Scholarships 2023 Guide: A Roadmap for Students

Scholarship, grant, or fellowship – any difference?

Yes, there is. Confusingly, the terms “scholarship,” “grant,” and “fellowship” are often used interchangeably. But applicants need to be aware that they’re separate forms of funding with different criteria and purposes. Let’s take a look at some short definitions to explain. 

Scholarships are financial assistance provided to individuals to support their educational pursuits. They’re usually awarded based on merit or other criteria, such as a particular talent or interest. Scholarships are typically offered by educational institutions, government bodies, private organizations, foundations, or philanthropic individuals. Unlike loans, such funds do not need to be repaid.

Grants are funds from organizations, government agencies, foundations, or other bodies provided to support specific projects, initiatives, research endeavors, or individuals in various fields. Unlike scholarships, grants are not limited to educational pursuits and can encompass multiple disciplines, including scientific research, arts and culture, social initiatives, entrepreneurship, and more. They can be categorized into different types, such as research grants, project grants, programmatic grants, or operating grants. Just like scholarships, they don’t have to be repaid.

Fellowships are similar to scholarships and grants. The term typically refers to financial support for postgraduate study or research, such as a doctoral degree or a research project. In addition to financial support, fellowships often include mentorship, training, networking opportunities, and access to resources. Fellowships are usually awarded based on academic merit and research potential, and they may provide funding for tuition, living expenses, and research costs.

Student loans are another form of funding. These differ from all the above types of financial support, as they require the student to repay the borrowed money with interest after graduation. Repayment usually begins after a grace period following graduation or when the student drops below half-time enrollment.

These are just the basics. However, scholarships have many other considerations. And one important aspect is the types of scholarships.

Types of scholarships

There are various types of scholarships available to American students. They differ in many aspects, such as the criteria for eligibility, the amount of funding provided, the application process, and other terms and conditions. For example, some scholarships are based on academic merit, while others focus on athletic ability or community service. Some scholarships provide full funding for tuition, fees, and living expenses, while others provide only partial funding. In addition, the scholarship application process can vary widely, from simply filling out a form to submitting essays, letters of recommendation, and other supporting materials. Furthermore, some scholarships are renewable for multiple years, while others are one-time awards. 

Here are some of the most popular options available:

1. Academic (or Merit) Scholarships. Awarded based on academic achievements, such as high grades, standardized test scores, or exceptional talent in a specific field.
2. Athletic Scholarships. Awarded to student-athletes who excel in sports. They are often offered by colleges and universities and can cover tuition fees, accommodation, and related expenses. But watch out. Athletic scholars must uphold a consistent level of academic achievement to continue receiving funding.
3. Need-based Scholarships. Determined by financial situation rather than merit and offered to people whose financial situation doesn’t allow them to continue learning.
4. Ethnicity-specific Scholarships. Targeting students from specific ethnic or cultural backgrounds. They aim to promote diversity and provide educational opportunities to underrepresented groups.
5. Field-specific Scholarships. Offered to students pursuing studies in a particular field or discipline, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), humanities, business, or healthcare. Organizations and institutions interested in supporting students in those fields often sponsor these scholarships.
6. Community Scholarships. Recognize students who have significantly contributed to their communities through volunteer work and community service.
7. Creative or Artistic Scholarships. Supporting students with exceptional talent in areas such as visual arts, performing arts, creative writing, or music. They are often awarded based on portfolio reviews, auditions, or other forms of artistic evaluation.
8. Government Scholarships. Provided by governmental bodies to support students in pursuing their educational goals.
9. Military Scholarships. Specifically designed for individuals who are serving or have served in the military, as well as their dependents.
10. Unique Scholarships. These go beyond the typical academic and merit-based awards and target individuals with unique qualities, backgrounds, talents, or pursuits. They may cover hobbies and interests like video gaming or cosplay.

With so many options, there’s a scholarship out there for everyone.

But enough definitions. Let’s look at something more interesting.

Scholarships facts

Scholarships have life-changing potential, but you might need to learn the numbers behind them. The following statistics provide some fascinating insights.

