By Writing a scholarship, aka “Tell us about yourself” essay, is an essential part of many academic applications. It helps admission committee officers to know more about the candidates and their motivations. Indeed, they have the power to make or break your application.
The more it is important to write, it’s also difficult to write. Therefore, in this guide, we have compiled the necessary steps to write a strong scholarship committee essay.
So, let’s begin with our guide and find out everything important for crafting the best scholarship essay.
1. Read The Scholarship Essay Prompt & Instructions:
Always read the prompt given by the institute or the organization.
Also, make sure to read between the lines.
For example, if the prompt for writing a scholarship essay is: “Discuss the book that left a lasting impression on your life, and why?”
You need to ask yourself, “Is the institute really interested in knowing my literary preferences, or is there something more to the question?”
Most likely, they want to get a better idea of who you are as a person and what kind of stories or topics interest you.
RememberAn institute might ask you to write a scholarship essay on your chosen topic. Grab this opportunity to showcase your creativity. |
2. Understand The Meaning Of The Key Terms
Once you’ve understood the key themes, it’s important to know what each of the key themes actually means (beyond the initial level).
For example, if you acknowledge that the meaning of “leadership” is identifying the effects leadership has. And not just describing the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Thus, the more depth you bring to understand the key themes, the better it gets to demonstrate your ability to understand them.
Furthermore, if you are confused in this step, then you can also get essay writing help UAE from experts and get your work done from the best industry professionals.
3. Use Synonyms & Keywords In Your Scholarship Essay
In your scholarship statement, there are certain keywords used in the prompt. Students are advised to use them in their scholarship essays to show their commitment to addressing the question being asked.
For example, a student made sure to add references about “innovation,” “leadership,” and “teamwork” in their essay.
4. Make An Interesting Start
The beginning of a scholarship essay should be interesting and eye-catching. However, many students struggle to start their essays.
Well, you can begin by adding a quote or statement that relates to your intended course. In addition, this will assist you later in linking to the main body of the essay.
Also, showing a wider knowledge of your subject will impress the judges, as it is a worthwhile investment to offer support in your chosen field.
5. Understand The Criteria Of Scholarship Community For Essay Evaluation
Okay, so I have to write a scholarship essay, but what elements should I focus on?
This is one of the most asked questions from students. And it’s a valid one.
Firstly, you need to understand that you have to write according to the given prompt. Make sure to address it correctly and don’t go off the track.
Besides, here are some of the essential elements that are being looked for in a scholarship essay for evaluation:
- Academic accomplishments
- Extra-curricular achievements
- Financial information and background
- Academic and professional plans
- Letters of recommendation
- Other specific criteria set by the donor
- Use Basic Writing Skills
Good writing is the key to impressing the judges. In addition, it includes proper grammar, spelling, and use of transition words. In addition, applications are taken more seriously when they are perfect in terms of writing and grammar.
7. Follow The Character Limitation
With every scholarship essay prompt, there are certain guidelines given to students. In addition, these include the character limit as well. Hence, if it says 500 words, then make sure not to exceed the count.
Make sure to stay within the word count because exceeding the limit might lead to disqualification.
Furthermore, this is where technology becomes your best friend. While writing, make sure to keep an eye on the word limit and also create an outline that covers all the necessary points without exceeding the word limit.
8. Keep It Descriptive But Concise
As you step into the main body paragraphs, remember that you’re writing some sort of a story. Therefore, if your writing is bland and doesn’t have sufficient details, you are less likely to convey your point.
Hence, “show, don’t tell” is the perfect method used in writing a scholarship essay. In addition, it also assists in keeping your writing interesting and descriptive.
Pro Tip:Make sure not to go overboard with your descriptions. Be detailed, but don’t let them cover up the point of the essay. |
9. Be Creative
The review committee reads dozens of essays before selecting the lucky students to give a scholarship. But they will only pick those essays that are creatively written and stand out from others.
Thus, make sure to be creative with your application and highlight your strengths, personality, and uniqueness.
10. Write A Strong Conclusion
Just like the introduction, the conclusion also plays a great role in writing a scholarship essay. In addition, it gives the final impact on the judges. Hence, tell the reviewers why you’re the best candidate without making any general statements like “this is why you must pick me as the scholarship winner.”
11. Edit & Revise
No matter how good an essay you have written in the first go, always make sure to edit and revise it. Always remember that rough drafts are just a start. Therefore, spend time reading your scholarship essay with a critical eye and point out areas that need improvement.
However, if you are on a tight deadline, then you can connect with admission essay writing services and get professional assistance in no time.
12. Submit Your Scholarship Essay On Time
Make sure to submit your scholarship essay before the deadline. Many students wait till the last minute to submit it. But you don’t make this mistake.
Also, ensure that your content is error-free and flows smoothly according to the given prompt. On-time submission will protect you from last-minute academic stress and rushed work.
Do’s & Don’ts Of Scholarship Essay Writing
Dos:
- Do convey the positive message overall because cynicism won’t score points with the scholarship committee.
- Do focus on addressing one event or point rather than trying to cover the entire subject.
- Do use more short sentences than the longer ones. However, don’t take this to an extreme and try mixing up so the essay flows naturally.
- Do use the active voice instead of the passive voice.
- Do answer the question that has been asked.
- Do be specific and mention what you’ve learned instead of writing I’ve learned a lot.’
- Do be concise and get to the point.
Don’ts
- Don’t quote others in your essay. It’s best to write in your own words because that’s what the judges are interested in.
- Don’t write an essay that reads like a newspaper editorial.
- Don’t write on topics like romantic relationships, politics, religion, views on drugs, etc.
- Don’t appear overly idealistic.
- Don’t address the admission committee or ask them to agree with you.
- Don’t start too many sentences with “I.”
- Don’t use words like “finally,” “in conclusion,” or “sum up.”
Final Words:
Craft a standout scholarship essay by sharing your true story, key wins, and bold goals. Tie it all to the scholarship’s aims with clear, honest words. Start writing yours now and unlock doors to your future today.
FAQs – Scholarship Essay
How To Begin With Scholarship Essay?
Begin your scholarship essay with a unique or interesting hook. Also, make sure to avoid including corny or overly dramatic statements. In addition, don’t tell the readers what they will be reading in the essay, because such sentences are unnecessary in a scholarship essay. Make sure to use the intro to pique the reader’s interest.
Is It Necessary To Include A Title In A Scholarship Essay?
This completely depends on the scholarship. Some essays may need or request a title but most of them don’t. However, make sure to carefully read and understand the scholarship essay writing guidelines for better performance.
How To Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” In A Scholarship?
Most effective scholarship essays tell less about academic and more about interesting lessons or experiences that make them stand out. If this step is performed correctly, then your profile should already display your credentials. Hence, use this space to share your unique experiences and story with the committee judges.
What To Say When You’re Asked About Why You Deserve A Scholarship?
Showing off your achievements, accomplishments, and professional experience are the points to discuss in a scholarship essay. Once you discuss them, it makes it visible why you are qualified for the scholarship. Therefore, instead of saying that you are well-aware of a certain field, make sure to add examples or achievements to showcase your credibility. Remember, the “show, don’t tell” technique is preached throughout schooling and is the best time to use it in an essay.