So you’ve decided to apply for a scholarship? The next step is putting together your application. This guide right here will help you create a strong and compelling letter to give yourself the best chance for success.
Updated: 24 Jan 2025
A well-crafted application letter is a key element of a good scholarship submission. Since so many of the details you’ll be providing will be fairly bland bits of information such as date of birth, academic record, or household income, the letter is a golden opportunity to show the scholarship committee your personality and aspirations, and this can set you apart from other candidates.
Ultimately, you’ll want to demonstrate your suitability for the award, so your letter should be tailored to the scholarship to which you’re applying, highlighting your achievements, explaining your financial need, and making it clear why you're a worthy recipient.
Before you start writing, it’s a good idea to research the faculty or organisation offering the scholarship. Understand their values and reasons for offering the award, and what they’re looking for in a candidate. Tailor your letter to align with their criteria.
Start by laying out the structure. This will give you a framework to work within, and can help you to visualise the final product. You should aim for 300-500 words overall, as this should give you enough leeway to make a series of informed and well-connected points, while keeping all the text on one page.
Your letter can be divided into three sections:
Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the purpose of the letter.
Body: Express why you are a good fit for this scholarship, and explain the difference that it will make to your ability to pursue your education. Highlight any relevant academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and financial needs here, but don’t repeat too many things that can be read elsewhere in your application.
Conclusion: Summarise why you're a good candidate and express gratitude for the opportunity.
Make sure to include:
Your name and current school year.
The specific scholarship you’re applying for.
A sentence linking the scholarship to your goals.
Example:
Dear [scholarship committee],
My name is [your name], and I am a Year 13 student at [your school]. I am writing to apply for the [name of scholarship] to support my academic journey as I pursue a degree in [intended subject] at [university, if known].
Make it evident that you are a strong, eligible candidate for this award. It will be competitive, so this is your opportunity to stand out — make the scholarship committee feel like this award was created for candidates like you. Yes, you should list achievements, but don’t simply rattle them off — you can go one better. Weave them into a compelling narrative that represents your character and makes you a person of interest.
Example:
I have consistently excelled in [subject], achieving [specific grades/awards]. For example, I was awarded [award] for my performance in [subject], where I honed skills that I later put to use in [extracurricular activity].
Extracurricular interests are a great way to showcase your contributions outside the classroom. Highlight leadership roles, positions of responsibility, or skills that align with the scholarship’s values.
Example:
Outside of my studies, I am an active volunteer at [organisation], which has taught me the importance of [specific value].
If the scholarship is need-based, discuss your financial situation respectfully, and make a case for the impact it would have on your family and your ability to study.
Example:
As the first in my family to pursue higher education, I am determined to make the most of this opportunity. Receiving this scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden of pursuing a degree, while giving me more time to commit to my studies.
While scholarships are generally non-repayable, this doesn’t mean that the university isn’t hoping to get something back from you. This is why many awards have minimum academic grade requirements for annual renewal, or ambassador duties which the recipient is expected to carry out. If you can show how you will represent the university in a positive way then you will have a competitive advantage.
Example:
I am a county level [sports] athlete, and being accepted for this scholarship will give me enough resources to continue training and competing alongside my degree, where I hope to represent the university at the highest level.
Much like the introduction, your conclusion should be clear and concise. Make sure to include:
Enthusiasm for the scholarship.
A summary of your qualifications.
Express gratitude.
Example:
Thank you for considering my application for the [name of scholarship]. I am grateful for the opportunity to present my case and would be honoured to represent [scholarship organisation] as I build on my [achievements] while working toward my academic goals.
Length: Aim for 300–500 words.
Font: Use a standard font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, size 11 or 12.
Spacing: Single or 1.5 line spacing.
Alignment: Align text to the left, and use clear paragraphs.
Proofread: Check for spelling and grammatical errors.
Right, that's that then! Take your time, be authentic, don’t hesitate to seek feedback from teachers or mentors, and good luck!