essay on benefits of scholarship

10 reasons why I deserve a scholarship [model answers]

Scholarships are an essential aid for many students, but what does it take to secure one? Answering “why do I deserve a scholarship” can feel challenging, yet it’s the key to opening many educational opportunities.

In this article, we break down the top 10 reasons why you might be a deserving candidate, alongside advice on what scholarship committees are seeking.

From displaying academic excellence to overcoming adversity, we provide model answers to help you articulate your story convincingly.

We’ll also guide you on aligning your essay with the funders’ mission, offering tips on crafting a tailored, impactful application.

Read on to equip yourself with the insights and confidence to assert “why I deserve a scholarship”.

Why Do I Deserve A Scholarship? Here are some awesome reasons:

Why do scholarship organizers ask this question.

Scholarship organizers ask applicants to answer specific questions to gain a deeper understanding of their motivations and aspirations.

By posing these questions, they are able to assess whether the candidates truly deserve the scholarship opportunity.

The scholarship committee wants to identify individuals who not only have financial need but also display a genuine passion for their field of study or have a compelling personal story.

Moreover, these questions serve as a way to distinguish applicants from one another. It allows the committee to recognize those who stand out and have the potential to make a significant impact in their chosen field.

Scholarship organizers often inquire about how the applicant plans to utilize the funds.

This helps ensure that the scholarship money is going towards a worthy cause and will be used in a productive and beneficial manner.

Therefore, it is crucial for applicants to carefully consider their way to answer these questions, as a well-thought-out response can greatly increase their chances of receiving the scholarship and ultimately, achieving their educational goals.

What’s the scholarship committee looking for?

The scholarship committee seeks applicants who align with their mission and priorities.

To impress them, adhere strictly to guidelines, including word counts.

Research the organization thoroughly, understanding its vision, goals, and objectives.

Reflect these in your essay to show shared values. If no formatting instructions are given, stick to a standard 12-point Times New Roman font with double spacing.

Think from the reviewer’s perspective and ensure your essay resonates with the funders’ priorities.

Tailor your content to the organization’s focus areas.

For example, if you’re a biology major interested in microbiology, emphasize this if it’s relevant to the scholarship. Make your application specific, personal, and focused on the scholarship provider’s interests.

The application isn’t just about you ; it’s about how well you fit with the scholarship’s purpose.

Tips for writing a “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” essay

Writing a “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” essay can be challenging.

Begin by sharing your story, focusing on your accomplishments, demonstrating how you’re a hard worker, your leadership or volunteer experiences make you a deserving candidate for the scholarship.

Here are some elements that you should consider including in your application.

Express Aspirations for Community Service : Make sure to express your desire to create a positive impact on the community through something like a scholarship fund, nonprofit, charity, or other forms of community service in your scholarship essay. This shows relatability to the scholarship committee.
Personalize Your Application : Try to personalize your application by addressing the scholarship board directly, or including a heartfelt message in your thank you note.
Elaborate on Your Financial Situation : If there are significant financial circumstances that weren’t covered in your FAFSA application, mention them. Highlight special circumstances like extensive medical bills, family situations, etc., that necessitate additional financial support.
Narrate Your Growth Journey : Include a story of personal growth or overcoming a challenge in your essay. This can be a narrative of triumphing over hardships in a particular class or a life event.
State Your Career Goals : Clearly state your major or career goals, and what inspired you to pursue them. Use simple, understandable language especially when applying for scholarships not directly related to your field of study.
Mention Relevant Experiences : Include the activities, community service, clubs, associations, and coursework that relate to your major or career goals. Don’t just list them, narrate how these experiences have shaped you and prepared you for your career.
Demonstrate How the Scholarship Will Help : Without sounding entitled, explain how receiving the scholarship will aid in your academic journey. Try to be humble and indirect, stating your need without sounding too desperate.
Detail Your Life Goals : Including your long-term life goals in your essay gives the scholarship committee a clear vision of your future plans.
Show Your Community Involvement : Indicate any community involvement that relates to your career or life goals. This shows that you’re proactive and already engaged in activities aligned with your objectives.
Highlight Leadership Positions : If you’ve held leadership roles, elaborate on the duties and responsibilities associated with those positions. This demonstrates initiative, management skills, and responsibility.
Name Your Role Models : Mention who has motivated you or had a significant impact on your life. You could quote them if their words tie into the overall theme of your essay.

The scholarship committee is seeking a worthy cause, so illustrate how supporting your dreams aligns with their values.

Proofread attentively, ensuring your scholarship essay is clear, persuasive, and free of errors.

By following these tips, your answer to “why you deserve this scholarship” may compel the committee to acknowledge you as a deserving scholarship recipient.

Tips on Answering “Why Do I Deserve a Scholarship?”

It’s essential to frame your achievements on a scholarship application not as bragging, but showcasing your capability and motivation.

Acknowledge that your need, while genuine, isn’t to beg but to highlight how the scholarship helps you overcome your challenges.

Here are the best ways to do this!

1. Understanding the Scholarship Essay Question

Understanding the essay question, “Why do I deserve this scholarship?” is crucial for drafting a compelling response. Don’t see it as a mere requirement but as an opportunity to make your case convincingly and uniquely.

2. Focusing on the Future: How Scholarships Support Career Goals

Scholarships aren’t just about avoiding student debt, they’re stepping stones towards your future career. Discuss how this scholarship will facilitate your long-term educational goals and broader contributions to society.

3. Aligning Your Interests: Tailoring Your Answer to the Scholarship’s Purpose

Research the organization offering the scholarship. If it’s associated with a specific field or honors a certain individual, tailor your response to reflect alignment with the scholarship’s purpose or values.

4. Crafting a Story: The Importance of Using Specific Examples

Generalizations rarely make an impact. Instead, use specific examples from your life that highlight your attributes. Show the judges your qualities rather than just telling them.

5. Showcasing Kindness: Illustrating Personal Attributes with Real-Life Instances

Demonstrate your kindness, selflessness, or commitment to community service through real experiences. A story that shows your empathy and care can set you apart from the crowd.

6. Overcoming Challenges: The Art of Displaying Resilience in Scholarship Essays

Sharing how you’ve overcome obstacles shows your resilience and problem-solving skills, characteristics highly valued by scholarship committees. Highlight your ability to turn challenges into opportunities.

7. Striking a Balance: Sharing Past Struggles without Dwelling on Them

While it’s important to share past struggles, the focus should be on your resilience and how you’ve overcome these challenges. It’s not about evoking sympathy, but about demonstrating your strength and determination.

8. Ensuring Success: Proving Your Potential through Past Experiences

Showcase your potential for success by drawing on past experiences that demonstrate your commitment and determination. The more convincingly you can argue this, the more likely you are to secure the scholarship.

9. Utilizing the Word Count: Maximizing Your Space for Maximum Impact

Using the maximum word limit allows you to provide a detailed and compelling response. Don’t write less than the limit and don’t exceed it. Every word is an opportunity to persuade the committee.

10. Conclusion: Effectively Conveying Why You Deserve the Scholarship

Wrap up your essay by summarizing your key points. Reiterate your passion, commitment, and potential, leaving a lasting impression of why you indeed deserve the scholarship.

Wrapping up – applying for a scholarship

Applying for a scholarship involves more than just financial need or exceptional grades.

It’s about convincing the selection committee that you not only align with their mission and values but that you also bring unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates.

It’s about sharing your life’s journey, demonstrating your resilience, and illustrating how the scholarship will help you in furthering your education, achieving your career goals, and making a difference in your community.

Your scholarship essay should be a blend of your aspirations, achievements, personal struggles, and the difference you aspire to make. It should give a compelling answer to the question, “Why do I deserve this scholarship?”

Your response should showcase your commitment, determination, and the potential for success you’ve demonstrated through your academic or career experiences so far.

Applying for scholarships can seem daunting, but with a bit of time, effort, and using the tips provided in this blog, you can craft a winning scholarship essay that resonantly answers “Why I deserve this scholarship?”.

Always remember, it’s not just about whether you think you’re deserving but being able to effectively communicate this to the scholarship committee.

So, take the leap, believe you deserve to win, and put forth your best self in your application.

Best of luck with your journey!

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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Scholarship Essay Writing

Scholarship Essay Examples

Winning Scholarship Essay Examples for Students: Tips Included

37 min read

Published on: Mar 14, 2021

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

Scholarship Essay Examples Financial Need

Why this scholarship essay worked.

This scholarship essay example effectively conveys the applicant's financial need and their determination to overcome the challenges associated with it. Here's why this essay worked:

Personal Storytelling: The essay begins with a personal anecdote that establishes a connection between the applicant's background and financial constraints. This helps create empathy and demonstrates the genuine impact of financial challenges on their educational journey.
Resilience and Resourcefulness: The applicant showcases their resilience and resourcefulness in navigating financial hardships. They highlight their proactive approach to seeking part-time employment and actively pursuing scholarships.
Academic Commitment: Despite the financial strain, the applicant emphasizes their commitment to academic excellence by maintaining a high GPA. This showcases their dedication and ability to prioritize their studies amidst challenging circumstances.
Community Involvement : The essay also highlights the applicant's involvement in community service. This demonstrates their desire to give back and make a positive impact.
Connection to Scholarship: The applicant clearly articulates how receiving the scholarship would benefit them. This demonstrates a strong alignment between their goals and the purpose of the scholarship.

Want more examples, check out these winning scholarship essay examples.

Financial Aid Scholarship Essay

Scholarship Essay for Financial Need

Scholarship Essay Examples About Yourself

Why this essay worked.

This scholarship essay worked for several reasons, such as:

It effectively showcases the applicant's passion for mathematics, community engagement, and resilience.
It compellingly conveyed the applicant's dedication, ambition, and potential for making a positive impact. This makes them a deserving candidate for the scholarship.
Clear connection to the scholarship's goals and how it would further the applicant's educational journey and impact.

Here are some scholarship essay examples about yourself; get an idea from them, and create a successful essay.

Scholarship Essay Example About Yourself

Scholarship Essay About Yourself

Scholarship Essay Examples for Nursing

Why this essay worked.

This essay worked due to its compelling portrayal of the applicant's genuine passion for nursing, coupled with their unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in patient care.

The essay effectively demonstrates the applicant's well-rounded preparation for a nursing career and their clear alignment with the goals and mission of the scholarship, making them a strong candidate for consideration.

Below are some more examples of scholarship essays for nursing.

Nursing Scholarship Essay

Scholarship Essay for Nursing

Scholarship Essay Examples About Career Goals

This essay worked for the following reasons:

Clear and Specific Career Goals: The essay effectively outlines the applicant's career goal of becoming a clinical psychologist specializing in mental health support. The clarity and specificity of the goal demonstrate a well-defined path and a strong sense of purpose.
Demonstrated Preparation and Commitment: The essay showcases the applicant's comprehensive preparation for their career goals. It also demonstrates their readiness and dedication to excel in the field.
Alignment with Scholarship Objectives: The essay effectively highlights how the scholarship will contribute to the applicant's career aspirations. This includes attending conferences, workshops, and advanced training programs.

If you find difficulty writing the scholarship essay about career goals, get help from the below-mentioned examples, and submit a well-written essay.

Scholarship Essay Examples About Leadership

Three reasons why this essay worked are:

Demonstrated Leadership Experience : This essay effectively highlights the applicant's practical experience in leadership roles, showcasing their ability to lead teams, organize events, and coordinate volunteers.
Commitment to Personal Growth : The essay demonstrates the applicant's proactive approach to leadership development by seeking formal training and participating in workshops focused on honing their skills.
Emphasis on Collaboration and Empowerment: The essay emphasizes the applicant's belief in collaborative leadership. It promotes inclusivity and empowers team members to contribute their unique perspectives.

Here we gather some good scholarship essay examples about leadership that help in your writing.

Leadership Scholarship Essay Example

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Scholarship Essay Examples About Community Service

Here are the reasons:

Genuine Passion and Commitment: The essay effectively conveys the applicant's genuine passion for community service, highlighting their long-standing involvement and the transformative impact it has had on their life.
Integration of Service with Education: The essay demonstrates the applicant's proactive approach to integrating their passion for community service with their educational pursuits.
Aspiration for Social Change: The essay goes beyond personal experiences and highlights the applicant's aspirations for broader social change.

Here is an excellent community service scholarship essa y that can help you write for community college.

Scholarship Essay Example about Community Service

High School Scholarship Essay Examples

Clear and Convincing Goals: The essay effectively communicates the applicant's strong desire to pursue higher education despite financial constraints.
Demonstrated Leadership and Well-Roundedness: The essay showcases the applicant's involvement in extracurricular activities. It highlights their ability to balance academic responsibilities with active participation in clubs, sports teams, and community service initiatives.
Emphasis on Giving Back and Community Engagement: The essay not only focuses on the applicant's personal aspirations but also highlights their commitment to giving back to their community.

The following are the best high school scholarship essay examples, use this for your help, and write an attention-grabbing essay.

Scholarship Essay Example for High School

Scholarship Essay for High School

Scholarship Essay Examples for University

Why this essay works.

Three reasons why this essay works are:

Strong Personal Motivation: The essay effectively communicates the applicant's unwavering commitment and determination to pursue a university education.
Articulation of Long-Term Goals and Social Impact: The essay goes beyond highlighting the applicant's academic achievements and financial needs. It emphasizes the applicant's desire to contribute to their community and make a positive impact on society.
The connection between Scholarship and Applicant's Potential: The essay effectively illustrates how receiving the scholarship would directly address the financial burden. Plus, it will enable the applicant to fully embrace the university experience.

Here are some excellent scholarship essay examples for university students that help you in writing the essay.

Scholarship Essay Example for University Students

Scholarship Essay Examples for Engineering

This essay worked because of the following reasons:

Passion and Commitment: The essay effectively conveys the applicant's deep passion for engineering. It also shows their genuine commitment to making a positive impact in this field.
Alignment with Scholarship Objectives: It clearly establishes the connection between the scholarship and the applicant's goals in engineering.
Future Impact and Growth: It also communicates the applicant's aspiration to contribute to the field of engineering and make a positive difference in the world.

The following is another scholarship essay example that can help you in creating the perfect essay on your own.

Scholarship Essay Examples for Masters

This essay worked for several reasons:

Clear Purpose and Goal: The essay effectively conveys the applicant's clear purpose and goal of pursuing a master's degree. It highlights the transformative impact that a master's degree can have on personal and professional growth.
Financial Need and Scholarship Alignment : The essay addresses the financial challenges associated with pursuing a master's degree. It demonstrates the direct alignment between the scholarship and the applicant's needs.
Impact and Giving Back : The essay goes beyond personal aspirations and emphasizes the applicant's intention to make a broader impact on their community and society.

Here is an example that you can use as a guide and write a perfect scholarship essay.

Why Should You Receive this Scholarship Essay Examples

Three brief reasons why this essay worked are:

Clear and Convincing Arguments : The essay presents concise and compelling arguments to support the applicant's case for receiving the scholarship.
Personal Connection : It demonstrates how receiving the scholarship would directly impact the applicant's academic journey
Gratitude and Future Commitment : It expresses sincere gratitude for the opportunity and emphasizes the applicant's commitment to making the most of the scholarship.

Here is an example, take help from them for your scholarship essay.

Why Should You Receive this Scholarship Essay Example

Why I Deserve This Scholarship Essay Examples

Compelling Personal Story: The essay effectively presents the applicant's personal story and highlights their dedication and commitment to their education
Addressing Academic Excellence and Financial Need : The essay successfully addresses both academic excellence and financial need, which are two crucial aspects considered by scholarship committees.
Commitment to Making an Impact: The essay goes beyond the applicant's personal goals and emphasizes their dedication to making a positive impact in their community.

Hereâs another example for this scholarship essay below:

Why I Deserve This Scholarship Essay Example

Tips for Writing the Effective Scholarship Essay

When it comes to writing an effective scholarship essay, there are several key tips to keep in mind.

By following these guidelines, you can maximize your chances of standing out and impressing scholarship selection committees.

Here are some essential tips to help you craft a compelling scholarship essay:

Understand the Prompt

Take the time to thoroughly understand the essay prompt or topic provided by the scholarship provider. Pay attention to any specific instructions or guidelines given.

Research the Scholarship

Familiarize yourself with the organization or institution offering the scholarship. Understand their values, mission, and objectives. This knowledge will help you align your essay with their goals and demonstrate your fit for the scholarship.

Tell Your Unique Story

Use the essay as an opportunity to showcase your personal experiences, like obstacles you might encounter, achievements, and aspirations. Highlight what sets you apart from other applicants. Be authentic and genuine in conveying your story, like overcoming personal failures.

Start with a Compelling Introduction

Grab the reader's attention from the beginning with a strong and captivating introduction. Consider starting with a compelling anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful statement.

Structure Your Essay

Organize your essay into a clear and logical structure. Start with an introduction, followed by body paragraphs that support your main points, and end with a concise and impactful conclusion.

Be Concise and Specific

Scholarship essays often have a word or character limits, so make every word count. Be concise in your writing and avoid unnecessary fluff. Focus on providing specific examples and details that support your claims.

Showcase Your Achievements

Highlight your academic accomplishments, extracurricular involvements, community service, leadership roles, or any other relevant achievements. Link them to the values and goals of the scholarship.

Address the Selection Criteria

Ensure that your essay addresses the selection criteria specified by the scholarship provider. If they are looking for specific qualities or skills, tailor your essay to showcase how you possess those attributes.

In conclusion, writing an effective scholarship essay is a crucial step in securing the financial aid you need for your education.

By following the tips outlined here, you can enhance your essay-writing skills and create a compelling narrative that captivates scholarship selection committees.

Be authentic, concise, and specific in your writing. Tailor your essay to align with the values and objectives of the scholarship provider. And above all, believe in yourself and your potential to make a difference through education.

If you're seeking further guidance and support in your scholarship essay writing journey, consider partnering with our AI essay writing tools !

We also have a team of experienced and professional essay writers who can provide personal essay writing service with valuable insights.

Hire our college paper writing service today and take the next step towards securing the financial aid you deserve.

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Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Scholarship Essay Examples

With college tuition costs rising each year, many students apply for merit scholarships to help make college more affordable. However, merit scholarships can be competitive—and that’s where our scholarship essay examples come in. By reading our scholarship essay examples, you can learn what it takes to write an award-winning essay.

Scholarships are an excellent opportunity for students to lessen their college tuition costs. Most merit scholarships require a brief application, usually including one or more essays. Below, we’ve rounded up our best scholarship essay examples.

Reading winning scholarship essay examples, especially scholarship essay examples about yourself, can help you begin the scholarship essay process. By reviewing essay examples, you can learn how to craft a strong essay. You’ll also get a better sense of what scholarship committees look for when they review applications.

In this guide to Scholarship Essay Examples, you’ll find tips on how to write the best scholarship essay, as well as:

Various scholarship essay examples about yourself
A strong scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship
Scholarship essay examples about financial need, and more!

We’ve included scholarship essay examples specific to schools, including UC Berkeley, as well as specific programs, like the SHPE scholarship. We’ll also discuss the different types of scholarships you’ll find on your scholarship search.

Now, before we jump into our essay examples, let’s learn more about getting scholarship money for college.

What is a scholarship essay?

A scholarship essay is an essay you’ll include in your merit scholarship applications. In many ways, your scholarship essays might resemble your college essays. So, the scholarship essay format should seem familiar.

The best scholarship essays will highlight who you are and why you deserve money for college. Scholarship essay prompts will ask you to include various information, from details about your background to explanations of why you deserve a scholarship.

Crafting a compelling, well-written essay can help you win substantial financial awards to help cover your college tuition costs. However, not all scholarship essays are the same. Later on, we’ll review different winning scholarship essay examples to show you what kind of essays you’ll write in your application process.

Types of Scholarships

There are many different types of scholarships available to students. You can find a variety of scholarship opportunities on scholarships websites. The earlier you start your scholarship search, the more scholarships you’ll find.

While some scholarship applications accept applicants of all backgrounds and abilities, some have very specific eligibility guidelines. So, you may not be eligible for every scholarship. If you’re not sure whether or not you’re eligible, you can find eligibility information on most scholarships websites.

Here are a few different scholarship types you may come across in your scholarship search:

Academic scholarships
Merit scholarships
Essay competitions
Community service scholarships
Military scholarships

Scholarship essay prompts will differ across programs. As you’ll see in our winning scholarship essay examples, the prompts can vary in word count and complexity. We’ll provide you with descriptive essay examples to help you get an idea of what to expect.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Most scholarships we’ll highlight in this article are merit-based scholarships . A merit-based scholarship is money awarded by a college or community organization based on your academic achievements.

In contrast, a need-based scholarship is awarded based on a student’s financial need. If you are applying for financial aid, be sure to check out our scholarship essay examples about financial need. You’ll find both merit- and need-based scholarships on your scholarship search.

To qualify for a merit-based scholarship, you generally must meet specific criteria. Scholarship committees look at your grades, academic achievements, extracurriculars, and even test scores. Need-based scholarships can have similar requirements, but they’re primarily concerned with your family’s financial status.

There are many merit-based scholarships available to help students afford college, including:

National merit scholarships
Gates Scholarship
Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship
Robertson Scholarship

Check out our guides on these popular merit-based scholarships for more details. There, you’ll find tips on how to write a winning essay. Our descriptive essay examples can also help prepare you to apply to these programs After all, while prompts vary, the scholarship essay format remains fairly standard.

Finding scholarships

In this guide, we’ll highlight some scholarships you may be eligible for. However, make sure to check out the rest of our resources to help you approach the scholarship search.

Some scholarships we’ll discuss include:

QuestBridge scholarship : helps low-income students attend elite colleges
Park scholarships : for students attending NC State University
SHPE scholarship : offers financial assistance for Hispanic students interested in STEM degrees.

