Definition: Reward academic achievement, leadership, community service, extracurricular involvement
Starting Point: Begin searching during junior year of high school
Notable Programs:
Coolidge Scholarship - Fully merit-based, covers tuition and fees at participating institutions
Bold.org - Thousands of merit-based opportunities organized by deadline
Scholarship America - Awards for students at all grade levels
Tip: Research merit opportunities directly with intended colleges (many offer substantial scholarships to attract high-achieving students)