CDs typically have fixed rates for fixed terms, you know up front how much interest you will earn.

•   Security: Like other types of savings accounts, CDs are insured by either the FDIC or NCUA.

•   Convenience: It’s fairly easy to open a CD, since most banks and credit unions offer them.

Cons of CDs

There are also some disadvantages of CDs that you’ll want to bear in mind.

•   Relatively low returns: While CDs tend to earn more than a regular savings account, investing in stocks and bonds can be a better option if you’re looking to maximize your returns over the long term (though, unlike CDs, returns are not guaranteed).

•   Rates won’t go up: Because CDs come with fixed interest rates, the APY won’t go up even if market rates rise during the term of your CD (unless you open a bump-up CD).

•   No liquidity: Unlike other types of savings accounts, you can’t withdraw funds as needed. To benefit from a CD, you must wait until the CD term ends before you access your cash.

•   Withdrawal penalties: If you end up needing the money before the CD matures, you will likely incur an early withdrawal penalty.

When Should I Consider a Money Market Account or CD Over the Other?

MMAs and CDs have different requirements and benefits, and which one will serve you best will depend on your needs and preferences.

Choosing a Money Market Account Over a CD

A money market account may be a better choice than a CD if:

•   You want the option to add and withdraw money regularly. You can save money over time with a money market account. You can also withdraw the money at any time, though you may be subject to some restrictions.

•   You’re building an emergency fund. A money market account can be a good place to stash your emergency fund. You can likely maintain the minimum balance requirement and can benefit from the extra interest. Should you need the money, however, you can get it right away.

•   You’re saving for a large purchase. If you’re saving for a big ticket item like a car, a money market account will allow you to write a check from the account when you’ve reached your goal and it comes time to use those funds.

Choosing a CD Over a Money Market Account

A CD may be a better fit than a money market account if:

•   You have a longer-term savings goal. If you don’t need to use the money for a year or two, you may benefit from the higher returns offered by CD.

•   You want to make sure you don’t touch the money. If you’re setting aside money for a specific future expense, like a wedding or vacation, a CD helps insure you won’t impulsively spend it on something else.

•   You want some growth without risk. Unlike money invested in the market, the money you put into a CD is insured (up to certain limits) and the rate of return is guaranteed.

Recommended: How to Save Money: 33 Easy Ways

The Takeaway

Both money market accounts and CDs offer safe ways to earn more interest on your savings than you could in a traditional savings account. While money market accounts offer more flexibility and liquidity than CDs, CDs tend to offer higher APYs.

If you won’t need the money for a set period of time (say, six months to three years), and can find a good rate on a CD, you might be better off going with a CD over an MMA. If you may need to tap the funds at some point (but you’re not sure when), an MMA allows you to earn a higher-than-average interest rate while keeping the money liquid, with the added benefit of offering checks or a debit card.

Before choosing any type of savings account, however, it generally pays to shop around and compare current APYs. You may find another savings vehicle, such as a high-yield savings account, that offers the returns you want with minimal requirement, restrictions, or fees.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

Are CDs or money markets better?

If you don’t need to access your funds for a while, a CD could be a better fit. CDs tend to offer higher interest rates than money market accounts, and the interest rate is fixed which makes the return predictable. Conversely, if you might need to draw on the funds in the near-term, an MMA may be a better route.

What are the tax implications of money market accounts vs. CDs?

With both certificates of deposit (CDs) and money market accounts (MMAs), the interest you earn is considered taxable income. You will receive a Form 1099-INT from your bank at the end of the year, which you must report on your tax return.

The Interest from CDs is typically taxed in the year it is earned, even if you don’t withdraw it until the CD matures. This means you might owe taxes on interest even if you haven’t received it yet. Interest on MMAs, however, is usually credited monthly and taxed in the year it is credited.

What are other options besides money market accounts and CDs?

