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The dean’s list is a listing of undergraduate students recognized for outstanding academic achievement in a given semester, quarter, or year. Each college and university has different dean’s list requirements, but students who finish the term with a high grade point average (GPA) and are in the top percentile of their class for academic performance often earn a spot on the dean’s list.

Not only is having the dean’s list award on your transcript a remarkable personal achievement, but it could also make a big impact on grad school admissions and future employers.

Dean’s List Meaning

The dean’s list is a scholarly award for undergraduate students who achieved high scholastic standing during the academic year. The award may be released after each semester, quarter, or academic year and is typically based on a student’s GPA. However, specific dean’s list requirements will vary by institution and can change each term.

💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a competitive-rate, no-fees-required private student loan that covers up to 100% of school-certified costs.

Dean’s List Requirements

Dean’s list requirements vary by college and can change each term, but there are typical conditions that a student must meet. To meet basic dean’s list requirements, students must:

•  Meet the minimum GPA requirements set by the school.

•  Be in the top percentile of their class for academic achievement.

•  Be taking a minimum number of credit hours. Most schools require students to be enrolled full-time, but some schools may include part-time students in the dean’s list.

•  Have zero incompletes, no-shows, or late grades.

What GPA Is Needed to Make the Dean’s List?

Dean’s List GPA requirements vary by university but generally students need to have a GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale and be taking a minimum of 12 credit hours.

In some cases, a school will give the award to the top percentile of students rather than everyone who earns a certain GPA. This means that the required GPA can change each semester based on the academic performance of the student body. Check with your college to determine the minimum GPA or other requirement to make the dean’s list.

Recommended: How Much Does GPA Matter When Applying to College?

What Is the Benefit of Being on the Dean’s List?

Earning a spot on the dean’s list is one of the highest levels of recognition for academic achievement. Students who earn the award can enjoy a variety of benefits that can continue throughout their educational career and beyond.

Personal Achievement

Making it onto the dean’s list requires academic commitment and dedication. Being on the dean’s list means you’ve ranked in the top percentile amongst your peers, which will be noted on your school record and should be seen as a great personal achievement.

Prestige

Having your name on the dean’s list, especially for multiple terms, is one way to help you stand out from the crowd. The dean’s list award is a testament to your academic success and has traditionally been looked upon favorably by the school’s administration as well as by other students.

Recognition

Some schools recognize students who made it onto the dean’s list by posting students’ names on the school website and sometimes local publications. Outstanding academic performance can also help you build relationships with your professors, who may be able to write letters of recommendation and references later on.

Special Events

Because your GPA is ranked among the top of your class, you might receive invitations to special events. These are typically networking events with top company executives. Networking can allow you to form connections with other people in your field of study and open the door to possible employment opportunities.

Attract Prospective Employers

Some colleges may include your dean’s list award on your school transcript, and you can also attract potential employers by mentioning this award on your resume. However, some recruiters don’t recommend adding this achievement to your resume if you were only on the dean’s list for one or two semesters or inconsistently.

Even if you don’t include the dean’s list on your resume, prospective employers may still consider your GPA when making hiring decisions. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ Job Outlook 2025 Spring Update report, roughly 38% of employers screen by GPA when making interviewing and hiring decisions.

Scholarships

While being on the dean’s list doesn’t guarantee any financial aid, a high GPA could make you eligible for merit scholarships. Merit-based scholarships typically use your GPA, test scores, leadership capabilities, and other factors to determine your eligibility.

Are There Any Student Loan Benefits When Getting on the Dean’s List?

There usually aren’t any financial perks for getting on the dean’s list with federal student loans or most private lenders. Some private lenders may offer a reward for a certain GPA, but most lenders typically only consider your GPA if it’s too low.

Your GPA could affect your eligibility for other types of financial aid, like scholarships and grants, though. You’re required to make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to meet the basic eligibility criteria for certain types of financial aid. A higher GPA also makes it easier for you to receive more financial aid.

💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too.

What Other Academic Awards Can You Earn in College?

The dean’s list isn’t the only academic award that you can earn in college. There are several other awards that are given to students in recognition of outstanding achievement and as a means to further encourage academic excellence. Here are a few academic awards for college students.

The Honors List

The honors list is similar to the dean’s list; however, it may have different GPA requirements — usually lower. For example, students may be eligible for a spot on the dean’s list if their GPA is 3.5 or higher, while students on the honors list have a GPA between 3.25 and 3.5.

