SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION TIPS

Here are some useful tips to consider when filling out your scholarship applications:

Apply, apply, apply!

Many students underestimate their chances and some scholarships remain unawarded each year because there are few or no applicants. Remember that each scholarship application becomes easier, because much of the information requested can be re-used. Invest your time in scholarship and bursary applications and the financial pay-offs can be very impressive!

Be informed

Make sure you know everything about the award before you apply for it. Be sure you meet all the requirements, and be realistic in determining whether you qualify. The last thing you want is to be eligible for a scholarship but somehow have missed some important detail of the application package.

Respect deadlines

Some scholarships deadlines are as early as September for the following year, while others are as late as June. In any case, be sure to prepare well ahead of time. Even if you aren’t going to start school next year, it is advisable to start looking now – not to apply, necessarily, but to see what’s out there in the way of scholarships, grants and bursaries. See what kinds of deadlines and requirements exist. It’s better to know about an essay that’s required for a scholarship nine months before it’s due rather than finding out about it a week before.

Female student in graduation gown. Photo: Shutterstock

Female student in graduation gown. Photo: Shutterstock

Review your documents

Similar to a job application or a résumé, spelling, grammar and sentence structure are very important in any kind of scholarship application. Dedicate time to proofreading, and keep it simple. You should also stick to the limits given. (i.e. many judges will not read more than two pages if a two page limit is stated.)

Think of it as a job

Finally, try to think of an application letter for a scholarship the same way you would think of a letter you’d write when applying for a job. What makes you more deserving than anyone else for this award? Keep in mind that scholarship wins are a wonderful addition to your CV. Good luck!

Content adapted from articles and other information from ScholarshipsCanada.com.