example of a personal statement for a scholarship

How to Write a Killer Scholarship Personal Statement: Definitive Guide With Examples

The Importance of an Effective Personal Statement

Whether you’re coming straight out of high school, are a transfer student, or are an adult student returning to college after a long absence, one of the first things you’ll want to do when preparing for college is to look for scholarships.

At all levels, college is expensive. Winning scholarships that cut down on costs is a priority for most of us, and writing an effective scholarship personal statement can help you do that.

There are many important parts of the process when it comes to scholarship applications. Locating the scholarships and gathering all the relevant information are key components, but your scholarship personal statement is arguably the most important part of a scholarship application.

Writing a powerful and memorable personal statement can really make your application stand out among the hundreds of other submissions.

Table of Contents

What Exactly Is a Scholarship Personal Statement?

A personal statement is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. It’s a statement, paragraph, or essay about yourself. It should tell who you are, where you came from, what your dreams, goals, and aspirations are, and more. It should focus on your strengths and tell scholarship committees why you deserve their money.

Sometimes, personal statements can be written in response to an open-ended question, such as, “ Tell us about yourself. ” More often, though, scholarship applications have a very specific prompt that you’re supposed to follow when writing your personal statement.

Following the Prompt

A prompt is something that many colleges or other types of scholarship committees will give you to help guide your writing. Some essays won’t have a prompt. We’ll discuss those later on in the article. For now, let’s focus on the applications that provide you with prompts.

When given a prompt, please stick to it and answer it fully. You don’t want to trail off onto some other tangent or write your statement how you want to write it simply because it sounds better or because you already have a standard scholarship personal statement you like to use. Answer the prompt that is given, and answer it honestly and completely.

Some prompts require you to respond to the questions asked in the order given, while for others ( most of them ), you can follow whatever order that suits you, so long as you address all questions.

Knowing about some common prompts beforehand will help prepare you for what you may be asked and will keep you from being blindsided. Knowing some common prompts early on can also prepare you a little more about what to write.

Common College Scholarship Personal Statement Prompts

1.   why do you deserve this scholarship.

This is probably the most commonly asked prompt for any scholarship personal statement. Most organizations that give scholarships know why you want the scholarship. What they don’t know is why exactly they should give it to you. Your answer to this prompt should be one that fully answers the question by telling the scholarship committee not only why you deserve the money, but also why you need it at all.

Why you deserve something and why you need it are two totally different questions. This prompt, though, requires you to answer both. The reasons you need the scholarship money could involve a number of factors, including:

• Financial hardship in your family
• Coming from a single-parent or foster-parent home
• Older siblings already at college
• Parent(s) is disabled, out of work, or incarcerated
• Coming from a low-income family, neighborhood, or Title I school
• Receiving government assistance (housing, food stamps, etc.)
• Being a ward of the state with no support system

All of these reasons – and more – are why you might need the money. Tell the committee that in your scholarship personal statement.

Telling them these things should not be seen as “feeling sorry for yourself” or begging for help. These are all legitimate reasons you could potentially need help paying for college. As long as you’re being honest, these are definitely things that should be included in your personal statement.

Telling the committee why you deserve the scholarship is a little different. While all those reasons are why you need the money, they don’t explain why you deserve it. This is the part of the scholarship personal statement where you sell the committee on YOU.

Tell them about all the great things you’ve done. If you were an honor roll student, a member of the BETA Club or National Honor Society, or a National Merit Scholar, put that in your statement.

Other reasons you could cite as to why you deserve a scholarship include:

• Exceptional athletic ability or talent
• Many hours of documented community service
• Having served your country honorably in the military
• Impressive personal stories of overcoming adversity
• Exceptional ACT/SAT scores
• A schedule that shows an impressive balance of grades, sports, community service, etc.

Just as listing the reasons you need the scholarship isn’t begging, listing these reasons for deserving the scholarship isn’t bragging. There are hundreds, possibly even thousands, of people, trying to get the same scholarships you’re trying to get. You need to stand out above the crowd.

