How to write a scholarship application

Scholarships are a great opportunity to help you undertake academic studies at our University. There are many options available, but all of them have different requirements and deadlines. As the demand for scholarships is high, the process is competitive. We want to make sure your application is as good as you are. Writing it requires effort and preparation. It is easy to get overwhelmed by that, but there is no need to worry! We have put together a list of tips to give you the information and confidence to start your application! 

Remember you need the offer to study with us to take advantage of one of our scholarships.

10 top tips for writing your scholarship application

  1. Start now! 

    To submit a strong application, you need time to research, prepare and gather supporting documentation. It is a good idea to start early and give yourself enough time to complete it. Remember, you will need all the required information to be considered for a scholarship. 
     
  2. Check if you are eligible  

    This is really important, you don't want to spend time applying for scholarships that you are not eligible for so read the eligibility criteria and terms and conditions in full before you start. If you do not fulfil all of the requirements, you will not be awarded a scholarship. If you are unsure, please email international@swansea.ac.uk before applying. 

    If you are applying for one of our International Excellence Scholarships, make sure you include transcripts of your previous studies, so your application is processed with no delay.
  3. Get organised 

    By being organised you will not only complete your application on time, but also you will show that you are a serious candidate who is ready to commit to academic studies. You need to gather all of the necessary documentation and satisfy all of the requirements to be considered. Make sure your details are correct – you don’t want to be rejected because of mistakes. 

  4. Tailor your questions towards the University and the course you are applying for 

    People making decisions on applications want to know why you chose this specific course and how it will benefit you and others in the future. Do your research. It is important to write about the reasons you want to be a part of Swansea University, and what led you here. 
     
  5. Apply your personal experience 

    As scholarships are competitive, there will be a lot of applicants with great academic performance. Your grades on their own may not be enough. It is a good idea to create a list of your achievements and base your application on them. Make sure you apply your own experience when replying to questions. Talk about the obstacles you’ve encountered and how you’ve overcome them. 

  6. Clearly answer every part of the question 

    Read the question carefully and write down exactly what information it asks for. Even though you see one question, it doesn’t mean it asks about one thing. Tick it off on your list after you answer each part, so you don’t miss anything. 
     
  7. Make your application memorable and specific 

    Show your personality when answering questions. Tell a coherent story of who you are and what you want to achieve in the future. Don’t be afraid to stand out and be specific. Longer doesn't mean better. Be clear and concise. 
     
  8. Check, re-check and check again 

    Proofreading is essential if you want to succeed in your professional life. It is no different when it comes to a scholarship application form. If you make obvious mistakes, it shows that you are not organised, and lack attention to detail. Read your application multiple times and ask others to read it for you. You will be surprised how much you can miss reading your own work. 
     
  9. Apply before the deadline 

    This is straightforward. If your application is not submitted within the deadline, you will not get a scholarship. Be on top of your planning and time management. 
     
  10. Keep your options open 

    Sometimes even though you write a great application, others may be a better match. Don’t give up. There are other scholarships, and there is a good chance you will be eligible for more than one. Research which scholarships are the most suitable for you. 
     

Remember for most scholarships you will need to be holding an offer to study before you apply. 

Is it worth applying for a scholarship? 

Yes, it is! You need to put a lot of effort into writing your application, however, there is plenty to gain! The scholarship not only provides financial support, but it also gives you access to academic resources, knowledge, mentoring, and networking opportunities. Follow the tips above and take pride in your work. 

How does it feel to be a scholar?

Being a Chevening Scholar is an opportunity to enhance my knowledge, develop my skills, discover new people, new cultures, improve my language skills and, above all, make lasting connections. It gives me great confidence that I have been selected among 60,000 people around the world! 

Leonie