When it comes to scholarships, there are a lot of ways to mess up. Here are the seven most common mistakes people make when applying for scholarships. Avoiding these mistakes will help you improve your chances of winning money for college.
Jeremy Schulman, a commercial litigation lawyer in Bethesda, MD, gives these tips. In addition, he awards a scholarship worth 1000$ to a graduating high school student every year.
1. Applying For Too Many Scholarships
It’s essential to be selective when applying for scholarships. Applying for too many can lead to less focus and organization, and you may not be able to submit quality applications. Instead, list scholarships that are a good fit for you and focus your time and effort on those.
2. Not Reading The Application Instructions Carefully
Many scholarships have precise instructions that must be followed to be considered. Make sure you read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly as stated. Otherwise, your application may not be considered.
3. Filling Out The Application Incorrectly
Again, following the specific instructions is critical when filling out a scholarship application. If you fail to provide the required information or fill out the form incorrectly, your application will likely be ignored.
4. Not Tailoring Your Essay To The Scholarship Topic
Scholarship essays are an excellent opportunity to highlight your strengths and differentiate yourself from other applicants. Be sure to tailor your essay specifically to the scholarship topic and ensure it is well-written and free of errors.
5. Not Including All Required Materials
Scholarship providers often require additional materials such as letters of recommendation or transcripts. Ensure you include everything requested, or your application may not be considered.
6. Waiting Until The Last Minute To Submit Your Application
Many scholarships have deadlines, and if you wait until the last minute to submit your application, it may be too late. Make sure you allow enough time to complete all the steps in applying for scholarships.
7 .Asking For Help Too Late
Many students struggle with scholarship applications, but there is no need to go through them alone. Seek help from teachers, parents, or other trusted adults early on in the process so that you have plenty of time to get feedback and improve your applications
Essential Things To Include In Your Application:
When applying for scholarships, it’s important to include certain things in your application, no matter the requirements. Here are a few things to make sure to include:
- A list of scholarships that are a good fit for you, and focus your time and effort on those.
- The specific instructions carefully, and follow them exactly as stated.
- Everything that is requested or your application may not be considered.
- Tailor your essay specifically to the topic of the scholarship, and make sure it is well-written and free of errors.
- Seek help from teachers, parents, or other trusted adults early in the process, so you have plenty of time to get feedback and improve your applications.
Bottom Line:
To increase your chances of winning a scholarship, avoid these mistakes. Choose which scholarships to apply for, follow instructions, including all required materials, and tailor your essay specifically to the scholarship topic. Seek help early on in the process, so you have time to improve your application.