2.  Tell us about overcoming your greatest challenge.

Although this prompt is worded quite differently from the first prompt, in essence, you can answer them both in a similar way. All of those reasons you might have for needing the money are also challenges you’ve had to overcome to succeed in life.

Other possible challenges could include the loss of parents, a physical or mental disability you’ve had to learn to cope with throughout your life, or a dangerous, scary, or upsetting life event you’ve lived through in your past.

For this type of prompt, you’ll want to start with the challenge you faced. Be as honest and descriptive as possible about what it was. Then be equally honest and descriptive about the steps you took to overcome it. If, after overcoming the challenge, you received some kind of recognition or award, make sure you mention that as well.

3. Why do you want to attend college?/Why is education important?

This is another very popular question that’s asked on scholarship applications. A scholarship committee wants to know that you have actual, obtainable goals for your education and your future before they give you money to use for college.

If you can’t effectively explain why college – and education in general – is important to your future goals, most committees won’t want to take a chance on you.

There are different ways to approach this particular prompt. If you fit into a category of people who have notoriously been excluded from higher education in the past, such as African Americans, women, or other minority groups, talking about that can help your case.

You can discuss how hard the generations that came before you fought for you to be able to attend college and how you want to honor that.

You can also take a wholly personal approach to answering this question. Mention any relevant struggles you’ve been through, and don’t be afraid to talk about your family. Did they go to college?

If not, discuss what an honor it’ll be to be the first in your family to graduate from college. Those types of things are all relevant reasons you might want to attend college.

No matter which way you decide to go with your answer to this question, don’t forget to talk about your goals and how college is the only way for you to achieve them in your scholarship personal statement.

Be specific. Talk about your intended major and how that major and the classes you’ll take for it will help you become what you want to become. If you’re applying for a college-specific scholarship, talk about why you want to go to that specific college.

4. Random and Unique Essay Prompts

Sometimes, no matter how hard you study and prep in order to write a good essay, a scholarship committee comes up with a personal statement essay prompt that seems like it’s entirely out of left field. These types of prompts can be anything.

For example, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been known to ask students seeking scholarships in the past, “ What do you hope to find over the rainbow? ”. And for 2022/23, one of UNC’s application prompts required fill-in-the-blank type of responses, including:

• If I had an extra hour in every day, I would spend it…
• If I could travel anywhere, near or far, past, present or future, I would go…
• The last time I stepped outside my comfort zone, I…

The 2022/23 Yale-specific questions on the Coalition and Common App included the following short answer questions:

• You are teaching a new Yale course. What is it called?
• Yale’s residential colleges regularly host conversations with guests representing a wide range of experiences and accomplishments. What person, past or present, would you invite to speak? What would you ask them to discuss?

Another unusual prompt you might come across is “What would you do if you were a superhero?” .

There really isn’t a way to prepare for these types of prompts, but knowing they exist and that you might run across one is a good start.

For many people, these are the best kinds of prompts to receive. They give you a chance to let your imagination run wild, and they’re a nice change from the same old “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” type of questions.

So if you do happen to run across one of these, don’t immediately dismiss it. These types of prompts give you a chance to have a little fun. They are a chance to have your personality shine a little, and who knows- you might just impress the scholarship committee!

Writing Scholarship Personal Statements for Applications without Prompts

If you’re asked to write a personal statement but aren’t really given a prompt, simply tell the college a mixture of all those things listed above. Talk about your achievements, accomplishments, and instances of overcoming obstacles. Talk about your history, and tell them why you need the scholarship and why you deserve it.

There are also a few other Do’s and Don’ts to remember. Do be specific, but don’t get too complicated. Keep things simple and light, while also being thorough. Your personal statement is like a mini autobiography.

You want to highlight all the key points while putting a heavy emphasis on your strengths. You can mention a weakness, especially if you’ve learned to overcome that weakness, but don’t focus too much attention there.

Arrange your essay in a logical order that makes sense and flows well. Also, try to keep to one or two central themes throughout the entirety of the statement. Clear, concise personal statements are easily read and extremely memorable. Don’t be afraid to tell a story, though.

