Paying for a college education is one of the biggest financial challenges that many students and their families face. With tuition costs on the rise, finding scholarships can be a smart way to offset some of those expenses. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are the top 12 resources to help you find scholarships for college students:

1. Fastweb: Fastweb is one of the most popular scholarship search engines available. By creating a profile, you can easily find scholarships that match your criteria and qualifications.

2. College Board: The College Board is not only known for the SATs, but also provides a scholarship search tool to help students find funding for college.

3. Scholarships.com: Scholarships.com offers a free and comprehensive scholarship search engine that allows students to search for scholarships based on a variety of criteria.

4. Federal Student Aid: The U.S. Department of Education offers federal student aid in the form of grants, loans and work-study programs. Fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for federal aid.

5. State-specific scholarships: Many states offer scholarships to residents who plan to attend in-state colleges and universities. Contact your state’s Department of Education to learn more about these opportunities.

6. College websites: Many colleges offer scholarships for incoming and current students. Check your school’s financial aid webpage for more information.

7. Professional organizations: If you are pursuing a specific career path, consider reaching out to professional organizations in that field. Many offer scholarships to students studying in the field.

8. Community organizations: Local organizations such as Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, and community foundations often offer scholarships to students in their community.

9. Employer scholarships: Some companies offer scholarships to employees or their children. Check with your employer to see if they offer any scholarship opportunities.

10. Scholarship search apps: Apps like Scholly and Bold.org offer a convenient way to search for scholarships on your smartphone.

11. Financial aid offices: Speak with the financial aid office at your college or university for information on scholarships, grants, and other financial aid resources.

12. Your high school guidance counselor: High school counselors are a great resource for scholarship information. They can help you navigate the scholarship search process and connect you with local opportunities.

Finding scholarships takes time and effort, but with the help of these resources, you can increase your chances of securing funding for your college education. Remember to stay organized, meet deadlines, and tailor your applications to each scholarship opportunity. Good luck!