Completing the Scholarship Application
While everyone wants a scholarship, everyone dreads actually applying for scholarships. Let's face it; there's a lot of work involved. Every scholarship application is structured uniquely in accordance with the guidelines and directives of the funding organization. There is no generic formula written in stone to govern how the application packet is completed. Filling out Completing the application form may take anywhere from twelve to twenty-four hours depending on how well organized you are to start with. This page is designed to give you a preview of the application packet, the kind of documents you need to start collecting as soon as possible, and many helpful strategies to keep in mind as you walk through the process.
Scholarship application preparation includes obtaining all required (official) documents, filling out each field in the application form, writing a short essay, and making sure that the pagination of documents in the entire packet is organized in the correct sequence.
Priority Documents
Materials you will need multiple copies of include official transcripts, financial aid forms, copies of income tax returns, reesumees, letters of recommendation, and photographs. Obtaining these materials and organizing them in advance for each scholarship packet will greatly streamline your work.
The Essay
Applying for a scholarship usually includes writing an essay. As part of the "homework" for preparing a scholarship application, essays can be recycled to and from the classroom, usage provided that the essay is a suitable topic for the a given assignment. As you consider choose the an essay topic, s to choose from, consider whether have you have already submitted an essay at school that received accolades from your instructor.? Once again, Iif you can make use of previously written essays, by all means do so. Your only remaining task may might be to edit a little more. Look for step-saving devices whenever possible. By the same token, save the essay you write for your scholarship for future classroom submissions.
The Cover Letter
As with any professional application, a scholarship cover letter is designed to introduce you to the selection committee and provide a professional appearance to the overall packet. If you have successfully completed your homework on the funding organization and selection committee, you should know the name of the individual that to whom the cover letter is should be addressed to. Do not mail a cover letter addressed to "whom it may concern." Clearly identify the name of the committee member or authorized staff person who receives your packet in your letter. Verify that all address information and name spelling is are correct.
The cover letter has several standard components:
1. The purpose of the cover letter is contained in the first paragraph. Identify the award you are applying for and, the name of the funding organization, and express your excitement about applying for this prestigious award.
2. In the body of the letter, recognize the accomplishments and any newsworthy events connected to the scholarship. This tells the selection committee that you have done your research into the program and that you have gained some insight into their its history and what makes them that program unique.
3. Close the letter with positive expectations and gratitude for being able to participate in this exciting opportunity. Express Tthanks to themm for their time and consideration. If you have spoken with anyone representing the scholarship or funding organization, be sure to make reference to them that person in closing also.
The Application Form
Start with a draft.
Make multiple copies of the actual form. Write on copies as drafts until you are ready to type your finalized information on the form you will actually submit. Avoid completing the final copy as a hand written document. Some schools will accept a hand written document if necessary, but you may lose points for doing so. A typed, final copy reflects a professional appearance.
Completely fill out the entire application.
Do not leave blanks or empty fields. Applications with uUnanswered questions are treated as incomplete applications and are immediately discarded. Avoid stapling the packet. Type your name in the top, upper-right corner of every page so it can easily be put back in order if pages are accidentally taken out of sequence. Keep all components of the scholarship packet in the order requested.
Maintain a professional appearance.
Do not use special folders or, unusual unusually colored ink or paper. Talent and creativitye ability are is shown in your writing ability, not in the color of the your folder.
Make two hard copies of your application before submitting.
You need a complete copy of your scholarship application packet, including the entire contents, not just the application form. The reason for making copies is to protect your information in case it is lost or misplaced in the mail. Protect your information. Ask your local Post Office for the rate of certified, return receipt mail. Certified, return receipt mail requires a signature upon delivery. You will receive this signed and dated card back in the mail as proof of delivery. Track and confirm options will also allow you to track the delivery of your package from the moment you leave it at the Post Office until the day it is delivered.