• On average, college costs $35,720 per year.
• In 2022, $3.6 billion in Pell Grants, the largest federal college subsidy, went unclaimed because 44% of eligible students didn’t complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• In 2023-24, the maximum amount of money a student can get from a Pell Grant is $7,395. That’s $500 more than in 2022-23.
• 58% of US families use scholarships or subsidies to help pay for college.
• The US Department of Education awards approximately $46 billion in yearly scholarship funding.
• Only 1 in 8 students wins a scholarship. 

Key takeaways—college is expensive, but a huge chunk of available funding goes unclaimed. And ultimately, only a minority of students win a scholarship. Sounds daunting, right? But it doesn’t have to be. Next, we’re going to teach you what to do to join this exclusive club. 

Scholarship application process

The application processes can vary depending on the type of scholarship and the institution that pays out the money. However, each will involve a few basic steps. Here’s how to do it right:

Step Zero – Preparation: Scholarships are generally awarded based on past achievements. So start working on your portfolio of achievements early. Without notable accomplishments to showcase, your chances of securing financial aid may be limited or close to none. Winning a scholarship is a marathon, not a sprint.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Maintain a solid academic record. Most scholarships require a minimum GPA, so focusing on learning and achieving good grades is essential. Additionally, take challenging courses, participate actively in class, and seek opportunities for academic enrichment.
• Get involved in extracurricular activities. Participate in activities that align with your interests and goals, such as sports teams, clubs, volunteer work, and internships. These activities showcase your passion and highlight your dedication, leadership abilities, teamwork, and time management skills.
• Seek leadership positions within your school, community, or extracurricular activities. Taking on leadership roles demonstrates your ability to take initiative, make decisions, and positively influence others.
• Get involved in community service projects and volunteer work. Document your community service hours, responsibilities, and any notable achievements or impact you have made.
• Build relationships with teachers and mentors. They are like guiding stars in your academic journey and possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that can propel you toward scholarship success. By nurturing these connections, you cultivate a support system that provides valuable guidance and advice and becomes a powerful network of advocates rooting for your triumphs. Engage in thoughtful conversations, seek their insights, and showcase your dedication and potential.
• Ask for recommendation letters. They’re a testament to your character, achievements, and potential, written by those who have witnessed your growth and excellence firsthand. When seeking recommendation letters, approach your mentors, teachers, supervisors, or employers. You can make their job easier by telling them what you’d like them to highlight. For example, for a letter from a volunteer work supervisor, ask them to write about your personal contribution to the organization.

Recommendation letters are essential for students when applying for a scholarship because they objectively assess the person’s abilities, character, and motivation. Scholarship committees often seek external validation of a student’s potential. Recommendation letters provide an independent viewpoint and reinforce the student’s claims. They help validate the person’s achievements and enhance the credibility of their application.

• Prepare for standardized tests such as SAT or ACT scores. The higher your score, the higher your chances of securing a competitive scholarship.
• Write strong, tailored essays. Many scholarship applications require essays or personal statements. Take the time to craft thoughtful and compelling content that showcases your unique qualities and experiences. And tailor your writing to each scholarship application.
• Take care of your personal development. Pursue opportunities for self-improvement, such as attending workshops, seminars, or online courses. These prove that you are committed to growth and lifelong learning.

That’s the preparation phase. Next, you’ll need to tackle research, identifying suitable scholarships, and preparing paperwork.

As D-Day approaches, follow these steps. 

1. Research: Identify the scholarships you might be eligible for and interested in pursuing. Check some scholarship search engines, e.g., scholarship.com or fastweb.com.
2. Gather information: Compile all the necessary information and documents required to apply for the scholarships, such as transcripts or diplomas, certification of passed tests such as SAT or GPA, essays, letters of recommendation, and financial information.
3. Fill out the application form: Complete the application form, following the instructions provided by the scholarship provider. All scholarships require this. Ensure that you provide all the necessary information and supporting documents required.
4. Submit the application: Submit your completed application before the deadline. The application may need to be submitted online or through the mail. If submitting by mail, take delivery time into account.
5. Prepare for the interview, if needed: Get ready for the final step in the scholarship application process. An interview allows the scholarship committee to evaluate the applicant’s character, academic achievements, and future aspirations. Although, many scholarships don’t require this step. Still, if given such a chance, don’t waste it.

