Mary N., a Lindbergh High School parent, asked: When should we start researching and applying for scholarships?

Keith Quigley, director of freshman recruitment at Fontbonne University responded: If you're considering applying for scholarships as an entering freshman, I suggest the following guidelines:

1. Start applying for scholarships at the end of six completed semesters of high school (after the completion of your junior year).

2. There are two types of scholarships — internal and external. Internal scholarships are offered by the specific college or university. You can gather information on these scholarships from the websites of the institutions. External scholarships are not institutional-based monies, but rather monies from outside sources (place of employment, Girl Scouts/Boy Scouts, banks, non-profit organizations, etc.) that can be used at any college you may choose.

3. Internal scholarships generally are driven by high school GPA, ACT or SAT test scores, and extra-curricular or leadership involvements. The higher a student scores in each of these categories, the more money the student may receive. I recommend students start establishing their resumes on the first day of high school, freshman year.

4. Communicate with your admissions counselor regarding the specifics of university scholarships. Make sure he or she knows who you are and your intent to qualify for the maximum amount of scholarship monies.

5. Write thoughtful, legible, organized, detailed essays or resumes as required by your preferred university and external scholarship boards.

6. For external scholarships, communicate with your high school guidance counselor beginning your junior year. Get requirements for scholarships early in the process so that as a senior, you are organized and efficient in applying for those scholarships.