A scholarship is financial aid, which is awarded to individuals to further their education. Scholarship names are often inspired by the purpose and values behind the scholarship or individuals who relate to the scholarship’s purpose.

The fees could be partly or fully funded by the donor or awarding organisation. The donated money is not a loan and therefore does not need to be repaid. Getting a scholarship can make a huge difference in the life of a student. It not only gives the opportunity to further one’s education but has long-term benefits for the individual’s career. Every year international students all over the world struggle find a way to fund their studies; at the same times there are thousands of scholarships left unclaimed every year.

A scholarship is much desired by students all over the world- from developing countries to developed countries - and donors are looking for high calibre individuals that would serve their purpose in the best possible way; that is why the criteria can be very strict and the competition extremely fierce. Here are a few tips on making sure you find the right scholarship and be successful in your application:

Research

You should invest some time in researching for funding opportunities. As mention earlier, scholarships are tailor-made to fit a purpose. The donors and awarding organisation usually give scholarships, not only to fund your education, but to help shape your career. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you are going after a scholarship with a purpose and career path that you are okay with.

Once you have found the one for you, take time to research into the purpose and values behind the scholarship, as well as the donor, before you start applying. This will shape how you approach your application and which achievements you will bring to the forefront.

It is also worth finding out what the selection process is based on. Is it merit based, needs-based, student-specific, career-specific or specific to your local area? Often people are unsuccessful because they do not make themselves aware of this. If you focus highlight your needs on a career -based scholarship, you will be missing the point and inevitably the scholarship as well.

You should invest some time in researching for funding opportunities. Search for your scholarship abroad on Hotcourses Nigeria (www.hotcourses-nigeria.com).

Application form

Once you are ready to approach the application form, there are a few things you should bear in mind; it is important for you to follow instructions down to the last letter. For example, an application form could require you to upload your CV in a PDF format, instead of a Word document. Failure to follow instructions could give a bad impression. You should also be aware of the deadline, down to the last minute.

Fill everything out and use every opportunity to put your best qualities on show. You need to highlight anything that you feel makes you stand out from the crowd. Extracurricular activities and hobbies can put you way ahead of your competitors. You can also support your application with scores of internationally valid exams (GMAT for aptitude and TOEFL/IELTS for English). Remember: no achievement is insignificant, especially when you have a multitude of other competitors showcasing every last detail about themselves. Find out about the different types of English competency exams.

Personal Statement

This is your best opportunity to sell yourself. Some applications may restrict you to a certain word count, others may not. Make sure whatever you write is clear and concise. What is the point in constructing long, compound sentences with complicated words, which end up being misunderstood? Get straight to the point and again, do not leave out anything that adds to your value as a candidate.

Try to give specific, concrete examples about your achievements. It adds life to your personal statement.

References

Studies have found that reviews and recommendations are the most influential factors in decision making in today’s generation. This is probably more with consumer products, but it is also vital for donors looking for a bright individual. Your reference is the only thing that makes the donor know that you are not just making yourself look good, but others see good qualities in you also.

Make sure you choose your references carefully. A supervisor at a work experience may be more necessary for a career-based scholarship than any other type. However the classic blend of academic and professional references is always wise. That said, you must be aware of any specific requirements regarding types of references and the amount of references.

You should also speak to your references well in advance, as their delay could make you miss your deadline.

Final Checks

It’s the little things that could disqualify you. Proofread everything yourself, and then get others to proof read for you. Others are more likely to pick up on your mistakes than you are and employers tend to reject an application at the first sight of a typo. Make sure your contact details are correct. How devastating will it be to miss out on the scholarship because they couldn’t get in touch with you? Make sure you got the address right, the name of the sponsor and contact name correctly spelt.

Search for your scholarships abroad by clicking here and good luck!

If you have any questions or issues you'ld like to clarify, please do post it in the comment box at the bottom of the page and we will personally give a reply to your comment.
By Erica Sesay