Paying for school can be a nightmare, but there are tons of fun, interesting scholarships out there waiting for students like you to apply. Some require short essays on conventional topics, and then there are these:

For INVENTORS!

The Collegiate Inventors Competition is now accepting entries for their 2012 scholarships. You could win up to $12,500 in scholarship money as an undergraduate student. This is a scholarship for current college students (you may apply alone or in a group) who have worked with their advisor on an invention. The deadline is June 15, 2012.

For BLOGGERS!

The Blogging Scholarship is for any student who is currently enrolled in college and writes distinctively about a topic of their choice. This scholarship rewards passion for the topic and encourages those who don’t currently blog to start! Find out more details about their 2012 scholarship here, in addition to their application guidelines.

For PERFORMERS!

Congressional Black Caucus Spouses Heineken USA Performing Arts Scholarship up to $3,000 is for students who are preparing to pursue or are currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in a field that will lead to a career in the performing arts. To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must be enrolled full-time, have a 2.5 GPA, exhibit leadership ability, and participate in community service activities. Deadline for this baby is May 3!

For BUDDHISTS (and NON-BUDDHISTS!)

There are many scholarships offered by religious institutions that are specific to a particular faith. The Tzu Chi Scholars Program, however, is open to students of all faiths. Students can earn up to $1,000 based on academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement. All that the Tzu Chi Foundation asks is that you write a short essay on how Tzu Chi inspires you and that you are true to yourself.

TIP: Keep in mind that even if the deadlines for these scholarships are fast approaching, you can keep them in mind for next year if you are still eligible! Get a head start now!

Find more great scholarships at Cappex today!