How to Apply for a Scholarship

1. Start Researching Scholarships Early

The more time you put into a scholarship search, the more options there will be. Give yourself enough time to research scholarships, request information, application materials and to complete the applications by the deadline. Begin researching local scholarships first by contacting the financial aid or scholarship office on campus. With the assistance of
your 

College Counselor, you can explore free scholarship search services. You should never 

pay for scholarship information, here is a list of some scholarship search services:

Scholarship Search, FastWeb, Scholarship Research Network Express, Wiredscholar.

2. Read Eligibility Requirements Carefully

If you have any questions about eligibility for a particular scholarship, contact the scholarship sponsors immediately.

3. Organize All Scholarship Materials

Create a separate file for each scholarship and file by application date. Keep a calendar of application deadlines and follow-up appointments. Most scholarships require you to provide some combination of the following information:
a. Transcripts
b. Standardized test scores
c. Financial aid forms, such as the FAFSA
d. Parent’s financial information, including tax returns
e. One or more Letters of Recommendation
f. One or more Personal Statements

4. Tips to write a strong Personal Statement

Paint a clear and compelling picture of who you are based on your strengths, accomplishments, awards, community service, and school activities and discuss your future goals and any challenges you have overcome in detail.

5. Proofread Applications Carefully

In addition to the computer’s spelling and grammar check, ask others to read the essays and give their feedback.

6. Don’t Leave Items Blank

Blank items may slow down the processing of your application. Contact the scholarship sponsors with questions on how to fill out any part of the application.

7. Follow Instructions to the Letter

Make sure you do not go over the length limit for the personal statement. And do not send supporting material that is not requested in the application.

8. Make sure the application is Legible

Type or print application forms and essays.

9. Make copies of everything

If application materials are lost, having copies available will make it easier to complete the application process.

10. Double-Check the Application

If you reuse personal statements or letters of recommendation, be especially careful you have not left in any incorrect names or dates. Be sure to sign and date application.

11. Get your application in early

Request letters of recommendation early enough to give yourself time to submit the scholarship application by the deadline.