Scholarships

7 Things to Consider When Searching for Scholarships

Navigating the world of scholarships can sometimes seem like a daunting task. With so many opportunities available, it’s crucial for you to identify scholarships that are not only financially beneficial, but also align with your goals and circumstances. We’ve come up with some things to consider when searching for scholarships to help you make an informed decision.

Eligibility criteria

This one seems obvious, but it’s important! Always ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements of a scholarship before applying, or you might be setting yourself up for disappointment.

Application deadlines

It’s essential to be aware of the application deadlines for any scholarships you want to apply for. Most scholarships have strict closing dates and won’t accept late submissions, so make good notes of any deadlines to ensure you don’t miss out.

Award amount and duration

Consider the scholarship’s award amount and duration to determine if it will provide sufficient financial support throughout your studies.

Renewability

Some scholarships are renewable, meaning they can be awarded for multiple years if you maintain certain criteria (e.g. meeting a minimum GPA). Consider if a renewable scholarship is more beneficial to you than a one-off award.

Application requirements

Each scholarship will have unique application requirements, including essays, letters of recommendation, or interviews. Evaluate the effort needed for the application process and ensure you can provide all necessary materials within the deadline.

Scholarship restrictions

Some scholarships come with specific restrictions or conditions, such as requiring you to study a particular course, attend certain promotional events, or write letters of thanks to donors. Make sure you’re comfortable with any conditions before applying.

Impact on other financial support

Receiving a scholarship may impact your eligibility for other financial support, such as government payments and grants. If you’re unsure, reach out to the institution you’re applying to and ask if a scholarship might affect your other financial support options.

If you want to find out more about scholarships and search for opportunities, take a look at our scholarships database here.