By tamaraIt is said that money can’t buy happiness, but it sure can make paying for college a heck of a lot easier. That’s why it’s so important for high school sophomores to get their feet wet when it comes to the scholarship search process. Very few students are lucky enough to win an award on their very first attempt. In fact, it can take several applications before students figure out how to write a winning scholarship essay or how to secure the perfect letters of recommendation. If students wait until senior year to start applying for scholarships, it not only reduces their opportunities for winning awards, but it can also increase their stress levels. By setting aside time each month to work on scholarships during their sophomore year, students can build their confidence while building their financial aid nest egg. To get them started, we have put together a list of 10 scholarships for high school sophomores that are currently accepting applications this fall. 1. First Freedom Student Competition Students may submit either an essay or a video for this scholarship competition. One winner in each category will win $2,500 for college. Deadline: November 17. 2. NAIAS High School Poster Contest There is no scholarship application for this creative contest. Students must simply submit posters with an automotive theme for a chance to win one of 16 prizes ranging in value from $100 to $1,000 each. Deadline: November 25. 3. Education Matters Scholarship To win this $5,000 scholarship, students must submit an essay (250 words or less) explaining why a college education matters. One winner will be chosen. Deadline: November 30. 4. $1,000 Easy College Money Scholarship Cappex gives students a chance to win this essay-free scholarship each month. Next Deadline: November 30. 5. NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund Youth Essay Contest Students will be competing for four savings bonds ($100, $200, $600 & $1,000) in this writing competition. Essays must be approximately 1,000 words and address the topic listed on the provider’s website. Deadline: December 1. 6. Stephen J. Brady Stop Hunger Scholarships A total of five students will each win a $5,000 scholarship and a $5,000 grant for the charity of his or her choice. Students must demonstrate a commitment to ending hunger in their communities and/or the United States. Deadline: December 5. 7. #PayMyCollegeApps Scholarship College application fees can really add up, but Zinch is offering up to $2,000 to assist with those costs through this easy-to-enter scholarship contest. Deadline: December 31. 8. SBO Magazine Music Student Scholarship School Band and Orchestra Magazine sponsors this essay contest for music lovers. A total of five $1,000 scholarships are available to current high school students. Deadline: December 31. 9. Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship This short essay (250 words or less) contest is offered twice annually. One $1,000 scholarship is available per contest. Next Deadline: December 31. 10. Top Ten List Scholarship Students need to think outside the box to win this fun and creative writing contest. One winner will earn a $1,500 scholarship. Deadline: December 31. These are just a few of the scholarships available to high school underclassmen. Students can find additional opportunities by visiting their guidance counselors, reviewing high school and college websites, or by registering for a free account with ScholarshipExperts.com today!