How to Write Essays for Scholarships: Several Essential Tips

Writing essays to apply for scholarships can be one of a student's most important early assignments for college. It can help determine the student's entire academic future, as a matter of fact. A student that gets into a program is happy, but only until they find out they can't afford it. Scholarships, however, can change that. They can also make it possible for the student to spend more time on their academics and less time working at a part time or full time job during the semester, allowing them to devote more time and energy to their future prospects. The tips in this article will help students to write the best scholarship essays they can.

  1. Always Follow Directions

    While many scholarship essays have a lot in common, there are also many unique instructions which accompany them. Consider whether or not you follow the directions to be a type of first impression. If the student chooses to go outside of the prescribed instructions, it will be nearly the first thing the reader notices, and it will make a very poor initial impression. Always follow the precise directions given in the application packet. That includes meeting minimum page or word and page lengths, not exceeding maximum lengths, formatting as required using the suggested fonts and margins, and so forth. Students should do their best to address the exact topics given, as well, as thoroughly as possible.

  2. Be Specific

    When writing a scholarship essay and attempting to answer the topic question assigned, it's always best for the student to be as specific and detailed as possible in their response. A side effect of this is that the student will come across as more sincere. Vague, grandiose statements don't give the scholarship committee a clear idea of who the student is as a person or their perspectives. By being specific, genuine, and precise in their answer, the student is able to communicate more clearly.

  3. Don't Be Too Modest

    Scholarship essays shouldn't read like advertisements, but students shouldn't be afraid to honestly present their good points in a straightforward manner. By doing so, they're simply being honest and giving the committee what it wants - to know why that student should be the one receiving the scholarship. Other aspects of the application, like test scores and grades, only present a partial picture. Remember to complete the picture with a great scholarship essay.