Future online degree candidates can start saving for college now

Future online degree candidates can start saving for college now

Secondary students who wish to pursue higher education at on-campus or online universities may start saving for college now by entering scholarship contests, such as those offered by the Wisconsin state treasurer.

State residents may enter two contests to win financial aid packages that can help pay for tuition when they go to college, WKOW reports.

The higher education contest for students in fourth, fifth and sixth grades allows applicants to compete for scholarships through an essay-writing competition. Entrants are asked to explain in 500 words or less how they expect college education will improve their lives.

An award of $2,500 will be given to the grand prize winner and seven other individuals will receive $500 scholarships.

Older students in grades seven through 10 may enter a video contest, in which applicants are required to create an original video depicting one of the state's Know How 2 Go Four Steps to College.

Individuals or teams of up to three students can compete for a grand prize of $1,000 as well as second and third place awards of $500 per team member, according to the contests' website.

Winnings from both contests will be placed in an EdVest account - the state's 529 college savings plan - to give them a head start saving for classroom-based or online degree programs.