Scholarship essay examples about financial need will help you prepare for your scholarship applications. For instance, if you apply for the SHPE scholarship, you’ll include a lot of details about your background.

You can also use scholarship search portals or scholarships websites to find other scholarships you may be eligible for.

How do you write a scholarship essay?

While scholarship essay prompts may differ, you’ll usually stick to the same general scholarship essay format.

One resource that can help you write the best scholarship essays and find money for college is Sallie Mae. Sallie Mae is a private lender offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional student loans. They also grant scholarships and provide aspiring college students with a scholarship search portal on their scholarships websites. Here’s what they have to say about having a winning scholarship essay format.

Organization

When writing a scholarship essay, it’s best to start with a scholarship essay format that organizes your thoughts. This will allow you to follow a plan that clearly and concisely gets your points across. You should begin your essay with a solid introduction. Then, introduce your supporting arguments and add an appropriate conclusion.

A good scholarship essay clearly states why you deserve to win money for college with evidence to back up your argument. You’ll see how to do this in our scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. The best scholarship essays will be original and honest. It should be written in an inspirational and positive tone, highlighting your strengths and capabilities.

When you feel like you have put your best foot forward, you should ask others for their feedback. This can be from a teacher, counselor, or one of our advisors here at CollegeAdvisor! Proofread your final essay and make sure you’ve caught any spelling and grammatical errors before submitting your application.

Up next, we’ll get into our descriptive essay examples and the different scholarship essay prompts they responded to.

By looking at scholarship essay examples, you can learn what exactly makes a good essay. So, let’s look at some descriptive essay examples written by students looking to secure money for college.

First, we will walk you through scholarship essay examples about yourself. Then, we’ll look at a scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. Lastly, we will provide you with scholarship essay examples about financial need. Remember to keep these scholarship essay examples in mind when writing essays of your own!

Scholarship Essay Examples About Yourself

Let’s take a closer look at some scholarship essay examples about yourself.

Scholarship essay prompts vary quite a bit, so make sure you understand what the prompt really asks of you. That way, you can answer the question or address the prompt in its entirety.

Some scholarship essay prompts may ask how the scholarship will make a difference for you. They may also ask about any contributions you have made to your community.

Ready to look at some winning scholarship essay examples? Check out these scholarship essay examples below.

The first of our scholarship essays is for Phi Sigma Rho. Here’s the prompt:

How do you promote Phi Sigma Rho and STEM on your campus or in your community? (300 words Max)

Phi sigma rho scholarship essay.

In my campus and community, I strive to promote Phi Sigma Rho and STEM by promoting Phi Rho’s values and sharing my experiences and passion for Phi Rho.

My involvement in the Women in Engineering Program (WEP) and Society of Women Engineers (SWE) has allowed me the opportunity to promote Phi Rho and STEM. These activities have given me insight into how to successfully create a network that will support and encourage women in engineering to continue their careers.

Within WEP, I served as a sophomore orientation leader (Envoy), mentoring first-year women and assisting with program logistics. As an envoy, I was able to promote Phi Rho ideals of friendship and encouragement. I was also able to informally recruit for Phi Rho by sharing my experiences and passion for the sorority.

Within SWE, I was the Internal Relations Chair my freshmen year and am the Director of Member Engagement this year. Both roles are related to member engagement, allowing me to promote friendship within engineering. Member engagement is important for creating a community among female engineers. Similar to my envoy position, my leadership within SWE has allowed me to share my love for Phi Rho.

Additionally, my volunteer experience with Engineering Ambassadors (EA), a STEM outreach group, has allowed me to promote STEM in the community. In EA, I give presentations on engineering, speak on panels, and lead hands-on activities for K-12 students. EA has taught me strategies to promote STEM to children and teenagers.

Because of Phi Sigma Rho, I have the confidence to inspire and encourage the next generation of female engineers. I hold the values of scholarship, friendship, and encouragement in the highest regard and strive to embody those in every leadership position and volunteer role. Through SWE, WEP, and EA, I have promoted Phi Sigma Rho, its values, and STEM as a whole in both my campus and community.

This is, in many ways, a scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. The writer clearly highlights how they’ve engaged with Phi Sigma Rho and how their values align with those of the organization. The writer also provides specific examples of their leadership positions, skills, and accolades.

The next two of our scholarship essay examples about yourself are for the SHPE scholarship. Here they are:

SHPE Scholarship essay example #1

Essay prompt:.

Summarize your life experiences and any challenges that have impacted your path to higher education. (250 Words)

Essay Example:

I vividly remember the first day of First Grade because I didn’t know the Pledge of Allegiance like the rest of my classmates. Growing up in a Hispanic household, I had never learned what the pledge was. This was the beginning of several years of disconnect.

From receiving weird looks when I told classmates my family opened Christmas gifts at midnight, to my parents’ confusion when I didn’t want them to speak Spanish in public, both sides of my life never understood the other. As a result, I always felt out of place in school, like I was behind in some way because I didn’t share the same upbringing as my classmates. In contrast, academics felt like a level playing field, something we were all learning together in the same way.

While I couldn’t tell you who won the super bowl, I could do mathematics or read just as well, if not better, than my classmates. Socially, I always felt out of place, but academically I was always comfortable, and as a result, I tried to excel in that area of my life. That desire to succeed created the relentless work ethic I have today and the appreciation I have for education.

Despite the lack of emphasis from my parents on schoolwork, I developed this sense of responsibility and persistence to pursue an education. Although my family’s Hispanic culture made my life difficult when I was younger, it made me a more resilient person.

More scholarship essay examples

Shpe scholarship essay example #2.

Discuss your educational and career aspirations as well as your ability to complete and achieve these goals. (250 words)

Using a degree in engineering, I hope to work on improving sustainability and efficiency in the aerospace industry by creating cheaper, safer, and more environmentally-conscious options.

Recently, Pratt and Whitney designed an engine that is 16% more efficient and will release 3600 less metric tons per airplane per year. Excitingly, it also greatly reduces the noise footprint of an airplane. Innovations like these will allow the aerospace industry to evolve and improve while reducing negative environmental impact. I hope to work at the forefront of this innovation, pushing the boundaries of improved engine performance and efficiency.

Last semester, I started working in the Experimental and Computational Convection Laboratory on campus to learn more about turbines. Some current projects in the lab involve new turbine cooling techniques and additive manufactured heat exchangers. Throughout the course of my undergraduate career, I hope to learn more about the barriers facing improved engine and turbine efficiency. Following undergraduate, I plan to attend graduate school to gain a deeper knowledge of these topics. Following graduate school, I may go into industry working on turbines and jet engines. Due to beginning research early, I believe graduate school is an attainable educational goal.

The potential ability to make a difference in the environmental impact of the aerospace industry is exciting. To accomplish this, I know studying Mechanical Engineering will give me the skills necessary to fulfill my career goals.

Both of these scholarship essay examples use specific details to highlight the writer’s strengths, experiences, and accolades. In reading these winning scholarship essay examples, we get a sense of who the writer is both as a person and as a student.

Scholarship Essay Sample about “Why I deserve the scholarship”

Another scholarship essay prompt you may come across is “why I deserve this scholarship.” A good scholarship essay clearly highlights why you deserve to win the scholarship and provides evidence to support your argument.

Below, you’ll find scholarship essay samples about why I deserve the scholarship. You can use these as a guide to help you tackle your own scholarship essays.

Here’s the first of our scholarship essay examples, which was used for the Park Scholarship:

The Park Scholarship is an investment in the potential of young people. It prepares scholars to make lifelong contributions to communities, states, nations, and the world. Tell us a story that illustrates your potential to make these lifelong contributions. (What have you done that should compel us to invest in you?) (Max. 3,990 characters including spaces.)

Park scholarship essay example.

Coming from a Venezuelan family, I have always been able to connect with total strangers through Spanish. Whether I’m eating at a restaurant or volunteering, I am constantly stumbling upon other Spanish speakers. The ability to converse in their language allows me to bond with them in a way I couldn’t in English, something I do not take for granted.

Because of my experience, I believe that learning a foreign language is an incredibly important skill. Being able to speak in a second language allows a person to understand another community and reach out to people within that community. Additionally, speaking a second language assists in appreciating other cultures. This appreciation is important for fostering open-mindedness, something America as a whole struggles with today.

In my school district, foreign language classes are not offered until late middle school. Once in high school, many students drop the class. In addition, those who stay in the class often find that the classes provide little more than a basic understanding of the language and then become discouraged in their learning. On a larger scale, this issue affects America as a whole. Second language programs often come second in terms of funding and planning and are not encouraged as rigorously as other academic courses. As a result, many Americans are ignorant to the benefits of bilingualism and are unable to understand the viewpoint of those who are multilingual.

After my freshman year of high school, my frustration with my community’s lack of priority for second language learning culminated in my desire to take some sort of action to promote foreign language education. In my sophomore year, a classmate and I created and ran an introductory Spanish program, Spanish in the Spring, at my local library for young children in the district. I spent hours at home creating lesson plans, activities, themes, and advertisements for the program. I placed heavy emphasis on cultural aspects and the importance of the Spanish language in America and the world as a whole.

My purpose for this program was to introduce children at a young age to learning a foreign language, so their desire to learn would continue throughout their life. Through the program, I was also able to share my belief of the importance of learning a second language with the children, as well as their parents. After the final day of the program, I was thrilled when one parent mentioned their desire to learn a foreign language program themself. I felt that if I made an impact on one person or family, the entire program was worthwhile.

Unfortunately, this past spring I was unable to continue the Spanish in the Spring program due to library scheduling restraints. However, I hopefully plan to offer the program again this spring with some changes that will improve and expand the experience. One of these changes will include the immersion of parents into the experience to encourage foreign language education as a family activity.

While this program was only offered once, the impact was immeasurable, for the children, for the cause of foreign language education, and for me.

This is another scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship. In it, the writer clearly and directly answers the prompt—that is, they highlight their potential to make a lifelong impact on members of their community.

Ready for another scholarship essay example? Here’s the next one:

How will a ScholarSHPE impact your life and education? (200 Words)

Shpe scholarship essay example.

Receiving a ScholarSHPE will give me the gift of time and opportunities. My parents are unable to support me financially throughout college due to large amounts of accrued debt. A ScholarSHPE will reduce my financial stress and allow me to improve my overall health as a result. It will also prevent the need to work several hours a week at a part-time job to pay for tuition, books, and living expenses, which will limit what I can do academically and outside of class. A ScholarSHPE will allow me to spend more time on research pursuits, engineering extracurriculars, volunteer work, and school work, instead of long hours at a part-time job.

This essay sample is fairly straightforward. In it, the writer follows a clear scholarship essay format, explicitly answering the prompt.

UC Berkeley Scholarships essay examples

Let’s look at some school-specific merit scholarship essay examples.

At the University of California – Berkeley , students can apply for a variety of merit scholarships. These scholarships can help offset the cost of UC Berkeley tuition.

Below, we’ve included various scholarship essay examples for the UC Berkeley scholarships. These UC Berkeley scholarships can help students cover their college tuition costs. This can make the UC Berkeley tuition less of a barrier for students hoping to attend.

You’ll find a variety of UC Berkeley scholarships that can help you afford UC Berkeley tuition. Available UC Berkeley scholarships include:

Berkeley Undergraduate Scholarship
Fiat Lux Scholarship
Middle Class Scholarship
Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship

These are just a few ways to cover the cost of UC Berkeley tuition. UC Berkeley students also receive more than $10 million per year in outside scholarships to cover college tuition costs. If you are interested in exploring non-UC Berkeley scholarships, check out this list of outside scholarship resources .

To help you get started, check out our winning UC Berkeley scholarship essay examples. The authors of these scholarship essay examples about financial need all won money to help cover their UC Berkeley tuition.

UC Berkeley scholarship essay examples

I am grateful to realize how fortunate I am today. All the loved ones around me and their acts of kindness have given me such a great life. I also realize the sacrifices that those around me have had to give up in order for me to succeed. It is because of this that I have realized what “paying it forward” truly means. I have been given the opportunity to make an impact in my community and I have fully taken advantage of this opportunity. I have been a volunteer for the Buddyball Sports Organization, which is a non-profit sports organization dedicated to providing the opportunity for children with developmental disabilities to play sports.

Growing up, watching and playing sports has been one of my greatest pleasures of life, so teaching these less fortunate kids has been something I have enjoyed doing every single weekend. On top of this, I am also both a volunteer at the South Orangetown Ambulance Corps and the Nyack Hospital. With the desire to pursue a career in the medical field, volunteering at these places has given me a great idea of what my career could look like in the near future. While all of these volunteer activities have had a significant impact on me, little did I know that this summer would truly make a lasting difference in my life.

This past summer, my family decided to go on a vacation to India to visit my relatives. This was the first time in my life that I was going to India and this was only because my grandmother came down with Parkinson’s disease and was extremely sick. Little did I know at that time that my visit to India would be a life-changing experience. Never could have I imagined such a filthy village. Everywhere I looked, there was garbage and to make matters worse, no one seemed to do anything to try to ameliorate the repugnant image of my home country.

While I realized on my flight home that I was not going to be able to make a difference and help my community back in India, there was nothing stopping me from doing so right here in Rockland County, New York. When I was told that I would have the opportunity to help organize and direct “Make a Difference Rockland,” I joyfully accepted! Make a Difference Rockland is a free public meet and greet for all local non-profits and other government agencies in an attempt to promote different community service opportunities within the public. By gathering all the local non-profit organizations and giving them a chance to present themselves, people learn more about all of the local community service opportunities that are available to them. This way, the community will be able to recruit volunteers and will not have to suffer through calamitous conditions.

As one of the people in charge of organizing, it was my responsibility to adequately contact, invite and help prepare for hundreds of people. Once I gathered their contact information, I had to ask each one of these places if they would be interested in joining the fair. If interested, I had to also prepare a table for them to present themselves at the fair. The feeling of bringing all of these community service groups together brought me a feeling of happiness that I will never forget.

The best scholarship essays will teach the reader about who the writer is, what they care about, and why they deserve a scholarship. The essay above does just that—it highlights the writer’s background and describes how they give back to their community.

Next, let’s dig into a few more scholarship essay examples.

If you’re interested in more descriptive essay examples, keep reading.

Reading a ton of winning scholarship essay examples is a great way to pick up on what makes them winners. Over time, you’ll start to notice how the details, tone, and flow all work together to tell a story.

Below, you’ll find a few more scholarship essay examples. Our first one is from the NC Parks Scholarship. Here’s the prompt:

What do you do to serve your community? Why do you do the service that you do? What impact have you made? What challenges or insights have your service contributions given you? (Max. 3,990 characters including spaces.)

Community-focused scholarship essay example #1.

“What are the boys like in high school?” “Is it easy to get a boyfriend?” Sighing, the other frustrated leaders and I look at each other as we read the questions posed by the younger girls. Every year at Girls’ Night Out (GNO), a program that introduces and prepares eighth-grade girls for high school, the girls question the leaders about relationships and dating ad nauseum, irritating other leaders to the point of ignoring the questions.

Giving each question a careful and deliberate answer is often difficult, but instead of disregarding the issue, I try to offer my most sincere and honest advice. Originally, when I began as a group leader in the program I would give the same response, “You shouldn’t worry about boys. Instead, enjoy your friends, and do things you enjoy.” While that advice is true, it is often not the answer that will satisfy the girls. Through many years in the program, I have learned that advice is not “one size fits all”; it must be individualized to the person’s needs. Now, when faced with a question about dating, I respond with more questions before giving “words of wisdom”.

Many times I am able to understand the perspective of the middle school student, allowing me to give advice accordingly. Supplying proper advice about sensitive topics is one of the most impactful parts of GNO. As a role model and positive influence for the girls, I largely impact their ideas and perception of the environment when entering high school. In addition to teaching the students valuable lessons, volunteering at GNO has taught me that various perspectives may present themselves identically. To better understand those around me, it is important that I look beyond the surface for the other person’s viewpoint.

Beyond understanding other viewpoints from GNO, I have learned from other service that understanding a person’s situation is essential for providing exceptional assistance. Through Key Club, I volunteer many times a year at the local food pantry. As a volunteer, I help the recipients “shop” at the small grocery store using a point system. The process takes up a lot of time because shoppers do not always know what they want. Originally I thought this was a poor design. I believed it would be much more efficient to just hand out the food rather than giving out points and shopping with the food pantry recipients.

Upon expressing my opinion to one of the adult food pantry staff, he explained to me that the grocery store aspect of the store taught the recipients life skills. Additionally, by giving them autonomy over what food they “bought”, they retained a sort of independence, an important skill to have if they find themselves above the income level required to use the food pantry.

The next time I volunteered I took note of the skills presented. Budgeting of points, deciding whether or not they needed something, determining the quality of the fruit, and decision-making of choosing extra food or toiletries, were all skills that those above the poverty line have ingrained. For those who have been using food pantries and other assistance for prolonged periods of time, these skills are not so natural. As a result, teaching the people means after they no longer need the services of the food pantry, they have valuable skills necessary for their independence.

From this experience, I learned an important lesson: helping people is not just giving them what they need at the moment, but understanding what they will need in the future and providing that as well. After realizing this, I emphasize the abilities that the food pantry teaches whenever I dedicate my time. By doing that, I am positively affecting the development of those skills.

When reflecting on the various ways I have served my community, one thing stands out to me: I always understand another viewpoint or gain a new perspective afterwards. For me, the ability to look at something from different angles is an unparalleled talent, and one of the most important skills a person can have.

Describe your volunteer or community experience with SHPE or other organizations and any internships you have held. (250 Words)

Community-focused scholarship essay example #2.

In SHPE, I have been involved in planning the Penn State College of Engineering STEP-UP (Student Transition Engineering Program at University Park) Program as a chair. The STEP-UP program helps students from Penn State branch campuses smoothly transition to the University Park campus through a 3-day program in the spring. The program introduces them to engineering resources, other engineering students, and provides professional development. Due to COVID-19, this year it was held virtually.

Within the Society of Women Engineers and the Women in Engineering Program, I have volunteered at different STEM events in the community for elementary school students. I am also currently serving as an Envoy (a mentorship and logistical position) for the Women in Engineering Program Orientation. Additionally, I participate in many of SWE’s service events, such as donating and collecting donations, cleaning up areas on and around campus, and visiting nursing homes.

On campus, I am also involved with Engineering Ambassadors (EA), a group that does STEM outreach around Pennsylvania from the elementary school to high school level. EA goes virtually or in person to schools, does engineering presentations and activities, and answers questions.

Prior to COVID-19, I had secured an internship with Pratt and Whitney, however, they had to cancel their internship program. As a result, I was fortunate enough to obtain a Process Quality Engineering internship at Brentwood Industries for summer 2020.

Both of these scholarship essay examples highlight how the writers have given back to their communities. These winning scholarship essay examples highlight the writers’ strengths. In doing so, they highlight why these writers deserve help with college tuition costs.

Reflecting on scholarship essay format

As important as the content of your essay is, your scholarship essay format is equally important. As you write, be sure to adhere to the scholarship essay format guidelines provided to you.

However, there are some things all of the best scholarship essays have in common. Here are some general tips, tricks, and outlines to help you in your own writing process.

Three scholarship essay writing tips:

Word counts are hard to adhere to, but the other applicants must adhere to them, too. Make sure every word counts.
When you write a solid essay, you can repurpose some of your key points, including specific anecdotes and details, in other scholarship applications.
Writing a good essay helps you solidify who you are and what you want. This sets you up for success in the scholarship application process and beyond.

Three essential elements to include in your essay:

State your goals. Scholarship committees are investing in your future and your potential. To take a chance on you, they need to know your plan and what you want to do with your award.
Establish an implicit or explicit link between your goals and the scholarship you are applying for. Describe to the committee how the specific scholarship will help you attain your goals. Give them a tangible reason as to why you deserve their investment.
Share your story. Use personal details about your experiences that highlight your identity and objectives. How have you pursued your goals and prepared for your future? How will the scholarship help you going forward? Get personal and be honest.

Storytelling in your essay

Some of the best scholarship essays utilize good storytelling strategies. You should share the details of your personal story in a narrative, using a logical order. Remember, telling personal details about yourself and your goals does not mean simply restating your resume!

By the end of the essay, the scholarship committee should have an in-depth sense of why you applied. You should reveal:

When and how you arrived at your future goals
Your motivations to accomplish these objectives
What traits or skills you have developed along the way
The meaningful experiences that drive you to your goals
Any personal challenges you have faced and how you have overcome them
What has shaped you and your worldview

These details humanize you and show your complexity as a person and an applicant. It’s helpful to use anecdotes and personal experiences to give life to facts and details about yourself. Sharing real-life experiences will help make your essay more interesting and more fun to read.

Creating your scholarship essay format

Once you have thought about what you want to say, start thinking about your scholarship essay format. You may start by making a list of what your reader may be interested in:

How you spend your time
Your accomplishments
What your passions are, etc.

Start by brainstorming everything you may want to include in your essay. Then, think about whether the stories you include support your arguments. Ask yourself, “What did I learn?” or “How did this get me closer to my goals?”. These reflections help the reader connect to your purpose for writing.

Make sure to organize your thoughts in a narrative order. However, there isn’t just one way to write an essay. So, don’t limit yourself to one version of your story. You may find yourself writing multiple drafts before you get to your final scholarship essay format.

Editing and proofreading your essay

When you think you have finished, be sure to proofread and edit to ensure it’s ready to be submitted. Check that you’ve adhered to all the scholarship essay format guidelines (like the word count).

Reviewing also includes getting input from others! An outside reader’s opinion can help you confirm your essay effectively communicates your ideas.