You never want to lie or exaggerate in your personal statement, but you should make it as interesting and as entertaining as possible while sticking to the facts.

Be very clear and precise about your goals and dreams. Don’t add in a lot of hypotheticals, maybes, or uncertainties. Scholarship committees want to know that you have a solid goal for your future.

They don’t want to give money to someone who might want to be an engineer and thinks botany is great but also really loves the idea of cosmetology and is just going to “stay undeclared until I figure it all out.” Umm…that’s an extreme example, perhaps, but you get the idea.

Don’t add in a lot of unnecessarily long words. Your personal statement should read like an actual story of your life, not a poorly written thesaurus. Trust us on this.

Scholarship committees will be much more impressed if you write an honest, well-organized, and coherent essay about yourself than they will if you find a way to use the words “ platitudinous ,” “ audacity ” and “ impecunious ” in your personal statement.

Also, avoid cliches and extremely long and wordy sentences.

Personal Statement Review: If you need help brainstorming or reviewing your essay, check our personal statement helper page.

Standard Scholarship Essay Format

The first thing you want to do when writing your scholarship personal statement is to set the formatting up correctly. Some scholarship applications will provide you with specific formatting requirements.

If not, the standard formatting requirements of a scholarship essay or personal statement are usually as follows:

• One-inch margins on all sides
• Double-spaced
• No additional line spaces between paragraphs
• Typed in Times New Roman
• Typed with 12-point font

Specific guidelines given in the scholarship instructions always supersede these formatting guidelines. Be sure to use proper grammar and punctuation. If these aren’t your strong points, ask a teacher, mentor, or friend to look over your essay for any errors.

You could also utilize this awesome  spellcheck and online grammar check tool , or use any other that works for you. 

After you’ve got the formatting correct, the next thing you want to do is put together your outline. This can be done on paper, on the computer, or just inside your head, but it does need to be done.

You need at least a loose outline to make sure your essay flows smoothly and makes sense as written. While the exact structure of your essay will depend largely on your own writing style and the essay prompt, here’s the general structure for most essays.

Step 1: Introduction

Your introduction should be no more than 2 paragraphs long, and you want to catch the reader with a very interesting and engaging first sentence. You should also outline the key points you’re going to be making in the remainder of your essay. If you were writing an English paper, this would be your thesis.

Step 2: Body Paragraphs

You should always have at least 2 body paragraphs, preferably 3. Remember, long paragraphs of text running together can be hard for readers to wade through and absorb, so try to keep your paragraphs to no more than 5 sentences if possible.

If you change topics, such as moving from talking about your family to talking about your strengths, you should also change paragraphs.

Your body paragraphs are where you really sell yourself as a great student with a lot of potential to the scholarship committee. Remember- be specific but simple!

Don’t get bogged down in big, thesaurus-like words, and avoid clichés. Just be honest about your life experiences, your accomplishments, and your future goals.

Step 3: Conclusion

In this last paragraph, you’ll want to sum up everything. This is also the paragraph where you talk about how much being awarded this particular scholarship would benefit you and what you would do with the money that will help you achieve your goals.

It’s also nice to thank the scholarship committee for taking the time to read through your application and consider you for the scholarship.

Scholarship Personal Statement Examples

Below you’ll find some examples of actual scholarship essays that were written by actual college students seeking scholarships. Some are examples of what to do, while others are examples of what not to do.

If you’re stuck and don’t know where to begin, hopefully, these will give you a little inspiration.

Sample Essay 1

“The day was May 28, 2014. My doctor told my parents that I would need Spinal Fusion Surgery with rods and screws, and it had to happen quickly. Before surgery, the doctor suggested strength training for the muscles in my back so that I’d recover faster. I immediately went to the local gym and began working with a personal trainer, Justin. I learned so much from him including how the body works and how surgery takes time to heal. After surgery, I knew that I wanted to use my experience to help others, just like Justin helped me.”

