Scholarships Application Tips

Scholarships are competitive: the applicants who most closely meet the award criteria with the highest GPA receive funding. Make your application stand out by following these simple steps: 

Read the criteria

  1. Before you apply, check the scholarship’s criteria and ensure you qualify. Applications from students who do not meet the criteria are unlikely to be successful.
  2. Maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA). Most scholarships are based on high GPAs.

Be thorough when you fill out your application

  1. Read the application carefully and answer all the questions. You would be surprised how many submitted applications are incomplete and are ineligible as a result.
  2. Create a word document and copy your answers/comments into your online application. The more professional your application looks, the better your odds of making an impression.
  3. Proofread your application to ensure there are no mistakes or fields left blank.

Choose references with care (letters of recommendation)

  1. Make sure your references are current.
  2. Employers, religious leaders, community leaders, teachers and instructors make excellent references.
  3. Avoid using members of your family, best friends, or roommates as references, as their credibility could be questioned.
  4. Use references who have known you for at least six months.
  5. Advise your references of your application and inform them of specific criteria for the award so that, if required, they may explain why you are a suitable candidate. Ask them to address your current attributes and skills.

Make a strong personal statement

  1. Always include a letter to simply tell the scholarship committee who you are and why you are the best candidate for the scholarship. Your personal statement is the equivalent of a face-to-face interview. Take some time to make your commentary as clear, concise and informative as possible.
  2. Share with the selection committee your personal and professional goals.
  3. Include a list of your extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, student government, volunteer work, co-op jobs, part-time jobs, etc.

Meet the deadlines

  1. Do not wait until the last minute. Give yourself enough time to meet all the scholarship requirements.
  2. Submit your application and all documentation on time. Applications from students who apply late may not be considered.
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