Tips for scholarship essays

You may notice some similarities between the scholarship essay examples about yourself we’ve provided. That’s because the authors of the best scholarship essays all use similar strategies to make their essays great.

Here are 5 tips from U.S. News to help you make all of your scholarship essays stand out:

Tips for writing stand-out scholarship essays

1. get personal and be specific.

The best scholarship essays will share an authentic story with impactful details. The key is to be yourself and not shy away from personal details. The more the committee gets to know about you, the more likely they are to invest in your future. You want your essay to offer a genuine, in-depth look into who you are as a person.

2. Tell a story

Your essay should be more than a collection of facts—it should tell a story. That means having a solid introduction that grabs the reader’s attention from the very start. Then, you should include a logical flow of experiences or details. By the end of your essay, you want your reader to have learned something valuable about you.

3. Tailor the scholarship essay to the prompt

Some of your scholarship essay prompts may be similar across different scholarship applications. However, it’s important that your essay is specific to each prompt and answers the question entirely. While you can repurpose an essay you’ve already written as inspiration or a starting point, be extra attentive when doing so.

4. Don’t tailor yourself to the reader

Many students fall into the trap of telling a story they think scholarship foundation committees want to hear. Instead, stay true to yourself as you craft your scholarship application essays. Don’t tell your reader what you think they want to hear—just tell them who you are.

5. Follow directions

This final tip may arguably be the most important. Above all else, students should follow instructions. This means adhering to the scholarship essay format guidelines and word count. It also means answering the essay prompt in its entirety. Application readers can be easily frustrated by a student’s failure to follow directions. This could reflect poorly on you and your essay in the long run.

Use these tips to guide you as you approach the scholarship essay format.

Scholarship Essay Examples – Final Thoughts

We hope our roundup of scholarship essay examples has shown you how to approach your scholarship applications. With rising college costs, scholarships should be a part of your college financial planning process. Take the time to do your own scholarship search based on your specific interests. You can find plenty of scholarships to apply to on scholarships websites and college financial aid pages. There are many different scholarships websites to help you with your search.

Save this guide

Feel free to save this guide and review our scholarship essay examples about yourself and about financial need. You can always look back on our scholarship essay sample about why I deserve the scholarship when writing your own essay.

Start with an outline that organizes your thoughts. Then, make sure your essay is clear and concise. Be original and honest, and include personal details and anecdotes when appropriate. State why you deserve to win the scholarship. Then, support your claim in a way that makes a scholarship committee invested in your future.

How to Write a Scholarship Essay (With Examples)

6-minute read
22nd August 2022

Writing a scholarship essay can seem like a daunting task. For many students , higher education isn’t possible without financial aid, and scholarships are especially valuable because the money awarded doesn’t have to be paid back.

Even though the stakes are high, there are a few manageable steps you can take to ensure you write a great essay to submit with your scholarship applications. We have a few top tips to help you get started, along with writing examples to demonstrate some key points. Check out our guide below to learn more.

A scholarship essay is a great opportunity to present yourself and your accomplishments in an impactful way. It is, therefore, essential to be aware of each scholarship deadline so you can allow sufficient time for the writing process, which typically includes the following:

· Read the essay prompt and brainstorm ideas.

· Create an outline covering the key points you want to address.

· Write a draft and seek feedback from trusted teachers, family, or friends.

· Make any necessary revisions and proofread before submitting your final draft.

Scholarship review committees will be able to tell if you rushed through your essay, so give yourself the best chance of winning an award by staying organized and on schedule!

Who and What?

Researching the scholarship provider and diligently reviewing the essay prompts can help you write an essay that makes you stand out as a top candidate.

1. Who are you writing to?

Learn more about the organization offering the scholarship and why the scholarship fund was created.

For instance, a scholarship may honor its organization’s founder, and the founder’s qualities (e.g., integrity, good citizenship, and leadership) might be the same values guiding the scholarship program as a way to continue the founder’s legacy.

If you identify with any of the same qualities, you can incorporate those keywords into your essay to demonstrate your shared values. Remember to remain authentic, though!

2. What are you writing about?

You must read the essay prompt carefully to identify precisely what you need to accomplish with your essay.

Some prompts ask about your career goals and how you plan to achieve them or your achievements and the challenges you overcame to reach them.

You’ll write about common topics across multiple scholarship applications – some may even be similar to your college admission essay – so you can repurpose your essays as long as you’re diligent about tailoring each one to its prompt.

Your application will likely require other items such as transcripts and test scores, but the essay is your chance to offer something entirely unique. Write about key experiences that highlight who you are and what you’ve accomplished, or you could mention something you’re passionate about.

Remember to follow any specific instructions regarding length and formatting, and be sure to answer all questions listed in the prompt. It can hurt your chances if you’re unable to show the committee that you’re detail-oriented and can follow directions.

Structuring Your Essay

Your essay should follow a standard format that includes a clear beginning, middle, and end. Typically, you should:

· Establish your main idea in the introduction.

· Include a separate body paragraph for each key point that supports your main idea.

· Draw it all together and revisit your main idea in the conclusion.

Scholarship committees read thousands of essays each year. And often, there are hundreds of applicants for an award that can only go to a select few candidates. Writing a powerful introduction and conclusion gives you a chance to make a lasting impression.

1. Introduction

Write an introduction that hooks the reader and encourages them to stay engaged till the end of your essay. Don’t be afraid to add personal, tangible details and an anecdote .

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For example, if you’re writing about your career goals, demonstrate why you’ve chosen that career:

It was the biggest game of the season, and the stands were packed despite the bitter cold. My heart was beating louder than all of the cheers, and I was filled with the anticipation that one more run into the end zone would give us the championship. Everything went silent during that run when the tackle shattered both my leg and my dreams.

My world has always revolved around being an athlete – until one day it couldn’t. I spent many frustrating months rehabilitating, but I got through it because of my dedicated physical therapist, who helped me recover both physically and mentally after a devastating loss. And it was that profound experience that led me to pursue a career in the exercise sciences.

2. Conclusion

The conclusion is the last thing your reader will see, so it’s another opportunity for you to make your essay memorable.

Rather than summarizing with a general statement such as “this is why you should award me a scholarship,” perhaps explain what the financial assistance will help you achieve:

My parents never had the opportunity to go to college, and neither did their parents. I watched them work hard every day just to make ends meet, and I often questioned whether I could achieve anything more. Nevertheless, I spent four years working as hard as I saw my parents work, and I beat the odds by getting accepted to college. A scholarship could be invaluable for me, as it would allow me to attend and be successful without having to worry about finances.

Persuasive Writing

While you don’t want your scholarship essay to be overly informal, you’re certainly allowed to add some creativity and personal details to help persuade your readers.

One of the best ways to do so is by writing with the modes of persuasion ; that is, ethos, pathos, and logos.

Demonstrate your credibility. Use your real-life experiences and interesting details to establish, for example, how you’ve contributed to your community:

I saw how much bullying was impacting so many students at my school, so I founded my high school’s first anti-bullying club and organized campaigns to bring attention to the harm that people can cause one another.

Evoke an emotional response. The “show, don’t tell ” writing technique, which involves using descriptive words when discussing actions and emotions, can be especially useful here:

During one of our first awareness assemblies, the theater was completely silent as I read aloud anonymous stories from students about the scars bullying had left on their lives. Tears were stinging in my eyes as I described the struggles my classmates were facing, but I persevered to give a voice to those who didn’t have one.

Convey your point with reason and facts. Use statistics to demonstrate what you’ve accomplished:

In the first year alone, our club improved students’ feelings of safety and acceptance at our school by 53%.

Proofreading and Editing

Don’t forget the importance of proofreading your essay, as spelling and grammar mistakes can leave a bad impression on your reader. Our expert editors can help ensure your writing is clear, concise, and error-free. Give yourself a better chance at impressing scholarship committees by submitting a free trial document today!

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How To Write A Winning Scholarship Essay (with example)

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

How To Write A Winning Scholarship Essay (with example)

Scholarship essays are an inevitable part of most scholarship applications. Sadly, many qualified students see an essay requirement, think, “I’m not a good writer,” and decide not to apply. Don’t fall into that trap! Learn how to write a winning scholarship essay today!

As a former writing instructor, I know firsthand that anyone can write a winning scholarship essay if they devote the time and effort. Follow the steps below to write an excellent scholarship essay and dramatically increase your chances of winning scholarships!

Take your time

For most people, it’s not possible to write a stellar essay ten minutes before the application deadline. We recommend giving yourself a few hours to write the first draft of your scholarship essay. Ask a friend to read it over or just take some time away, then take another hour to proofread your essay, ideally the next day.

Apply to these scholarships due soon

$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

“Mom to Scholar” Scholarship for Mothers

$40,000 Build a College List Scholarship

“Gutsy Graduate Student” Essay Scholarship

Niche $25,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

“College Here I Come” Essay Scholarship for High School Seniors

“Making Waves” Scholarship for Women

$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

Start with structure.

Remember, the reader is not in your head. A solid essay structure is needed to convey your ideas effectively. Before you begin writing:

Create an outline to map out your idea

Clear topic sentences

Plan for multiple paragraphs, with each paragraph headed by a clear topic sentence for that paragraph’s main point

Transition!

Use a transitional sentence or phrase at the end of each paragraph to connect one idea to the next

Answer the prompt

Nothing will set you back like not responding to the prompt provided. It screams “this person didn’t bother to fully read the directions,” or worse, “this person doesn’t care about what we are asking.”

Read the prompt, and then read it again. This is where giving yourself plenty of time to write comes in handy. Rather than immediately starting to write:

Let the prompt sit with you awhile so that you come up with the best response
Think of the prompt as a question to be answered
Consider your audience while being your authentic self

Related: How to answer scholarship essay questions about your career goals

Start with a hook

Your writing teachers were not joking about the importance of the introductory hook. There are a number of ways to hook the reader, including:

Using startling statistics
Opening with a moving sentence
Making a strong statement

For an example of an engaging hook, say you are writing an essay about social media distraction. Perhaps you could open with:

It might sound odd, but I love my flip phone. In fact, I feel nothing but disdain for that moment stealing villain, the iPhone .

See how you’re already interested in reading on? Effective writing is all about telling an engaging story, and a strong hook is the first step!

Go Deeper: How to start a scholarship essay (with examples)

Don’t forget formatting

Be mindful of any required formatting. This might include a word count or page limit. The application may also specify single or double sentence spacing, using certain fonts, or using a certain format, such as MLA or APA.

Related: What’s the best scholarship essay format?

Show, don’t tell

Finally, no matter what, do your best to tell an engaging story! If given the opportunity, focus on a specific challenge you’ve faced or goal you’ve achieved. As you tell your story, the qualities that make you a great scholarship applicant–your drive, your passion, and your personality–will shine through!

In conclusion?

Speaking of conclusions, don’t end your scholarship application essay with “in conclusion,” which sounds robotic on the page. Instead, think about why what you wrote matters, and remind the reader of just that.

An effective way to bring cohesion to your essay is to refer back to your hook in the closing. For example, if you used that flip phone introduction, your closing might say:

So while some people have 100s of pictures of “experiences” that they were not truly present for, I have lifelong memories stored in my own mind, no extra cloud space required.

Notice how that ending wows? It wraps up your “story” and leaves the reader with a lasting impression of who you are as a person.

Key Takeaways

Having to write an essay may feel intimidating, but we promise that you are more than capable of completing this step of your application
Give yourself plenty of time to sit with the essay prompts and then draft your response
Once you’ve written your essay, ask friends or family to read your work
Most importantly remember to take time to read all the directions about the essay and answer the questions that they are asking you

Final thoughts

For more in-depth instructions on how to conclude your scholarship essay, you can consult our guide on how to end scholarship essays . If you are looking for additional scholarship opportunities, check out our list of top writing & essay scholarships .

Remember, writing scholarship essays is an opportunity to show who you are in a way that test scores and rankings never can. Don’t miss out on winning scholarship awards that you qualify for. Happy writing, all, and don’t forget to apply for all the scholarships you qualify for!

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How to Write a Scholarship Essay (with Examples)

September 27, 2023

How to write a scholarship essay examples

While applying to college, many students are faced with an additional, daunting task: how to write a scholarship essay. Financial need, already a sensitive subject, can become a stressful factor in the process alongside other existential unknowns. Luckily, scholarship essays will not require you to go tiptoeing around the taboo topic of money. Furthermore, most scholarship essay prompts more or less resemble standard supplemental essay questions. The trick then is to make your scholarship essay stand out. The following article and scholarship essay example will offer up pointers for anyone striving to win a college scholarship.

Organizing Scholarship Essays by Prompt

You may feel like melting into a lump of despair when facing a browser full of tabbed scholarships. The best way to avoid getting overwhelmed is to organize and analyze a list of prompts. Why? Because your first goal is not simply to figure out how to write a scholarship essay. Rather, you’ll want to know how to save time while writing complex and relevant scholarship essays.

As you look over the various prompts, you’ll notice that some sound fairly open-ended, while others ask for something quite specific. In response, you should annotate each prompt with thematic keywords. This will help you figure out when you can use the same essay for several prompts.

Your annotated list may look something like the following…

Sample Scholarship Essay Prompts

1) “Explain something that made a big impact in your life.”

Keywords: event , personal development, growth, background

2) “We’re committed to diversifying education abroad by providing funding to students who are typically under-represented in study abroad. Please describe how you and/or your plans for study abroad could be viewed as under-represented.”

Keywords: minority, diversity, identity, study abroad

3) “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”

Keywords: background, identity, interest, talent

Sample Scholarship Essay Prompts, Continued

4) “Please explain a personal hardship or catastrophic life event that you have experienced. How did you manage to overcome this obstacle? What did you learn and how did you grow from it?”

Keywords: event, personal development, growth, challenge, background

5) Describe a change you would like to make in the world. Tell us about how you would plan to make that change, and what obstacles you might encounter along the way.

Keywords: world development, challenge, future

6) “Tell us three things that are important to you. How did you arrive at this list? Will these things be important to you in ten years? Why?”

Keywords: background, values, interest, development, identity, future

Scholarship Essay Prompts ( Continued)

7) “What does it mean to you to be part of a minority community? What challenges has it brought and how have you overcome them? What are the benefits?”

Keywords: minority, community, challenge, growth

8) “Please explain how your experience volunteering and participating in community service has shaped your perspective on humanity. Elaborate on how these experiences have influenced your future ambitions and career choice.”

Keywords: community service, humanity, community, background, future, values, career

9) “Discuss in your essay any challenges or obstacles you have dealt with and overcome in life and how this will help you succeed in college and beyond. Describe how volunteer, community service or extra-curricular activities have shaped who you are today and what it has taught you. May also include future educational plans and career goals.”

Keywords: challenge, future, community service, interests, value, personal growth, career

How to Write a Scholarship Essay through Prompt Analysis

Let’s compare some prompts by keywords. You’ll notice that some prompts have a lot of overlap, such as prompts 1 and 4. Both have event, personal development, growth, and background as keywords . Prompt 4 includes the additional keyword challenge . This prompt explicitly asks you to explain how you have “overcome” a “personal hardship or catastrophic life event.” While prompt 1 is not so specific, it would be easy, even natural, to include this narrative arc in your response. This means depicting how you faced the thing that “made a big impact in your life.” In other words, these two essay prompts, though worded differently, allow you to tell the same story.

Other prompts provide potential overlap. In this case, it’s up to you to find and interpret these moments. You may consider the values, strengths, interests, and experiences you wish to relate. For example, prompts 7, 8, and 9 all mention community through different approaches. While prompt 7 focuses on one’s past involvement in a minority community, prompts 8 and 9 are more future-facing, and don’t mention minorities.

Scholarship Essay Examples (Continued)

Here, your best strategy involves answering prompts 8 and 9 together in a single scholarship essay. To do so, the essay would need to detail “a challenge or obstacle you have dealt with” (9) which has thus “shaped your perspective on humanity” (8). This narrative arc will thus inform your “future” educational and career plans (8 and 9). Note that prompt 9 allows you to mention extra-curriculars. However, I wouldn’t recommend it, since this would make your essay less relevant to prompt 8. After your essay is written, adapt it to align with prompt 7. Consider condensing the part about the future into one final sentence and focusing more on minority aspects of your community.

How to Scholarship Essay Avoid Burnout

The above tactic will allow you to avoid burnout by strategizing your essay approach ahead of time. In turn, you’ll be able to maximize your efforts from the get-go. You’ll also likely find that your essays become more complex and nuanced when you consider several prompts at once.

The next step involves editing. Refer back to the prompt, once you have a draft written. Ask yourself, did I answer the question fully? Do I need to edit this essay further to emphasize a particular point? Do I need to cut the essay down to fit a new word count? Contrarily do I need to bulk it up? If so, are there other essays in my portfolio from which I can borrow material? Strategic editing will allow you to respond to a large number of essays during peak essay-writing season.

Finally, you’ll notice that most essays require a word count between 250 to 600 words. It’s often easier to write a longer essay first. This will allow you to go into greater detail without censoring your ideas. You may find yourself including dialogue, scenery, emotions, and all sorts of other specifics that make an essay personal. As you whittle down this essay to comply with a similar prompt, you’ll want to identify which pieces of the essay do the most work to get your message across. Don’t simply condense everything by eliminating details, for details are often the most memorable aspects of an essay. More on this next.

How to Write a Scholarship Essay Using the Three Fs

The three Fs can be applied to any college essay, though they are particularily useful in scholarship essays. Why? Because the three Fs will enable you to impress readers and beat out other applicants. Ultimately, they’ll help you win financial support. Think of the three Fs as a checklist to go over, once you’ve completed an essay draft. Ask yourself, is my essay fabulous? Flawless? Fearless?

How to Write a Scholarship Essay (Continued)

If your essay is fabulous , it glitters with personality. It is detailed, unique, and does its best to highlight your impressive journey. If your essay lacks a little fab, ask yourself, how can I make this essay more enjoyable and memorable to read? If your essay is flawless , it lacks all spelling, syntactic and grammatical errors. It answers every aspect of the essay prompt, and leaves no room for vagueness or misunderstandings. To avoid flaws, give your essay to several people to proofread. Finally, if your essay is fearless , it is not afraid to get a little vulnerable. This may sound contradictory to the first F. On the contrary, this fearlessness refers to the confidence to tell your own story. A fearless story isn’t afraid to go deep, add complexity, or get emotional. It is unafraid to show why its author deserves a financial boost.

Scholarship Essay Example

Now that we’ve established how to approach the scholarship essay, let’s dive into a scholarship essay example. The scholarship essay below stems from a prompt we saw above: Describe a change you would like to make in the world. Tell us about how you would plan to make that change, and what obstacles you might encounter along the way (500 words).

My generation is growing up in a time of increased global turmoil. We’ve witnessed Brexit, the Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections, a series of refugee crises, and the invasion of Ukraine. It’s easy to liken this moment to Europe in the 1930s, which saw a spike in fascism and propaganda (their version of fake news). Only now, my generation must also contend with the hottest summers on record, raging forest fires, and the beginning of the 6 th extinction. It’s no wonder we deal with it all through increased skepticism and existential dread.

While I don’t have a simple solution, I believe most problems stem from ignorance. Xenophobia and racism, offshoots of ignorance, can be overcome by exposing isolated groups of people to greater diversity. This begins in the classroom. While dictators are hard to dispose of, education provides critical thinking skills, which allow citizens to make informed decisions when electing officials. Finally, developing a willingness to learn at an early age creates an instinct to continue learning throughout life. We desperately need intellectual flexibility if we are going to adapt to the planet’s needs as a world population and put a stop to industry-led fossil fuel burning.

Scholarship Essay Example (Continued)

The change I’d like to make is free, enhanced education for everyone, at every level, from elementary school to post-doctorate research institutes. To do so, I suggest defunding national militaries and channeling this spending into schools. Imagine if 80% of the 877 billion dollars the U.S. military spends annually went into learning. Combating fascism and climate change would look more feasible. And yet, no leader would agree to making their country more vulnerable by relinquishing arms and armies. Change must come from the people.

As the planet continues to heats up, and conflict over land increases, we must work together. The first step towards increased education is communicating this need for education: through journalism, on social media, in the streets. Next, I suggest lobbying politicians for incremental change. Finally, I believe a global grassroots movement to implement future-focused education, led by activists, educators, and philanthropists, would make this theoretical idea a tangible reality.

Last year, my mother, who never received a college education, decided to offer free gardening courses in our backyard. I quickly joined in. While teaching a handful of neighbors how to provide year-round food for pollinators may seem trivial, I’ve already seen positive repercussions. One conservative neighbor has set up an organization that collects and redistributes leftover produce from the markets to refugees. Another neighbor is now teaching middle schoolers how to cook and compost. These efforts have brought unusual strangers together and given visibility to our movement, #futurefocusededucation. I’ve seen it firsthand. The more we educate, the sooner we can combine our knowledge to create solutions.

Scholarship Essay Example Dissected

This scholarship essay succeeds at answering all parts of the prompt. It includes the change the author wants to make, and inevitable obstacles she’d face at the governmental and international level. These obstacles may sound insurmountable. Yet the essay shows that individuals are not powerless to enact change when they work together towards a common goal. The author provides various thoughtful steps we might take in order to prioritize education and peaceful collaboration.

Finally, the author portrays herself as someone personally invested in the political, humanitarian, and environmental state of the world. She proves that she’s already begun to make the changes she wants to see at the microscopic level. Overall, readers of this scholarship essay can see that this student is invested in bettering the world. This student would make for a proactive participant in her academic environment.

What’s Next?

Now that you have some inkling of how to write a scholarship essay and have reviewed of our scholarship essay examples, you may want to delve into more aid-related articles on the College Transitions Dataverse. You can read up on Need-Based Financial Aid Grants , and learn about Selective Colleges with Generous Scholarships . Furthermore, you may want to create your own Scholarship Timeline , in order to stay on top of the various deadlines. Good luck!

