| Don't
get "scammed" on your way to college!
Six signs that
a scholarship search may be a scholarship scam:
1. "This
scholarship is guaranteed or your money back." No
one
can guarantee they will get you a scholarship.
Refund guarantees
often have conditions or strings attached.
Get refund policies in
writing—before you pay.
2. "You
can't get this information anywhere else." There
are many
free lists of scholarships available. Check
with your school or library
before you decide to pay for someone to do
the work for you.
3. "May
I have your credit card or bank account number to hold
this scholarship?" Do not give
out your credit card or bank account
number on the phone without getting information
in writing first. It
may be a set-up to bill your account. Why would
they need the
number if it isn't going to be billed?
4. "We'll
do all the work." Don't be fooled. There's no way
around it—
you must apply for scholarships or grants yourself.
5.
"The scholarship will cost some money." Don't
pay anyone who
claims to be "holding" a scholarship
or grant for you. Free money
shouldn't cost a thing.
6. "You've
been selected by a national foundation to receive a
scholarship" -or- "You're
a finalist" in a contest you never
entered. Before you send money to apply for
a scholarship, check it
out. Make sure the foundation or program is
legitimate.
To find out
how to spot, stop, and report a scholarship scam, contact:
Federal
Trade Commission
PO Box 996
Washington DC 20580
or visit the web site at www.ftc.gov
or call the National Fraud Information Center at 1-800-876-7060.
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