Scholarship Application Dos and Don’ts

Applying for scholarships can be a competitive and challenging process. Here’s a guide on some important dos and don’ts to help strengthen your application and make it stand out.

Dos:

1. Do Start Early:

   • Begin your research and application well in advance. Many scholarships have early deadlines, so give yourself time to gather materials and craft strong responses.

2. Do Follow Instructions Carefully:

   • Pay attention to all instructions and ensure you complete each step accurately. Missing requirements can lead to automatic disqualification.

3. Do Personalize Each Application:

   • Tailor your essays and responses to the specific scholarship’s mission and values. Show how your goals align with the scholarship’s purpose.

4. Do Highlight Your Achievements:

   • Include any awards, accomplishments, or leadership roles that reflect your strengths and dedication. Be specific, and use quantifiable achievements if possible.

5. Do Proofread Thoroughly:

   • Grammar and spelling mistakes can harm your application’s credibility. Proofread carefully or ask someone to review your application for clarity and accuracy.

6. Do Write a Strong Personal Statement:

   • Make your essay genuine and reflective of who you are. Use a personal story or example to illustrate your motivations and aspirations.

7. Do Focus on Your Unique Qualities:

   • Emphasize what makes you unique. Whether it’s your background, perspective, or experiences, use them to differentiate yourself from other applicants.

8. Do Request Strong Recommendations:

   • Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak positively about your character and achievements. Give them ample time to write and submit their letters.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Reuse the Same Essay for Multiple Applications:

   • Generic essays often come across as inauthentic. Tailor each essay to fit the scholarship’s requirements and show your genuine interest.

2. Don’t Exaggerate or Lie:

   • Be honest about your experiences and qualifications. Scholarship committees can spot exaggerations, and dishonesty could lead to disqualification.

3. Don’t Submit an Incomplete Application:

   • Double-check that every required document is attached. Incomplete applications may be discarded without consideration.

4. Don’t Ignore the Word Count or Formatting Guidelines:

   • Stay within the specified word count, and follow all formatting instructions. Overlong or improperly formatted essays can work against you.

5. Don’t Overlook Financial Documentation (if required):

   • Many scholarships require financial information. Make sure to include any necessary documentation and be transparent about your financial need.

6. Don’t Forget to Show Gratitude:

   • If you receive a scholarship, write a thank-you note. This shows appreciation and reflects well on you for future opportunities.

7. Don’t Neglect Deadlines:

   • Late submissions are rarely accepted. Mark deadlines on your calendar and aim to submit well in advance.

8. Don’t Write Without a Clear Purpose:

   • Avoid vague statements or clichés. Make your application specific, meaningful, and demonstrate why you’re a great candidate for the scholarship.

By focusing on these dos and don’ts, you’ll improve your chances of submitting a polished, compelling scholarship application that highlights your strengths and commitment. Good luck!