The President’s List

At some colleges, undergraduate students earn the president’s list award if they earn a perfect 4.0 GPA. Part-time and full-time students may be eligible for this award.

The Chancellor’s List

At schools that offer this award, the chancellor’s list is typically ranked slightly higher than the dean’s list. Both full-time and part-time undergraduate students may usually qualify for the chancellor’s list.

Ways to Pay for College

If you’re aiming to see your name on the dean’s list, financial stress can hinder your ability to succeed academically. Nearly half of college students say their current financial situation makes it difficult to concentrate on their coursework, according to a 2024 survey by Trellis Strategies.

Luckily, there are options out there for prospective and current students who are struggling with how to pay for college. Here are some to consider:

•  Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to see if you qualify for financial aid. It’s a good idea to complete the form as early as possible because many colleges award money on a first-come, first-served basis.

•  Search for scholarships, which are a form of merit aid to help pay for tuition and other education expenses. There are thousands of available scholarships to students with some even offering a full-ride to a four-year institution.

•  Apply for grants. Grants are another form of financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. Students can apply for federal, state, or school grants.

•  Find a work-study position. The federal work-study program offers part-time jobs to college students with demonstrated financial need, letting them earn money for educational expenses while gaining relevant experience.

•  Look at student loans. If you are still struggling to afford school-related expenses after exhausting other forms of financial aid, there are a variety of federal and private student loan options to help.

The Takeaway

Students who make the dean’s list are recognized for outstanding academic achievement. Benefits include personal achievement, prestige, public recognition, the opportunity to attend special events, being granted scholarships, and standing out on job applications.

Students who are less stressed financially tend to do better in school. Options for paying for college include scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What GPA is required to get on the dean’s list?

The minimum GPA for the dean’s list varies by school and it can change every term. However, most schools require at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

What does it mean when you get on the dean’s list?

What it means to be on the dean’s list is that you’ve ranked in the top percentile of your class. The dean’s list is one of the highest levels of recognition for scholarly achievement.

What is the benefit of being on the dean’s list?

Earning a spot on the dean’s list comes with several benefits. Not only is it a prestigious award and a significant personal achievement, but you could be invited to special events, network with others in your field of study, and attract prospective employers.

Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

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).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

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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.

SOISL-Q425-038

To help boost the chances that you’ll get into the college of your dreams, it’s important to write a great college essay. The big question is, what should you write about?

When brainstorming ideas for topics, keep in mind that you want your college essay to make you look good and also help you stand out from other applicants. Toward that end, it helps to know what not to write about in a college essay.

Themes that consistently make the “worst college essay topics” list include cliches, stories that college admissions officers have read some version of countless times before, and any topic that reflects negatively on your personality.

Here’s a closer look at the college essay topics you’ll want to avoid, plus insights into the type of writing that can give you a leg up in the admissions process.

What Do Colleges Look for in Essays?

Colleges are looking for several things in your admissions essay. Generally, they want you to demonstrate strong writing, authenticity, and a unique perspective. Admissions officers are also typically looking to get a sense of who you are as an individual so they can better determine whether you’re a good fit for the rigors of academic life and school culture.

A good essay demonstrates this through vivid storytelling that illustrates your points rather than simply telling the reader what you want them to think and how you want them to feel.

💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a competitive-rate, no-fees-required private student loan that covers up to 100% of school-certified costs.

Why Should You Avoid Certain Topics for College Entrance Essays?

Generally, you want to avoid essay topics that could give admissions readers the wrong impression of who you are. It’s also wise to steer clear of essay topics that are cliches. A cliche is an idea (or phrase) that is overused and, as a result, has lost its meaning and potency. At best, cliche college essays can make you look unoriginal, and at worst they can make you look lazy.

Rather than lean on cliches, you’ll want to dig deep into what makes you and your thoughts original. Ideally, you want to choose an essay topic that demonstrates vulnerability and reveals your unique perspective and voice.

Recommended: Important College Application Deadlines

College Essay Topics to Avoid

What follows are some topics you may want to avoid when choosing what to write about in your college essay.

Restating Your Resume

Your college application already includes school transcripts and information about your activities and awards. Rehashing this information is unlikely to translate into a compelling narrative, and it doesn’t teach college admissions officers anything new about you.