– Read the rest   here .

This is an excellent example of an introductory paragraph for a scholarship personal statement. With the author’s first two sentences, I was hooked. This student knows how to immediately capture the reader’s attention and pull him into his story.

He’s relating a true story in response to a prompt asking him about his after-college plans, but he’s doing it in such a way that it’s instantly interesting, and engaging, and makes us want to read more.

The student also has a great transition sentence. Although we only provided a portion of the essay that stops just before he tells us exactly what his goals are, it’s obvious by the last displayed sentence that that’s exactly what he’s about to do.

He’s about to tell us his plans for his future, after already telling us why he chose those plans.

In just a few short sentences, this student catches our attention, tells us about a horrible thing that happened to him that he had to overcome, explains how that situation shaped what he wants to do with his future, and transitions into telling us his goals.

This is a masterfully crafted introductory paragraph.

Sample Essay 2

“Unlike other teens, I’m not concerned about money, or partying, or what others think of me. Unlike other eighteen-year-olds, I think about my future and haven’t become totally materialistic and acquisitive. My whole outlook on life changed after I realized that my life was just being handed to me on a silver spoon, and yet there were those in the world who didn’t have enough food to eat or place to live. I realized that the one thing that this world needed more than anything was compassion; compassion for those less fortunate than us.”

In contrast to example one, this sample section is an example of what not to do when writing your personal statement. It starts off badly and just keeps ongoing.

The first couple of sentences of this student’s essay don’t paint her in a great light because of how they’re written. It’s fine to tell the scholarship committee that you aren’t a partier and that you care about your future, but it’s not okay to do it while sitting in judgment of other people.

The very first words of this essay are “Unlike other teenagers.” This automatically sets the writer apart, which would be fine if she were going on to say something positive about “other teenagers.”

For instance, if she were to say that she didn’t grow up getting to socialize and spend time with friends because she was homeschooled her whole life or that she didn’t learn about the advantages of technology because she grew up in a rural community, her opening words would’ve been fine.

Instead, she immediately jumps into saying harsh, degrading things about “other teenagers.” She lumps all teenagers into a stereotypical group of irresponsible partiers who care only about their appearances and material things.

Casting other people in a bad light is never a great way to let your light shine in any arena, but this is especially true when trying to craft a strong college personal essay.

The transition to her revolutionary life moment didn’t make a lot of sense, either. She says her “whole outlook on life changed” after realizing there were poor people in the world. This is off-putting for 2 reasons.

The first is that most people, including children, know there are poor people in the world. It isn’t really a secret and doesn’t usually come as a life-changing shock.

Secondly, the way her essay is written, she says she never did those bad things that other teens did. Then she says her whole life changed when she realized there were poor people in the world.

As written, this makes it sound like she changed and started doing these things after her revelation, which is certainly not what she meant at all, but because of the chronology of her essay, that’s how it sounds.

Sample Essay 3

“And, that strength was something that came not only from knowing how to cook my own food, lug armfuls of wood three or four times a day, and make my own safe and cozy place in the world, no matter where. It came from an inner sense of seeing things as they are. Life isn’t just out of a magazine with the best appliances and the nicest furniture. There are other things in life, like dirty floors, and relationships that don’t always work, and meals that have to be made. But, that’s not all bad.”

– Read the rest   here .

This is another example of an essay Don’t. The whole essay, which isn’t listed here, isn’t bad as a whole, but it also isn’t clear and precise. The sentences are long and wordy, and the student uses conjunctions, like “and” and “but,” to start sentences.

Grammatically, that isn’t the best way to write. This is an example of an essay that could have been quite good if only the student had spent some time editing it, proofreading it, and perhaps handing it over to someone else to look over it before he submitted it.

Never underestimate the power of revision and constructive criticism when writing your own scholarship essay.