Costs & Financial Aid

Kaylen Baker

With a BA in Literary Studies from Middlebury College, an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Translation from Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Kaylen has been working with students on their writing for over five years. Previously, Kaylen taught a fiction course for high school students as part of Columbia Artists/Teachers, and served as an English Language Assistant for the French National Department of Education. Kaylen is an experienced writer/translator whose work has been featured in Los Angeles Review, Hybrid, San Francisco Bay Guardian, France Today, and Honolulu Weekly, among others.

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40+ Reasons Why Scholarships Are Important (According to Experts)

Everyone knows that scholarships are important, but what exactly makes them so valuable?

According to experts, there are many reasons why scholarships are essential tools for students and their families. They can help you pay for college, help you get into the school of your dreams, and so much more.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of scholarships, as discussed by experts in the field.

Iqbal Ahmad

Founder and CEO, Britannia School of Academics

It alleviates the challenges linked with educational and professional spheres

The word “scholarship” has the power to light up every student’s eyes. But why is getting a scholarship important? How do scholarships benefit students? And who can receive a scholarship?

Most students experience stress during their college years due to having to take out large student loans to cover their tuition. They continue to struggle after they graduate to repay those large loans; consequently, they do not view education as a promise of a stable future.

Debt forces struggling students to continue working toward repayment even after they graduate because it causes them to view their education and associated costs as an excruciating nightmare.

A UK or EU student spends, on average, £9,250 annually on tuition, according to the Reddin Survey of University Tuition Fees.

A medical degree costs range from £10,000 to £38,000; it is significantly worse for international students, who may need to use all their life resources to cover such costs.

Most students eventually leave their dream fields and walk away from them with a void in their hearts for the rest of their lives. That’s the reason why getting a scholarship is important for them.

How do scholarships benefit students?

Student scholarship programs provide the wind of cool air in the sweltering tropical days of struggle, and the difficulties multiply several times in the case of international students.

Several scholarships available worldwide, particularly in industrialized nations, support students in pursuing their passions and aspirations .

Related: Why Is Passion Important for Success in Life?

Some scholarships are awarded without regard to a recipient’s background

Some of these scholarships are fully funded. These scholarships are awarded without regard to a recipient’s background. Any student who satisfies the requirements can get the award.

Scholarships increase confidence and self-esteem

The most significant benefit of the student scholarship program is that it increases confidence and self-esteem. Many students’ misgivings about their ability are alleviated after being named to the list of scholarship recipients.

Students no longer have to worry about repaying them after graduation

The student no longer has to worry about paying tuition, taking out student loans, and repaying them after graduation after receiving the scholarship, which is the second benefit.

They can relish the feeling of progressing toward a safe and prosperous future and concentrate on their true objective without worrying about becoming corrupted by the bank. They can work part-time jobs to make their lives more manageable.

However, they will not be under as much pressure to pay off their debts and devote a significant portion of their earnings to debt repayment after graduation.

Why is scholarship important to a community?

Education is one of the most significant issues for immigrants and asylum seekers, struggling financially to establish themselves in a new nation.

According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs , the physiological demands of food , housing , clothing , and safety needs of feeling safe and protected make up the initial priorities of needs.

Therefore, most immigrants or asylum seekers often compromise on quality post-secondary education to meet their necessities.

Scholarships have proven to be one of the few bright spots for communities that are already under financial strain and are overworked. Many scholarships are given to these communities to help alleviate their struggles and suffering.

Scholarships assist the communities in obtaining a quality education

As it is very challenging for some communities and asylum seekers, these scholarships assist them in obtaining a quality education and, eventually, improved career chances.

You may find numerous examples of millionaires who started as asylum seekers but ultimately became millionaires due to their opportunities after receiving scholarships.

You may find numerous examples of millionaires who struggled as students with the challenges of seeking refuge or being an immigrant but later became millionaires thanks to the opportunities they were given after receiving scholarships.

Importance of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarship programs

Many nations worldwide offer financial aid to students pursuing primary and secondary school.

A crisis occurs when a student has to enroll in college or a university or enter the profession they want to work in to further their career or pursue their passion. Universities and colleges impose high tuition fees to sell students’ aspirations.

Scholarships boost the value of a person’s professional skills

Degrees open the doors to certain professions and career progression. Scholarships significantly boost the value of a person’s professional skills and positively affect their professional profile.

If one person holds a medical degree from a reputable university and another has a medical degree from a reputable university sponsored by a scholarship, the second case’s professional profile would then be stronger and more endearing.

Because the skills required for scholarship success also allow for the development of professional networks in addition to academic pursuits.

Students can experience a diverse atmosphere and learn much from it

Furthermore, as scholarships are offered to students of all backgrounds and ethnicities, the student can experience a diverse atmosphere and learn much from it.

Scholarships are also a source of learning because students learn much from their peers.

What impact do scholarships have on the colleges and universities that give them?

Scholarships are advantageous for the institutions that award them and the individuals who receive them.

Scholarships provide access to gain government funding

In addition to being well-known ships and publicity machines, they also provide access to gain government funding and investment opportunities.

Worldwide, the reputation of the organizations offering scholarships is sprouted, which raises the value of their education and degrees .

As a result, students hurry to enroll in these universities even if scholarships are not given since their degrees in their particular fields have become a brand.

Moreover, the studies and publications associated with that university are regarded as legitimate and worthy of consideration on a global scale.

In summary, scholarships play a critical role in a student’s life with the ability to alleviate the majority of the challenges linked with educational and professional spheres.

It is a blessing for everyone who wants to pursue a high-quality graduate or postgraduate study. It is a powerful indicator of a student’s skill and intelligence , and it is the finest approach to recognizing someone who deserves it.

Education is a strong weapon in the grooming and awakening of an individual; scholarships assist folks in obtaining this beautiful gift without the anxiety of financial constraints and the dread of abandoning our aspirations.

Linda Abraham

Founder and CEO, Accepted | Podcast Host, “Admissions Straight Talk” | Co-author, “ MBA Admission for Smarties “

Scholarships allow students to focus on their studies

This is the most crucial reason that scholarships are the best form of financial aid. They allow students to focus on their studies without juggling work and school, depleting their or their family’s savings, or worrying about their debt.

Some scholarships are also prestigious . Being a Fulbright or Rhodes Scholar is an honor as well as a financial award. It adds to one’s resume for a lifetime.

Some scholarships (Like Consortium Fellows, for example) provide networking opportunities , an easier application process , or career opportunities .

It reduces the amount of money students need to borrow or the savings they need to drain

All scholarships reduce or eliminate student debt and work requirements, unlike work/study arrangements or loans. It reduces the amount of money students need to borrow or the savings they need to drain.

Because students who receive scholarships graduate with less or no debt, they can experiment with career options instead of simply choosing the highest paying position. They can perhaps pursue public service or lower-paying but more personally satisfying professional options.

When received by less advantaged students, scholarships give them access to educational opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have and increase social mobility.

Janelle “Jash” Cooper

Travel Content Creator, Joyriding With Jash

It gives students a fighting chance at a real college experience and life

I got paid to go to college in the United States of America. This sentence doesn’t even make sense, but I promise it’s real .

Higher education is notoriously expensive in the US, but somehow, I found a way to do four years of college without paying a dime out of pocket. How did I do it? Scholarships.

As a child, the question of college was never an if but a where. My parents and family instilled the importance of education in me, and I always knew I would go to college. I liked school, and I was good at it too.

Most high schoolers don’t really begin thinking about college until the end of junior year, but that wasn’t the case for me. My college preparation journey started on the first day of junior year.

Many people don’t know that there are college scholarships available for high school juniors, but I did. I began applying for scholarships my junior year and didn’t stop until I graduated.

Over the course of two years, I applied for dozens of scholarships from various funds , organizations , and everything in between. Any scholarship I qualified for, I applied to. Some were for a couple hundred dollars, and others were for tens of thousands. Each one received my application.

During my last two years of high school, I wrote countless essays , requested numerous transcripts , went to a bunch of interviews , and even gave a few speeches here and there too.

An alumna of my high school had been able to not only go to school but get paid to do so through countless scholarships, and that’s all I needed to hear. She was the representation I needed to see to know that it was possible, and all I needed to do was put in the work.

I had busted my ass throughout high school to stay in the top percentage of my class while being a student-athlete and involved in countless extracurricular activities. It was time to turn my experiences and hard work into a full ride to school.

I applied to one college and decided to go there sight unseen. My dream was to go to a historically black college/university in the South and study mechanical engineering.

Through scholarships, I was able to attend Thee Tuskegee University, a private school, without breaking the bank. Tuition, fees, housing, books, and even some pocket money through refunds allowed me to live my best life while securing my degree.

It helps students to attend their dream school

Scholarships made that possible for me because, without them, I would not have been able to attend my dream school without the stress of how I was going to pay for it.

Scholarships changed my life and gave me the financial freedom to chase my dreams. After completing my mechanical engineering degree, I decided to volunteer abroad as an English teacher and what started as a semester abroad turned into three years of traveling and teaching .

The lack of student loans and debts allowed me to take that leap of faith into the unknown to go after the lifestyle I wanted. Now, I’m working completely remotely while slowly traveling the world. I am able to spend my money on the things that make me happy and bring joy to my life, not Sally Mae.

My parents had been saving for me to go to college, but it wasn’t going to be enough for all four years.

This is the same situation many families face in the US because of the astronomical prices for higher education and how unattainable it truly has become without taking out crippling loans or working crazy hours while in school.

It can allow you to go to college without having to work

Scholarships allowed me to go to college for free without having to work to support myself. I was able to have the college experience most people can only dream of because I didn’t have the added stress of financial burdens.

Scholarships are vital because they give students like me a fighting chance at a real college experience and life after graduation. The price of higher education has made college and university nearly impossible for anyone to pay for without finishing with a mountain of debt.

I honestly have no idea how I would’ve paid for school without scholarships, but I’m forever grateful for all the organizations that saw my potential and blessed me with the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Beverly Gearreald

College Counselor and Community Manager, Transizion

It is one of the few ways to transform a life

While not true for all scholarships, need-based scholarships hold a special niche in society because they are one of the few ways to transform a life truly.

Decreasing or eliminating educational debt for students from low-income families improves their ability to save money, buy a house, and generally join the middle class.

Scholarships can help a student with that potential, making the economy stronger by introducing another capable worker and spender.

It makes the recipient feel seen and heard

Receiving a scholarship often makes the recipient feel seen and heard . For students who are marginalized, for whatever reason, it can be hugely affirming to know that a stranger values you and the dreams you have for your life to the point that they are willing to support you financially.

It can bring healing to donors and their families

In turn, people who donate money towards a scholarship can also reap the rewards.

Many scholarships, particularly smaller ones, are done in memory of a child that died before making it to college or in memory of a loved-family member after they lived a full life.

It can bring healing to a family to interact with young students who share their loved one’s goals or ideals. Seeing them being carried onward, even if not by the person they lost, can bring hope and comfort .

Bruce Hanson

Education Wellness Expert, UCLA | CEO, First Choice Admissions

There is an important difference between scholarships and other financial aid. A scholarship is usually awarded because a student has a skill or talent that the college or university would like to bring to campus.

For example, a student might be an exceptional writer, volleyball player, national merit scholar, etc.

Scholarships are essential for a couple of reasons.

It allows schools to reach out to students

First, scholarships allow schools to reach out to talented students to support the growth of specific programs that a school is trying to build or maintain — like sports , robotics , theater , etc.

It also allows students to see that a skill or talent that they have is valued by the school and can be developed if they choose to go to that school.

The school gets the benefit of being able to offer scholarship money

Second, in a world of rising college costs, any avenue for students to be able to access money is a good thing.

Many times, scholarships are sponsored by outside organizations, so the school gets the benefit of being able to offer scholarship money without having to reduce the budget for need-based financial aid.

Finally, I should note (because I get asked all the time) that Ivy League schools do not offer scholarships. All of the money the Ivys provide is strictly need-based.

So the next time your colleague brags about his son or daughter getting a full-ride scholarship to Harvard — you can just smile and nod politely.

Cindy Chanin

Founder, Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring

Scholarships help students to save money

Scholarships are essential in the academic world because they help students save money when they can while giving them more freedom to plan for their future.

Many scholarships are helpful as stepping stones — once you receive one scholarship, you often open additional doors. If you’ve already secured a merit-based scholarship from another source, it lends credibility to your cause.

It helps attract other potential scholarship donors who might want to invest in your education , vocational aspirations , research project , etc.

Scholarships can offset educational costs and living expenses

Scholarships can also substantially offset educational costs and living expenses, alleviating some financial strain and setting you up to feel and be as successful as possible while focusing on the task at hand.

A bunch of smaller scholarships can add up, making your goals and aspirations all the more tangible.

Finally, scholarships can open doors and give you access to:

Related personal mentorship
Specific resources
A cohort of other scholarship recipients and peers
Priority course registration
Pinpointed project counseling
Other educational advantages

Dr. Gloria Pope

Educator | Founder, Black Girl Everything | Author, “ Memoirs of Infertility “

Scholarships take some financial stress off college

There are two significant functions of scholarships. The first invaluable role of scholarships is their ability to take some financial stress off college.

It’s no secret that college is so expensive that the price tag keeps some people, especially Black and Brown students, out of college. Often, students are forced to worry about money on top of their studies, creating unnecessary stress.

Even a few hundred dollars could help a college student decide to move forward with their studies instead of dropping out due to the financial burden.

Debt is a scary thing that many college students have to consider. Scholarships allow them to have more power and control of their finances.

Scholarships offer emotional support

The second role scholarships fill offering emotional support. A scholarship is essentially a vote of confidence. It says, “I see what you are trying to do, and I want to help you do that. Your dreams are important to me, too. I want to help.”

This support is something not all college students get from their families or communities. The journey of college can be isolating and daunting . Sometimes, college students start to feel like they don’t belong in college.

Scholarships are a reminder that someone else has faith in them and wants to see them succeed .

While scholarships don’t completely cover the financial burden of college or the emotional toll that comes with that, they help alleviate some of the stress.

Because scholarships are such a big factor in helping students afford college, seeing them more widely dispersed and less competitive would be even better.

I want to live in a world where everyone who wants to go to college is able to. Scholarships are a great first step in helping make that dream a reality for thousands of deserving students.

Ariel Sheen, PhD

Director, Digital Services

Scholarships promote the international exchange of ideas

I received a full scholarship from the Colombian government for Ph.D. studies in the Management of Innovation and Technology. One of the government’s reasons for funding my scholarship was to promote academic and economic trade between countries .

During classroom conversations, the subject of discussion frequently covered the economic and professional differences between the U.S. and Colombia.

The professors lead the conversation in this direction as the United States has a reputation, deservedly, of being a leader in innovation and business management.

We had many productive discussions that related real-world situations to the concepts, principles, and practices we were reading about.

Students can gain insight into how foreign cultures interact with the world

This scholarship allowed me to gain greater insight into how foreign cultures interpret and interact with the world and share the values , attitudes , and beliefs of my homeland.

A few years after completing my M.A. at NYU, I realized I was not sufficiently trained for the career tracks I wanted to work in: competitive intelligence , business consulting , and operations management .

While the prospect of being “stuck” in a career path with limited options made me depressed, I was not willing to take out more loans to further my professional training.

My worldview changed radically after receiving the email that I was being awarded a merit scholarship to pay for the specialized instruction I desired.

Scholarships can empower students to pursue their professional goals

My scholarship empowered me to pursue my professional goals with a joy that I would not have if I had known a growing bill was due at the end of my studies.

The financial freedom that a scholarship gave me provided me the motivation to assist others in need through volunteer work and pro bono assistance to organizations that help others in need.

Related: The Importance and Benefits of Volunteering

Anna Berkolec

HR Manager, ResumeLab

Scholarships are a great way to fund your education, so it’s essential that you know how to find and secure one. Even if you don’t have much money, scholarships can help you afford college.

After all, just about every high school student is interested in college — but not everyone can. Thus, there are a few reasons why for many students, scholarships are downright essential for them to be able to afford a college education.

Students can go to college for free and don’t have to pay for it

If you qualify for federal grants and loans, then, of course, you can get a free education. But scholarships are significant, too — and you don’t have to pay for them.

Scholarships can reduce your college costs by thousands of dollars and allow you to go to school for free. Whether you plan to go to college right away or are considering a career change , scholarships are essential for financing your education .

Students who don’t qualify for federal financial aid can receive thousands of dollars in scholarships from private organizations, alum networks, and state governments.

Scholarships are a great way to borrow money

You don’t have to pay interest on them. You can take out a loan against a future scholarship and pay it back later. You can also use scholarships as a down payment on a house or an investment property.

So, if you’re planning to get a degree in a trade, such as medical assisting or culinary arts, a scholarship can help you cover the entire cost of the course.

Financial aid is available to students who need it

Many scholarships are available based on financial need. That means students with a certain amount of money in their bank accounts can’t receive these awards.

Instead, they go to students who need the most money — like low-income students who qualify for Pell grants and other federal student aid programs.

Financial need is determined by your family income, assets, and other factors. Schools generally give out more financial aid than they charge in tuition. Many scholarship organizations provide the most assistance to students who are in need.

So, make sure you fill out the financial aid forms and request the aid you qualify for. Then look for scholarships that are based on need.

Scholarships are distributed through colleges and universities

Most scholarship providers also distribute the awards to students through colleges and universities. This is important because it means students get the money no matter what school they go to.

Scholarships are supposed to help students get the best college or university possible.

So, if you get a scholarship to a high-ranked school, you don’t have to pay the tuition; you just have to accept the offer. You can still use most scholarships if you go to a state school or an online college.

They have a wide range of schools, so you can get an education at a nearby state school even if your family can’t afford to send you there.

Online research should be part of your scholarship strategy

One of the best ways to find scholarships is to conduct online research. You can find thousands of scholarships on websites. Once you start looking for scholarships online, you’ll realize how many of them are available.

Plus, you can narrow your search by searching for scholarships by interest, funding source, and other criteria. This research will help you identify the best scholarship opportunities. Then, you’ll have a better chance of getting one.

Dorota Lysienia

Community Manager, LiveCareer

Scholarships prove that there are no limits to our dreams

Scholarships give opportunities and prove that there are no limits to our dreams. I’m a good example of how scholarships can reward us for our hard work and dedication. I’m originally from Poland, and I played tennis most of my life.

Even though I couldn’t become as good as Iga Swiatek, tennis enabled me to study abroad and get a high-quality education at one of the great universities in the US.

Scholarships can help students realize their educational goals

An athletic scholarship was a tool for me to realize my sports and educational goals, travel, and meet amazing people who positively impacted my life.

The scholarship I received opened doors for me and taught me that there are no limits to what we can achieve . The key lies in being persistent and never giving up . I’ve also realized that our attitude is essential to success.

If we tell ourselves we can’t do something, we most likely won’t. However, the more we believe in ourselves and focus on our goals, the higher the chances of getting what we want.

Olivia Valdes

Founder, Zen Admissions

It helps students strengthen their skills in preparation for the college application process

Scholarships are obviously valuable financially, but there are also other reasons to prioritize scholarship applications. One key reason to apply for scholarships early is? The opportunity to strengthen the skills you’ll need to succeed in the college application process.

Many scholarship programs require essays and other written components. These applications are the best form of preparation for your college application.

Writing scholarship essays will strengthen your personal essay writing skills, and coordinating all the various scholarship application deadlines and requirements will give you the organizational skills you’ll need to keep track of the college app process.

Plus, if you apply for scholarships before your senior year of high school (the earlier, the better!), you’ll build up a portfolio of personal essays that you can potentially reuse when you apply for college.

Linda Shaffer

Chief People and Operations Officer, Checkr, Inc.

It provides financial assistance for students who can’t afford college

For one, scholarships provide financial assistance to students who may not be able to afford college otherwise.

Additionally, scholarships can help students achieve their academic and professional goals by providing funding for tuition , books , and other expenses related to attending college.

It can help students gain recognition and prestige

In addition to the financial benefits, scholarships also offer other advantages to students. For example, scholarships can help students gain recognition and prestige, which can lead to better job opportunities after graduation.

It can provide students with a network of contacts and resources

Additionally, scholarships can provide students with a network of contacts and resources that can be invaluable throughout their academic and professional careers.

Related: What Are the Benefits of Business Networking?

It helps to create a more educated and skilled workforce

Scholarships also have a positive impact on society as a whole. By investing in the education of its citizens, scholarships help to create a more educated and skilled workforce, which can lead to economic growth and improved social conditions .

Scholarships promote diversity

Additionally, scholarships promote diversity and provide opportunities for students from all backgrounds to attend college and succeed.

CEO and Founder, MilePro

It gives families the chance to climb up the economic ladder

Unfortunately, most of the burden of paying for higher education is on the shoulders of hard-working parents who are already struggling to make ends meet.

The cost of living has skyrocketed in the last few decades while wages have barely kept up. Scholarships are an important way to level the playing field and give families of all socioeconomic backgrounds the chance to climb up the economic ladder.

As the research has made abundantly clear, education is the most effective way to increase your earning capacity .

It encourages people from underrepresented backgrounds to get higher education degrees

Many people from poor backgrounds don’t bother thinking about or trying to get into college. This means that society misses out on the knowledge and insights from people from diverse backgrounds and minorities.

Scholarships give these individuals hope that they too can make it into college and that cost doesn’t have to be a barrier.

Michelle Hague

HR Manager, Solar Panels Network USA

Scholarships attract the best and brightest employees

The first reason why scholarships are essential is that they help businesses attract the best and brightest employees.

