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How to Apply for Scholarships...
The Experience
Applying for scholarships is a unique experience, especially when you take into consideration just how many types of
scholarships that are our there. Because there are so many types available, no two application experiences will ever be the same.
That’s why one of the first things you need to do when preparing yourself for applying for scholarships is to accept that all applications will be different and that you will need to pay equal time to each.
Read Everything (And Read It Again)
Following the directions isn’t enough. Before you let pen hit paper, or fingers hit keys as the case may be, you need to read every little word on the scholarship application. Read everything not once, but twice.
This may seem excessive, but it’s absolutely necessary and I’ll tell you why. Many people’s applications are discarded simply because they failed to follow the directions.
It could be going over the word limit on the essay or failing to answer one of the questions. It could also be submitting information not requested. Regardless of what the oversight is, one mistake can cost your shot at winning the scholarship.
By submitting a flawless application, you are already doing better than much of the competition. Taking the extra time to make sure you’re doing the right things in the right ways is worth it if it will get your application closer to the top of the pile.
What happens if the only requirement is an essay to be submitted by email? Do you know that about 5% of the students that apply for these awards don’t even include their name or contact information? Another 2% don’t include the actual essay. Another small number submit the essay in a rarely used format and the committee won’t be able to open it.
Don’t lose out by not completing the requirements as requested. Each scholarship will be different in some way so read everything (and read it again.)
Also, be sure to meet the scholarship deadline. You may be the highest qualified student for a particular scholarship award, but if your application was submitted late, you most likely will not be considered as an eligible applicant. Know the application deadlines for each scholarship application you're filing, and turn them in on time.
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