Scholarships are financial awards given to students to help cover the costs of their education. They are typically awarded based on various criteria, which may include academic achievement, financial need, extracurricular involvement, or specific talents and interests. Scholarships can be offered by educational institutions, government agencies, private organizations, and charitable foundations. They come in various forms, such as full-tuition scholarships, partial scholarships, or stipends for living expenses. Applying for scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education and provide opportunities for students to pursue their academic and career goals.