Although most scholarships are based heavily on academic achievement, many have other criteria that play a large role as well. Some scholarships consider community activities, leadership qualities, athletic ability and a commendable character. Other scholarships are developed to aid members of a specific heritage or people with financial or special needs. Many scholarship administrators understand that marks alone are an unreliable source for judging achievement since grading systems vary greatly - both regionally and within institutions themselves. Scholarships are administered by colleges, universities, career colleges, organizations, corporations, governments, trade unions, etc.
Scholarships are available to students at all levels of their post-secondary studies.
There are entrance scholarships, most of which you become eligible for automatically with your general university or college application. There are also in-course and graduate scholarships offered to students who are pursuing a specific field of study or who have already been studying for a certain number of years. Some are in the form of fellowships or internships that help students gain practical experience in their area of study. Almost all students can find at least one scholarship for which they are eligible. Often new students are automatically considered for scholarships and awards with their general admissions application.