A scholarship program is a financial aid opportunity that provides funding for students to pursue their education. This can be in the form of grants, awards or sponsorships which do not have to be repaid. The criteria used by institutions and organizations offering these programs may vary but usually include academic merit, financial need, extracurricular activities, community service, essays, letters of recommendation, and other factors that demonstrate a student's potential for success in their chosen field or program. Scholarship programs aim to provide access to education for students who might not otherwise be able to afford it, as well as recognize and reward academic achievement and accomplishments.