If you want to write about a specific extracurricular activity, consider choosing just one, and exploring it in depth to give your reader a better sense of who you are as a person.

Sports Challenges

Sports challenge stories tend to fall into the cliche category of college essay topics. They’re overused, and they tend to be predictable. For example, you may have scored a goal at the last moment, pulling ahead against all odds.

That’s not to say you can’t write about sports in your essay. Original and authentic sports stories that steer clear of cliches can be highly successful. For example, you could focus on how the skills you learned as part of a team translated to another unrelated challenge.

Your Big Performance

As with sports challenges, stories about big performances — music solos, starring roles in plays, speeches — often follow similar plots. The performance goes well, or poorly, and the writer discovers the value of preparation or how they had the inner strength to move past a major disappointment. However, you can use a performance story to tell an original and engaging tale.

Recommended: Importance of Joining a High School Club

Your Hero

It may be tempting to write about a person who has inspired you. But college essays are short. And if you’re not careful, you may spend too much time writing about someone other than the person who should be the star of the essay — you. Remember admissions officers want to know what makes you stand out, not what makes your heroes special.

Romantic Heartbreak

Breaking up is hard to do — even more so when it’s young love. Yet the trials and tribulations of teen romance may not be the best topic for a college essay. Much like writing about your heroes, you may pay too much lip service to someone else, while neglecting to convey enough of your own story.

Illegal or Unethical Activities

If you’ve ever gotten tangled in ethically questionable or illegal activities, your college essay is generally not the right time to mention them, even if it makes for a great story. If you do, even in passing, admissions may worry about the types of behavior you’ll engage in once on campus.

Service Trips

A trip to help serve others in the U.S. or abroad might seem like a great topic for a college essay. Unfortunately, that means a lot of students write about these opportunities, making it one of the most common essay topics. What’s more, these essays tend to follow the same beats. As a result, choosing this topic doesn’t always help you stand apart from the crowd.

Things That Happened Before High School

Writing about events that took place before high school may not give admissions a good sense of what you are like now. The kid who won a spelling bee in seventh grade may bear little resemblance to the high school senior applying for schools. Consider writing about recent events, or be careful to relate events from your past to high school and your current self.

Moving to a Different Part of the Country

Moving is always challenging. But countless students move across the country and switch schools each year. As a result, essays that focus on moves are relatively common. If you decide to write about a move, shift the focus of the essay to how it changed you as a person, pushing you to pursue new interests. It could work if it’s not a story college admissions officers haven’t heard many times before.

Immigrant Stories

If you’ve moved from abroad, be aware that many students in the U.S. have immigrant stories. As a result, stories about making the move, struggling to learn new languages, and trying to fit into a new culture are common essay topics. If you choose to write about this topic, consider narrowing your focus on one aspect of your story that illustrates how you’ve grown and changed.

Recommended: Can International Students Get Student Loans?

How You Were Challenged by a Bad Grade

How you overcame a challenge is often one of the essay prompts on the Common App. You might think that writing about what you did after getting a low grade fits the bill, but it’s generally not a good idea to delve into this topic. For one, it highlights the fact that you got a bad grade to admissions’ officers. Another problem is that other applicants will likely have more serious hardships and challenges they have had to overcome, which could make your essay topic appear less consequential.

Tragedies

In and of themselves, tragedies are not necessarily a bad topic for college essays. However, it can be easy to fall into cliched writing as you tell these stories. Hackneyed themes and phrases include “life is short,” “time heals all wounds,” and “seize the day.” If you write about a tragedy you have known or experienced, be sure to make it personal, honest, and specific to you.

Sensitive Topics

Generally speaking, if a topic is one you would avoid bringing up at the holiday dinner table, you’ll likely want to avoid it in your essay as well. It can be tricky to discuss things like politics or religion in a way that is original and personal to your experience. What’s more, essays on these topics may trigger unconscious bias in the admissions staff reading your essay, which can color how they view you and your fit at the school.

Recommended: How to Get Involved on Campus in College

Your Privilege

If you’ve been lucky enough to grow up with a lot of resources at your disposal, discussing them may not be a strong strategy. It can make it seem like you haven’t had to work through any challenges. Instead you might consider essay topics that demonstrate vulnerability and grit in the face of adversity.

