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Unlike aid that is based on demonstrated need, scholarships consider other factors such as grades, class standing, extracurricular activities, community service, or (in the case of some private scholarships) ethnicity or religion. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Search the main web databases and guide books for scholarships that are not need-based. www.fastweb.com is a good place to start. Many corporations offer small scholarships, usually based on a formal application.
• Look for private scholarships by checking the listings in your guidance counselor's office or by researching community groups such as labor unions, religious organizations and service clubs.
• Check for institutional scholarships at the colleges you're applying to. Many set aside funds for this purpose to attract students.
• Have your parents check with the human resources department where they work. Many large companies offer scholarships to the children of employees.