5 Must-know Things Before You Apply for a Scholarship

Scholarship requirements for international students can vary depending on the specific scholarship program, organization, or country. However, there are 9 common requirements that international students may encounter when applying for scholarships. Here are a few typical requirements:

1. Nationality or Citizenship: Many scholarships have specific eligibility criteria based on the applicant’s nationality or citizenship. Some scholarships may be exclusively available to international students, while others may be open to students from specific countries or regions.
2. Academic Merit: Academic achievement is a common requirement for scholarships. Applicants may need to demonstrate strong academic performance through their grades, academic transcripts, standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT), or other measures of academic excellence.
3. English Language Proficiency: For scholarships offered in English-speaking countries or programs, international students are often required to provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
4. Field of Study: Some scholarships are specific to certain fields of study, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, arts, social sciences, or business. Applicants may need to demonstrate their commitment to a particular field or have a specific academic or career focus.
5. Financial Need: Certain scholarships prioritize students with financial needs. Applicants may be required to provide documentation or evidence of their financial situation to demonstrate that they require financial assistance to pursue their education.
6. Scholarship Letters of Recommendation: Scholarships often require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or mentors who can attest to their academic abilities, character, or potential.
7. Personal Statement or Scholarship Essay: Many scholarships require applicants to write a personal statement or essay, where they can highlight their achievements, aspirations, goals, and motivations for pursuing higher education. This allows scholarship providers to assess the applicant’s suitability for the scholarship and their alignment with the scholarship’s values or mission.
8. Extracurricular Involvement: Some scholarships value applicants who have demonstrated involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, leadership roles, or other forms of engagement outside of academics.
9. Scholarship Application Form and Documentation: Applicants are typically required to complete an application form provided by the scholarship provider. They may need to submit additional documentation, such as academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, passport copies, or financial statements.

It’s important to note that each scholarship program will have its own specific requirements, and it’s essential to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines provided by the scholarship provider. Additionally, scholarship requirements may vary based on the country or institution offering the scholarship, so it’s advisable to thoroughly research and understand the specific requirements for each scholarship you are interested in.

4. Scholarship Application Process – What is the Process of Scholarship Application (Applying for a Scholarship)

Scholarship Application Process: Scholarship Images/Pictures/Photos: 2. Image of admission gown cap representing scholarship award into a higher learning institution. Image credit: Scholarship Help.

The application process for scholarships may involve submitting academic records, scholarship essays and recommendation letters, and demonstrating eligibility based on the specific criteria set by the scholarship provider. Scholarships can be offered at different levels of education, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

5. Scholarship vs Bursary – What is the Difference between Scholarship and Bursary?

The terms “scholarship” and “bursary” are often used interchangeably, but there are some subtle differences between the two:

1. Purpose: Scholarships are typically awarded based on merit or specific criteria such as academic excellence, athletic achievements, artistic talents, or leadership qualities. They aim to recognize and reward students who demonstrate exceptional abilities or meet specific eligibility criteria. Bursaries, on the other hand, are primarily awarded based on financial need. They are designed to provide financial assistance to students who may face financial challenges in pursuing their education.
2. Criteria: Scholarships are usually awarded based on specific criteria established by the scholarship provider, which can include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, community involvement, or other accomplishments. Bursaries primarily consider an applicant’s financial circumstances and may require the submission of supporting documentation, such as proof of income or financial statements.
3. Selection Process: Scholarships often involve a competitive selection process, where applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications, achievements, essays, interviews, or letters of recommendation. Bursaries, on the other hand, focus more on the applicant’s financial need and may require the completion of a financial assessment or questionnaire.
4. Amount and Duration: Scholarships and bursaries can vary in terms of the amount and duration of the financial support provided. Scholarships can range from small one-time awards to significant amounts that cover a substantial portion of tuition fees and other educational expenses. Some scholarships may be renewable, providing support for multiple years. Bursaries typically aim to assist with immediate financial needs and may provide a smaller amount of funding.
5. Availability: Scholarships are often offered by various organizations, including universities, colleges, private foundations, government agencies, and corporations. They may be more widely available and offered to students with different backgrounds and academic disciplines. Bursaries, on the other hand, are commonly provided by educational institutions themselves or specific organizations with a focus on financial aid.

It is important to note that the terms scholarship and bursary can vary in meaning and usage depending on the country or educational system. While the differences mentioned above generally hold true, it is recommended to review the specific definitions and criteria used by the scholarship and bursary providers you are interested in to ensure accurate understanding and application.

Watch Video: Scholarships – What is? How to Get, Requirements for International and Local Students, Difference With Bursary, Images