Attempts to Break the Essay Mold

You may be tempted to try to make yourself stand out with a creative essay that breaks traditional forms. For example, you might try to write a poem instead. You’re likely not the only one who has had this idea, and you may rob yourself of the chance to demonstrate your creativity through prose. The traditional essay is what admissions has asked for, and it may give you the most opportunity to demonstrate who you really are.

💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too.

The Takeaway

The best college essays tend to focus on specific moments when a student has learned something important, changed, and grown as a person. Ideally, you want your college essay to give readers a sense of your character, and how you may continue to change as you pursue your academic career. Avoiding cliches and other tricky topics can help you successfully reveal your true self.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What are the most common essay topics?

Some of the most common essay topics include:

•   A meaningful interest or talent

•   Something meaningful in your background/identity

•   Lessons you’ve learned from obstacles you’ve encountered

•   Times when your beliefs have been challenged

•   Something someone has done for you that’s made you grateful in a surprising way

What Do College Essays Look for?

Colleges generally look for authenticity, strong writing, and a unique perspective in your essay. Admissions officers want to get a sense of who you are as an individual beyond your academic record. The essay is your chance to demonstrate maturity, self-awareness, and how you would contribute to the school’s culture. A successful essay uses vivid storytelling to show these qualities rather than just telling the reader.

How Much Does Your College Essay Matter?

How much your college essay matters depends on the institution. For highly selective colleges, the essay can be a critical factor, often serving as one of the few places an admissions committee gets a clear sense of your unique personality and voice beyond your grades and test scores. It can tip the scales when an applicant’s academic record is similar to others. For schools with a less holistic review process, its importance may be slightly lower, but it remains a valuable opportunity to demonstrate strong communication skills and a good fit for the school’s culture.

Photo credit: iStock/Delmaine Donson

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

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).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

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.

SOISL-Q425-030

Imagine this: After 12 long years of education, it’s finally time to head to college. But hang on, because there’s a catch — tuition is much higher than you thought, and the school didn’t offer an academic scholarship.

One alternative for students can be to find a non-academic scholarship and keep pushing toward that dream. Here are tips on finding non-academic scholarships to help pay for a college education.

What Is a Non-Academic Scholarship?

Scholarships are one type of financial aid available to students that don’t need to be repaid and are typically awarded based on merit — that is, being especially knowledgeable or skilled in one area. Grants, which also do not need to be repaid, are typically awarded based on need and not based on academic or athletic merit. For example, Pell Grants are federal grants awarded to undergraduate students who exhibit exceptional financial need.

Scholarships can be awarded for many different reasons, including academic achievement. However, just because someone isn’t an A+ student doesn’t mean they can’t qualify for a scholarship. There are non-academic scholarships that are based on athletic or artistic achievement, community involvement, extracurricular activities, and more. Students may just need to put in a bit of legwork to find ones they qualify for and apply.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Where to Find Non-Academic Scholarships

The first step in getting a scholarship is to find it. Here are a few places to start your search.

School Counselor’s Office

You might start by checking in with your high school counselor to see about any non-academic scholarship they may know about. The office may have a list of options available to students, and because they may know your skills and future aspirations, they may be able to hone in on the right scholarship for you.

School counselors may also have helpful information on navigating the financial aid process. One piece of the funding puzzle may be undergraduate loans if scholarships don’t cover all of the costs. Students may consider private student loans after exhausting federal aid, including federal student loans.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

College Admissions Website

If you’ve already been accepted to school, you might check in with your college’s admission website. There, you could find a list of potential scholarships offered directly by the school. You might also reach out directly to the admissions office or future academic counselors for assistance.

As the school year nears, you may consider checking in with your college’s financial aid office to see if they can guide you to unclaimed scholarships.

Scholarship Listing Websites

There are several scholarship search tools out there that roundup available scholarships to students, including destinations like FastWeb or CollegeBoard. Here, you can sift through hundreds of available scholarships and find help with the application process as well.

Professional Associations and Clubs

Another place to find scholarships includes professional associations and clubs, such as your parent’s employers, local businesses, and more.

A quick Google search on professional organizations in your chosen field of study can also uncover scholarships. Most are free to join and include fields such as marketing, engineering, graphic arts, law, and more.

Friends and Family

Simply asking around for scholarship opportunities can’t hurt. Consider reaching out to your network and letting everyone know you are on the hunt for financial assistance. Someone may know of a specific scholarship that could be the perfect fit.