Money market accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) offer a low-risk way to earn a solid interest rate on your money. But they aren’t your only option. Here are some alternatives:

•   High-yield savings accounts. These accounts offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts and provide easy access to your funds with no fixed terms.

•   Treasury Securities. U.S. Treasury bills, notes, and bonds are government-backed securities that can offer competitive returns. They vary in term length and interest rate and are considered very safe investments.

•   Bond Funds. These mutual funds invest in a diversified portfolio of bonds, offering potentially higher returns than money market accounts and CDs, though they come with higher risk.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Attending medical school can be an extremely rewarding path, but it can also be an expensive one. Luckily, there are some great medical school scholarships that can help ease the financial burden. Students thinking about attending medical school, or those who are currently enrolled, may want to look into scholarships for medical school.

There are plenty of scholarships for medical students as well as general scholarships that could help you cover the cost of college. Here’s a roundup of the best medical student scholarships, how much they’re worth, and how to apply for them.

Brown Medical and Educational Foundation Scholarship

Dollar amount: Approximately $1,000

Application process: To apply for this scholarship, students must complete an application, submit an official college or university transcript in a sealed envelope, and submit three letters of recommendation.

Eligibility: To qualify for this scholarship, which could help with paying for college, students must be an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree at a U.S. based four-year university while studying a healthcare degree such as nursing, dentistry, medicine, and allied health. They must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Recipients must also identify as a member of select ethnic groups and must be U.S. citizens.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Chinese American Physicians Society Scholarships

Dollar amount: $3,000 to $5,000

Application process: The application for the 2023-2024 school year is set to open in December 2023. Applicants can expect to submit essays as a part of the application.

Eligibility: To receive a Chinese American Physicians Society Scholarship, applicants must be a student at a U.S.-based medical school. Applicants are judged on their financial needs, academic achievements, essays, and community service records. Special credit is given to applicants who are planning to serve Chinese communities after they graduate.

Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund

Dollar amount: Covers the cost of tuition, plus an additional stipend for living expenses

Applicant process: The Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund requires students to submit their application through the dean of the university at the school they are attending for graduate studies. Students can connect with their school’s fellowship or financial aid office to learn more about what the application process looks like for students at their school. Only certain schools participate in this program.

Eligibility: Students must be U.S. citizens and attend a U.S.-based accredited and designated higher education institution as a graduate student in the fields of humanities, social sciences or natural sciences. They must have an outstanding record as an undergraduate and have financial need. National descent is not taken into consideration.

Recommended: Finding & Applying to Scholarships for Grad School

The Hispanic Health Professional Student Scholarship

Dollar amount: For the 2023-2024 school year, the National Hispanic Health Foundation will give awards of $5,000 annually for up to four years, plus individual scholarship awards of $2,00 each. Overall, the NHHF has awarded $1,954,000 to 346 awardees as of January 2023.

Application process: By September 15, 2023, applicants must submit the following supporting documents as a part of their application for the The Hispanic Health Professional Student Scholarship:

•   Personal statement or essay that is double-spaced and a maximum of two pages outlining their career goals

•   Curriculum vitae that shares up to date employment experience, education history, extracurricular activities, and awards

•   One letter of recommendation

•   Proof of their U.S. citizenship DACA status, or residency

•   Unofficial copy of their school transcripts

•   Proof of enrollment

Eligibility: To be eligible for this scholarship opportunity, students must have a 3.0 GPA and be currently enrolled full time in a U.S. graduate program studying one of the following subjects:

•   Medicine (allopathic or osteopathic)

•   Dentistry

•   Pharmacy

•   Nursing (including BSN)

•   Public Health

•   Physician Associate

Joseph Collins Scholarship

Dollar amount: $10,000

Application process: Applicants for the Joseph Collins Scholarship must demonstrate an interest in the arts and letters or another type of cultural pursuit that falls outside of the field of medicine and needs to show an intent to specialize in psychiatry, neurourology, or become a general practitioner.

