SUBMIT A STRONG APPLICATION FORM
What Makes An Application Form “Strong?”
Well, there really are no hard rules as to what makes an application form “strong.” Nevertheless, there are certain things that you can do, and certain mistakes you can avoid, in order to improve your Application Form.
Remember that in a close choice between who to give a Scholarship to, even the smallest details can make a difference.
1. Following Instructions
Your ability to follow the instructions on the application form is a big factor when selecting the scholarship recipients. If the instructions are not followed, doubts arise about your ability to succeed in college.
An example of this is applications MUST be 100% complete. This is the first thing we check for. If an application is incomplete, it is immediately placed in the “incomplete” pile and will not be considered for our scholarship.
2. Good Spelling And Grammar
Check your spelling and grammar on everything that you submit. Then double-check it. Then have someone else check it. Good spelling and grammar indicate an understanding of basic skills that are necessary for college. Poor spelling and grammar make your application difficult to read, it suggests laziness and inattention to the most basic of skills, and it creates doubts about your ability to succeed in college.
3. Statement Of Intentions & Goals
It is important for you to stay focused on writing specifically about your intentions & goals. Give details. Let us know your career choice and why you’ve chosen that. Do you have a parent, family member, friend, or someone that you look up to that influenced you to make your choice? Have you taken any classes to jump-start your career in that field? Do you participate in any other activities involving your choice of career? Let us know what you plan to do with your degree. Have a plan for your future, and let us know what that plan is.
Don’t make your statement too short. One or two sentences are not enough. Yet, don’t make it too long either. 2 pages or more is definitely too long. 1 to 3 good paragraphs is what you should shoot for.
4. Statement Of Financial Need
It is important for you to stay focused on writing specifically about why you need money to go to college. Give details. The more proof you provide as to why you need money to go to college, the better.
Do not be vague about your reasons for financial need. For example, “I need this scholarship because college is expensive,” is a very vague statement.
W-2’s and tax information are not required, but when included, it will help support your case for financial need.
Don’t make your statement too short. One or two sentences are not enough. Yet, don’t make it too long either. 2 pages or more is definitely too long. 1 to 3 good paragraphs is what you should shoot for.
5. General Advice
Make sure that your writing is cohesive and that it makes sense. Try to make your application a concise story of why you need financial aid, why you want to attend college, what you’re going to do in college, and what you intend to do after college.
Do not lie, and do not be fake. Facts are easily verifiable and any false statements in your application will result in instant scholarship ineligibility.
If you have any questions about filling out your application form, contact us and ask before you send it in. We’re here to help you succeed!