Connect With the Community

Explore connections with local religious groups, business, and other organizations. Having an existing connection can potentially improve your chances of securing a scholarship. Plus, you may face less competition when you apply for more local scholarships.

Types of Non-Academic Scholarships

Need a little help thinking about what type of non-academic scholarship may fit? Here are a few types of scholarship to help you get started.

Talents

Have a unique talent? There may very well be a scholarship available for it. For example, you can find scholarships for duck calling, dancing, drawing, and much more.

Athletics

Each year, there are more than 180,000 athletic scholarships awarded to students. Scholarships are available for a wide variety of sports to both men and women, including volleyball, tennis, swimming & diving, skiing, lacrosse, golf, fencing, and more.

Heritage

Some students may also find non-academic scholarships based on their heritage. Students from minority groups may find additional opportunities, including scholarships for African American or Hispanic students.

Some scholarships may be available through churches, while others can be found on websites like College Board. There, students of various backgrounds can search for a suitable match.

Interests

Students can apply to non-academic scholarships based on their various interests, too. For example, those interested in cars can apply for the National Corvette Club scholarship. Those students that love to cook can apply for the AAC Culinary Scholarships for High School Seniors.

Those who spend their Sundays completing The New York Times crossword puzzle in pen, might apply to the BrightSprout Crossword Scholarship. No matter the interest, odds are there is a scholarship out there for it.

Area of Study

Future and current college students may be able to find a scholarship that suits their future area of study. Students hoping to become their own CEOs can apply for The National Association for the Self-Employed Future Entrepreneur Scholarships, which helps promote “entrepreneurial thinking among aspiring business students.”

Again, if there’s an area of study, odds are there’s a scholarship available for it.

Area Code

Students looking for a non-academic scholarship can search for regional scholarships on many online databases. SoFi runs a state-by-state grant and scholarship database, so you can take a look at what is available in your area.

Other sources for regional or location-based scholarships may include local nonprofits and businesses.

Other, Outlandish Options

There are scholarships available for less obvious reasons, too. One of the more famous wacky scholarships is the Stuck at the Prom Scholarship Contest sponsored by Duck brand duct tape. Each year, the company awards a scholarship of up to $15,000 to a teen who designs and wears a winning dress or tuxedo made out of their duct tape.

How to Get a Non-Academic Scholarship

There are thousands of non-academic scholarships available each year. In order to get a non-academic scholarship, you should first look for scholarships in line with your talents and career interests. From there, you can look to local businesses, friends and family, and your community to find other non-academic scholarships.

And finally, do a Google search for non-academic scholarships you think you may qualify for. There are scholarships available for almost every type of person and every interest, including scholarships for minorities, scholarships for people who dance, religious scholarships, first-generation scholarships, and more.

Tips for Finding & Applying for Non-Academic Scholarships

If you’re hoping to find and apply for non-academic scholarships to help pay for college, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting one.

Start Early

Starting your search early is one of the best things you can do to land a scholarship. Since many scholarships come from the school you’re attending, it’s recommended to fill out the FAFSAⓇ as soon as possible. Some grants and scholarships offered by schools are on a first-come, first-served basis.

It’s also a good idea to start your search early so you can make sure you can meet all the deadlines for the scholarships you hope to apply for. Many will require essays, and the sooner you know which scholarships you want to apply for, the sooner you can get your essays completed and submitted.

Read the Fine Print

Make sure to read the fine print of all scholarship applications. This will ensure you won’t miss any deadlines or important information regarding the scholarship.

Showcase Your Personality

When applying for scholarships and writing essays, it’s important to showcase your personality through your written word. Many non-academic scholarships are fun, so feel free to express yourself and make it so your application stands out from the rest.

Proofread Your Application

Proofreading your application is a great way to catch any grammar errors or application mistakes prior to submission. If it comes down to you and one other candidate, you don’t want to miss out because of easy grammatical errors you could have caught by simply proofreading your application beforehand.

Don’t Give Up

And finally, keep searching and applying for scholarships until you receive the amount of money you’re hoping for. Scholarships can be competitive, so don’t get down on yourself if you’re struggling to get one. Instead, keep the momentum going by continually searching and applying for new opportunities as they arise.

The Takeaway

Non-academic scholarships can be awarded based on talent, skill, interest, and more. Some scholarships may even be regional or location based. To find non-academic scholarships, consult with your guidance counselor, your college’s financial aid office, local business and nonprofits, and online scholarship databases.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Are there non-academic scholarships?