The best and brightest employees are often looking for ways to further their education, and scholarships can be a great way to attract them to your company.

By offering scholarships, you’re showing potential employees that you’re invested in their future and that you’re willing to help them reach their goals.

Scholarships can help employees continue their education

The second reason why scholarships are essential is that they can help employees continue their education. Many employees take advantage of tuition reimbursement programs, but not all employers offer this benefit.

If you can offer scholarships to your employees, it shows that you’re committed to helping them further their education and improve their skills. This can lead to a more well-rounded workforce, and it can help your company retain its best employees.

Scholarships help reduce employee turnover

The third reason why scholarships are essential is that they can help reduce employee turnover rates. If you offer scholarships to your employees, they may be less likely to leave your company for another job.

This is because they’ll feel like they have a vested interest in your company and will be more likely to stay with your company for the long haul.

Yanis Mellata

CEO and Co-Founder, kosy

Scholarships ease the financial burden

We all want to be at ease in life, and when it comes to academics, we all want a suitable scholarship that will take us to our desired professional path.

Learning is never simple , but a scholarship may relieve a great student of the financial obligations that impede their personal and professional development.

The curriculum stimulates the brain, yet we all want fulfillment in order to achieve our future goals and remain successful. Scholarships provide a sense of accomplishment that is both worthy and comforting .

Students can access a broader range of academics

With a scholarship from an established institute, we get better opportunities for our future and have access to greater academic achievement. A university with fantastic faculty and scholarship opportunity is the ideal combination for every learner.

Scholarships may do wonders and provide you with extraordinarily skilled and talented people, propelling you forward to additional educational degrees or advancement.

Without a scholarship, such a tremendous amount of talent would just go to waste because a lot of people wouldn’t be able to afford the degree.

Individuals develop in society when they are made aware of their obligations and rights toward one another. It fosters a high level of mutual understanding, which will help form the community as a whole.

Veronica Thompson

COO, Everyday Power

It provides an avenue for poor students to improve their social and economic lives

Scholarships are essential to level the playing field when it comes to attaining quality education. Let’s face it, there are way more and a lot better opportunities if you finish formal education.

Many companies prioritize applicants with a degree , so education is really important. This is where the importance of scholarship comes in. It allows students who cannot afford education to be still able to study and finish their degrees.

This also gives them the opportunity to improve their economic standing because they can get better jobs after their degrees. Hence, scholarship is vital as it provides an avenue for poor students to improve their social and economic lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are scholarships.

Scholarships are financial awards that are granted to students to help them pay for their education. These awards can come in the form of a grant or gift that doesn’t have to be repaid.

Scholarships are typically awarded based on a student’s academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement, financial need, or other criteria.

Scholarships are available for students of all ages, from elementary school through graduate school, and can be used to pay for tuition, books, fees, and living expenses. They can be awarded by colleges and universities, private organizations, businesses, and even individuals who want to support the education of promising students.

One of the best things about scholarships is that they don’t have to be repaid, unlike loans. This makes them a great way to reduce the overall cost of education and minimize the amount of student debt that a student might incur.

Scholarships also provide students with recognition for their hard work and achievements, which can boost their confidence and encourage them to continue striving for academic excellence.

How can students find scholarships?

Finding scholarships can be a daunting task, but with a little know-how and some perseverance, you can uncover a treasure trove of financial aid opportunities. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Check with your school’s financial aid office : They may have information on scholarships that are specifically geared towards your major or field of study.

• Look online : There are many websites dedicated to scholarship searches, such as Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex. These sites allow you to create a profile and match you with scholarships that fit your criteria.

• Consider local scholarships : Check with your community organizations, churches, and businesses for scholarships that may be available to students in your area.

• Apply for national scholarships : Many organizations, companies, and foundations offer scholarships to students across the country. Some of these scholarships may be very competitive, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to apply.

Can scholarships impact a student’s future career prospects?

Scholarships can have a significant impact on a student’s future career prospects. Scholarships provide financial assistance to students who might not be able to afford college on their own.

By helping to pay for tuition, fees, and other expenses, scholarships allow students to focus on their studies and pursue opportunities that they might not have otherwise.

But scholarships don’t just provide financial assistance. They also offer students the chance to network with professionals in their field of study. Many scholarship programs provide mentoring, internships, and other opportunities for students to gain valuable experience and make connections with potential employers.

These connections can be invaluable when it comes time to search for a job after graduation.

Moreover, earning a scholarship demonstrates that a student has exceptional skills, knowledge, and dedication to their field of study. This can be a huge advantage when it comes time to apply for jobs or graduate school programs.

Scholarship recipients can use their award as evidence of their academic and professional achievements, setting themselves apart from other candidates.

Are scholarships only available for undergraduate students?

Scholarships are available for students of all levels of education. While there are certainly many scholarships available for undergraduate students, there are also plenty of opportunities for graduate students, doctoral candidates, and even students pursuing vocational or technical training.

Moreover, many scholarships are specifically geared towards non-traditional students, such as those who have taken time off from school to work or raise a family. Some scholarships are also available for international students, or for students pursuing specific fields of study or research.

The key is to do your research and seek out scholarships that match your individual qualifications and goals. There are many resources available online, as well as guidance from your school’s financial aid office or career counseling center.

Can scholarships help promote diversity and inclusion in education?

Scholarships can help promote diversity and inclusion in a few different ways:

• Financial assistance : Scholarships can provide financial assistance to students who might not otherwise be able to afford to attend college or university. This can help to level the playing field and ensure that all students have access to higher education, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

• Recognition of diversity : Scholarships can be awarded based on a variety of criteria, such as academic achievement, community involvement, or specific interests or talents. By recognizing and rewarding a diverse range of students, scholarships can help to promote diversity and inclusion in education.

• Encouragement : By providing financial support and recognition, scholarships can help to encourage students from underrepresented groups to pursue higher education. This can help to break down barriers and increase the diversity of the student population.

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10 Winning Scholarship Essay Examples From Real Students

Make your application shine.

Only at the ice rink could I be myself; the feeling of the cold rink breeze embracing me, the ripping sound of blades touching the ice, even the occasional ice burning my skin as I fell—these were my few constants.

Writing a scholarship essay can be intimidating. The competition is fierce and the stakes are high, so students are bound to feel the pressure. It may be helpful, therefore, to look at essays that were successful. What did those students do to impress the committee? These scholarship essay examples will give you a better idea of how to make an application shine!

Tips for Writing a Scholarship Essay

We’ve put together a whole guide for how to write a scholarship essay , so if you haven’t read it already, definitely give it a look! In addition, here are some quick tips to help students get started.

Carefully read the rules

The last thing you need is to be disqualified from winning a scholarship because you didn’t do the right thing.

Start early

Don’t wait until the last minute to start researching and applying for scholarships. Give yourself plenty of time to work through the process.

Get to know the provider

Think of the scholarship provider as your target audience. You want to tailor your essay to impress them, so do your research. What kinds of candidates are they looking for? What causes do they support? Dig deep for the information you need!

Think about who you are, what you want to say, and how to appeal to the scholarship committee. Write everything down and then choose the best ideas.

The scholarship committee will be reviewing many applications. How can you make yours unforgettable? Highlight your strongest assets, share hard lessons if they showcase your growth as a person and/or student, and be honest. Never lie in a scholarship essay!

Be professional

Consider this the most important academic paper you’ve ever written. Don’t use slang or casual language. Submit a properly formatted essay that’s been well-edited and proofread by multiple people.

One last tip

Don’t reuse scholarship essays! Yes, it’s time-consuming, but students need to put the same effort into every application. Use the same process and it will get faster and easier every time!

Scholarship Essay Examples

Afc visionary scholarship essay by nicole kuznetsov.

Award Amount: $5,000

Essay prompt: Why do you want to go to college? Why is it important to you?

Why it was successful: The beauty of this essay is that it’s well-organized and simple. Nicole Kuznetsov chose to outline her story by using chronology and provided a clean, concise story following a linear path.

As a child, my life had structure. Coloring books had lines, letters took on very specific shapes, and a system of rules governed everything from board games to the classroom.

North Coast Section Foundation Scholarship Essay by Christine Fung

Award Amount: $1,000

Why it was successful: Christine Fung masterfully shared how her upbringing instilled strong values, a love for education, and a passion for medicine .

The more involved I became, the more I learned as a leader and as a person.

The Bill Browning Scholarship Essay by Gabby DeMott

Award Amount: $10,000

Essay prompt: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Why it was successful: Gabby DeMott shared her experiences with personal growth and overcoming fears in Germany. She also appealed to the very human feeling of wanting to belong in a way that was inspiring.

Never have I felt so accepted while being an outsider, so proud of a country that isn’t even mine, so part of something I didn’t really belong to.

Life Happens Scholarship Essay by Emily Trader

Award Amount: $15,000

Essay prompt: How has the death of a parent or guardian impacted your life financially and emotionally? Be sure to describe how the loss of your parent/guardian impacted your college plans, and explain how the lack of adequate (or any) life insurance coverage has impacted your family’s financial situation.

Why it was successful: Emily Trader fully addressed the prompt in honest, beautiful detail. She knew her audience and tailored her essay to appeal to them while telling her compelling story.

If this devastating experience has taught me anything, it is this: financial planning for these situations is absolutely invaluable.

Change a Life Foundation Scholarship Essay by Isabella Mendez-Figueroa

Essay prompt: Please explain how your experience volunteering and participating in community service has shaped your perspective on humanity. Elaborate on how these experiences have influenced your future ambitions and career choice.

Why it was successful: Isabella Mendez-Figueroa shared an empowering story about her parents overcoming financial adversity so that she and her sister could be the first in their family to go to college.

As I’ve grown I’ve learned to fight my own monsters but I now also battle the ones that frighten my parents, the monsters of a world that they weren’t born into.

Giva Scholarship Essay by Joseph Lee

Essay prompt: Who is (or what makes) a good doctor?

Why it was successful: Joseph Lee offered a captivating , personal story that was essentially a list of things that make someone a good doctor without it feeling boring or calculated.

I learned such lessons in the purest manner possible, by being a patient myself, and will use them to guide me in all future patient encounters, as I strive to be a

New York University College of Arts and Science Scholarship by Ana

Award amount: $39,500

Essay prompt: Explain something that made a big impact in your life.

Why it was successful: Ana discussed how early experiences w ith learning difficult things has contributed to her passion for teaching and supporting students.

The Fund for Education Abroad Rainbow Scholarship Essay by Steven Fisher

Award amount: $7,500

Essay prompt: The Fund for Education Abroad is committed to diversifying education abroad by providing funding to students who are typically under-represented in study abroad. Please describe how you and/or your plans for study abroad could be viewed as under-represented.

Why it was successful: Steven Fisher’s powerful essay connected his realizations about his own sexual identity with embracing the beautiful diversity found all around the world.

My growth as a person was exponential. I rewrote so many areas of my life where I didn’t do things I wanted because of social conditioning.

Women’s World Banking Founder’s Scholarship Essay by Rosaisha Ozoria

Essay prompt: Write about your hopes for the future of women and girls worldwide.

Why it was successful: Rosaisha Ozoria focused on a very specific topic , financial literacy for Hispanic women, and emphasized its importance and relevance to her own life.

This is a tremendous goal, but for me, it is an opportunity to make a difference – in my neighborhood and for my Spanish community.

The Millennium Gates Last Dollar Scholarship Essay by Famyrah Lafortune

Award amount: $3,500

Essay prompt: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” —Nelson Mandela Describe a change you would like to make in the world. Tell us about how you would plan to make that change, and what obstacles you might encounter along the way.

Why it was successful: Famyrah Lafortune starts with a strong statement about ending racial inequality and then details the steps she’ll take to make it happen.

By raising awareness of racial disparities that occur everywhere, I might encourage a new wave of change in our country ...

Do you have any great scholarship essay examples? Share them below!

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to college scholarships, want more suggestions be sure to subscribe to our newsletters ..

Need money for college? These scholarship essay examples will help your application stand out over the competition!

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6 Awesome Scholarship Essays That Worked

When it comes to paying for college, scholarships are the best form of financial aid, since they offer students free money that never needs to be repaid. But let’s face it: completing scholarship applications, especially the essays, can feel overwhelming. The scholarship essay is arguably the most important part of the application and should be well-thought-out. In this article, we’ll walk through five scholarship essay examples and explain why they worked, so that you can write your own winning scholarship essays .

Here are 6 winning scholarship essay examples that worked:

Why this scholarship essay example worked:, how could this essay have been better , want more resources on writing your scholarship essay, get started with your scholarship essay.

The essay is your chance to let your personality and life experiences shine through, giving you the opportunity to stand out from other applicants.

The best way to get an idea of what scholarship committees are looking for is to look over scholarship essay examples from past winners. Take some time to analyze the writing style, think about the strong points, and consider how you can improve. Below, we’ll show you just how you might dissect a scholarship essay.

Searching for scholarship essay examples

1. Going Merry Scholarship Success Story by Gabby DeMott

What’s a winning scholarship essay look like? Check out this Going Merry success story with Gabby DeMott.

ESSAY PROMPT: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

“There were only a few minutes to go and our eyes were glued to the screen. On the edge of our seats, clutching whoever happened to be next to us, we watched as the referee blew his whistle and the German players took their free kick. The ball was hit with precision and skill; it flew up over the Swedish players, past their goalie, and was caught safely in the back of the opposing team’s net. We all jumped up and screamed, a mixture of German and English, of excitement and relief, of pride and anticipation.

We stood, enraptured, for the last several minutes of the game as Germany kept its 2-1 lead over Sweden. The horde of us, Germans and Americans alike, hugged and cheered and made our way out onto the balcony, where we chanted “Deutschland! Deutschland! Deutschland!” for the whole village, the whole country, the whole world to hear. Never have I felt so accepted while being an outsider, so proud of a country that isn’t even mine, so part of something I didn’t really belong to.

My German friends didn’t care that we were from different countries; they didn’t care that we would only be staying for three weeks. They accepted us into their homes and their daily lives, their traditions and their celebrations. In watching that World Cup game, it didn’t matter that we were from different places; we were all cheering for the same team. The acceptance I felt in Germany extended beyond that living room. I came to the country on a three week exchange with ten other students from my school.

We each stayed with host families and attended the Wildermuth Gymnasium, which was surprisingly accommodating to a gaggle of loud American teenagers. The teachers were friendly and welcoming, the students treated us like ordinary peers, and even the people I interacted with in public were understanding.

Before coming to Germany I feared judgment based on my level of the language (which is nowhere near as good as the German students’ English) and American politics. It was intimidating to be in a country with limited knowledge of the language and the customs, even though everyone was welcoming. People did ask myself and the other students about the US’s political climate, but no one blamed us for it. They recognized that we were outsiders, that the place we came from had flaws, and they accepted us anyway.

Since that trip, I’ve found myself trying to provide that acceptance to people in my own country. For example, I work at a canoe livery and we receive a lot of visitors with limited English. Some of my coworkers will avoid such customers because they don’t want to take the time to explain things, to exercise patience with someone who may not understand them. If people had done this to me in Germany, my time there would have been much less enjoyable; in fact, I would have been offended.

So now when someone walks up to me at the livery and asks a question in English that isn’t perfect, I smile and welcome them. I take my time to make sure they understand, that they can have a good time, and that they feel accepted. It’s a small action, but I know firsthand that it can make a big impact, at my place of work and in the world. “

It shares a personal story of realization. Gabby’s essay throws us right in the middle of the action in her story, from her perspective. She paints a clear picture of where she is, how she feels, and what her goals were in that moment. She then goes on to explain the unity of the German and American students to introduce other people in the essay. LESSON TO TAKE : When including additional people in an essay, introduce them early on so you can continue telling your story in an organic way.
She reflects on her previous fears and explains how she’s moved past those to grow. In the fifth paragraph, Gabby shares how she feared judgment due to her level of the German language and American politics. As Gabby became more familiar with the host families and her German friends, she realizes they accepted her, and she relaxes. LESSON TO TAKE: Sharing a story in sequential order can help illustrate personal growth and how your character changed for the better.
She answers the prompt and demonstrates how she’ll put her newfound knowledge in action. Once Gabby realized her German friends and host family accepted her, regardless of her fears, that sparked a realization for her when she returned home to America. Gabby concludes her essay by explaining how she’s providing that same acceptance she received in another country to acquaintances and people in her country, to be patient, help them enjoy themselves, and to welcome them. LESSON TO TAKE : Consider concluding your essay with a wrap-up of what you learned, and how you plan to apply that lesson in your life.

2. Who is a “Good” Doctor? by Joseph Lee

Below is a winning essay from Joseph Lee, Rush Medical College for the Giva Scholarship.

ESSAY PROMPT: Who is (or what makes) a good doctor?

“Had you asked me the same question one year ago, my answer would have been vastly different to the one I will give today. In the summer of 2012, with my first year of medical school completed, I embarked upon my last official summer vacation with two things in mind: a basketball tournament in Dallas and one in Atlanta. My closest friends and I had been playing in tournaments for the past 10 summers, and it was a sacred bond forged together in the name of competition. However, two weeks before our first tournament, I became instantly and overwhelmingly short of breath. Having been born to Korean immigrant parents, I was raised to utilize the hospital in emergency cases only, and I knew this was such a case. A few scans later, doctors discovered numerous pulmonary emboli (PE), caused by a subclavian deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and just like that, I was lying in a bed of a major hospital for a life threatening condition.

Fast forward a few months, and I am lying in a similar bed to treat the underlying cause of the subclavian DVT: a first rib removal. There is little that can adequately prepare someone physically, emotionally or spiritually to undergo surgery; and my thoughts continued to race in the days following. In addition to the expected physical pain, isolation, fear and frustration were a few of the emotions I experienced in the four day ordeal. The procedure went according to plan thanks to a skilled surgeon and his team, but the attributes that made the doctor “good” went far beyond his ability to operate.

“Wow. I’m glad you are feeling better” and “I can’t believe you went through that” are common reactions people have when they see the scars on my upper chest. Quite frankly, the past nine months have been difficult, literally full of blood, sweat and tears. But through it all, I have been able to maintain my positivity and gratitude knowing that I have gained the invaluable experience of being a patient and discovering the vulnerability and trust that patients give their doctors. Patients indulge information to doctors that they may have never told anyone in their life and in doing so, place a great deal of trust and responsibility in the hands of a doctor. Many patients will not understand the mechanism of disease behind their condition and anticipate that the doctor will explain to them and their family why it is that they are feeling the way they are and ultimately heal them. And that is precisely what my surgeon understood: the privilege of being able to care for patients and the intimacy of the doctor-patient relationship. And as I awoke to the care of my worried parents, the first thing they wanted to discuss was the details of the procedure that was methodically and patiently explained to them by my “good” doctor.

In study after study, patients have reported dissatisfaction with their medical care, not because of lack of knowledge or health outcome, but because their doctors did not show enough warmth in the encounter or listen to the patient’s questions and concerns. There are few times where a patient and their loved ones are more vulnerable and in need of compassion than when dealing with a hospitalization. And for some doctors, a patient may be another item on a checklist, but that patient is someone’s mother or father, son or daughter, sister or brother. My “good” doctor understood this and would often say “If you were my son…” when discussing treatment options, reflecting on the type of care he would want for his family and treating me similarly. Such ideals are rooted in love and compassion for patients, not as clients in the health care system, but as fellow human beings striving to make something of themselves and the world around them (I).

Unfortunately, the ordeal of living with a chronic illness or undergoing a major operation extends beyond the confines of the hospital. Whether it is creditors harassing patients for medical bills, prescriptions that need to be refilled, or lifestyle modifications that need to be made, the health care experience doesn’t end when a patient walks out of the hospital doors. It often takes merely a minute, as in the case of the “good” doctor who told me that as a student I could apply to get the procedure financially covered by the hospital. Such foresight in anticipating financial concerns and directing me on the next steps to be taken provided relief in the surmounting stress.

Lastly, the “good” doctor understands that as our patients are human, so are we. This means we will make mistakes, some of which can result in life-threatening consequences. With that said, the “good” doctor practices humility and honesty, apologizing and sharing as much information with patients as possible. Although no one strives to make mistakes, they will happen, and how one reacts to them is a distinguishing feature of the “good” doctor (II).

Of all the qualities I tried to explain in what makes a “good” doctor, there was no emphasis on skill and knowledge. And while being able to fulfill the duties of making the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans is expected, the intangibles of love, compassion, foresight and honesty is what makes a doctor, “good”. I learned such lessons in the purest manner possible, by being a patient myself, and will use them to guide me in all future patient encounters, as I strive to be a “good” doctor.”

It tells a captivating story. This essay immediately pulls the reader in, immersing the audience right in the story. . We want to know how Joseph’s definition of a good doctor changed and why it did so. Hooking your reader from the first sentence of your essay or even the first paragraph is a surefire way to keep your reader engaged in the story you’re telling. The story itself is also told really well, with good pacing and just enough detail to elicit empathy without causing boredom. (He could have easily given too much scientific/medical detail!) LESSON TO TAKE : When telling an anecdote, consider how much detail is the right amount, to make it engaging.
It’s a list, without you realizing it’s a list. After the first 2 paragraphs (which are mostly story-telling), the rest of the essay is effectively a list of ways that doctors are “good”: they recognize the intimacy and trust involved in the doctor-patient relationship (paragraphs 3-4), they anticipate future sources of patient stress (paragraph 5), and they exercise humility (paragraph 6). Joseph could have easily structured the essay simply by saying “There are 3 main things that make a doctor good” and then explaining each idea. However, that would have been much more boring! Instead, he expertly hides the list format, by couching it in an engaging story. LESSON TO TAKE: Not all list-type essays need to feel like lists.
It’s personal and believable. Joseph takes a negative personal experience, shows what he learned from it and how it caused him to grow as a person. Sometimes essays about singular, defining moments or experiences can seem blown out of proportion and thus not credible. This one feels right: a big ordeal in his life that has therefore shifted his perspective. LESSON TO TAKE : Consider which personal stories to tell, and make sure the “size” of the story feels right.

