Scholarship Tips

Below are a few helpful tips from Mrs. McHugh

Start Early: Begin your scholarship search as early as possible. Many deadlines occur throughout the year.

Build a Strong Academic Record: Maintain high grades, participate in challenging courses, and achieve a high GPA. Take the ACT in spring of your Junior year or as early as possible your senior year. 

Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrate well-roundedness through participation in clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles.

Write Compelling Essays: Practice writing clear, concise, and engaging essays that showcase your unique personality, accomplishments, and goals. It's okay to brag! Proof read, then ask someone else to proof read. 

Ask for Recommendations: Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other professionals who can speak to your character, skills, and academic potential. Identify individuals you would like to ask, have conversations early to make sure they are able to write you a letter.  Ask them what kind of time frame they may have to write you the best possible letter. 2 weeks is a good starting point.  

Search Widely: Explore a variety of scholarship databases, websites, and resources (e.g., College Board, Fastweb, Scholarship.com).

Meet Application Deadlines: Carefully review and adhere to all application deadlines and submission requirements. Keep a record of all scholarships you are applying for or have applied for, including deadlines, application materials, and submission status.  Here is a spreadsheet you may use or modify to meet your needs. 

Proofread Meticulously: Ensure all applications and essays are free of any grammatical or spelling errors.

Read and Reread the Application Requirements: Make a check list, review it and make sure you have everything that is required to apply. If you are missing something, it is possible the application committee will not consider your application.  

Don't Give Up: The scholarship application process can be competitive. Don't get discouraged by rejections. Keep searching and applying for new opportunities.