Yes. Non-academic scholarships are widely available and are awarded based on criteria other than academic performance, such as athletic skills, artistic talent, community service, heritage, interests, and chosen area of study. Students who may not have a perfect GPA can often find opportunities through their college, local organizations, professional associations, and online scholarship databases.

What is the $40,000 niche scholarship?

The $40,000 Niche Scholarship refers to a no-essay scholarship awarded by Niche.com that gives one student a large sum — now $50,000 — for college expenses. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens who are looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year. The winner is selected via a random drawing from brief profile submissions. The application deadline is typically at the end of December.

Is the $2000 Sallie Mae scholarship real?

Yes, the $2,000 Sallie Scholarship Sweepstakes is a legitimate no-essay scholarship that is typically awarded monthly. Eligible applicants include high school students, college students, and parents/guardians, with winners selected through a random drawing. Since it is a sweepstakes, the entry requirements are minimal, usually only requiring a brief online form submission.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

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Both Thrift Savings Plans (TSPs) and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) come in traditional and Roth versions. One of the main differences between a Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA is who can contribute. Federal employees and members of the military can save in a Roth TSP. Anyone with earned income that’s within IRS income thresholds can contribute to a Roth IRA.

In either case, your contributions are not tax-deductible, but you can make tax-free qualified withdrawals when you retire.

What Are Roth Thrift Savings Plans (TSP)?

The Thrift Savings Plan is a retirement plan that’s designed specifically for federal employees. You’re generally eligible to contribute to a TSP if you’re covered by the Federal Employees’ Retirement System (FERS) or the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). Members of the military can also save for retirement in a TSP.

A Roth TSP allows you to contribute after-tax dollars. When you make qualified withdrawals in retirement, those withdrawals are not taxed. Earnings are considered qualified if:

•   At least 5 years have passed since January 1 of the first year in which you began making contributions, and

•   You’re 59 ½ or older, permanently disabled, or deceased.

Contributions are made through elective salary deferrals, similar to a 401(k) plan. Catch-up contributions are allowed for workers aged 50 or older. Under the SECURE 2.0 Act, a higher catch-up contribution limit applies in 2025 and 2026 for those ages 60 to 63. The IRS determines how much you can save in a Roth TSP each year. Here are the contribution limits for 2025 and 2026.

The annual additions limit is the total amount you can contribute in a calendar year. It includes employee contributions, as well as automatic and matching contributions made by your employing agency. Catch-up contributions do not count in this total.

What Are Roth IRAs?

A Roth IRA retirement account is an individual retirement account that allows you to contribute after-tax dollars, then make qualified withdrawals tax-free. Roth IRAs are available to individuals through brokerages, banks, and other financial institutions, rather than through employers.

You’ll need to have earned income to contribute to a Roth IRA. The IRS sets the maximum annual contribution limit. Catch-up contributions are allowed if you’re 50 or older. Here’s how the limits compare for 2025 and 2026.

The annual limit does not apply to rollover or reservist contributions. How much you can contribute to a Roth IRA is based on your income and tax filing status.

You can make the full contribution in 2025 if:

•   You file single or head of household and your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $150,000

•   You’re married, file separately, did not live with your spouse during the year and your MAGI is less than $150,000

•   You’re married and file jointly or are a qualifying widow(er) and your MAGI is less than $236,000

You can make a full contribution in 2026 if:

•   You file single or head of household and your MAGI is less than $153,000

•   You’re married, file separately, did not live with your spouse during the year, and your MAGI is less than $153,000

•   You’re married and file jointly or are a qualifying widow(er) and you’re MAGI is less than $242,000

There are no required minimum distributions for Roth IRAs, so you can leave money in your account until you need it. You can also withdraw original contributions at any time, without a tax penalty.

Similarities Between Roth TSP vs Roth IRA

It’s important to open a retirement account that fits your needs. In terms of what’s similar between a Roth IRA vs. Roth TSP, they both allow you to contribute money on an after-tax basis. In other words, you pay taxes on the money that goes into the plan upfront so you can withdraw it tax-free later.

Once you reach age 59 ½, you can begin taking distributions without triggering any tax consequences. In terms of early withdrawals from a TSP vs. Roth IRA, there’s no difference. The IRS can assess a 10% early withdrawal penalty when taking money out of either account prematurely.