Sample Essay 4

“Through the successes of my efforts, I also realized that poverty was just a societal limitation. I was low-income, not poor. I was still flourishing in school, leading faith-based activities, and taking an active role in community service. My low-income status was not a barrier but a launching pad to motivate and propel my success. […] Success is triumphing over hardships — willing yourself over anything and everything to achieve the best for yourself and your family. With this scholarship, I will use it to continue focusing on my studies in math and engineering, instead of worrying about making money and sending more back home. It will be an investment into myself for my family.”

– Read the rest here .

These are two paragraphs from the same essay, both excellently written. This student came from a very poor background and had to begin making money to help out their family at a very early age.

In this essay, the student does a great job of discussing hardships in the past in an honest, straightforward way that invites the reader’s admiration rather than pity.

The way he spends a brief amount of time talking about his hardships and then moving swiftly into how those hardships motivated him to want more from life is very well-done.

His conclusion paragraph is also spot-on. He acknowledges that the only way to overcome hardship is “willing yourself” to achieve. This shows that he has a willingness to work hard and experience to back it up.

He then goes on to tell how he’ll use the scholarship money if he receives it. He says that he’ll “invest into [him]self” and take this opportunity to work hard, even if it means he has to suffer financially for a few years, in order to achieve what he needs to achieve to ensure future financial success for both himself and his family.

This shows him to be a hard worker, someone caring and empathetic enough to put family first, and intelligent and enterprising.

These are all great things colleges want from prospective students, and he showcases these traits in himself without being overt or in-your-face about it.

Sample Essay 5

“To be able to hold onto your money you have to know how to manage it. Money management is a complicated process. As teenagers, we often have no idea how to manage money and we end up wasting a lot of it. But in a bad economy, most of us have had a crash course in what happens when you don’t manage your money properly. We have had to delve into a world foreign and unfamiliar to us and solve our own money problems. The most successful of us have managed to still have some semblance of a social life without going over our small budgets. The keys to doing this successfully are actually quite simple.”

The prompt for this particular essay was about managing money. In terms of staying on topic and having a good opening sentence, this writer did a really nice job.

The writer also makes the article very relatable because being a teenager and not knowing how to manage money is something most of us can remember quite easily.

In addition to being relatable, the first paragraph also holds our interest because it is easily read, not packed full of synonyms from the thesaurus, or written loftily.

The writer also does a great job with his “thesis” sentence. The last sentence of the paragraph is simple and straight to the point.

It lets us know what’s coming next; he’s about to list the keys to managing money successfully. This is a very well-organized introductory paragraph.

Where the writer falls short, though, is with his grammar. There are obvious run-on sentences and missing commas in that first paragraph. He also starts a sentence with a conjunction, which isn’t great as a general rule. The bad grammar and poor editing/proofreading take away from his entire paragraph, which otherwise would have been really good.

We’ve said it once, and we’re saying it again: Don’t skip the proofreading/editing stage ( fyi , we have great packages here to help with this ). If that isn’t something you’re good at doing, ask a teacher, mentor, friend, or loved one.

Grammar is important. You can have the best idea in the world, and bad grammar will keep people from hearing it because they’ll be too distracted by the errors.

When proofreading or editing for grammar, here are the most common questions to ask yourself:

• Did you write in complete sentences? (No fragments, run-ons, or comma splices)
• Did you run the paper through spellcheck and grammar check?
• Is all of your punctuation correct?
• Is it clear to whom or what your pronouns are referring?
• Are there any  misplaced or dangling modifiers  in your essay?
• Did you write in an  active voice ?
• Are you being repetitive?
• Did you use the right word between  commonly confused words ?
• Did you use proper subject/verb and noun/pronoun agreement throughout?
• Does your essay make logical, organized sense?

Before submitting your essay, edit through it using these questions as a guide.

Summing It All Up

The importance of writing a great, moving, and memorable scholarship personal statement cannot be overstated. Scholarship applications are uniform for all students.

Scholarship committee members are forced to read through the same types of information for all the students who apply. The one place you’re able to stand out and be creative is in your personal essay. That’s why it’s so important that you make it count.

A strong personal scholarship essay can be the tipping point between no money and lots and lots of money, so plan for it. Make time to do it right and edit it properly.

