Scholarship Application Tips

Applying for scholarships is not easy, but your work can really pay off.  Here are some tips for how to be successful:

Meet all application deadlines

Use a calendar, make a schedule for yourself and stick to it. If you miss a deadline, even by just one day, you may miss out entirely on being considered.

Gather application materials early

Give yourself plenty of time to complete each step. Applications that have been rushed look sloppy and incomplete applications probably won’t be accepted.

Don’t ignore small awards

Even small awards can add up. Plus, the larger the award, the more competition you’ll face.

Request letters of recommendation early

Some applications require letters of recommendation. Think carefully about who should write these letters and choose people who can speak to your strengths and ability to overcome your weaknesses (but letters from family members  are generally a no-no). Give your recommender no less than two weeks notice so that they can fit your letter into a busy schedule and provide them with additional information about yourself or the scholarship if they need it. Don’t forget to say thank you!

Write a great essay

Spend the time necessary to write a great essay – think carefully about the question being asked and use this opportunity to let the selection committee learn things about you that might not be shown elsewhere in the application.  Get help with editing for grammar and spelling, but do your own writing – the committee wants to hear from you personally. University of Oregon students can work with the UO Writing Lab on scholarship essays and other projects.

Sing your own praises

Applications will often ask you to tell them what you do with your time. As uncomfortable as this may feel, this is one time in your life when it’s necessary to brag a bit. Tell them about recognition and awards you’ve received. Emphasize activities that show your talents and passions, especially things that demonstrate your ability to lead, take initiative, persist through adversity and care for your community.  And don’t underestimate yourself – employment and family responsibilities can say a lot in your favor as well.

Try, try again

Keep trying even if you don’t win a scholarship right away. Save copies of every application which you completed so you don’t have to start from scratch every time.