7 tips that can help you win a scholarship to study abroad

Many Ghanaian students harbour dreams of studying abroad. This may be due to the desire to expand their horizon, increase their exposure or simply gain access to institutions with the right environment for their academic development. However, the financial requirement for such dreams to come to fruition is not something most students can handle.

Fortunately, there are numerous scholarship schemes to help alleviate the woes of such students. Here are 7 tips that might help anyone applying for a scholarship to study abroad.

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Make time for your applications

The application process for a scholarship abroad can be long and time-consuming. You need to prepare your mind to be ready for the task at hand and make a schedule to work on getting your application particulars ready. To maximize your chances of attaining a scholarship, you must apply to multiple institutions and this will increase your workload.

Get detailed information on all available scholarship programs

Getting as much information as possible on available scholarship programs is another key step in your application process. Make a list of all the scholarship programs you are qualified for, and research their rules of eligibility, requirements, and deadline among others.

Having an in-depth knowledge of the terms and conditions of these scholarship programs will give you an added advantage.

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Get to know the goals and values of the organization

Understanding the core values and goals of the institution or organization you are applying to will help you position yourself in line with these principles which will help increase your chances of getting selected.

Peruse their websites and social media pages to learn about what they stand for and aim to achieve, and work them into your application.

Get acquainted with the evaluation process of the organization

The evaluation process for prospective scholarship recipients differs from organization to organisation. Make it a point to understand how the scholarship program you are applying for evaluates its candidates.

This will help you to measure your application against the set criteria of the institution.

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Write a unique and compelling essay

Most scholarship programs require candidates to write a personal essay as part of their application. This is an important aspect of your application process as it provides you with an opportunity to “sell yourself” to the organization.

Writing an authentic essay that highlights your uniqueness and capabilities will help maximize your chances of getting selected.

Recommendations are important

Getting the right recommendation can do wonders for your chances of receiving a scholarship. Ensure you already have people lined up to write you a stellar recommendation letter. Talk to your references early and ensure you get their green light beforehand so you do not get stranded later on when it comes to getting your recommendations.

Do not forget to give them all the necessary information they may need to write you a proper recommendation.

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Apply early

The chances of your application getting a thorough reading-through increases if you make an early submission. Most scholarship programs get swamped with loads of applications post-deadline, so applying early reduces the risk of your application not getting the proper attention it deserves.

This however doesn’t mean you should rush through your application as this might lead to committing errors that might prevent you from getting selected. It is recommended that you start the process early, so you have enough time to finish and cross-check every detail in your application.

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