Consider it the most important part of your application process, and set aside the appropriate amount of time for drafting it, writing it, and editing it before the submission due date.

Finally, never be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s an educator, parent, spouse, or friend, there is someone out there who wants to see you succeed. That person will be happy to help you craft the best possible scholarship personal statement.

How long should a scholarship essay be?

A scholarship essay should typically be between 500 to 1000 words. However, always adhere to any specific word limits set by the scholarship. If no limit is specified, aim for a concise essay within this range.

Focus on clear expression of ideas and experiences, and ensure to proofread for clarity and coherence. It’s more about quality than quantity.

Further Reading:

The Best GMAT Prep Courses, According to MBA Students

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Accredited ABSN programs in North Carolina

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How to Write an Amazing Personal Statement (Includes Examples!)

Lisa Freedland is a Scholarships360 writer with personal experience in psychological research and content writing. She has written content for an online fact-checking organization and has conducted research at the University of Southern California as well as the University of California, Irvine. Lisa graduated from the University of Southern California in Fall 2021 with a degree in Psychology.

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Zach Skillings is the Scholarships360 Newsletter Editor. He specializes in college admissions and strives to answer important questions about higher education. When he’s not contributing to Scholarships360, Zach writes about travel, music, film, and culture. His work has been published in Our State Magazine, Ladygunn Magazine, The Nocturnal Times, and The Lexington Dispatch. Zach graduated from Elon University with a degree in Cinema and Television Arts.

Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

The personal statement. It’s one of the most important parts of the entire college application process. This essay is the perfect opportunity to show admissions officers who you are and what makes you stand out from the crowd. But writing a good personal statement isn’t exactly easy. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide on how to nail your personal statement, complete with example essays . Each essay was reviewed and commented upon by admissions expert Bill Jack. Let’s dive in!

Related: How to write an essay about yourself  

What is a personal statement? 

A personal statement is a special type of essay that’s required when you’re applying to colleges and scholarship programs. In this essay, you’re expected to share something about who you are and what you bring to the table. Think of it as a chance to reveal a side of yourself not found in the rest of your application. Personal statements are typically around 400 – 600 words in length. 

What can I write about? 

Pretty much anything, as long as it’s about you . While this is liberating in the sense that your writing options are nearly unlimited, it’s also overwhelming for the same reason. The good news is that you’ll probably be responding to a specific prompt. Chances are you’re applying to a school that uses the Common App , which means you’ll have seven prompts to choose from . Reviewing these prompts can help generate some ideas, but so can asking yourself meaningful questions. 

Below you’ll find a list of questions to ask yourself during the brainstorming process. For each of the following questions, spend a few minutes jotting down whatever comes to mind. 

• What experiences have shaped who you are? 
• What’s special or unique about you or your life story? 
• Who or what has inspired you the most? 
• What accomplishments are you most proud of? 
• What are your goals for the future? How have you arrived at those goals? 
• If your life was a movie, what would be the most interesting scene? 
• What have been some of the biggest challenges in your life? How did you respond and what did you learn? 

The purpose of these questions is to prompt you to think about your life at a deeper level. Hopefully by reflecting on them, you’ll find an essay topic that is impactful and meaningful. In the next section, we’ll offer some advice on actually writing your essay. 

Also see:  How to write a 500 word essay

How do I write my personal statement? 

Once you’ve found a topic, it’s time to start writing! Every personal statement is different, so there’s not really one formula that works for every student. That being said, the following tips should get you started in the right direction:  

1. Freewrite, then rewrite 

The blank page tends to get more intimidating the longer you stare at it, so it’s best to go ahead and jump right in! Don’t worry about making the first draft absolutely perfect. Instead, just get your ideas on the page and don’t spend too much time thinking about the finer details. Think of this initial writing session as a “brain dump”. Take 15-30 minutes to quickly empty all your thoughts onto the page without worrying about things like grammar, spelling, or sentence structure. You can even use bullet points if that helps. Once you have your ideas on the page, then you can go back and shape them exactly how you want. 

