Scholarship Application Tips

Making Yourself a Strong Scholarship Candidate

  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
  • Get (and stay) involved in on-campus extracurricular activities and student organizations
  • Explore Engineering options and gain experience through research, internships, co-ops, or one of the student Engineering teams on campus

Writing a Good Scholarship Essay

Remember, your essay is the best means you have to distinguish yourself from everyone else applying for a scholarship! Consider the following tips as you craft your scholarship essay or personal statement:

  • Avoid writing a purely pragmatic essay that lists your GPA, activities, and accomplishments. Find a way to differentiate yourself from other applicants.
  • Reflect on what makes you unique! How can you present your uniqueness in a compelling story? What about your background, plans, and dreams 
    will engage the reader?
  • Think about essay structure. The first paragraph should include a compelling narrative that keeps the reader interested!
  • Explain what drove you to participate in certain activities or groups, what you have learned from your involvement, and why you continue to take part in them.
  • Consider the organization sponsoring the scholarship and the criteria they selected. What do you think they are looking for? Demonstrate that you share their passion, values, or goals.