3. Life Happens Scholarship by Emily Trader

Here is an example of a moving scholarship essay on the topic of family loss by Emily Trader for the Life Happens award.

ESSAY PROMPT: How has the death of a parent or guardian impacted your life financially and emotionally? Be sure to describe how the loss of your parent/guardian impacted your college plans, and explain how the lack of adequate (or any) life insurance coverage has impacted your family’s financial situation.

“When I was seventeen years old, my father lost his battle with kidney failure and cardiovascular disease. As long as I shall live, I do not believe that I will ever forget the first moment I saw my father’s once vibrant face in that cold and unforgiving casket. I won’t forget his lifeless and defeated hands, or how his pale lips would never utter another joke or speak to his grandchildren. Even though the day of his funeral was undoubtedly the worst day of my life, I wish I could relive it just to be with him one more time. Since that moment, I have felt as if all of my grief and longing resides underneath my skin with nothing to relieve the pressure. On September 8th, 2016, I lost my voice of reason, my confidant, my cheerleader, and my best friend.

Unbeknownst to me at the time, I had lost so much more. Upon my father’s passing, he left us with funeral and medical expenses that his insurance would not cover. Because he did not have any form of life insurance, the financial burden of his death was now the responsibility of my mother and me. Even though my mother works night shifts as a neonatal nurse and her commute is nearly two hours, she was forced to pick up extra shifts to support my family. Though I already had a job and I worked about ten hours a week, I now work anywhere from twenty-five to thirty-five hours a week, and I am also a full-time high honor student. Even though the death of my father forced me to realize the importance of cherishing time with my family, I do not see them very often because of our busy schedules. I also sacrificed my social life and the joy that every senior in high school should experience. Instead of football games and homecoming, I had to deal with mourning and the possibility that I would not attend college because of my family’s financial troubles.

If my father had a life insurance policy, we would not have to work ourselves to the bone and sacrifice our physical and emotional well-being to keep up with expenses. I would not have to worry so intensely about the future of my education on top of the crippling grief that I have felt over the last five months. If this devastating experience has taught me anything, it is this: financial planning for these situations is absolutely invaluable. I will not soon forget the stress and despair that I have experienced, and I now realize that to have a life insurance policy is to throw your surviving family members a crucial lifeline. Though no one can ever prepare you for the trauma of losing a parent, life insurance allows you to grieve without the constant stress of financial burden, and for that reason, it is an absolutely essential precaution.

I love and miss you so much, Dad. Thank God I will see you again.”

She answers the prompt . It would be easy to write an essay that just spoke to her grief, or to what her father was like and how much he meant to her. But the essay prompt asks applicants to reflect on how the loss has affected the student emotionally and financially. Emily does a great job of this, by connecting the financial parts (she and her mother needing to pick up extra hours of work), with the emotional (due to the work schedule, the family not being able to spend as much time together). She also addresses how this might affect her college plans. LESSON TO TAKE :
She provides (beautiful) detail. The first paragraph immediately pulls the reader in because of the detailed description she provides (“ his lifeless and defeated hands”, “pale lips” ). Similarly, the specificity of how her family is shouldering the financial burden (e.g. her working 25-to-35-hour weeks) make it feel more real rather than generic. LESSON TO TAKE : Use details and descriptions to make something feel more emotional and tangible.
She knows her audience . This scholarship is funded by Life Happens, an organization formed by seven leading insurance providers, in order to educate the public about important insurance planning topics. Clearly Emily researched the provider and understood that an essay that spoke to the importance of insurance planning would be well-received by the essay readers. LESSON TO TAKE : Research the scholarship provider and adjust your content to fit the organization’s or company’s mission statement (or business model).

4. Going Merry Scholarship Success Story by Jesus Adrian Arroyo-Ramirez

Jesús Adrian Arroyo-Ramirez wrote a winning scholarship essay (and video!) that he submitted on Going Merry . He earned an outstanding $40,000 through the Golden Door Scholarship.

ESSAY PROMPT: What differentiates you from the hundreds of DACA students who apply to our scholarship? Use one of those opportunities to tell us something else we cannot see just by looking at your grades, test scores, and transcripts.

“I always knew I was different than my friends in some way. Growing up, I struggled to speak English while everyone else had little to no problems. I needed extra help in school while my friends coasted by with ease. My friends would hop on planes and travel all around the world while I had to stay at home. At the age of 13 all of my friends started driving while I still couldn’t.

I built up the courage and asked my mother why I did not have access to the simple liberties everyone else did. My name Is Jesus Adrian Arroyo-Ramirez, and I was illegally brought to this country when I was just six years old. At the time I had no clue that I was breaking any laws, and I did not realize the fact that my life was going to change forever. Growing up with a different citizenship situation than my peers was and still is the biggest challenge I have to face in my life.

Looking back there is not a single thing that I would change. Knowing that I had to work harder than everyone else lead me to be the person that I am today. I took that fire inside of me, pushed myself, graduated first in my class with a cumulative 4.0 GPA, became a Kansas Scholar, and graduated High School with a semester’s worth of college credit. In November of 2016, everything began to look up for me. I received a work permit and a social security card all thanks to the DACA program. I was finally able to get my license, get a job, and most importantly attend college.

I plan to continue my success in the classroom and do everything to the best of my ability as I know that under my current circumstances it can all be ripped away from me at any moment. Growing up with my situation has taught me to not take advantage of a single opportunity. There has been continued support around me past and current and I know there are people out there rooting for my success. I will strive to be the first generation in my family to graduate from an American University and I will set a stepping stone for my future family so they will not have to struggle as I did. My citizenship is not a setback, it is a mere obstacle that I will always learn to work around if it means giving my future children a better life, just like my mother did for me.”

He shares how hardships made him who he is today. Right off the bat, Jesus sets the tone for his essay by sharing how he struggled to speak English and that he was not given the same opportunities as his peers. He shares his mother’s explanation on why he lived a different life, along with his honesty in the challenges of growing up with a different citizenship situation than the teens around him. LESSON TO TAKE : Share personal details (as you feel comfortable), and consider including a defining memory or conversation hat contributes to your story. This can help paint a picture of your beginnings or your inspirations.
He includes emotional details. Although Jesus grew up with hardships, he persevered and mentions he wouldn’t change anything. It may have taken a little longer than his peers to get his license, but he also excelled in school, pushed himself to graduate first in class, and take college courses on top of all that. LESSON TO TAKE : Tell your story with details, feelings, thoughts and emotions to explain where you came from and where you are now.
He plans for the future . Jesus shared his personal story with us, and then explains how he plans to continue his success without letting anything get in the way of his path. He goes on to say his citizenship is not a setback, and that he works to provide a better life for himself and for his future children. LESSON TO TAKE : Include your plan at the end of the essay. Consider how you’ve grown and how you will bring these lessons learned with you to help your future.

5. Why College Is Important to Me by Nicole Kuznetsov

Here’s an example of a simple yet creative and heartfelt essay on the popular prompt, Why is college important to you?

ESSAY PROMPT: Why do you want to go to college? Why is it important to you?

“As a child, my life had structure. Coloring books had lines, letters took on very specific shapes, and a system of rules governed everything from board games to the classroom. I found comfort in the fact that my future had an easy-to-follow template: elementary, middle, and high school, college, job, family retirement, “happily ever after” ending. When I graduated from elementary school I was told I completed 25% of my education. During my middle school graduation, I was told I was halfway there and I know I’ll be told I’m 75% done when I throw my cap in the air this June. College was always factored into the percentage and the overall formula for life. And I never questioned its importance. I always figured it is important because it is necessary.

Going to college makes sense. From helping my parents land stable jobs after coming to America to giving my brother the chance to gain work experience at some of the top financial firms, college educations have shown their worth in my family. Yet I didn’t think about what actually goes on inside the magical universities until I entered high school. Applying to the Academy for Math, Science, and Engineering was the first time I had actively made a decision in my education. With the encouragement of my parents and favorite science teacher who recognized that I would excel in the challenging environment of like-minded students, I applied. Four years later, I can confidently say they were right.

My class of twenty-six has shown me the benefits of a collaborative rather than a competitive environment, especially the impact that camaraderie with my peers has on our collective learning experience. Each student has an inspiring level of passion and motivation that made me excited to learn, work on projects, and participate in discussions both in and out of the classroom. I used my education to gain skills and open doors for myself such as an internship at my local hospital. I gained confidence in my abilities to communicate with individuals from strangers my age to practicing professionals. I was thinking longer and harder than I ever had before to solve individual problems and large-scale challenges. In all honesty, I was having fun.

Looking back on my years at the Academy I realize how big of an impact the school made on how I view education. I wasn’t coming to school to mark another day off my calendar and inch closer to finishing the next 25%. I came to school to learn and question and push myself. Now, as a senior, I’m excited. I’m thankful for the sample that my high school gave me of what learning is supposed to be like and thankful that it left me wanting more. I’m entering college in August with a new understanding of its importance. It is important because it is what I want for my future.”

It finds structure through chronology . This essay is basically structured like a chronological timeline: As a child, I believed this. Then I applied to this high school (my first active academic decision). Then the high school changed me. Now I’m a senior and I believe this. Not all stories are best told in time order, but the simplest stories often are. And simple stories provide structure, which scholarship committees love. LESSON TO TAKE: Consider structuring your essay like a timeline, emphasizing the milestones along the way that have led you to where you are today.
It is simply told . While the essay is descriptive, it doesn’t try to get fancy with overly flowery language or unnecessarily long SAT words. And that’s the strength of it. For instance, this passage [“ College was always factored into the percentage and the overall formula for life. And I never questioned its importance. I always figured it is important because it is necessary” ] explains her child’s logic in a really clear and well-written way.
It’s got (mostly) great topic sentences . We here at Going Merry love a good topic sentence– that is, a sentence at the beginning (or end) of a paragraph that summarizes the rest of the paragraph. It helps “signpost” the most important parts of your essay. Here, three of the four paragraphs (1, 2, and 4) have strong and concise topic sentences. “As a child, my life had structure” sets up the rest of the paragraph to explain what these structures and unquestioned rules were. “Going to college makes sense” sets up why college made sense to her parents.

6. Financial Literacy for Hispanic Women by Rosaisha Ozoria

The inaugural Founder’s Scholarship supported by the New York Women’s Bond Club in honor of Michaela Walsh goes to two New York City public high school students who won an essay competition writing about their hopes for the future of women and girls worldwide . Winners of this scholarship won a trip to accompany Women’s World Banking to Amman, Jordan for their biennial gathering of WWB network members.

PROMPT: Write about your hopes for the future of women and girls worldwide.

WINNING ESSAY:

“Twice a week I head down to volunteer at the Los Sures Social Services office, situated next to the local senior citizen home, to help at the food pantry. We distribute food to people in my neighborhood. Many are familiar faces. Many are middle-aged Hispanic women with children dangling from their hips like grass skirts. These women are there as a result of their culture and lack of financial knowledge. In our Spanish culture, patriarchy prevents women from preparing for themselves as much as they should. This leads to Hispanic women having little or no money management skills. Financial illiteracy is a major issue in my neighborhood, and that is why I hope to give Hispanic women a chance for a better future through financial education.

While I was volunteering I met a woman who happened to live in the same building as my aunt. Unemployed with two young children, and a husband earning minimum wage at a fast food restaurant, she struggled to get by every day. I thought to myself – many in my community are just like her. Then I realized I could do something to help. How? I can start a financial literacy program, which teaches Hispanic women to earn and manage money. Once a woman becomes financially literate, she is capable of making good personal and professional decisions, empowering her to improve her family’s financial well-being. Moreover, such a program will help Hispanic women become competitive employees, even in a slow recovering economy such as the one we are experiencing now.

Participating in the 2013 Women’s World Banking Global Meeting in Amman, Jordan gives me access to invaluable resources that will help me achieve this goal. I hope to find mentors from a roomful of inspiring, experienced leaders who will offer me their guidance. Also, meeting accomplished women from other countries means access to new ideas and unique perspectives. And if I am lucky, I may even come across individuals who can provide financial support to jumpstart my financial literacy program for Hispanic women. Lastly, I will tell my idea to everyone I meet in Jordan, a baby step to help Hispanic women rise from poverty.

The world continues to change rapidly, especially with globalization. It is about time that Hispanic women strive for gender equality. Thus, it is essential that Hispanic women increase their roles and knowledge in finance. The women in my neighborhood shall no longer be left out. I will task myself to help these women become better, stronger and most importantly, take control of their lives. I want to be involved so that they can save themselves from any unforeseen financial crisis. This is a tremendous goal, but for me, it is an opportunity to make a difference – in my neighborhood and for my Spanish community.”

There is clear structure . Right off the bat, the introduction summarizes what the reader can expect to find in the body of the essay. In particular, the closing line of the first paragraph (“ Financial illiteracy is a major issue in my neighborhood, and that is why I hope to give Hispanic women a chance for a better future through financial education”) works as an effective topic sentence, tying together the anecdote and the reason she’s interested in networking with the scholarship provider, Women’s World Banking. The last 2 paragraphs also serve clear, independent purposes: the penultimate one establishes what she would do with the scholarship (the trip to Amman), and the final paragraph explains why her particular interest is important for the larger Hispanic community. LESSON TO TAKE: Clear structure helps the reader follow your point better (especially if they’re skimming, which scholarship essay readers almost definitely are!) So include a summarizing topic sentence at the beginning or end of your first paragraph, and make sure each subsequent paragraph serves a purpose that moves forward your argument or story.
The author’s passion shines. Rosaisha, the scholarship winner, is clearly passionate about serving her Hispanic community of women. And rather than simply saying that, she shows us how she cares by using personal examples from her volunteer work. LESSON TO TAKE : Show, don’t tell. Use specific personal examples, and don’t be afraid to show your emotions.
She stays positive. Even though Rosaisha discusses what might be considered a difficult and personal topic, she keeps the tone light and inspirational. She expresses hope and her desire to make a change in the world, answering the essay in a positive tone. It’s important to make sure your essay is not too depressing to read. (Essays about personal trauma are a bad idea.) This is a scholarship provider, not a therapist!

While this was a winning essay, we note that it did have two points of weakness:

The second paragraph lacks a bit of structure. Her point ends up feeling a bit generic, and it’s unclear what she is thinking versus planning or actually doing . For instance, she realized she could start a financial literacy program. Did she then do so? It’s unclear.
The last paragraph is again a bit general. Often scholarship committees want to see what concrete steps will be taken, using the scholarship award. Here she speaks in lofty terms about what goals she hopes to accomplish, without explaining ways she might accomplish this goal.

For more information on writing a killer scholarship essay, check out our list of helpful tips .

Also check out these related blog posts:

6 tips for writing scholarship essays about academic goals
How to write the best personal statement, with examples
How to write an awesome essay about your career goals

You can start writing your winning scholarship essay today and submit it to thousands of scholarship applications, all in one place. Sign up for Going Merry today to put your pro scholarship essay writing skills to practice. Going Merry is your one-stop scholarship shop to search and apply for scholarships to get you on the right foot for funding your future.

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Home / Blog

How To Write a Scholarship Essay

February 15, 2019

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Paying for college is a top concern for many students in America today. Even just a generation ago, a student’s primary concern was more about getting into the college they preferred, instead of about being able to afford college at all. Now, young students are trying their best to budget and save up in order to afford a college education, and are planning ahead for how they will pay off their student loans.

As important as FAFSA is for most students , there are other options available to help students pay for their college education: mainly scholarships and grants. The best thing about these options? They don’t require repayment plans.

Debt.org notes on scholarships for students: “Each year, an estimated $46 billion in grants and scholarship money is awarded by the U.S. Department of Education and the nation’s colleges and universities. In addition, about $3.3 billion in gift aid is awarded by private sources, including individuals, foundations, corporations, churches, nonprofit groups, civic societies, veterans groups, professional groups, service clubs, unions, chambers of commerce, associations and many other organizations.”

But how can you take advantage of this $49.3 billion dollar (and growing) pool of grants and scholarships? Scholarships require either proof of academic excellence or that students meet a financial threshold, as well as completion of an application and, usually, a scholarship essay. Just as some colleges and universities require an entrance essay to apply, many scholarships also require an essay along with the application.

Writing an essay for school is one thing, but writing an essay to help you pay for college is another. Financial stability is on the line when it comes to scholarship applications, so writing a winning essay is key to impressing those granting the scholarships you’re applying for. Here are some tips to help you better prepare for your scholarship application and essay.

What Is a Scholarship Essay?

Scholarships are a form of student financial aid that do not require repayment, as long as you meet the terms of the award and use it as directed. They are often gifted based on merit, either through academic excellence, financial need (also known as “need-based” aid), or by meeting specific requirements set by the organization awarding the scholarship; such as specific scholarships or grants for women .

Aid may come from federal scholarship funds, state or local scholarship funds, or private organizations, such as churches, nonprofit groups, and more. Additionally, almost every scholarship will require an accompanying essay along with the application.

The scholarship essay varies depending on the requests of the organization granting the essay. It may require a specific word count, or be based on a prompt. Whatever the requirements are, it is essential to follow the guidelines presented in order to qualify for the scholarship. Preparing your essay is like writing a resume for financial aid, and depending on which scholarship you’re applying for, the competition may be anywhere from minimal to fierce. It’s important to write an essay that can stand out amongst the crowd of applicants.

Grant vs Scholarship

Although the terms “grant” and “scholarship” often refer to a similar idea — student financial aid that doesn’t require repayment — they are two fundamentally different awards. The key difference lies in how they are awarded, and where the funds are originating from.

Grants , such as Pell Grants, are typically awarded by the federal government and are generally awarded based on need rather than merit. There may be minimum requirements that recipients are required to live up to, such as family financial status limits, but these are often less specific than scholarship requirements are. Additionally, colleges and state agencies may also award grants based on need.

Scholarships on the other hand are often awarded based on merit. They may require that students meet (and sustain) a specific GPA in school, or that students with athletic excellence join the college’s sports team. Most scholarships will have rules that recipients are required to follow in order to continue to qualify for that scholarship. Many scholarships are funded by colleges, private organizations or donors, and some state or local programs.

Both grants and scholarships may require an accompanying essay with the application, although there are some rare cases of scholarships and grants that don’t require essays and are easier to obtain. Be cautious of fraudulent scholarships or online scams associated with “easy to obtain scholarships”, as they are becoming increasingly common online.

Steps for Writing a Scholarship Essay

Just as when applying to colleges, scholarship applications may require that you to send in your grades, academic achievements, test scores, and ambitions for the future. As such, scholarship essays offer you the chance to speak to these accomplishments and ambitions. Here you can shine and win over the organization granting the scholarship.

Once you’ve found a scholarship that you qualify for or that interests you, it’s important to read over the instructions thoroughly to understand what is expected of you. Then, follow these steps to write the perfect application essay for the scholarship of your choosing:

The prompts can be anywhere from basic — “What was a challenging experience you faced in high school and how did you overcome it?” — to more complex or specific — “How has coffee helped you study for your SAT or ACT test?”

The prompt should help you start to formulate ideas on how you want to construct your essay. Be sure to fully understand what is expected of you by reading the instructions, and do your best to not stray from the topic being covered. Some essays may have a word or page count, while others may only request you answer the prompt.

Brainstorming is an important step to ensure your idea fits with the prompt and properly expresses what you are trying to communicate through your essay. You also want to make sure that you express what is meaningful and relevant about yourself that can help your essay stand out from all the others.

One of the best ways to start constructing and organizing an essay is to create a comprehensive outline. They serve as an essential tool to help you avoid structural mistakes, repetition, and to help you cover all your bases and ideas without rambling.

Your outline should read like a barebones argument for why you deserve this scholarship and how your idea relates to the prompt given. Once you start writing the essay in full, you can fill in more of the details needed to explain your point, or to describe yourself and your situation.

Scholarship Essay Formatting

Additionally, outlines can help you properly format your scholarship essay. Here are some essential tips for your scholarship essay format:

Introduction that ends with a thesis or idea
Explanation that supports and proves your thesis
Conclusion that reiterates your argument and thesis
12 point font
Times New Roman, Arial, Courier, Helvetica, or Georgia font (whatever is standard on your preferred writing system, nothing too stylized)
Double spaced
1 inch to 1 ½ inch margins
If there is no required word or page count, as a general rule, aim for ¾ to 1 full page in length.
Be sure to include your name and the name of the scholarship you are applying for near the top of the page (either as a header or simply above the optional title).

Once you’ve brainstormed and outlined your article, you can officially start writing the piece. Be sure to follow your outline and cover all of the key ideas that you came up with while brainstorming. Be concise, avoid rambling, and ensure your point is clearly stated. Also ensure you’ve formatted your essay correctly and stay true to the word or page count, if applicable.

Take a Break

Once you’ve completed your first draft, you should take a break from writing. Go outside and take a walk, or spend some time cleaning — anything to help you get your mind off the essay so that you can return later with fresh eyes. If you find it hard not to think about the essay, wait a day (or even a few days) before coming back to reread it.

In general, spending time away from your work can help you clear your mind. When you do come back, you may be more likely to notice mistakes or see gaps which require elaboration. For any essay you write, this is always a helpful tip.

As you return to your essay, go through and nitpick your work. Use your fresh mind to rewrite sections or include more (or less) context, as needed. Ask yourself if the core idea that you came up with during your brainstorm is still apparent in the article. Are you communicating your ideas clearly?

