With rising cost of living and tuition fees, the cost of higher education is increasingly becoming expensive. Pursuing the dream education is becoming difficult. At this crucial juncture, scholarships come to the rescue of students who are confused on how to go ahead about it. Scholarships come as a blessing in disguise for students to make education affordable and accessible. But with thousands and thousands of applicants applying for scholarships, how can you increase your chances to win a scholarship?
Here are some simple tips on how to apply for the right scholarship and increase your chances of winning it to pursue your dream education.
Ultimate Guide to Win a Scholarship
Start scholarship search early
Don’t wait for the last moment to apply for any scholarship. Start searching for it as early as possible. As the saying goes ‘Late birds don’t get their share’, you might miss an opportunity if you don’t start searching for scholarship much in advance. In another way, you can look for local scholarships on bulletin boards near the guidance counselor of financial aid offices or the library’s jobs and careers sections. The earlier you start, the more chances you have to win a scholarship.
Apply to as much scholarships as you can
It is always better to apply for as many scholarships as possible to increase your chances of winning. While applying, keep in mind to apply for less competitive ones such as small awards and essay contests as they are comparatively easy to win. Never give up, no matter how many times you lose! But keep applying, keep looking for new opportunities. The number of scholarships you apply for are directly proportional to your chances to win a scholarship.
Don’t miss deadlines
If you fail to apply on or before deadline, you will end up in frustration, no matter how deserving you are for the award. Hence, it is wise to use calendar or planner to keep track of due dates, set email reminders or cell phone alarms – whatever it takes to ensure you’ll be on time. Creating a checklist for each scholarship application will be an added advantage for you not to forget to apply and win a scholarship. Prepare a Scholarship Calendar if you wish.
Make your applications stand out
With the objective to win a scholarship in the easiest way, you need to make your application stand out in the hugely competitive market. Taking bit extra care in your application such as clear and proper font type, activity or scholarship resumes, quality letters of recommendation and overall presentation of the scholarship application packet can make a difference.
Select the right scholarships
While applying for maximum number of scholarships, make sure that you are applying for the right one. Applying for the right scholarship according to your eligibility is another key to win that scholarship.
Proofread your application
Nobody likes to read an application full of errors. Hence, it is always wise to take time to proofread your application for spelling and grammar mistakes before submitting it. It is better to check and double-check your application, essay and supporting documents as you are trying to present your best self through these submissions.
Take your time
After you find the right scholarship, take enough time while applying for it with thorough reading, writing and researching. Don’t apply in a hurry. Anything done in a hurry doesn’t bear effective result. Hence, taking time while applying for a scholarship can increasing your chances of winning one. Find the best, check thoroughly, apply with precision and that’s how you win a scholarship.
Never give up! You can’t win if you can’t try.