How to Win More Scholarships
2 min read
Key takeaways
- Small, local scholarships often have far less competition.
- A personal story and strong recommendations help you stand out.
- Proofread everything, and keep track of every deadline.
Competition for college funding is fierce, and student loan debt can follow you for years after you graduate.
Scholarships offer a way out. They're money you don't have to repay, awarded for your talents and achievements.
But there are a lot of talented students out there. So how do you get ahead? Here are some tips.
Research every opportunity
Research every scholarship opportunity, large or small.
Most students rush to apply for the big scholarships, so the competition for those is intense. Smaller scholarships get far fewer applicants, which gives you a better chance. Check your local library's bulletin board, your school's financial aid office and local community groups.
Tell your story
A personal essay that tells a real story can make you stand out and convince the judges that you'll do something worthwhile with the award. Tell a story that shows what makes you unique.
Match your mission to theirs
Every scholarship provider has a mission. Show how your goals line up with theirs, and you're far more likely to succeed.
Treat your application like smart marketing: know your audience and show them exactly why you're the right fit.
Back up your claims
Scholarship committees check your background, just as employers do. Strong recommendations prove what you say about yourself. Recommendations work best when they support the story in your personal essay.
Proofread
Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a strong application look careless. Have someone you trust proofread everything, whether it's a teacher, a counselor, a parent, or a friend or sibling with a good eye for grammar, tone and style.
Never miss a deadline
Keep track of every deadline, and don't miss a single one. Gather your documents and fill in every section early, so you're not rushing at the last minute.
With good research and a little organization, you'll give yourself the best possible chance of success.
Get exclusive grant and scholarship resources, sent to your inbox.
Questions people ask
How many scholarships should I apply for?
As many as you qualify for. Scholarships are competitive, so applying widely improves your chances, and small awards add up.
Can scholarships affect my other financial aid?
They can. If your total aid would be more than your school's cost of attendance, your school may reduce other aid. Tell your financial aid office about any scholarships you receive.
Are there scholarships for adults going back to school?
Yes. Many scholarships have no age limit, and some are meant specifically for adult or returning students. Ask your school's financial aid office and local community organizations.
Sources
* We may earn a commission from links on this page. This doesn't change what we write. How we make money