Additionally, keep an eye out for grammatical mistakes, such as missing or too many commas, misspellings, or other typos. If you notice repetitive words, utilize a thesaurus to find acceptable replacements. Once you’ve gone through your essay, you can submit it as is, or you can follow the optional next step.

Peer Review

For many people, it can be hard for them to revise their own work because they hold biases about their writing or are unaware of personal mistakes. Asking another person to review your work may help you refine your essay even more. Additionally, having another person read over your essay can help you determine the clarity of your point: do they understand the flow of your piece, or are they confused by any information? Does the context you provide make sense to the overall idea, or does the reader still have questions?

If you have a friend, relative, mentor, or peer that has editing experience — or that is simply a voracious reader — ask them if they can take a moment to look over your piece and make comments or suggestions. You may be surprised at what they find that you missed!

Scholarship Essay Tips

Your scholarship essay is going to be your primary (and sometimes sole) form of communication with the organization granting the scholarship. That’s why it’s so important to communicate directly and clearly through your essay in order to attract their attention and garner their support. Here are some additional tips to help you better communicate your intentions through your scholarship essay:

How To Start a Scholarship Essay

First impressions matter, and your introductory paragraph will serve as your first impression to the scholarship organization. Refer back to your brainstorm to help identify your message and consider how to attract the attention of the reader through your introductory paragraph. For some people, it may also help to construct or outline the body of the essay before you construct the introduction, so as to better understand how to concisely get your message across.

Once you’ve properly outlined the entirety of your essay, you can start writing. In your introductory paragraph you’ll want to state in clear and succinct language who you are, why you are interested in college and this scholarship (or your hopeful direction), and what the reader will find in your essay.

Be Personal

Another important point to keep in mind while you’re writing is that this essay isn’t a book report (unless otherwise stated in the prompt); this essay is about you. Don’t write impersonally, but take a personal tone: use “I, me, myself” or other personal pronouns and avoid general statements unless they relate to your situation.

Through your writing you should also be revealing some of your motivations pertaining to why you’re going to school and why you’re seeking out this scholarship. Discuss how you will become an effective student in the coming years, and how you’ll make good use of the money you may be awarded. You may have more freedom to write about yourself in detail for some scholarship prompts, and less of the same freedom for others. Use your discretion.

Stay Focused

When you originally brainstormed your essay topic, you should have been able to narrow down your topic to just a few key points that you could communicate and cover in detail. As you fully flesh out your essay, you should ensure that you stay focused on these core ideas. Try not to ramble or get side tracked. Every sentence in your essay should be related in some way to one of your core ideas. If it’s not, delete it or rewrite the sentence so that it does relate.

Be Succinct

It’s important to keep in mind that your essay most likely won’t be more than a page, double spaced. Since you don’t have a lot of room for fluff or non-essential information, it’s important to stay focused, to the point, and brief.

Additionally, the organization that is awarding the scholarship is most likely going to be reading hundreds (sometimes thousands) of scholarship applications and essays. Everyone will most likely be working off the same prompt, so you’ll want to ensure that your essay stands out, gets straight to the point, and doesn’t waste any of the reader’s time.

Follow Instructions

Finally, the most important tip is to simply read and reread the instructions multiple times to ensure you understand the prompt, what is expected of you, and all of the other essential guidelines pertaining to your essay.

While you should be sure to do this before you start writing, you should also do this after you’ve written the piece. Simply double check your work against the requirements set by the scholarship organization, and make sure you’re following the instructions to the letter. Essays that don’t follow instructions will most likely be thrown out first, and you don’t want your hard work to go to waste simply because you forgot something in the instructions.

Scholarship Essays for Online Students

If you’ve decided to pursue your education through an online bachelor’s degree or master’s degree program , it can be even more important to communicate effectively through your scholarship essay. It is entirely possible that you will never meet your collegiate benefactors or professors in person, and will only communicate with them via your writing online.

Luckily, there are some unique scholarships out there that are aimed just for online or “distance learning” students. Keep in mind, even some of the smaller scholarships (such as those for $50-$500) can still help you pay for books, online texts or subscriptions, or other essential learning materials.

Writing an imaginative and thoughtful scholarship essay can help you pay for online schooling for either a bachelors or masters degree program. It can also get you started on the right foot to have a solid financial aid foundation to pursue your college dreams.

Whether you’re writing one scholarship essay or many, these tips will help you make a solid first impression, and hopefully will win over whichever scholarship organization you’re targeting.

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Essay: How Will This Scholarship Help You Achieve Your Goals? (With Example) – 2023

Jennifer Finetti May 23, 2023

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Many scholarship applicants often have to write a “How will this scholarship help you achieve your goals” essay. This gives the scholarship committee an understanding of how the scholarship will help students pursue their goals.

Needless to say, the essay is very important for the scholarship application. This is where students can show off their personality. Students should make sure to write a unique composition which answers the essay question.

Think About Your Goals

It can be challenging to think about what your goals are after college. This is especially true if you haven’t decided on a major and have no idea what you want to study.

If you find yourself struggling to determine what your career goals are, try brainstorming before you start writing. Think of what your short-term and long-term goals are and write them down. What skills do you need to achieve these goals?

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Writing Tips – Getting Started

When starting to write your essay , make sure you open with a catchy introduction. This can be a question, an anecdote or a personal story. You want to grab your reader’s interest right away. Start with something unique, rather than using a generic sentence that any other student can use.

Explain the Inspiration Behind Your Goals

You’ll then want to explain the inspiration behind your goals. What led you to want to pursue these goals? What experiences have you had in life which have influenced you and your dreams?

Discuss Your Goals

After discussing your past experiences, talk about your education and career goals . Do you have a major? How will it help you achieve your goals?

Do you have long-term goals you can talk about? The scholarship provider doesn’t expect you to have long-term goals set in stone so don’t worry if you don’t. Instead, you can write about how you wish to impact others.

Make a Creative Conclusion

In your conclusion paragraph, you should summarize the major points in your essay. Then finish with a closing thought. You should try to make it creative and unique. You want to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

After you finish writing your essay, make sure you proofread it several times. The last thing you’d want to do is turn in an essay with grammar mistakes.

Scholarship Goals Essay Example

It was November, 2016, a few days before Thanksgiving. My class took a field trip to a soup kitchen to serve lunch. I poured piping hot soup into bowls while people started to fill the room. It was a great way to warm up on the frigid November day. Their eyes seemed empty and sad. “Happy Thanksgiving” we said to one another, as our eyes locked.

A few days later, as I sat surrounded by family, turkey, gravy and pumpkin pie, I couldn’t help but feel like something wasn’t right. Why was I so fortunate to have access to all this food? I thought of the people from the soup kitchen and wondered where they were. I knew right then and there that my purpose in life was to help people.

I returned to the soup kitchen as a volunteer a week later, and a week after that.

I envisioned the realm of possibilities for these people. “I would connect him with a rehab program, her with daycare for her baby so she could find work,” I thought to myself while volunteering. I have dreams of one day being able to help people make changes in their lives.

For this reason, I will be starting my undergraduate degree in social work at Boston University in the fall. I am certain that my studies will instill within me the skills and knowledge I need to pursue a career as a social worker. I hope to be able to help those who are less privileged find hope in their lives.

This scholarship will help me achieve my educational and career goals. I have been working hard to save up for college, but with the exorbitant costs of tuition, my part-time jobs haven’t been enough. I am planning to work during my undergraduate degree, but I do wish to focus a lot of my time on my studies. This scholarship will help by lowering the costs of college and the amount of hours I’ll need to work throughout my studies. This way, I’ll be able to continue with my academic achievements. It will also give me time to find an internship. I am hoping to find an internship at a homeless shelter in the Boston area.

It has been two and a half years since I first walked into that soup kitchen. That day without a doubt has changed the course of my life. My experiences there, talking with people and hearing their stories, have instilled within me a passion to help people make positive changes in their lives. This scholarship will allow me to pursue the education I need to achieve my goals.

Scholarship Essay

Jennifer Finetti

As a parent who recently helped her own kids embark on their college journeys, Jennifer approaches the transition from high school to college from a unique perspective. She truly enjoys engaging with students – helping them to build the confidence, knowledge, and insight needed to pursue their educational and career goals, while also empowering them with the strategies and skills needed to access scholarships and financial aid that can help limit college costs. She understands the importance of ensuring access to the edtech tools and resources that can make this process easier and more equitable - this drive to support underserved populations is what drew her to ScholarshipOwl. Jennifer has coached students from around the world, as well as in-person with local students in her own community. Her areas of focus include career exploration, major selection, college search and selection, college application assistance, financial aid and scholarship consultation, essay review and feedback, and more. She works with students who are at the top of their class, as well as those who are struggling. She firmly believes that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can succeed if they stay focused and work hard in school. Jennifer earned her MA in Counseling Psychology from National University, and her BA in Psychology from University of California, Santa Cruz.

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Why Are Scholarships Important? 7+ Benefits of Scholarships 🎓

Wondering why are scholarships important here are the top benefits of scholarships and why you should apply for them for college..

Why are scholarships important? In the United States, only 0.3% of students got a full-ride scholarship. As the odds are quite long, it can seem like there’s no point in applying for this financial aid.

Yet the benefits of scholarships are huge and make applying well worth your time. We know that applying to college is a stressful experience and applying for scholarships can seem like another additional stress that you don’t need. Yet if you can convince a college that you’re the right candidate for a scholarship, full-ride or not, you can set yourself up for life.

We’ve already shown you how internships can help you . This time, we’re going to take a look at how you can use scholarships to improve your college experience.

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Related Read : Scholarships 101: Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Scholarship

Here are 8 great benefits of scholarships and why they’re so important:

1. Scholarships Make Education Easier to Access

College in the United States is expensive: the average student debt of the class of 2018 is $29,800. If you’re a gifted student from a poorer background, accessing higher education can seem impossible. This is one of the key answers to the question of “why are scholarships important?”

No one should have their education limited due to a lack of household income. One of the most important scholarship benefits for society is that it gives us engineers, doctors, academics, nurses, lawyers, and scientists from backgrounds that would make traditional college financial aid hard to secure. Having more people in these professions is better for us as a society and helps us fill any employment gaps that would otherwise be empty.

Related Read : What Is a Scholarship and How Do Scholarships Work?

2. Students That Win Scholarships Can Access Extensive Support

Winning a scholarship nets you more than just a healthy bank balance. Many colleges offer support to students that have won scholarships, to help them get the most out of their money.

This doesn’t mean that your college will babysit your spending and curtail you from having fun, don’t worry! What it means is that they’ll help you experience the full benefits of scholarships, offering mentorship to help you with the program. This extra support can be a massive help for any freshman and means that the college will be with you every step of the way to help you achieve the very best results that you can.

Related Read : Top 18 Best Scholarship Websites Perfect for College Students and High School Seniors

3. Scholarships Help You Network

This is one of the lesser-known benefits of scholarships. When you are awarded a scholarship, you’ll be able to network with other people who have also won the award. As you’re likely to be in the same academic field, this can provide huge networking bonuses when you’ve graduated.

For instance, if you win a scholarship in business administration, you’ll be able to stay in touch with sophomores and seniors who have also been given the award. When the time comes to get a job, you’ll already have contacts in the industry, which gives you a tremendous advantage over other candidates. Networking now can also grant you other academic opportunities, research opportunities, and give you a close-knit friendship group in your industry.

🎁 Click here to get our FREE scholarship application tracker ! This spreadsheet will help you keep tabs on where and when you applied so you don’t miss any opportunities. Click on “File” > “Make a copy” to save it to your Google Drive for your own use. Good luck!

4. No Need to Work

According to government statistics , nearly half of all undergraduate students have a job to help them finance their studies and living costs. Getting a job can help college students tremendously, yet they can also detract from the quality of their work.

If you have to work 16 hours per week or more, will you be able to put in as much effort on your paper? This is a compromise that many college students need to make.

A key benefit of scholarships is that the need to work is removed. Instead, you can dedicate all of your time to working on your academic projects. This lets you improve your grades and get a better job when you graduate.

Related Read : How to Get a Scholarship? 8 Tips to Help You Get Free Money for School

5. Gives Your Resume a Boost

Winning scholarships can be difficult. Some scholarships have thousands of applicants which means that if you are awarded the scholarship, your pre-college achievements are given additional recognition.

When you apply to jobs with a scholarship on your resume, it shows that not only did you work hard in college, but you worked hard before. If the college saw fit to choose you over thousands of others, why shouldn’t an employer do the same?

6. Scholarships Encourage Philanthropy

If you win a scholarship, it’s hoped that your approach to life will change. If you’ve been helped by this donation, then you may go on to become more philanthropic yourself. Perhaps you’ll go on to found another scholarship or support the college with charitable donations.

Related Read : 15 Books to Read Before College for High School Students and Graduates 📖

7. Scholarships Give You Access to More Colleges

Even if you aren’t from a poor background, there are likely to be some colleges that are off-limits if you don’t get a scholarship. Some Ivy League colleges, for instance, can saddle you with six figures of debt if you self-fund your way through your studies.

One of the best benefits of scholarships is that you’ll be able to access the very best education. If you have incredible academic abilities, then you’ll be able to gain access to the best colleges in the world, and leave with either no debt or far less debt than you would otherwise.

8. Additional Experience

Depending on who awards your scholarship, you may be required to carry out voluntary work in your industry. This is far from a burden: it gives you fantastic real-world experience that will improve your resume and help you in your career.

Even if it isn’t mandatory, you should look for voluntary work to go along with your scholarship. This kind of industry experience is invaluable.

Related Read : How to Use Goodwall’s Web Profile to Score a Scholarship & Get Into Uni

Wrapping Up

We began this article by asking “why are scholarships important?” We hope that we’ve shown you why you should apply for scholarships: there is an incredible range of benefits of scholarships, and they can help you get the most out of college and your life after graduation.

Got any feedback, questions, or other points to add about why scholarships are important for university applications? Want to know when to apply for a college scholarship ? Let us know below in the comments, and thanks for reading!

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Plz Sir, after win the scholarship, do I I still need to pay any money… intense of accommodation…or anything? Plz educate me.

Great content Christian! I hope l get the courage to apply someday!

Nice share!!! Thanks for providing such a great benefits about scholarships in India. Auro Scholar is a nation-wide micro scholarship program with a focus on encouraging school students in India to improve their learning levels. Through this micro scholarship program, Indian students of Grade 6-12 are motivated to take the mobile-based quizzes and win micro scholarships. For more info visit auroscholar.com

I really liked this blog. it is very interesting and easy to understand.

Incredible experience I loved this experience I’ll like to know more about all this things

Hi Ashika, thank you for writing in! Is there something more about scholarships you’d like us to write about?

Just in case you didn’t see them, we also have these other scholarships articles:

https://www.goodwall.io/blog/types-of-scholarships/ https://www.goodwall.io/blog/scholarships-101/ https://www.goodwall.io/blog/what-is-a-scholarship/

Hope that helps, and good luck to you if you’re applying for a scholarship yourself!

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Why Are Scholarships Important? (17 Reasons)

For many students across the globe, scholarships stand as hallmarks of hope—hope for an education that might otherwise be out of reach. These vital grants are more than just a helping hand; they are crucial game changers, enabling learners of all backgrounds to chase their aspirations without the constraint of financial hardship.

Imagine the dreams that have been realized, the ambitions achieved, and the successes attained, all because of the financial jumpstart afforded by scholarships. The importance of these grants runs deep, but just how profound can their impact be?

Join me as we delve into the pivotal ways scholarships empower individuals and, by extension, enhance our world.

Scholarships Provide Financial Support for College Tuition

Scholarships serve as a lifeline for students who would struggle with this financial load. They directly contribute to tuition fees, which are the central bills a student faces when entering higher education. As opposed to loans, this aid does not need to be repaid , which can profoundly impact a student’s future financial freedom.

Scholarships can vary significantly in their scope and size. Some cover the full cost of tuition, while others might provide a partial fund:

Full-tuition scholarships: Cover the total cost of tuition fees for the duration of the academic program.
Partial scholarships: Contribute a set amount towards tuition fees, reducing the financial burden.

With the aid of scholarships, students can select educational institutions based on academic fit rather than just cost. This choice opens doors to higher-quality education and more prestigious universities, which might be out of reach without such financial aid.

Scholarships Reduce the Need for Student Loans and Debt

Abundant access to student loans has allowed many to pursue higher education, but the aftermath is often a debilitating amount of debt. Scholarships offer an alternative by providing funding that doesn’t result in future financial obligations.

Consider the following impacts of student loan debt:

Long-Term Financial Strain: Graduates with heavy student loan debt may delay homeownership, starting a business, or even retirement savings.
Career Choices: Some graduates may feel compelled to choose a higher-paying job over a fulfilling but less lucrative career to manage loan repayments.
Mental Health: The burden of debt can also lead to stress and impact mental health, affecting personal and professional life.

Scholarships, by contrast, present an opportunity to obtain an education without these strings attached. When educational achievements are not overshadowed by financial worries, students can engage more fully with their studies and extracurricular activities, contributing to a more enriching university experience.

Scholarships Enhance Access to Higher Education for Disadvantaged Groups

Scholarships often serve as a crucial tool for leveling the educational playing field for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those from lower-income families, underrepresented minorities, or first-generation college students.

Key Points:

Scholarships open doors to higher education that might otherwise be closed due to financial barriers.
They are instrumental in promoting diversity within educational institutions.
Financial aid aimed at specific groups helps correct historical imbalances and inequities within society.

A poignant life example is the story of a first-generation college student whose path to a prestigious university was paved by scholarships aimed at encouraging higher education in her community. Without this financial support, the cost of attending college would have been a prohibitive barrier, potentially derailing her academic and career aspirations.

These scholarships not only benefit the recipients but also enrich the academic community as a whole. Diverse perspectives foster a robust learning environment and equip students with the cultural sensitivity and understanding necessary in today’s globalized world. When students from various backgrounds can access higher education, it reinforces the principle that success is attainable for all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

Scholarships Free Students from Part-Time Work

College years are a critical time for students to delve into their studies, engage fully with campus life, and invest in relationships that can define their future careers. However, the financial pressures of education often necessitate that students take on part-time jobs, leading to a trade-off between work and study.

Scholarships alleviate some of this burden by covering costs that would otherwise require income from part-time work. This gives students more time to:

Immerse themselves in rigorous academic pursuits, hone their intellect, and achieve academic excellence.
Participate in extra-curricular activities that can be as vital as classroom learning in developing skills and character.

Consider this life example: A young woman attending university on a full scholarship could forgo her part-time job to invest her time in a research project. This engagement not only enhanced her own educational experience but also contributed to valuable research in her field of study, exemplifying how scholarships can enrich the academic community as a whole.

Scholarships Recognize and Reward Academic Excellence

Scholarships reward the hard work and dedication of high-achieving students while simultaneously motivating others to strive for similar academic goals. For many students, scholarships provide a sense of validation for their efforts, which can be particularly important for maintaining morale and a strong work ethic throughout their academic career.

These scholarships act as a mark of distinction, highlighting recipients on honor rolls and in commencement speeches.
They are often competitive, offering not just financial rewards but also prestige that can be influential in future academic or professional pursuits.

Take, for example, a valedictorian from a small town who receives a scholarship to a top engineering program. This financial endorsement not only celebrates her accomplishments but also sets a precedent for academic excellence within her community, encouraging future generations to follow in her footsteps.

Scholarships Can Cover Other Educational Expenses

While tuition is the primary expense associated with higher education, the costs certainly don’t end there. Scholarships that extend beyond tuition, covering additional costs like books, lab fees, housing, and meals, provide a comprehensive financial aid package that can ease the burden on students significantly.

Consider a three-tier breakdown of essential expenses for a college student:

Tuition and fees: Constantly rising, these are often the focus of scholarships.
Books and supplies: The hidden, yet hefty costs of specialized textbooks and academic materials.
Room and board: For students living away from home, scholarships can mean the difference between a safe, reliable living situation and precarious accommodations.

An engrossing fact is that some students choose their major based on the affordability of the textbooks. Hence, scholarships targeting these additional expenses not only support a student’s financial needs but also allow them to make academic choices based on passion and interest rather than cost.

Scholarships Enable Access to Top Schools

Scholarships open the doors to prestigious institutions that may otherwise seem out of reach for students with limited financial resources. Attending a selective school can offer numerous advantages, such as smaller class sizes, individualized instruction, stronger alumni networks, and a greater variety of academic programs.

A prestigious scholarship can be the key factor in a student’s decision to attend a school that matches their academic and professional ambitions.
These opportunities are particularly important for students from marginalized communities, for whom attending a selective institution might represent a transformative life experience.

Incorporating a life example, imagine a talented young artist from an economically challenged neighborhood. A scholarship to an elite school known for its art program not only allows these students to nurture their talent but also places them in a network of professional contacts and opportunities that might otherwise have been inaccessible.

Scholarships Offer Networking and Professional Development Opportunities

Scholarship recipients may gain access to exclusive events, internships, or mentorship programs, connecting them with established professionals and industry leaders in their field of study. Such interactions can be pivotal for future employment and career development.

Consider the structure of these opportunities:

Events and Workshops: Scholarship programs may host conferences, workshops, or seminars that allow recipients to learn current industry practices and trends.
Internships: Some scholarships include internships with sponsoring organizations, providing hands-on experience.
Alumni Networks: Scholarship alumni networks can be a rich resource for career advice and job opportunities.

For example, a scholarship sponsored by a major tech company could introduce a computer science student to cutting-edge research and development, as well as potential employment after graduation. Through these scholarships, students are not only supported financially but also professionally groomed and integrated into professional communities.

Scholarships Serve as a Stepping Stone for Future Career Success

Scholarships can significantly impact the long-term career prospects of students. Not only do they ease immediate financial concerns, but they also serve as accolades on a resume, signaling to future employers a candidate’s competency and potential. In competitive job markets, a scholarship can distinguish one job applicant from another.

