Tips and Tricks: Steps to Get a Scholarship

Getting scholarship is tricky. Everybody wants one, but only few people get them. Differed from student loans, scholarships are way more interesting and coveted because they bring out beautiful things. They help you pursue something easier and always make your resume look fantastic.

Step 1: Start your research!
The earlier you start researching, the more options you will have. There are thousands of scholarships offered all around the world. Also, there are various types of scholarships. Your research will make it easier for you to choose the best ones to apply for.

Step 2: Read the requirements!
Check the requirements if you are eligible. By doing full research, you’ll be able to find the scholarships most appropriate for you. Do not hesitate to contact the sponsors for questions or application assistance. The sponsors will be more than glad to help you.

Step 3: Be organized!
Sponsors usually require you to provide copies of academic certificates and transcripts, Letter of Recommendation, Proof of Eligibility, and essay or Letter of Motivation. However, some scholarships expect you to attach specific documents, such as test score of language skills, medical certificate, ID card, etc.

Make sure you have all the materials that the sponsors require.

• Provide correct and updated information!
  Correct and updated information will avoid any unnecessary delays, as well as making you look professional, such as contact the selection panel if you’ve lost your mobile.
• Choose referees carefully!
  When you ask somebody to write a Letter of Recommendation or Reference, ask him/her to focus on your abilities, work, grades, skills, community service, talents, or other things that prospectively will make you stand out other candidates. Give him/her 2 or 3 weeks and make sure they sign it. You need to let each of your referees know when you are applying for a scholarship, and tell them kind of skills or experience you need to demonstrate. That way they’ll be able to ensure they praise you in the most effective way.
• Take time to write good essay!
  Writing essay is the most intensive and difficult. The sponsors use essay to see whether you are an ideal candidate or not. You could utilize your essay to describe specific things about yourself and stand out other applicants. Keep writing until you have good final draft.
• Do proofreading!
  Check the spelling and grammar. Ask your friends and family to read it and ask for their ideas and thoughts. Make sure it’s legible!
• Make copies!
  Don’t forget to make copies of all the applications and documents. If you lose the applications or documents, at least you still have the copies.
• Make good presentation!
  Your application is your first weapon to impress. Make a nice and clean application folder. Arrange the documents in order. The folder would impress the sponsors. It’d also leave an impression that you’re organized.
• Never miss the deadline!
  If your application isn’t complete, you may not be eligible. To be on time, consider using certified mail and/or return receipt. Be sure to use secured postal services. Send your application as early as you are ready. Don’t wait until the deadline. Late application will never be considered!

Step 4: Apply for other scholarships!
After sending in your first application, keep applying for other scholarships. Send other application while waiting for the results.
Beside going to web to seek scholarships info, you’re also encouraged to go to BINUS International Office or your program secretariat. We will help you complete the applications and tell you how to meet the criteria for specific scholarships.

You can use the checklist below to make sure that you follow correct directions and instructions.

Checklist:

• Are you eligible?
• Do you know the deadline?
• Have you got all the necessary information? (Make another checklist for information and documents needed)
• Do your referees know what scholarship(s) you are applying for?
• Have you had a good final essay?
• Have you proofread your application and essay?
• Have you copied your application and other documents?
• Is your application folder complete and impressive?
• Have you submitted your application before the deadline?

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