Some of the most popular scholarship interview questions include:

• Tell me about yourself.

• What are your aspirations relating to your career?

• Why do you feel you are the right person for the scholarship?

• Who is your role model?

• What has been one of your most outstanding achievements?

• What motivates and inspires you in your academic pursuits?

You may face some trickier questions like:

• How do you envision using your education to make a difference in society?

• Discuss any specific challenges or obstacles you have faced in your educational journey and how you have overcome them.

• Explain any financial need you may have and how the scholarship would alleviate it.

If an interview is needed, take some time to prepare and practice answers to common interview questions. But not all scholarships require this step. Generally, scholarships are based on academic achievement or merit. Research the information before applying. 

1. Wait for the follow-up: Stand by for the results of your application. If selected, you’ll typically receive a notification from the scholarship provider with details on the award amount and any additional requirements or conditions. Expect email, postal mail, or phone.
2. Accept the award: Formally accept the scholarship by notifying the committee. Sometimes, you might be obliged to write a formal acceptance or thank-you letter. Then, follow the instructions for using the money and other details the donor shares.

That’s the application process. But there’s one aspect that bears covering in more detail. Get it wrong, and you can kiss goodbye to your chances of success. What is this crucial step, you ask? The scholarship application letter.

Scholarship cover letter – dos and don’ts

Are you ready to take one of the most critical steps toward achieving your academic dreams? 

A scholarship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies a scholarship application. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications, and express your motivation for applying for the scholarship. The cover letter allows the donor to assess the applicant’s fit with the scholarship program, evaluate their motivation and purpose, differentiate among candidates, and ensure that the scholarship is awarded to deserving individuals who will positively contribute to the institution’s goals. It helps the money provider make informed decisions and select candidates who demonstrate their potential to succeed and make a meaningful impact through the scholarship opportunity.

With a well-crafted cover letter, you can showcase your unique strengths, experiences, and accomplishments, setting yourself apart from the other applicants vying for the same scholarship. Think of it as your chance to make a lasting impression on the selection committee and persuade them that you are the most deserving candidate.

Writing such a pivotal document can be intimidating. But with the proper knowledge and resources, crafting a perfect cover letter for a scholarship application is a piece of cake. 

Let’s start with common scholarship cover letter mistakes and good practices.

Most common mistakes

1. Not tailoring the letter to the scholarship. One of the biggest mistakes is failing to tailor the letter to the specific scholarship being applied for. Researching the scholarship and organization offering is crucial, just as ensuring your letter speaks directly to the requirements and criteria.
2. Including irrelevant information or overloading the letter with unnecessary details. Keep your cover letter focused and to the point. 
3. Being generic and using a “one size fits all” approach. Never do that. Tailor your letter to the scholarship and the organization. Use templates only as a source of inspiration.
4. Being overly casual or familiar. Keep your tone professional and respectful.
5. Using slang, inappropriate language, and making spelling or grammar mistakes. Always use clear and professional language. Proofread for errors.
6. Exaggerating achievements or experiences. Be truthful and accurate in your representation of yourself.
7. Failing to highlight relevant accomplishments. A common mistake is not adequately highlighting your accomplishments, such as academic achievements, extracurricular activities, community service, or work experience.

Good practices to follow

1. Personalizing your letter to the scholarship. Tailoring a new cover letter for every scholarship you apply for.
2. Being concise and to the point. Keep your letter brief and focused, but address all the necessary issues. Aim for a cover letter that is at most two pages.
3. Addressing the letter to the correct and specific person or organization. It’s important to know who will review your application; otherwise, you may come off as unprofessional. Never write your letter to “all whom it may concern.”
4. Showing your passion. Prove that you love what you’re doing and that your work has a purpose while being focused on tangible goals. 
5. Proofreading your letter. Ensure that your letter is free of spelling and grammatical errors and well-written and professional.
6. Explaining why you’re a good candidate for the scholarship. Highlight your achievements, academic record, and relevant experiences demonstratinyour eligibility for the scholarship. Be specific. Use numbers, percentages, and tangible proof of your accomplishments.
7. Following the instructions. Some institutions provide guidelines to help students with cover letter writing. Make sure to address all the requirements and criteria specified there.
8. Maintaining a formal but engaging tone throughout your cover letter.

