Tips for Applying
- Start early! Best success can be had with the maximum lead time. Be persistent. Good grades or achievements (and this includes volunteering) are rewarded.
- Type your application and essay when possible, unless it requires handwriting. If a selection committee member has to read 10 or even 30 applications, they don't want to be trying to decipher chicken scratches.
- Likewise, make sure you use your grammar and spell check on your computer. (Don't have a computer? Check out your local library or public university for public access computers.)
- If the application calls for a report cover, use one. If it does not, don't use one. It will only get thrown away from the receptionist opening the mail and photocopying the application for the selection committee.
- Double check all your materials before you send it off to the donor/sponsor. Make sure you enclose applications, transcripts, resume or whatever they have requested.
- Read the instruction very carefully before you start and when you are done. Many students in their rush to finish and go on to something else, forget to include key items. This is natural selection. Your application will be thrown out.
- Regard this as a long distance job interview. If you spill coffee on your suit, it isn't going to make a good impression. Neither will spilling coffee on your application.
- If you can send it by FAX, follow up to make sure it was received in its entirety. Sometimes the transmission doesn't go through, or the receiving end ran out of paper or some other contingency that will jeopardize your chances if you don't follow up.
- If you are applying at the last minute, make sure your application will be received by the deadline – call to see where to drop off the application or FAX it. Follow up to make sure it arrived. Sometimes, just taking this extra step will demonstrate your seriousness with the details.
- Don't call and make a nuisance trying to find out if you won. The committee or agency employees will only be annoyed at the interruptions and won't remember you kindly.
- Do remember to thank the donors sincerely, especially if you won. Many people give money and time for scholarships out of the goodness of their heart and wish to help others. Others donate their time to organizing and selections. It is very important to acknowledge this with a thank you letter or note. If it is a renewable award, this is especially important. When you graduate, be sure to keep the committee apprised of your whereabouts and successes as it will help them raise money for students who follow you.
- Keep files on the scholarships you have applied for.