They are often viewed as:

Endorsements: A scholarship can act as a third-party endorsement of the recipient’s abilities and potential.
Confidence Builders: Being awarded a scholarship can boost a student’s confidence in their skills and career prospects.

For example, a law student who secures a scholarship from a well-regarded legal foundation may find that this accolade opens doors to internships and job interviews at prestigious law firms. The scholarship goes beyond dollar signs, becoming a mark of distinction that can aid in launching a successful career.

Scholarships Encourage Involvement in Community Service and Leadership

Often, scholarships are not solely about academic performance; they are designed to foster a culture of civic duty and leadership among students. A scholarship could be tied to the recipient’s participation in community service or leadership roles, thus incentivizing students to engage with and give back to their communities.

The impact of such scholarships is threefold:

They promote a well-rounded education, underscoring the value of social responsibility alongside academics.
Recipients become role models for their peers, demonstrating the importance of civic engagement.
Community projects benefit from the innovative ideas and energy of young scholars.

Scholarships Affirm the Value of Education in Society

Scholarships are a testament to the collective belief in the power of education to transform lives and societies. They are funded by entities that recognize and wish to invest in the potential of future generations. By prioritizing education through financial support, society conveys a message that learning is a worthwhile pursuit deserving of ample resources.

Scholarships exemplify this investment by:

Supporting students who might otherwise lack the means to complete their education.
Encouraging a pursuit of knowledge that is unencumbered by financial limitation.

Imagine a scholarship funded by a community to support local graduates; this not only provides opportunities for the students but also nurtures talent that could one day contribute significantly to the community’s development. This cycle of giving and growth underscores the inherent value placed on education by society.

Scholarships Attract International Students

By reducing the financial barriers of studying abroad, scholarships enable international students to attend colleges and universities outside their home countries. In turn, these students contribute a world of diverse perspectives on culture, politics, and society that enriches the educational experience for all students and faculty on campus.

International scholarships are a win-win as they provide educational opportunities for the students and enrich the host institution with a diverse array of cultural perspectives.
These scholarships often lead to multinational relationships and collaborations in various fields.

A real-life example could be an international scholarship program offered by European universities that draws students from Asia, Africa, and the Americas, facilitating a dynamic and multicultural learning environment. Increasingly, graduates with international exposure are sought-after by employers, making these scholarships an investment in global connectivity.

Scholarships Support Individuals Pursuing Niche or High-Need Fields

Dedicated scholarships can be pivotal in steering students toward specialized fields that are vital to societal advancements but are often overlooked or underfunded. These fields can range from renewable energy research to language preservation, and each plays a crucial role in corresponding industries and communities.

Scholarships in these realms not only assist individuals in pursuing their passions but also address the talent shortages in critical sectors, contributing to innovation and progress.

Key Contributions of Niche Field Scholarships:

Encourage students to undertake studies in sectors with a high need for skilled professionals.
Help foster expertise and innovation in fields that may otherwise see a deficit in interest or resources.

Imagine a student with an interest in bee conservation finding a scholarship that covers her studies in this niche field. Her subsequent research could lead to important developments in environmental science and agriculture, illustrating the broader impacts of such focused scholarships.

Scholarships Encourage Adult Learners to Continue Education

Scholarships for adult learners specifically acknowledge and support the continuous learning paths of those who have already entered the workforce or have familial responsibilities. These scholarships empower adults to upskill, retrain, or pursue new directions in their careers, which can be beneficial both for personal growth and societal development.

They provide a financial lifeline that enables adult learners to manage work, education, and family life.
Adult learners can bring a wealth of life experience and a fresh perspective to the classroom.

For instance, a mother returning to college to earn her degree after years in the workforce may receive a scholarship that acknowledges her dual role as a student and parent. Her academic success, supported by this scholarship, can inspire her children and community members to value lifelong learning.

Scholarships Support Student Academic Goals

Many scholarships have a continuing eligibility criterion based on academic performance, which encourages recipients to maintain a high standard of academic achievement throughout their education. This consistent drive for excellence often translates into more focused study habits, greater involvement in class, and, ultimately, better academic outcomes.

Consider the following:

Students who are scholarship recipients often report a greater sense of responsibility toward their studies.
The incentive to keep a scholarship can lead to enhanced learning outcomes and personal development.

For example, a student who has to maintain a certain GPA to retain a scholarship is likely to dedicate more effort to coursework and exams. The result is not only continued financial support but also a strong academic record that could open doors to future opportunities such as graduate studies or competitive job markets.

Scholarships Foster Public and Private Commitment to Education

The existence of scholarships, whether funded by governments, private entities, or non-profit organizations, is a testament to the collective conviction of the importance of education. These investments represent belief in the potential of students and the future benefits they will bring to the community and economy. Scholarships can serve as a call to action, motivating more entities to recognize and contribute to educational endeavors.

Benefits of this collective commitment include:

Enhanced educational opportunities for a wider range of students.
A demonstration of societal support for the pursuit of knowledge.

Picture a scenario where a community rallies together, with businesses and local groups funding a scholarship for area students. This not only helps the students directly but strengthens the community’s commitment to supporting its young people’s educational growth, with the understanding that today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders and innovators.

Scholarships Recognize Special Talents, Like Arts or Sports

In addition to academic achievement, scholarships often celebrate and support students with exceptional talents in areas such as the arts or athletics. These specialized scholarships recognize the dedication and skill in these fields and provide students with the resources to pursue their passions at a higher level.

Art Scholarships: These may be awarded to students with talents in painting, writing, music, and other creative endeavors, allowing them to refine their craft through further education and training.
Athletic Scholarships: These are typically given to high-performing sports individuals, providing them the opportunity to continue their sporting career while also obtaining a college education.

For example, a talented violinist might receive a scholarship to a prestigious music conservatory, where they can study with renowned masters and perform in world-class venues. On the athletic side, a promising young soccer player might be granted a scholarship that covers their university tuition, enabling them to train and compete at a high level without financial strain.

Recognizing special talents through scholarships not only supports individual students but also contributes to the cultural and athletic vibrancy of society. By investing in these unique abilities, scholarship bodies ensure that diverse forms of excellence are nurtured and celebrated, enriching our communities and often enhancing national pride through artistic and sporting achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i find scholarships that i’m eligible for.

You can find scholarships through several resources, including your school’s financial aid office, online scholarship search engines, community organizations, businesses, and professional associations. It’s important to research and apply for scholarships that match your interests, talents, and background.

What are the common requirements for maintaining a scholarship?

Common requirements for maintaining a scholarship include achieving a certain grade point average (GPA), enrolling in a specific number of course credits each semester, and engaging in certain activities or community service. Be sure to understand the renewal criteria for your scholarships.

Final Thoughts

In essence, scholarships are the silent champions of higher education, underpinning dreams and facilitating the journeys of thousands of students towards a brighter future. They stand as proof that financial barriers should not and need not derail the ambitions of eager, deserving scholars. Through these grants, we affirm our society’s commitment to propelling the best and brightest forward, regardless of their financial starting points.

Let’s move forward with the assurance that for every scholarship bestowed, there’s a story of possibility, progress, and profound potential being written. Together, let’s continue to champion these stories and uphold scholarships as critical catalysts of change and opportunity.

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Scholarships

New Zealand Scholarships

University of otago coursework masters scholarship 2024 in new zealand.

Partial Funding
University of Otago
All Subjects
International Students
New Zealand

University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarships.

Description for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

The University of Otago is pleased to announce the availability of the University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship for the year 2024. Established to support high-achieving students, this scholarship offers financial assistance of $10,000 towards tuition fees, with any remaining funds provided as a monthly stipend. Open to both domestic and international students , applicants must be enrolled full-time in a coursework Master's degree program at the University of Otago, excluding those with a thesis option. Selection is based on academic merit and departmental recommendation. Applications are currently being accepted, and interested students are encouraged to apply, you can read the details down below.

Degree Level for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship 2024 in New Zealand is available to undertake Masters level programs at University of Otago.

Available Subjects for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

Benefits for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

Scholarship value:.

The scholarship is worth NZ$10,000. Here's how you receive the money:

Tuition Fee Rebate: The first part will go directly towards reducing your tuition fees.
Monthly Stipend (if applicable): Any remaining amount will be paid out to you in equal monthly installments throughout your scholarship period.

Important Note:

If you withdraw from your coursework Master's program at the University of Otago while receiving the scholarship, all future payments will stop, and you won't get a refund for the already awarded amount.

Eligible Nationalities for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

The University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship is open to both domestic and international applicants , and are for students who are studying Master's degrees which don't include a full thesis component (although they may include a research report or dissertation).

About University of Otago:

The University of Otago , located in Dunedin, New Zealand , is a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant research environment. Established in 1869, it stands as New Zealand's oldest university, boasting a rich history of educational innovation. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines, attracting students from around the world. With a strong emphasis on research and scholarship, Otago consistently ranks among the top universities globally for its research output and impact. Its picturesque campus, characterized by historic architecture and modern facilities, provides a conducive learning environment. The University of Otago's commitment to fostering critical thinking, cultural diversity, and intellectual exploration makes it a hub for students seeking a well-rounded education and engaging academic experience.

Eligibility Criteria for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

This scholarship is open to students enrolling full-time in their first year of a Master's program at the University of Otago. There are two eligible options:

Coursework Master's (non-thesis): Students pursuing a Master's program designed entirely through coursework, with no thesis requirement.
Master's with Research Option: Students choosing the research report or dissertation option within a Master's program that also offers a thesis pathway.

Previous Master's Degrees:

Students who have already completed a coursework Master's degree at the University of Otago are generally not eligible for this scholarship.

Highlights:

Full-time enrollment is required.
Only first-year Master's students are eligible.
The scholarship applies to specific program structures: non-thesis coursework Masters or Masters with a chosen research report/dissertation option (within a program offering a thesis).

Application Procedure for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship:

There are two scenarios for applying, depending on whether you've already been admitted to your program:

Submit the c ompleted scholarship application form along with your application for admission to the Master's program.
You must apply after receiving your results from the initial Master's papers.
You must submit your application within one month of starting the research or dissertation component.

Selection Process:

The University of Otago Scholarships Committee carefully evaluates applications based on the following criteria:

Your academic record: This includes your grades and overall academic performance.
Departmental recommendation: The Head of Department (or their nominee) will provide their evaluation and ranking of your application.

Achievement Scholarships for International Undergraduate Students: Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney

University of Otago Research Masters Scholarship 2024 in New Zealand

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Carers and disability benefits

Disability Benefits system to be overhauled as consultation launched on Personal Independence Payment

Government to reform disability benefits system to ensure they’re targeted at those most in need.

Consultation to be published today on proposals to move away from fixed cash benefit system towards tailored support
Comes as over 2.6 million people of working age now receiving PIP with monthly new claims almost doubling since 2019

Plans to make the disability benefits system fit for the future and overhaul the “one size fits all” approach are set to be published today (Monday 29 April), following the Prime Minister’s speech which set out the government’s wide-ranging ambitions for welfare reform.

The Modernising Support Green Paper will explore how our welfare system could be redesigned to ensure people with disabilities and long-term health conditions get the support they need to achieve the best outcomes, with an approach that focuses support on those with the greatest needs and extra costs.

The UK’s health landscape has changed since Personal Independence Payment ( PIP ) was introduced in 2013 with the intention that it would be a more sustainable benefit that would support disabled people to live independently by helping with the extra costs they face.

However, the caseload and costs are now spiralling. There are now 2.6 million people of working age claiming PIP and DLA – with 33,000 new awards for PIP each month which is more than double the rate before the pandemic. This is expected to cost the taxpayer £28 billion a year by 2028/29 – a 110% increase in spending since 2019.

This is in part fuelled by the rise in people receiving PIP for mental health conditions such as mixed anxiety and depressive disorders, with monthly awards doubling from 2,200 to 5,300 a month since 2019.

Since 2015, the proportion of the caseload receiving the highest rate of PIPhas increased from 25% to 36%. And many more people being awarded PIPnow have mental health conditions than when it was first introduced.

In line with the wider reforms to ensure the welfare system is fair and compassionate, the Modernising Support Green Paper proposals centre on targeting and improving the support for those who need it most.

These ideas include removing the PIP assessment altogether for people with certain long term health conditions or disabilities, including those with terminal illnesses to reduce bureaucracy and make life easier for those most in need of support.

By more accurately targeting support, we will ensure the large scale of government expenditure on PIP translates into better outcomes for disabled people and those with health conditions.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

It’s clear that our disability benefits system isn’t working in the way it was intended, and we’re determined to reform it to ensure it’s sustainable for the future, so we can continue delivering support to those who genuinely need it most.

Today’s Green Paper marks the next chapter of our welfare reforms and is part of our plan to make the benefits system fairer to the taxpayer, better targeted to individual needs and harder to exploit by those who are trying to game the system.

We’re inviting views from across society to ensure everyone has a chance to make their voices heard and shape our welfare reforms.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said:

We’re making the biggest welfare reforms in a generation – protecting those most in need while supporting thousands into work as we modernise our benefit system to reflect the changing health landscape.

A decade on from the introduction of PIP , this Green Paper opens the next chapter of reform, enhancing the support for people with health conditions and disabilities while ensuring the system is fair to the taxpayer.

The Green Paper sets out proposals across three key priorities to fundamentally reform the system:

Making changes to the eligibility criteria for PIP , so it is fairer and better targeted

Through previous consultations, we have been told that the criteria currently used in assessments do not always fully reflect how a disability or health condition impacts on a person’s daily life. The criteria have changed over time and no longer capture these different impacts as originally intended.

We will consider whether the current thresholds for entitlement correctly reflect the need for ongoing financial support. This includes considering if current descriptors - such as the need for aids and appliances - are good indicators of extra costs.

We will also look at changing the qualifying period for PIP in order to ensure the impact that people’s conditions will have on them over time is fully understood and consider whether we should change the test used to determine if a condition is likely to continue long-term.

Reforming the PIP assessment so that it is more closely linked to a person’s condition and exploring removing assessment entirely for those most in need.

PIP is over a decade old and a lot has changed since the assessment was developed. We know some people continue to find PIP assessments difficult and repetitive, and view the assessment as too subjective.

We will consider whether some people could receive PIP without needing an assessment by basing entitlement on specific health conditions or disabilities supported by medical evidence.

This includes looking at whether evidence of a formal diagnosis by a medical expert should be a requirement to be assessed as eligible for PIP . This will make it easier and quicker for people with severe or terminal conditions to get the vital support they need.

We will explore alternative approaches to ensure people are given the right help to fulfil their potential and live independently. The UK has used a fixed cash transfer system since the 1970s but there are a number of international systems that look at the specific extra costs people have and provide more tailored support instead.

For example, in New Zealand, the amount of Disability Allowance is based on a person’s extra costs which are verified by a health practitioner. Norway’s Basic Benefit requires people to provide a letter from a GP outlining the nature of their condition and the associated extra costs.

We are considering options including one-off grants to better help people with significant costs such as home adaptations or expensive equipment, as well as giving vouchers to contribute towards specific costs, or reimbursing claimants who provide receipts for purchases of aids, appliances or services.

This reflects the fact that some claimants will have significant extra costs related to their disability, and others will have minimal or specific costs.

While these alternative models help people with the extra costs of their disability or health condition, we know other forms of support including health care, social services care provision and respite are also important to help people to realise their full potential and live independently.

We are also considering whether some people receiving PIP who have lower, or no extra costs, may have better outcomes from improved access to treatment and support than from a cash payment.

Andy Cook, Chief Executive of the Centre for Social Justice, said:

Our landmark Two Nations report laid bare the lasting impact of the pandemic on our nation’s most vulnerable communities.

With the welfare system now grappling with the combined challenges of economic inactivity, school absence and mental health, this consultation provides a meaningful opportunity to shape the future of Britain’s welfare state.

We owe it to those most struggling to make sure the benefit system provides the best support to those who need it. And with costs skyrocketing, it is time to bring the welfare system into the post-lockdown age.

The Green Paper is the latest of the government’s welfare reforms to ensure disabled people and people with long-term health conditions can live full and independent lives. It builds on last year’s Health and Disability White Paper and the £2.5 billion Back to Work Plan which will break down barriers to work for over one million people.

The Government is also delivering the largest expansion in mental health services in a generation, with almost £5 billion of extra funding over the past five years, and a near doubling of mental health training places.

Our reforms to the Work Capability Assessment are expected to reduce the number of people put onto the highest tier of incapacity benefits by 424,000, people who will now receive personalised support to prepare for work, while our Chance to Work Guarantee will mean people can try work without fear of losing their benefits.

Further Information

The consultation can be found here: Modernising support for independent living: the health and disability green paper - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
This consultation will be open for 12 weeks and we are inviting views from across society to ensure everyone has a chance to shape the modernisation of the welfare system. The findings of the consultation, which closes on Tuesday 23 July, will inform future reforms.
The UK Government is committed to improving the lives of disabled people and people with long-term health conditions in all parts of the UK.
In Wales, Personal Independence Payment ( PIP ) is the responsibility of the UK Government.
In Northern Ireland, PIP is transferred and is the responsibility of the Department for Communities.
In Scotland, Adult Disability Payment ( ADP ) has replaced PIP and is the responsibility of the Scottish Government. The transfer of existing Scottish PIP claimants from DWP to Social Security Scotland started in summer 2022 and will continue until 2025.
We will continue to work with the Devolved Administrations to consider the implications of the proposals in this Green Paper in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

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10 reasons why I deserve a scholarship [model answers]
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How to Write a Scholarship Essay
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Scholarship Essay Example #5. Questbridge Finalist essay earning $3,000 in application waivers plus $3000 in local scholarships by Jordan Sanchez. Prompt: Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it.
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Connection to Scholarship: The applicant clearly articulates how receiving the scholarship would benefit them. This demonstrates a strong alignment between their goals and the purpose of the scholarship. Want more examples, check out these winning scholarship essay examples.
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Scholarship essay examples about financial need, and more! We've included scholarship essay examples specific to schools, including UC Berkeley, as well as specific programs, like the SHPE scholarship. We'll also discuss the different types of scholarships you'll find on your scholarship search. Now, before we jump into our essay examples ...
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1 inch to 1 ½ inch margins. If there is no required word or page count, as a general rule, aim for ¾ to 1 full page in length. Be sure to include your name and the name of the scholarship you are applying for near the top of the page (either as a header or simply above the optional title).
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Description for University of Otago Coursework Masters Scholarship: The University of Otago is pleased to announce the availability of the University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship for the year 2024. Established to support high-achieving students, this scholarship offers financial assistance of $10,000 towards tuition fees, with any remaining funds provided as a monthly stipend.
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10 reasons why I deserve a scholarship [model answers]

Why Do I Deserve A Scholarship? Here are some awesome reasons:

What’s the scholarship committee looking for?

Tips for writing a “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” essay

Tips on Answering “Why Do I Deserve a Scholarship?”

1. Understanding the Scholarship Essay Question

2. Focusing on the Future: How Scholarships Support Career Goals

3. Aligning Your Interests: Tailoring Your Answer to the Scholarship’s Purpose

4. Crafting a Story: The Importance of Using Specific Examples

5. Showcasing Kindness: Illustrating Personal Attributes with Real-Life Instances

6. Overcoming Challenges: The Art of Displaying Resilience in Scholarship Essays

7. Striking a Balance: Sharing Past Struggles without Dwelling on Them

8. Ensuring Success: Proving Your Potential through Past Experiences

9. Utilizing the Word Count: Maximizing Your Space for Maximum Impact

10. Conclusion: Effectively Conveying Why You Deserve the Scholarship

Wrapping up – applying for a scholarship

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Winning Scholarship Essay Examples for Students: Tips Included

Scholarship Essay Examples Financial Need

Scholarship Essay Examples About Yourself

Scholarship Essay Examples for Nursing

Scholarship Essay Examples About Leadership

Scholarship Essay Examples About Community Service

High School Scholarship Essay Examples

Scholarship Essay Examples for University

Why Should You Receive this Scholarship Essay Examples

Why I Deserve This Scholarship Essay Examples

Tips for Writing the Effective Scholarship Essay

Keep reading

Scholarship Essay Examples

In this guide to Scholarship Essay Examples, you’ll find tips on how to write the best scholarship essay, as well as:

What is a scholarship essay?

Types of Scholarships

Here are a few different scholarship types you may come across in your scholarship search:

Merit-Based Scholarships

There are many merit-based scholarships available to help students afford college, including:

Finding scholarships

How do you write a scholarship essay?

Organization

Scholarship Essay Examples About Yourself

How do you promote Phi Sigma Rho and STEM on your campus or in your community? (300 words Max)

SHPE Scholarship essay example #1

Essay Example:

More scholarship essay examples

Scholarship Essay Sample about “Why I deserve the scholarship”

How will a ScholarSHPE impact your life and education? (200 Words)

UC Berkeley Scholarships essay examples

UC Berkeley scholarship essay examples

What do you do to serve your community? Why do you do the service that you do? What impact have you made? What challenges or insights have your service contributions given you? (Max. 3,990 characters including spaces.)

Describe your volunteer or community experience with SHPE or other organizations and any internships you have held. (250 Words)

Reflecting on scholarship essay format

Three scholarship essay writing tips:

Three essential elements to include in your essay:

Storytelling in your essay

Creating your scholarship essay format

Editing and proofreading your essay

Tips for scholarship essays

Tips for writing stand-out scholarship essays

2. Tell a story

3. Tailor the scholarship essay to the prompt

4. Don’t tailor yourself to the reader

5. Follow directions

Scholarship Essay Examples – Final Thoughts

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How to Write a Scholarship Essay (With Examples)