Suggestions for Application Completion

• Remember that your scholarship application represents YOU! Be honest and be yourself.

• Give your application the time, attention, and preparation that it deserves.

• Complete all sections.

• Read and follow the instructions carefully.

• Type and sign your application – neatness counts! (NOTE: CFRBA Applications can be completed online.)

• Proofread your work – especially your essay, if one is requested. Be specific and personal. It is your job to make your essay stand out from the rest. Check your spelling and grammar. Ask a parent, friend, or teacher to proofread your completed application.

• If you are asked, do not be afraid to highlight your strengths and talk about yourself.

• Be sure that those whom you ask to prepare letters of recommendation know you well.

• WATCH DEADLINES – financial aid offices and scholarship personnel adhere to them.

• You are responsible for making sure that ALL parts of your application arrive on time. If letters of recommendation or transcripts are required, give those who will provide these documents generous lead-time. Also provide them with a stamped, addressed envelope if the recommendation is to be mailed separately.

• MAKE A COPY OF THE APPLICATION FOR YOUR FILE.

• Finally – keep a written record of scholarships for which you applied. Make a note of deadlines, requirements, and responses.

Writing the Scholarship Essay

The personal essay may be the hardest part of your application to complete, but it is also the part that allows you to differentiate yourself from other applicants.

The key to writing a strong essay is to be personal and specific. Include honest details about yourself so the reader can get to know who you are and what you stand for.

Scholarship Selection Committees may have many essays to review. It is YOUR job to get their attention when reading your essay.

Here are tips that may help you as you begin:

• Think before you write. Brainstorm ideas then create an outline to help you begin writing. Make sure that if you have to address specific questions, you express your responses clearly.

• Be original. Be creative in your answers.

• Show, don’t tell. Use examples to individualize your essay and demonstrate the point you want to make. You will avoid being vague while making a stronger impression.

• Know your audience. Personal essays are not “one size fits all.” Write your essay to fit the requirements of the scholarship to which you are applying.

• Neatness counts. Make sure that your essay is neatly typed. Your name and the name of the scholarship to which you are applying MUST be typed in the top left-hand corner.

• Proofread. This is extremely important. Check spelling and grammar and share your essay with a parent, teacher, or friend. Another pair of eyes can catch errors that you might miss!

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