Where to Start When Applying for a Study Abroad Scholarship

Thinking about studying at a world-class university but worried the cost is too high? Don’t give up. We’re here to help you explore scholarship applications.

Almost all good schools offer scholarships you can apply for. You just need to find them and go after them. In general, applying for scholarships takes a lot of time and effort, but it is absolutely worth it once you succeed.

Where should you start? — Do your research thoroughly

To avoid putting too much pressure on yourself, start researching scholarships as early as possible. Ask for the relevant information and application forms, and complete them before the deadline. Some scholarships close before your program even begins.

You can get scholarship information from the following places:

• The scholarship office or academic advisors at your school
• Government offices in your study destination
• Private organizations that offer scholarships

Complete your scholarship application in seven steps

1. Check whether you meet the requirements

No one can meet every scholarship’s requirements. Focus on scholarships you are eligible for, and do not waste time on ones whose basic requirements you clearly do not meet.

2. Organize everything by category

Put the materials for each scholarship in separate folders and make sure everything is up to date. Organizing by category also helps you prepare for different application deadlines.

3. Include all required information

Make sure your application includes every piece of information requested. Missing information or documents can hurt your chances of success.

4. Ask someone else to review it

A scholarship application is a lot like a job interview. Spelling and grammar mistakes can damage the first impression, so ask a friend to check it before you submit it.

5. Make sure the details are correct

Information such as your email address and phone number must be accurate and usable. This will not only make you look professional, but also prevent delays in receiving messages.

6. Provide recommenders

Recommenders can have a major impact on whether your application is successful, so choose them carefully. Once you have chosen them, explain your strengths, experience, and the qualities you want them to highlight.

7. Don’t miss the submission deadline

Make it a habit to give yourself a few extra days. In general, late applications are much less likely to be accepted. Even if the scholarship you want does not have a strict deadline, apply as early as possible. The earlier you apply, the higher your chances of success.