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Scholarship Application Tips
Scholarship application tips
- Start early. To be considered for as many
scholarships as possible, begin your search a year in advance.
Many programs have January or February deadlines for the
upcoming academic year, although deadlines may vary. Your time
is well spent: awards range from $500 up to $5,000, or more.
- Look close to home. In addition to
searching for scholarships at the University and nationally, be
sure to ask about scholarships from your or your parent's
employers, faith organization, civic and community groups, high
school, and other sponsors.
- Identify and apply for scholarships that match your
interests, goals, background, and abilities. Submitting
a few well-chosen applications is a better use of your time than
applying carelessly for many scholarships that might (or might
not) be a good fit.
- Read application requirements carefully.
Many scholarship applications are incomplete. If essential
information is missing about a scholarship's selection criteria
or application process, contact the college, department, or
organization offering the scholarship for more information.
- Take the time necessary to present yourself well by
preparing a meticulous and thoughtful application. Pay
attention to the exact wording of the scholarship application.
Make sure you specifically address the questions asked in a
personal statement or
essay. Be sure to include all the required documentation,
including letters of
recommendation.
- Don't over emphasize financial need. If
asked, describe your financial situation accurately. Try to
express a poor financial situation in terms of an obstacle you
have overcome.
- Don't be fooled into thinking that an on-line
application is a quick, fill-in-the-blank exercise.
Online applications require the same careful preparation as
paper applications.
- Make your application legible. If you are
submitting a paper application, use an easy-to-read font size,
such as 12 point. Do not submit hand-written materials.
- Submit an accurate, complete application.
Be sure to proofread and sign it, if required. Make sure that
you include all the required materials and save copies for your
reference before you seal the envelope or click the send button.
More: Tips
for How to Apply for Scholarship |
