Financial Assistance - Scholarships

Scholarships at Cameron University

Scholarships are a type of financial assistance which does not have to be repaid. Funds are provided through civic and religious organizations, professional groups, foundations, corporations, cultural groups and by colleges. Scholarships can be based on academic excellence, personal skills, family affiliations, athletic ability, need and many other factors.

Where to Find Scholarships at Cameron University

Each year a limited number of university scholarships are awarded to entering freshmen. By completing the university application, students can apply for several different scholarships (PLUS, University and Departmental) using the one application. The completed scholarship applications are due no later than February 1 in the Admissions Office. University scholarship applications are available from your local high school counselor, or by contacting the Cameron University Admissions Office.

Students should explore the availability of scholarships offered by their home town, civic, service and fraternal organizations. As well, the Financial Assistance Office at Cameron has compiled a list of scholarships available to Cameron students which are available on our web site.  Some of the scholarships can also be applied for online. Normally we start placing applications on line in January proceeding the Fall term. Most scholarship applications have February - April deadlines.

Each academic school at Cameron University will have a limited number of scholarships for students who have demonstrated success or high potential in individual studies. The award amounts and criteria varies, but are usually restricted to students majoring in a particular academic discipline. If you are interested in a departmental scholarship, contact the appropriate academic school.

There are many other organizations that award scholarships to deserving students. You may qualify for some of them, but you will have to be willing to invest some time and effort in the search. Some places to look include:

• Private Sources/ Businesses, community organizations, religious and ethnic groups, civic organizations, clubs and unions may offer scholarships.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Office offers tuition and book scholarships to students with mental, physical or emotional disabilities. The local office is located at 1324 NW 53rd, Lawton. Their telephone number is (580) 353-8300. If you are interested, you should call and make an appointment with them to find out if you qualify.
• Bureau of Indian Affairs offers financial assistance to many of their tribal members. You should contact the BIA office that you are registered with in order to find out application procedures and qualifications.

Web-Site Searches

There are several web-site searches. Scholarship searches can take from 10-30 minutes. Results are generally received in 1-5 minutes. You should beware of any search companies that charge for their services. Here are two that are on the web and are free.

• FastWEB - National Scholarship Search
• SRN Express - Free Web version of the Scholarship Resource Network (SRN) database which lists scholarships, fellowships and grants for undergraduate, graduate and postdoctorial education. You must register to run the search.

Tips for Applying for Scholarships

Applying for a scholarship is serious business. Many times an applicant never meets the committee that selects the recipient and the committee bases the selection solely on the application itself. Each application you fill out represents YOU, the applicant. If the application is sloppy, dirty or incomplete it sends a message to the selection committee about you, and it may not be the image you would like them to have! Presentation is important, and the following are some tips that can make a critical difference in whether you receive a scholarship.

1. READ
   the application instructions carefully before filling out an application. Be sure you understand exactly what information is required. If in doubt ASK! You may not be qualified for a particular scholarship and you can save time and effort by not filling out applications for scholarships you have no chance of receiving.


2. TYPE
   your application. If you do not have a typewriter check your local high school, college or library. If it is ABSOLUTELY impossible for you to have access to a typewriter, print VERY NEATLY and legibly. Use black ink. Many times scholarship applications are copied for committee members to review and colored ink does not copy properly.


3. PROVIDE ALL
   information that the application requires. If official transcripts are requested be certain you are providing official copies and not just photocopies. Some applications ask for essays, pictures or test scores. Double check your application before handing it in to assure that everything required is there. Leaving out just one small item can cause your application to be rejected.


4. PROOFREAD
   everything you write. Poor grammar and spelling send a negative message about your academic abilities and work habits.


5. DEADLINES
   are crucial. Know when the application must be turned in and have it in on time or better yet- early! Late applications are usually rejected.


6. STUDY!
   Good grades indicate you are a serious and deserving student.