And yes, you need a great GPA to get a merit-based scholarship. You can also get financial help by being in band, cheerleading, dance, etc. basically any group that performs.

“Full scholarships” are very unusual and they are usually reserved for people the university really wants. This includes proven sports players and minorities (including people who are minorities in their field of study but not in general, like women in engineering).

You will probably have to apply for a lot of scholarships and loans if you’re an average student. Many people apply for loans for each year of college. That’s normal. It’s easy to keep getting approved for college loans, and it’s likely just as easy to keep getting approved for scholarships–as long as you have demonstrated financial need. Scholarships tend to favor those whose parents don’t make much money.