Are There Scholarships for Left-Handed People? Answering Common Scholarship Myths 

 Posted on October 26, 2026 in Uncategorized

It’s not an exaggeration to suggest that there are scholarships for people of all backgrounds – including left-handed people. Along with general merit- or need-based scholarships, there are a surprising number of niche scholarships for people with specific qualifications. If you have never applied for a scholarship before, you should know the common myths that can hold you back from success. 

At My College Companion, we are here to help students navigate their journey through university with guides and answers to frequently asked questions. You may be surprised at the different scholarships you qualify for, even if you don’t think you fit the right criteria.

Myth or Fact – Are There Really Scholarships for Left-Handed People?

Scholarships for left-handed students are real, so this one is a fact. One well-known example is the Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Scholarship, offered at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. The catch is that the award is only available to students who attend Juniata, so it is not something most people can apply for from anywhere.

Still, the Beckley Scholarship shows that scholarship eligibility can be much broader than grades and test scores. Some awards focus on physical traits, such as height, while others are tied to hobbies, last names, unusual talents, creative contests, or specific career goals. Local businesses, community groups, religious organizations, and employers also offer awards that never make national headlines. If you have an interest, background, or experience that sets you apart, a scholarship may exist for it. A little digging can uncover options with smaller applicant pools, which can improve your odds.

Is It Too Late to Apply to Scholarships if You Are Already in College?

Applying for scholarships after starting college is completely possible, and many students do it every year. A lot of people assume scholarships are only for high school seniors, but plenty of awards are designed for current undergraduates, transfer students, and graduate students. Some are only open to students who have already completed at least one year of college.

Your school is a good place to start. Many colleges offer departmental scholarships for students in a certain major, along with awards based on campus involvement or leadership. Your financial aid office can point you toward options you might not find on your own. Outside organizations also offer awards for current students, often with deadlines spread throughout the year. Try to check for new opportunities each semester instead of treating scholarships as a one-time task.

Can You Win Scholarships With a Low GPA?

Students with a low GPA can still win scholarships. Grades are important for some awards, but they are far from the only factor scholarship committees consider. Many scholarships focus on essays, community service, work history, creativity, leadership, or personal experiences. Some do not list a GPA requirement at all.

If your grades are lower than you would like, put extra energy into the parts of the application you can control. A strong essay that shows who you are and what you have overcome can stand out to a committee. Letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or employers who know you well can also help. If your grades have improved over time, consider mentioning that growth. Committees often appreciate students who show persistence and a willingness to keep working toward their goals.

Are College Scholarships Only for Low-Income Households?

College scholarships are not limited to students from low-income households. Some awards are need-based, meaning they consider a family’s financial situation. However, many others are merit-based or tied to specific interests, talents, or backgrounds, and family income plays no role in who wins.

Students from middle-income families sometimes skip scholarship searches entirely, assuming they will not qualify. That can mean leaving real money on the table. College costs can strain almost any budget, and every award helps reduce the amount you may need to borrow. Filling out the FAFSA is still worth doing, even if you do not expect much need-based aid, since some schools and scholarship programs use it to determine eligibility for their own awards.

Learn More About Scholarship Opportunities From My College Companion

Searching for scholarships can feel overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting advice out there. For more useful tips and resources, browse our site or contact My College Companion today.