Scholarships significantly influence the decisions of prospective students by reducing financial barriers to higher education. These funds can make a crucial difference in whether students can attend their desired institutions, thereby impacting their choice of major and career aspirations. Scholarships may also enhance access for underrepresented groups, thus promoting equity in education. The availability of these resources often leads to increased enrollment rates and allows students to focus more on their studies rather than on financial concerns, thereby improving overall academic performance.