Scholarship cover letter in practice

Now, let’s take a look at the structure. Remember to use a professional letter format and a formal salutation. Divide your letter into paragraphs for clarity and readability. Generally, a cover letter includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a closing paragraph.

Make sure to cover all the following points.

Introduction

• Applicant’s contact information

[Your Name]

[Your address]

[Your phone number] 

[Your email address]

• Date

• The scholarship organization’s contact information

[Scholarship organization name or specific recipient name]

[Organization address]

[Organization phone number]

• Formal welcome 

(Dear [Mr./Ms. Recipient’s name] / [Scholarship Committee])

Development

• Paragraph 1: State the purpose of a cover letter
• Paragraph 2: Provide relevant and most significant achievements, related skills, and experience
• Paragraph 3: Show your passion for your field and scholarship, justify why you want this scholarship, why you deserve it, and why you’re the best choice

Ending

• Call to action (CTA): Highlights that you’re waiting for the committee’s response and are open to further discussion 
• Regards
  (Sincerely + your name)

In the process of writing, don’t forget about formatting.

• • Use a professional font and font size. Choose a clean and legible font such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. Use a font size between 10 and 12 points to ensure readability.
  • Maintain consistent spacing. Use single spacing within paragraphs and double spacing between paragraphs.

• Set one-inch margins.

• Left-align your letter. 

• Don’t use justification. It’s against the rules of business letter formatting.
• Use a professional file format. Save your cover letter as a PDF or Word document to ensure compatibility when submitting it electronically.
• Go beyond by using a digital copy of your handwritten signature.

In the end, proofread for errors! And not just once, but preferably two or three times. Probably each time, you will be able to find new mistakes that you previously missed.

Now you’re ready to put theory into practice. Next, we’ll look at a well-written example scholarship cover letter and break it down step-by-step.

Scholarship cover letter sample

No one-size-fits-all template or magical formula guarantees success for your scholarship cover letter. Why, you may ask? Because every applicant is unique. People differ in their passions, accomplishments, academic interests, and aspirations. That’s why writing a scholarship cover letter requires self-reflection. 

Writing a cover letter tailored to your achievements and the scholarship you’re applying for is essential. But to get you started, we’ve prepared a sample to inspire you.

Here’s a cover letter from Julie Addams, passionate about computer technology, who’s worked hard to earn her undergraduate scholarship.

Julie Addams
123 Main Street
Washington, DC 20001
(512) 522-6167
julieaddams@gmail.com

09/07/2023

John Smith
Head of the Scholarship Committee
Georgetown University
37th and O Streets, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20057

Dear Mr Smith,

My name is Julie Addams, and having been accepted to Georgetown University for the 2023 fall term to pursue a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, I am writing to express my desire to apply for the Georgetown Undergraduate Scholarships Program. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a strong interest in and dedication to the computer sciences and information technology. Thus, I’m particularly excited by the opportunity to join a network of fellow students and leaders who maintain Georgetown University’s success and reputation as a world-leading IT education and research hub. 

Throughout my high school journey, I have consistently demonstrated a deep fascination for the intricacies and limitless potential of the computer sciences. 

I actively engaged in the Future IT Science Club, where I eagerly showcased my ideas and participated in technology exhibitions and competitions. This dedication and involvement led me to assume the role of club president during my senior year. I also contributed to study circles centred around mathematics and computer science, dedicated to fostering academic growth among fellow students. Recognizing my penchant for leveraging technology to enhance educational experiences, I triumphed as a winner in a state competition for emerging IT professionals. It’s worth noting that my unwavering passion for harnessing IT capabilities within the education sector fuels my desire to pursue further development through the support of this scholarship opportunity. My dedication to computer science also manifests in my outstanding academic achievements, including an exceptional GPA and consistent top grades in computer science coursework. Bolstering my theoretical knowledge, I augmented my skills through a year-long internship at a local IT firm, allowing me to gain invaluable practical experience in the field.

