Applying for Scholarships? Get the Winning Edge
March 1, 2009 by Elizabeth Barnum
Filed under Financial Aid
With more and more students looking for ways to fund college, scholarships have become increasingly competitive. Making your application stand out is essential. Here are seven steps that can help.
1. Typing is always better than writingit’s easier to read and looks more professional. Write only when necessary.
2. Do not provide reference letters from friends, neighbors or co-workers. Instead, ask employers and teachers to write letters of reference for you. It is always best to provide references from people who have supervised, taught, or mentored you.
3. Neatness and organization count. Everything you submit should be neat and well organized.
4. Provide all requested information. Don’t be verbose, but do be thorough and complete.
5. Get everything in at least ten days before the deadline. It will make you appear responsible and ambitious.
6. Attach all documents together with a large paper clip. Do not use staples. Put everything in an attractive, well constructed folder.
7. Put the folder in a large, sturdy envelope so everything will look as good when it arrives as it does before you mail it.
Obviously, you’ll need more than attractively packaged documents to win scholarships. But, do not underestimate the boost an attractive, well organized scholarship application packet can give you.