While student loan debt and college tuition prices are higher than ever, scholarships are essential for students. Unlike a loan, scholarships never have to be paid back, so they do not leave you in debt. There are thousands upon thousands of scholarships available and many different groups — including businesses, schools, charities, professional organizations, and the government. Here are a few crucial steps to follow to earn a college scholarship.

Once you have a substantial list of scholarships that you meet all the requirements for, it’s time to review those options and prioritize certain ones. Start by concentrating on the rewards with the soonest deadlines and those you feel you could possibly win. Always read the application form thoroughly — even the fine print.

When you’re applying for a variety of scholarships, you can become confused when attempting to keep all your deadlines in order. Stick to a schedule by using a calendar or planner to organize important application dates. If you are working online, create a spreadsheet and include the scholarship title and link to the award, the prize amount, the application deadline, and any other requirements. Enter this information on a shareable spreadsheet to share with your parents to help keep them informed on your progress. For more information on how to prepare, organize, search and apply for college scholarships, see the accompanying infographic.