Eligibility: The moral character of the applicant and their scholastic record will be taken into account. Students who are attending medical schools east of the Mississippi river and are ranked in the top 50% of their class are eligible to apply.

The National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program

Dollar amount: Full year of scholarship support (tuition and fees plus monthly stipends) for up to four years).

Application process: To apply for the National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program, applicants must pass an eligibility screening, submit general information about themselves, their degree, and their backgrounds, as well as providing two letters of recommendation, and writing an essay.

In return, recipients of this scholarship will work in primary care in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). The time commitment may vary based on how much aid the student received.

Eligibility: To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants have to be either a U.S. citizen or a U.S. national and be able to submit proof of their status. Applicants must also be enrolled as full-time students and attend an accredited school or academic program in the U.S. or in a U.S. territory. They must be studying to be a physician, dentist, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or physician assistant.

MPOWER Global Citizenship Scholarship

Dollar amount: One $10,000 award and two $2,000 awards

Application process: To apply for this scholarship program, applicants must complete the application form provided by MPOWER. There is one essay question.

Eligibility: Recipients of the MPOWER Global Citizenship Scholarship must be international students that are legally allowed to work and attend school in either the U.S. or Canada. They must also be enrolled in a U.S. or Canadian school that MPOWER supports.

Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

Dollar amount: Up to $90,000 in financial support over two years.

Application process: In order to apply for the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans, students must submit the following information and materials in an online application.

•   Personal and contact information

•   Higher-education history

•   Information about the graduate program they are seeking support for

•   Three to five recommendations

•   Resume

•   Two essays

•   College and graduate school transcripts

•   Standardized test scores

•   Optional exhibits (such as artwork, examples of written work, and so on)

Eligibility: Applicants must be aged 30 or younger by the time of the application deadline and need to plan on either starting or continuing a full-time graduate degree program in the U.S.

Students may apply before they begin graduate school or while they are enrolled. Applicants must also meet the scholarship’s definition of “new American,” which is an individual whose birth parents were born outside of the U.S. as non-U.S. citizens.

Pisacano Scholars Leadership Program

Dollar amount: $7,000 per year up to four years.

Application process: Applications can be mailed or emailed and must included the following information:

•   Official copy of undergraduate and graduate school transcript if applicable

•   Official copy of medical school transcript

•   Copy of MCAT scores

•   Copy of USMLE score or COMLEX score

•   Copy of current CV

•   Essay

Eligibility: In order to qualify for the Pisacano Scholars Leadership Program, applicants must be third-year medical students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the specialty of family medicine.

Leadership skills, academic achievements, communication skills, identifiable character and integrity, and community service involvement will all be taken into consideration.

How Student Loan Refinancing Can Help

Those students who already have medical school debt and may no longer be eligible for medical school scholarships may want to consider refinancing their existing student loans. Under the right terms, refinancing student loans could help lower their monthly payments. Refinancing student loans involves consolidating student loans through a private lender into a new loan that ideally comes with a lower interest rate and better term.

If the applicant can secure a better interest rate, they may end up paying less over the life of their loan. However, if they lengthen the term of the loan to reduce their monthly payments, they may end up paying more in interest over the life of the loan.

When a borrower applies to refinance their loan or loans, the lender will generally take their credit score, credit history, and other key financial information into consideration to determine their rates and terms.

It’s important to know that refinancing federal student loans into private ones causes the borrower to lose out on federal protections such as forbearance, deferment, and income-driven repayment plans.

Recommended: Private vs. Federal Student Loans

The Takeaway

Scholarships can be an effective way to help medical students pay for med school.

Application processes and eligibility requirements will vary from scholarship to scholarship so it may be helpful to explore and research different scholarships that fit your unique educational and personal profile.

If you’re interested in refinancing your student loans, SoFi offers loans with flexible terms and no fees. A student loan refinance calculator can help you determine if refinancing makes good financial sense for you.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.