Many scholars have been asking what are the required steps to get scholarships. Therefore, this article is written to answer the question
Introduction
Scholarships are one of the best ways to fund your studies, though securing one can be challenging. However, while it may seem difficult, it is certainly achievable. Although there is no fixed formula or guaranteed path to winning a scholarship, there are specific steps you can take to increase your chances.
In this article, I will be sharing some useful tips that got me the Chinese Government Scholarship in 2020. This will serve as a roadmap to guide you through key strategies for obtaining scholarships, whether you are pursuing a PhD, Master’s, or Bachelor’s degree. There are numerous scholarship opportunities available for every level of study, and with the right approach, you can make one yours. To begin with, let us first look at the types of scholarships available.
Types of Study Abroad Scholarships
As a scholarship applicant, it’s crucial to understand the type of scholarship you are targeting. Being clear about this will guide you through the application process and could make your submission stand out.
Before diving into the steps for applying, let’s first explore the different types of scholarships available.
1. Academic Scholarships
Some scholarships are tailored specifically for those with exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships prioritize academic excellence, and only individuals with strong academic records are eligible to apply. If you have lower academic standing, you may not be as competitive for this type of scholarship. Examples of such scholarships include the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at the University of British Columbia, the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Scholarships, and the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, among others.
2. Leadership Scholarships
This type of scholarship prioritizes leadership experience and community engagement over academic achievements. Ideal candidates often have strong records in these areas despite lower academic scores. Examples of such scholarships include the Chinese Government Scholarship, The Swedish Government Scholarship, the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, among others.
How to Positioning for Scholarships
Landing a scholarship involves a great deal of work. Therefore as an applicant, you must be ready to do the work. Though scholarship might be likened to a free meal, in reality, somebody somewhere is paying for it. Therefore the sponsor wants to ensure the beneficiary of his/her gesture really needs it and will make the best use of the gesture.
As a result, you must present yourself as the best person in need of this gesture not from an empathy point of view but on your ability to show results with the help.
So before you approach or apply for any scholarships, what are the things you need to do? Let us discuss this before we go into the steps to get scholarships.
1. Good Academic record
For you to attract fully funded scholarship opportunities, you must ensure you have strong academic standings from your previous studies. In case you have graduated and the result you have is not that strong, you can still support it with other items listed below.
2. Outstanding leadership record
Whether you have a strong academic record or not, ensure you add some leadership records to your profile. This will be of invaluable asset to your scholarship applications. Scholarship bodies are looking for applicants with proven leadership records who can lead/bring positive change in their respective communities. So applicants without any leadership experience will not be an ideal candidates to benefit from this benevolence.
3. Active community engagements
Along with your academic records, ensure you have volunteering and community engagement experience. Scholarships bodies want to know how you have contributed to development within your community in your own capacity.
4. Membership or Professional Club alignment
This very essential as well, having an affiliation with professional bodies will not only be an asset to your application but it also shows your networking ability. Professional bodies like the Nigerian Society of Engineers, ICAN, etc are of positive leverage for your chance.
Where to Get Scholarships
There are numerous bodies awarding scholarships every year. We also need to highlight this before we delve into the steps to get scholarships. Some of the popular ones are:
- Scholars Information Desk website
- Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website
- Chinese Government Scholarships website
- Erasmus Scholarships website
- Mastercard Foundation Scholarships website
- Fulbright Scholarships website
- Chevening Scholarships website
- Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships website
- You can see the list of ongoing scholarships here
Documents Needed for Scholarship Applications
Different scholarships have different requirements. Therefore this list might not be an exhaustive one. However, below is the general documents:
- Degree certificate
- Transcript
- Language proficiency
- International Passport
- Letter of intent/Motivation letter
- Research proposal (for Masters and PhD programs)
- Reference letters
How to Successfully Apply for Scholarships
Each scholarship program has a different application window and process. I will therefore advise you to check the scholarship website to know the application window and the requirements. Some Scholarship requires that your university send your transcript by courier. Please be informed about this.
 Tips to Winning Scholarships
Once you have compiled your list of scholarships, including their deadlines and requirements, you’re ready to move forward. To maximize your chances of winning scholarship funds, consider these key strategies:
- Match Scholarships to Your Qualifications
Apply only for scholarships that align with your qualifications. Review the eligibility criteria carefully to ensure you meet them before investing time in an application.
- Pay Attention to Details
Scholarship reviewers sift through numerous applications, so provide only the information they request. If there is an opportunity to include additional insights, use it to offer relevant details that might enhance your application.
- Be Proactive
The scholarship application process can be overwhelming, but starting early can help. Look for scholarships before you are enrolled or accepted into university, as many are awarded before the academic year begins.
- Meet Deadlines
To avoid missing deadlines, create a spreadsheet or list of the scholarships you’re applying for along with their due dates. Staying organized will help you manage your applications effectively.
- Prepare for Interviews
Some scholarships may require an in-person or virtual interview. Practice common interview questions with a friend or family member to increase your chances of making a positive impression.
Conclusion on Steps to Get Scholarships
Studying with Scholarships is a good way to go as it will afford you the opportunity to fully concentrate on your studies, but it requires a great deal of work which is worth it in the end. Good luck!
