Money flows to the student only. Reputable scholarships never charge you to apply.

Asking for membership to an organization is not the same paying to apply for a scholarship. Check the history of the organization, their membership benefits, and make sure their payment method is secure. Never pay in cash. Always get a receipt for proof to dispute a charge with your bank if needed.

Guarantees = lies. No scholarship is a guaranteed win.

Do not apply if the scholarship application is asking for non-relevant personal information. For example: maiden name, pet name, first school you attended, email password.

Leave a website immediately if they claim they have exclusive scholarships. Legitimate scholarship search engines or foundations always post scholarships which are public to others.

Be aware of the scholarships you applied for.  Don’t ever send back information or money if you receiving letters of potential awards you don’t recognize or remember.