Scholarship Tips

There is no magic formula for applying for and receiving a scholarship. But these tips can start you on the right foot.

1. Start Researching Scholarships Early
The more time you can put intoa scholarship search, the more options there'll be.You willneed time to research scholarships, request information and application materials, and complete applications—plus, some scholarships have deadlines early in the fall of the senior year.

2. Organize All Scholarship Materials
Stay on top of deadlines, gather all pertinent documents, and make copies of everything you submit. You should create a separate file for each scholarship and file by application date. Keep a calendar of application deadlines and follow-up appointments.

Many scholarships require you to provide some combination of the following:

• Transcript
• Standardized test scores
• Financial aid forms, such as the FAFSA or PROFILE
• Parent's financial information, including tax returns
• One or more essays
• One or more letters of recommendation
• Proof of eligibility (e.g. membership credentials)

You may also need to prepare for a personal interview. For students competing for talent-based scholarships, an audition, performance, or portfolio may be required

3.  Read Eligibility Requirements Carefully and Follow Directions
Some scholarships require you to write an essay; others may want letters of recommendation. Send in what is requested and proofread everything. Typos and missing materials can cost you a scholarship. If you have a question about eligibility or how to fill out any part of the application, contact the scholarship sponsors immediately.

4. Follow Instructions to the Letter
Make sure your child does not go over the length limit for the essay. Another application don't: sending supporting materials that are not requested in the application.

5. Make Sure the Application is Legible
Type or print application forms and essays.

6.  Be honest
Don't exaggerate your grades, memberships, skills, or qualifications. It is better to focus on the scholarships for which you might be eligible.

7. Proofread Applications Carefully
Review everything.  Typos are a sure way not to be considered for a scholarship.  You can usethe computer's spelling and grammar check features to scan for any careless mistakes, however, it's also a good idea to ask others—your parent, a teacher, or a friend—to read the essays and share thoughts and ideas.  Blank items will slow down the processing of your application.Youshould contact scholarship sponsorswith questions onhow to fill out any part of the application.

8.  Make copies of Everything
If your application is misplaced, having copies will make it easier to resend your information quickly.

9. Double-Check the Application
If you are reusing material (such as a cover letter or essay) from another scholarship application, be especially careful he hasn't left in any incorrect names or blank fields. You should not forget to sign and date your application.

10. Get Your Applications in Early
Missing deadlines means missing out.

11. Send your application packet by registered mail
Many sources offering scholarships will not confirm receipt of your application. Consider sending your application via USPS registered mail so you know your materials arrived safely.

Avoid These Most Common Mistakes Made on College and Scholarship Applications

1. Not following directions
2. Missing the deadline
3. Not typing your application or sending in a sloppy application
4. Forgetting to spell check and to proofread after you spell check
5. Not including information such as a transcript or recommendation
6. Not answering the essay question or another question asked.