Both Roth IRAs and Roth TSPs are subject to the five-year rule mentioned earlier. Again, that rule dictates that at least five years must have passed since making your first contribution in order to avoid a tax penalty when making withdrawals.

Differences Between Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA

While they do have some things in common, there are some notable differences between a Roth IRA vs. TSP.

First, the TSP is an employer-sponsored plan, while an IRA is not. If you don’t work for the federal government you wouldn’t have access to a Roth TSP, but you could still open a Roth IRA and contribute to it.

Next, Roth TSPs have much higher annual contribution limits and catch-up contribution limits. They also allow for employer matching contributions, something you won’t get with a Roth IRA. Your ability to contribute to a TSP is not limited by your income either.

While Roth IRAs allow you to withdraw original contributions at any time without a tax penalty, that’s not the case for Roth TSPs.

Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA: The Pros

There are several types of retirement plans that can offer tax advantages, including both Roth TSP and Roth IRA accounts. In terms of the pros, the main benefits of choosing either of these accounts lies in the ability to withdraw money when you retire tax-free.

If you expect to be in a higher tax bracket when you retire, Roth TSP or Roth IRA withdrawals won’t increase your tax liabilities. That’s a good thing if the value of your investments within either account has risen significantly since you first began making contributions.

Roth TSPs may help you save a decent amount of money for retirement if you’re able to max out your plan each year. The addition of employer matching contributions is another benefit, since that’s essentially “free” money. You don’t get that with Roth IRAs, but these accounts can still be a good way to save if you don’t have access to a retirement plan at work.

Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA: The Cons

While there are some advantages to saving in a Roth TSP or Roth IRA, there are also some potential downsides. For one thing, you’ll need to have a federal job (that is, work for the federal government is some capacity) in order to contribute to a Roth TSP. With a Roth IRA, your ability to make a contribution hinges on your income and filing status.

Roth TSPs are also known for offering a narrower range of investment options. If you make an in-service withdrawal from your account and you’re not age 59 ½ yet, you should be prepared to pay a tax penalty.

A Roth IRA doesn’t offer matching contributions, nor can you borrow from it. Any early withdrawals that are not qualified or don’t otherwise meet the five-year rule could be subject to tax penalties. While you might have more investment options to choose from, it’s important to be mindful of the fees you may pay.

Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA: Which Is Better for Your Retirement Goals?

Selecting a retirement plan is an important decision as you want to choose an option that aligns with your needs, goals, risk tolerance, and objectives. Contributing to a Roth TSP could be wise if you’re a federal employee, since you can take advantage of higher contribution limits and employer matching contributions.

A Roth IRA, meanwhile, could make sense if you don’t have access to a retirement plan at work or you want to supplement your employer’s plan. Contributing to a retirement plan at work doesn’t bar you from also contributing to a Roth IRA, as long as you’re within the income limits set by the IRS.

The one that’s better for you may depend on where you work, how much money you’re able to contribute to retirement savings each year, and when you plan to retire. When comparing investment options for a Roth TSP vs. Roth IRA, consider the overall track record of those investments as well as the fees you might pay.

The Takeaway

Whether you choose a Roth IRA vs. Roth TSP or something else, it’s important to save for retirement early and often. Even if you can only afford to contribute small amounts to a retirement account, they can add up over time as long as you remain consistent.

Prepare for your retirement with an individual retirement account (IRA). It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. Whether you prefer a hands-on self-directed IRA through SoFi Securities or an automated robo IRA with SoFi Wealth, you can build a portfolio to help support your long-term goals while gaining access to tax-advantaged savings strategies.

FAQ

Should I max out my TSP or Roth IRA?

If you can afford to max out your TSP, it might make sense to do so before maxing out a Roth IRA. The simple reason for that is TSPs have higher annual contribution limits and you can also get a matching contribution from your employer. If you only have a Roth IRA, then maxing it out each year can help you save the most money possible toward your retirement goals.

Is a Roth IRA better for retirement or a Roth TSP?

A Roth IRA is a good retirement savings option if you want to be able to make tax-free withdrawals later. However, a Roth TSP allows you to contribute a larger amount of money each year and your employer can also make matching contributions on your behalf.

Does a Roth TSP reduce taxable income?

Roth TSP contributions are made using after-tax dollars, so they do not reduce your taxable income for the year. You can, however, manage your tax liability by taking advantage of any deductions and credits you might be eligible for.

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