When you apply for scholarships, there are certain qualities that scholarship providers often look to see in applicants. If you possess these traits, your likelihood of receiving a scholarship greatly increases.
A Scholarship is not a benefit that goes to just anyone, only the deserving ones usually get it. It is not luck, it is what you possess that could give you a chance of winning a scholarship.
Education can be costly especially if you want to study in Tier 1 countries like Canada, UK or USA but scholarships could help you reduce the cost. Unfortunately, scholarship is not often easy to come by as there are thousands of exceptional students around the world who also are looking for such opportunity. However, you can put yourself in a better position by meeting the following requirements:
1. A high GPA
A high GPA is one of the most important qualities scholarship providers look for in applicants. What better way to put yourself as a strong contender than having a strong GPA? This will no doubt plays a part for anyone looking to get a scholarship.
A high GPA implies that you are intelligent even amidst all responsibilities and attractions. It also shows your dedication to education and being able to maintain your grades year in and year out is a testimony of what you can do if given a chance.
Scholarship givers usually like students like this who are in need of financial help as they believe the student will use the scholarship to go to college and come out better than expected.
2. Leadership Experience
Another key quality scholarship providers look out for in the ideal candidate is leadership qualities and potential. With the roles you have taken and your sacrifice to the communities around you, you are someone people often look up to and someone who always has the right answer or solution to begging issues. These are among what Scholarship providers will usually look for in Students.
They want someone with this set of skills as they know how this could play a greater role in them becoming a better version of themselves. Someone who is never afraid to make mistakes and take charge, someone who wants things done despite the many hurdles. These are the kind of applicants that Providers are looking for.
So if you have got examples of times when you’ve shown strong leadership skills, you should highlight them in your application.
3. Extracurricular involvement
Providers also primarily look forward to seeing students who are academically strong and have been involved in extracurricular activities.
Despite the fact that being academically strong is important, having interests outside of academics is also another strong point that could give you an edge. This demonstrates that the students can perform and integrate well in any environment they find themselves.
Examples of extracurricular activities include but are not limited to Volunteering, Community Service, Creative Pursuits, Sports, and Part time jobs.
4. Excellent letters of recommendation
Excellent letters of recommendation can attest to your academic ability and intellectual potential. This will show how smart you are and how much you can learn. Sponsors want students who are smart and also do other things outside of school.
If you have been so engaged and well-rounded within and outside your community, getting a great letter of recommendation would be easier. Understand that it is not only about your academic performance but other qualities such as Community Engagement. Leadership Role, and Resilience.
5. Financial needs
Scholarship providers will want you to demonstrate excellence in academics, athletic ability, community service, and other qualities.
However, one of the most important factors that most scholarship providers look for is evidence that an applicant is in genuine need of financial assistance.
This could be demonstrated through documentation of employment history, family income, assets, or other indicators of financial hardship. Most sponsors giving out scholarships want to see if you’re facing some money challenges which could appear as obstacles to pursuing your education.
6. Honors and awards received
Honors and awards could play some roles as well but if it is a scholarship offer based on merit, you can be sure that they’d be more interested in your academic performance. If you have any honors or awards, this will also be taken into account which should help your chances.
Your extracurricular activities are another that may be considered to determine if you deserve to get the Scholarship. All these will play out to make a decision on who will get the Scholarships. So if you can demonstrate financial need and have maintained good grades and involvement in extracurricular activities, you will be more likely to receive a scholarship.
7. Academic Achievement
The primary quality that Scholarship Providers look for in applicants is academic achievement. Sponsors want to see what you are able to achieve which is solid evidence of brilliant you are.
If you are able to achieve good grades, you will be putting yourself in a better position of being part of those who are recognized for their outstanding academic achievement.
8. Passionate about Something
One of the most important factors considered for scholarship positions is passion. Scholarship organizations would want to see that burning desire from you, they will want to know how passionate you are and your genuine interest in education.
They believe this will prompt you to put in the work to achieve your dreams and aspirations. These are among what you will need to establish in your application and interview if any.
9. Curiosity
Scholarship providers usually look for people who really want to learn. Being good at thinking critically is linked to doing well in school. The desire to learn also helps you become more motivated, independent, and able to think carefully. It is about taking on the mantle to begin new things and with time make things better.
If you have a story about a tough situation, you have the platform to tell your story and how you tried to understand all the different parts of it and see things from many sides. This can impress the people who decide on the scholarship.
10. A unique behavior
A unique personality could also get you a place on the list. Having a personality that no one else is able to display can also help. What really stands out to someone who has seen lots of applications is when you show your own special qualities.
Make sure to let your unique self shine. You can talk about your creative sides or anything that might put you in a better position. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to be yourself. The people deciding on the scholarship want to understand why you care so much about your chosen career and it is on you to convince them.
