5 Tips for Writing Strong Scholarship Applications
You have made the important decision to continue your education through higher learning. You have decided on a specific field of study. You have your eyes on the prize. Now you just have to find a way to pay for it. Numerous scholarship programs have been established to offer a student a helping hand. Most of these scholarships are funded through generous individual benefactors, corporations, government programs, endowments, or competitions. No matter what the source, how you put together your application will determine your success. There are some noteworthy tips to follow that will greatly increase your chances of being awarded a scholarship:
1. Know your scholarship source and eligibility requirementsThere are certain basics that go into every scholarship application. Typically these would include your resume, letters of reference, and grade transcripts. One of the unique elements you may be required to supply would be the personal essays geared to your area of study and desired institution. There may be questions that you'll have to answer as it pertains to the specific scholarship fund. For instance, depending on the institution you are applying for a scholarship through, you may have to submit a portfolio of your creative writing, or give detailed answers to scientific research questions. Each scholarship has different requirements. Being able to succinctly fulfill the eligibility requirements will be your first task when successfully applying for a scholarship.
2. Make your personal essay direct and personalOften students applying for a scholarship struggle with the personal essay because of pressure. Your essay or cover letter is your introduction to who you are as a student and how you'll honor the scholarship. Talk through your ideas with a friend or a family member then put those ideas onto paper. Sharing personal stories of your education and family background will help the scholarship judges appreciate who you are as a person. This does not mean writing about your backpacking trip through Europe. It means writing about the important benchmarks in your life that have pointed you towards a higher education and how you intend to put your degree to use. Keep in mind that often “less is more.” Shorter is better and many admissions officers will stop reading an essay if it goes on too long. Choose your words carefully and make sure every single one matters.
3. Choose your letter of reference writers carefullyLetters of reference are part of every application. These should provide further examples of your accomplishments and your potential as a student. Previous teachers and mentors are in a great position to recommend you as a student. Often, some strings can be pulled to get a V.I.P. such as a congressman or company president to write a letter. But keep in mind that unless these people truly know you, these letters might come off simply as generic and defeat the purpose.
4. Don't pad your resume; keep it honestYour resume should be an accurate history of work, academics, organizations and honors. Even if you think you don't have a lot to put down, remember that almost everyone else is in the same boat. There is value in all your life experiences from the Boy or Girl Scouts to a church fundraising event or stint on your community football team. Essentially start by writing down a list of everything you've accomplished or participated in and then cut it down to what has really made you the person you are today.
5. Proofread, proofread then proofread againOne or two spelling errors might seem minor but they can be glaring to a reviewer. It is advised that you show your application and essays to a fresh pair of eyes. Remember, you only get one chance to make a positive first impression.
Article Resources:
Scholarships Helphttp://www.scholarshiphelp.org/index.htm
Scholarships
http://scholarship-positions.com/tips-on-applying-for-a-scholarship/2008/10/17/
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