The cost of college tuition is rising every year, and it shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Finding scholarships and other financial aid can help you meet those costs to realize your dream of getting a college education.

Fortunately, there are thousands of scholarships available for all types of students, including minority students and those who are the first in their family to attend college (known as “first-generation” students). Unfortunately, competition for these scholarships is very high. Here are a few tips for how you can increase your chances of winning these scholarships for minority students or first-generation students to pay for your college education:

Find a Way to Tell Your Story

With so much competition for these scholarships, it is important that you find a way to set yourself apart from everyone else who is applying. You can do this by finding a way to tell your story. The personal statement is the best place to do this, and you can use the prompt to get started. However, you need to find a way to show off what’s unique about you. Yes, you are going to college for the first time — or you are a minority who has faced some struggles — but what about you is different from other students who have experienced the same thing?

The more compelling your narrative, the better your chances of attracting the attention of the scholarship committee and convincing them that you have something special and are more deserving of the award than the other applicants.

Get Great Letters of Recommendation

Of course you’re going to say that you’re great — but what do other people have to say about you? The more praise that people in positions of power have for you, the better that speaks about your accomplishments and your potential as a future leader. Make sure that you get truly great letters of recommendation, and you will greatly increase your chances of winning the scholarship.

Ask professors who are well-known in their field — especially if it is a field in which you intend to study. Also, ask professors and supervisors who think very highly of you and who will write a glowing letter.

Supplement Your Application

Many scholarship committees will allow you to submit a supplement to your application. If this is the case, be sure to take advantage of this opportunity. Supplement with additional information or materials that show off your talents, your leadership ability, your accomplishments, or more about who you are as a person. This can include art work, a video of a performance, a piece of writing, samples of a work project, and anything else that shows your passion, enthusiasm, or leadership potential.

Submit a Complete Application

You might be surprised to learn how many students do not follow the rules and submit an incomplete application or miss deadlines. You can instantly become more competitive by simply following the rules and submitting a complete application. Meet your deadlines and turn in all the materials requested, no matter how minor they may seem.

Apply for As Many As Possible

There are so many scholarships available, and in so many varying amounts, that sometimes getting the funding you need is just a numbers game. The more scholarships you apply for, the more likely you are to win the money you need to cover part or all of your tuition and other educational expenses. Be sure to thoroughly research all the options available to you and to apply for each and every scholarship for which you meet the qualifications.

Winning the scholarships you need can be tough, but the money is out there and ready for the taking. It has to go to someone, so why not you? Use these tips for winning more scholarships and getting the funding you need for your college education.

Chloe Trogden is a writer and manager for Helpdesksoftware.org. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, swimming and playing her guitar.

Tags: college, first-generation student, grants, scholarships, students, university