Receiving the scholarship would provide me with the financial assistance necessary to pursue my studies and the invaluable opportunity to engage in relevant research projects, attend conferences and workshops and connect with industry professionals. Securing this scholarship would allow me to entirely focus on my education and immerse myself in cutting-edge research. I am dedicated to leveraging my skills to address real-world challenges and positively impact the field of computer science, with a particular focus on educational issues. 

Thank you for considering my application for the Georgetown Undergraduate Scholarships Program.

I look forward to the possibility of discussing my aspirations and how I plan to contribute to the scholarship program’s mission during the evaluation process.

Sincerely,

Julie Addams

A carefully-crafted letter like this can convince the committee and nail your scholarship. That’s the power of thoughtful and well-written content. 

Let’s analyze what Julie did right.

Paragraph 1: Powerful introduction, straight to the point. The applicant introduces herself and her intention to apply for the specific scholarship program. The text provides supporting information about Julie’s interest in computer science and their excitement about joining University. It briefly restates the applicant’s enthusiasm and ties it back to the scholarship opportunity.

Paragraph 2: The content of the text effectively showcases the applicant’s commitment to computer science, presenting specific experiences and achievements, and passion. It covers involvement in school activities, academic performance, and practical training. The structure allows for a clear and coherent presentation of qualifications, making the writer a strong candidate for consideration by the scholarship committee.

Paragraph 3: The text follows a clear and concise structure, presenting the benefits and opportunities that receiving the scholarship would provide. The subsequent discussion of engaging in research projects, attending conferences and workshops, and connecting with industry professionals demonstrate the applicant’s ambition to go beyond classroom learning and actively participate in the broader academic and professional community. This conveys Julie’s commitment to personal and intellectual growth in a specific field of interest. 

The text also presents the applicant’s dedication to making a positive impact in computer science, with a particular emphasis on educational issues. This shows a precise alignment between the applicant’s goals and the values of the scholarship program. Julie portrays herself as proactive and socially conscious, intending to leverage education and skills to address real-world challenges.

Ending: Again, straight to the point. The structure and content of the text effectively convey the applicant’s gratitude, anticipation, and alignment with the scholarship program’s mission. A polite and thankful tone creates a positive impression and demonstrates the applicant’s professionalism and gratitude.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

No doubt you still have many questions about applying for a scholarship. So let’s try to answer them. But remember that often, the answer is “it depends” because each scholarship has its own rules, and the deadline, application process, or award criteria vary.

How do I find scholarships that I am eligible for?

Research online scholarship databases, check with your school’s financial aid office, and explore local organizations, community groups, and professional associations. Explore online resources such as scholarships.com, fastweb.com, or cappex.com. 

What are the criteria used by scholarship committees to evaluate applicants?

Scholarship committees evaluate applicants based on academic achievements, leadership potential, community involvement, personal qualities, and alignment with the scholarship’s goals and values.

How can I increase my chances of winning a scholarship?

To increase your chances, focus on maintaining strong academic performance, actively engage in extracurricular activities and community service, tailor your applications to each scholarship, and seek additional personal and professional growth opportunities.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. Nevertheless, it is always a good idea to check the scholarship regulations. 

What are the deadlines for scholarship applications?

Scholarship deadlines vary, so it is essential to carefully note the application deadlines for each scholarship you plan to apply for. 

How do I handle scholarship interviews or personal interviews?

Prepare for scholarship interviews by researching the organization, practicing common interview questions, and reflecting on your goals and experiences. Dress professionally, maintain good eye contact, and articulate your answers confidently and concisely.

That’s it. 

We keep our fingers crossed for your success!

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Sources

• Buffett, J., “Sample Cover Letter for Scholarship Application in 2023”
• Federal Student Aid, “How much money can I get from a Federal Pell Grant?”
• National College Attainment Network for Tableau Public, “Pell Dollars Left on the Table”
• Scholarship America, “Make the Most of Aid Opportunities: Billions of Dollars Are Left on the Table”
• Scholarships.com, “Student Resources”
• ThinkImpact, “Average College Student Spending”
• Woodward, M., “U.S. Scholarship Statistics: The Latest Data, Facts And Costs”