How To Write Scholarship Application Essays

Writing a scholarship application essay is much like writing an essay for any high school or college class. Your ideas must be well thought out. Your essay should be free of grammatical and spelling errors, and the essay should address the topic in depth. Because there are billions of dollars worth of scholarships available every year, the competition is tough. Your essay must stand out above the rest in order to secure the scholarship for which you are applying.

1. Create an outline. Before you can begin responding to the assigned topic, you'll need to brainstorm and create an outline for your essay to follow. In many cases, the simplest method is to write down the main topic and jot down as many supporting details as possible. You should then organize your topic and details into an outline. Once you've completed this first step, your essay will be much easier to complete.

2. Make it personal. In the majority of college application essays, the committee who will be assessing the essays is looking for attributes of individual students that stand out from other applicants. You should look for opportunities to make your essay as personal as possible. Include examples of why or how you express or exemplify the issues you've addressed in the essay. Include important influences in your life. Discuss any major accomplishments you've attained or talents you have, if applicable. In other words, play up your strengths, and give direct examples when possible.
3. Look at examples. While of course your essay should be unique if you want it to stand out in the eyes of the review committee, it's always a good idea to look at successful essays as examples for you to consider. Ask your high school guidance counselor to give you some examples of scholarship-winning essays. As you read these essays, consider what stands out about each one. What makes it scholarship-worthy?