This guide will help you prepare strong scholarship applications. Most applications
contain common elements to which you should pay careful attention to maximize your
chances of success.

1. Timeline
Start early and be organized.

a.    Many scholarships have deadlines around the same time annually.  If you miss
        a particular deadline, start preparing your application for the next year.

b.    If you are considering various scholarship options, organize your list of
       options according to application deadline, scholarship amount and time
       commitment.  Apply first to those with approaching deadlines.

c.    Consider how long it will take to receive each piece of required documentation
       (see 4 - 7 below), then create a project timeline for your application.

2. Scholarship Criteria
Read over the qualifications carefully.  If you do not match the criteria, do not apply. 
Consult an advisor if you are not sure.

3. Application Form
Read the directions and fine print carefully.  Make sure you submit information in the
manner requested.  In a strong applicant pool, incomplete or inexact applications are
easily eliminated.

4. Personal Statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the scholarship
committee.  Therefore, you want to begin working on the statement early and prepare
thoughtful responses.  Generally, your personal statement should explain why you are an
appropriate candidate for the scholarship.  The scholarship application may request that
you address certain questions.  In addition, and if not already required, consider also
addressing: any financial hardships or obstacles you have faced in pursuing your
education; your motivation for pursuing your desired profession, your career goals and
anticipated contributions (how you will give back) to your desired profession and
surrounding community.  The essay should be well organized.  And, it should be
compelling.  Make sure to spell check and to use proper grammar.  Once you have
completed several drafts, ask your friends or colleagues to proofread for errors. 
In addition, take your draft to a faculty advisor for feedback and suggestions.  
For current faculty office hours, click here.

5. Transcript
If you need an official transcript, you can request it from the Registrar's office.

a.    Be prepared to pay a nominal fee for this service.

b.    Fill out a Transcript Request Form and submit it to the Registrar's office
       in person, by fax or mail, along with your payment.

c.    Allow 24-48 hours to receive your transcript (or longer during busy periods).

6. Resume
Make sure your resume is updated.  The CWSL Career Services Office offers a resume
review service.  To have your resume reviewed, schedule an appointment with a career
advisor. To contact the Career Services Office, click here.

7. Letters of Recommendation
Once you have decided whom you want to ask for a letter of recommendation, contact
your recommenders early to show your consideration and respect for their time and to
avoid a time crunch when your application is due.

        a.    CWSL Faculty or staff
               Click here for Faculty office hours

        b.    Supervisor/Employer
               Follow up as needed to check whether the recommender needs specific
               information from you in order to write you a recommendation.

8. Interviews or In-person Submissions
If you are called in for an interview by the scholarship committee, you can arrange a
mock interview with a career advisor in the Career Services Office to help you prepare.

9. Checklist
Make sure the packet is reviewed for errors!  If there is a checklist included in the
packet, be sure to use it so that you do not miss anything.  Otherwise, check off each
document/required item for yourself before you submit your application.

Good Luck!