Explains how to write an essay for a scholarship, with guidance also for what to include in a scholarship application, and a template for structure.
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How to write an essay for a scholarship: guide
While not every scholarship requires an essay, they are extremely common. Writing great writing is easier said than done, but there are a few tips and tricks you can follow for how to write a scholarship essay to improve the quality of your essay — and, therefore, increase your chances of getting a scholarship.
Follow the question and instructions carefully
First and foremost, follow the essay prompt in the applicants’ question. No matter how well you write, you won’t win the scholarship if you don’t answer applicants’ question.
Edit, edit, edit
You should consider every word you write and make sure each word adds value to your argument or explanation. Fluff and filler words are easy to recognize and do not impress anyone who rates your essay.
Don’t use citations
Also, don’t add citations to your essay unless the instructions tell you to do so. When you are writing an essay, the granting organization needs to develop a better understanding of you, not someone else.
Engage the reader
Make your essay fascinating. People, not machines, will read your essays. If it’s boring and doesn’t attract them, just move on to the next one. Do not be superfluous, do not be clichéd and do not add unnecessary information. As Harvard College points out, in application processes, the institutions are trying to get a ‘sense’ of the applicant.
Stick to the word limit
Also, make sure you stick to the word limit. If the scholarship requires a 500-700 word essay and you submit 200 words, you will be skipped. Submitting 1,000 words when a prompt requires 500 words gives you no advantage over the other applicants.
Have somebody proofread it
Finally, you should have a parent, older sibling, teacher, or counselor proofread your essay. Don’t let them write your essay for you, but it’s always a good idea to take a second look at your essay to fix grammatical or stylistic mistakes.
For a more detailed guide, see How to write an essay: complete guide, structure, steps and tips.
Guide and template for Scholarship Application
An application template for a scholarship basically consists of the following elements:
- Letter of motivation / cover letter / application letter
- Financial plan / budget plan
- Resume
Letter of motivation for a scholarship application
The letter of motivation can be included in the application in addition to the cover letter. It is often even compulsory for applications for university places, funding programs or scholarships. The letter of motivation goes into detail about the personal suitability of the applicant and gives reasons why he fits the position and the organization very well.
Keep it on one page
The first iron rule for a scholarship application letter of motivation is that it must generate attention. Therefore, it should be short and concise and not cross one page. The selection committees of the foundations and funding institutions usually have very little time for individual applications. The first impression is therefore formed in the first few minutes. A concise but informative letter of motivation for the grant attracts attention for a few features and keeps them in mind. It can make the first positive impression.
Letter of motivation vs cover letter
The term letter of motivation is sometimes seen as being synonymous with the cover letter. In many cases, however, an application does not require a letter of motivation, but a classic cover letter. The letter of motivation is an additional document, the third page of the application after the cover letter and curriculum vitae/resume.
For the motivation letter for a scholarship application, the the following basic rules should be observed:
- The maximum length should be one A4 page. Nobody wants to read novels.
- The letter should be set up like an official letter with sender, addressee, date, title, etc.
- The letter of motivation is the introduction and not the end of the application.
In terms of content, the following aspects should be implemented:
- Brief introduction of yourself
- Explain your situation in 3-5 sentences
- Formulating the aim of the application
- Point out all the documents that are enclosed with the application at the bottom
The letter of motivation gives the first impression. After the reader puts down the letter, he / she has already decided whether the request can be dealt with further. One problem that arises over and over again is spelling. In principle, flawless writing is a must, especially for people who are pursuing higher education. Defects can have a disqualifying effect. Accordingly, investing in an editor can be worthwhile. This can be a neighbor, an acquaintance or a professional editor.
The letter of motivation should also reflect the motivation why you need a scholarship or why you urgently want to do training / further education.
Should you mention money in the letter of motivation?
Basically no. An exception is the request for a manageable amount. For example, if you need funds of a few hundred dollars (for a flight, books, etc.), you can mention the amount directly in order to encourage quick processing. It is not advisable for more complex financial circumstances.
Scholarship application template for a letter of motivation
Paragraph 1: Introduction and concerns
A good letter of motivation for a scholarship is divided into four paragraphs. In the first paragraph of the letter you name your concern, so applying for a particular grant, and then you let yourself briefly . Here you should mention your field of study and the university at which you study, and some features of your study that are relevant to the scholarship.
Paragraph 2: Why do you fit into the foundation?
In the second paragraph of the letter of motivation for the scholarship, you should explain why you just particularly fits well with this foundation. For example, if you apply for a scholarship to a foundation that attaches great importance to social commitment, you can explain here how you have been involved so far.
Paragraph 3: Why are you applying for this scholarship?
In the third paragraph you explain why you are applying for you just for this scholarship and not for another. Here you can explain, for example, what role the foundation’s values play in your life if the foundation attaches particular importance to a certain set of values. In addition, many foundations also offer non-material funding. An explanation of why this non-material support is of great interest to you can give the letter of motivation a personal note.
Paragraph 4: closing formula
The last paragraph serves to point out that you are always available for further information and that you would be happy if the application aroused interest.
