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Top 5 Scholarship Tips for $uccess!
1. Start Early!
It's best to begin researching scholarships during your junior year and then begin the application process during the summer and fall of your senior year. Some scholarships have early deadlines, so the sooner the better! There are many FREE resources available online including www.famemaine.com/education, www.fastweb.com, www.collegetoolkit.com, and www.collegeboard.com - just to name a few! Be sure to look beyond the web-based resources. Check with your guidance counselor, financial aid office of the school you plan to attend, church, parent employers and any clubs or organizations that you (or your parents) belong to for more scholarship opportunities.
2. Get Organized
- Create a list of your accomplishments; include academic achievements, athletic participation, volunteerism, work experience and any other extra-curricular experience.
- Gather all important documents that may be required (transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc).
- Create a folder for each scholarship application and required materials.
- Put together a list of scholarships and their deadlines and dedicate regularly scheduled time to complete applications. Remember, one hour of your time could mean $250 in scholarships (or more) - who gets paid $250 an hour?
3. Follow Instructions Carefully
Some scholarships require that you write an essay and/or provide a letter of recommendation. If an essay is required, be sure to focus on the topic or question asked, especially if you are reworking an essay you wrote for a similar purpose. Be creative and demonstrate what makes you special and sets you apart from other applicants. Send in everything that is requested! Mistakes and missing materials can cost you a scholarship. Pay attention to deadlines.
4. Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!
Review all of your application materials carefully. Always ask a parent, teacher, guidance counselor, or friend to read your application. Typos and grammatical errors are not acceptable. Using spell check on your computer will not catch all mistakes! Once you think everything is perfect, review everything one more time!
5. Keep Copies of Everything
If your application is misplaced, having copies of all materials (like reference letters) will make it easier to resend your information quickly. Submit applications well in advance so that you can follow up if necessary.
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