2. Establish your theme 

Now that you’ve got some basic ideas down on the page, it’s time to lock in on a theme. Your theme is a specific angle that reflects the central message of your essay. It can be summarized in a sentence or even a word. For example, let’s say you’re writing about how you had to establish a whole new group of friends when you moved to a new city. The theme for this type of essay would probably be something like “adaptation”. Having a theme will help you stay focused throughout your essay. Since you only have a limited number of words, you can’t afford to go off on tangents that don’t relate to your theme. 

3. Tell a story

A lot of great essays rely on a specific scene or story. Find the personal anecdote relevant to your theme and transfer it to the page. The best way to do this is by using descriptive language. Consult the five senses as you’re setting the scene. What did you see, hear, taste, touch, or smell? How were you feeling emotionally? Using descriptive language can really help your essay come to life. According to UPchieve , a nonprofit that supports low income students, focusing on a particular moment as a “ revised version of a memoir ” is one way to keep readers engaged. 

Related: College essay primer: show, don’t tell  

4. Focus on your opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph should grab your reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your essay. In most cases, this is the best place to include your anecdote (if you have one). By leading with your personal story, you can hook your audience from the get-go. After telling your story, you can explain why it’s important to who you are. 

Related:  How to start a scholarship essay (with examples)

5. Use an authentic voice 

Your personal statement reflects who you are, so you should use a tone that represents you. That means you shouldn’t try to sound like someone else, and you shouldn’t use fancy words just to show off. This isn’t an academic paper, so you don’t have to adopt a super formal tone. Instead, write in a way that allows room for your personality to breathe. 

6. Edit, edit, edit…

Once you’re done writing, give yourself some time away from the essay. Try to allow a few days to pass before looking at the essay again with fresh eyes. This way, you’re more likely to pick up on spelling and grammatical errors. You may even get some new ideas and rethink the way you wrote some things. Once you’re satisfied, let someone else edit your essay. We recommend asking a teacher, parent, or sibling for their thoughts before submitting. 

Examples of personal statements 

Sometimes viewing someone else’s work is the best way to generate inspiration and get the creative juices flowing. The following essays are written in response to four different Common App prompts: 

Prompt 1: “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”

When I was eight years old, I wanted a GameCube very badly. For weeks I hounded my dad to buy me one and finally he agreed. But there was a catch. He’d only get me a GameCube if I promised to start reading. Every day I played video games, I would have to pick up a book and read for at least one hour. At that point in my life, reading was just something I had to suffer through for school assignments. To read for pleasure seemed ludicrous. Needless to say, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about this proposed agreement. But I figured anything was worth it to get my hands on that shiny new video game console, so I bit the bullet and shook my dad’s hand. Little did I know that I had just made a life-changing deal. 

At first, the required hour of reading was a chore — something I had to do so I could play Mario Kart. But it quickly turned into something more than that. To my complete and utter surprise, I discovered that I actually enjoyed reading. One hour turned into two, two turned into three, and after a while I was spending more time reading than I was playing video games. I found myself captivated by the written word, and I read everything I could get my hands on. Lord of the Rings , Percy Jackson , Goosebumps — you name it. I was falling in love with literature, while my GameCube was accumulating dust in the TV stand. 

Soon enough, reading led to writing. I was beginning to come up with my own stories, so I put pen to paper and let my imagination run wild. It started out small. My first effort was a rudimentary picture book about a friendly raccoon who went to the moon. But things progressed. My stories became more intricate, my characters more complex. I wrote a series of science fiction novellas. I tried my hand at poetry. I was amazed at the worlds I could create with the tip of my pen. I had dreams of becoming an author. 

Then somewhere along the way my family got a subscription to Netflix, and that completely changed the way I thought about storytelling. My nose had been buried in books up until then, so I hadn’t really seen a lot of movies. That quickly changed. It seemed like every other day a pair of new DVDs would arrive in the mail (this was the early days of Netflix). Dark Knight, The Truman Show, Inception, Memento — all these great films were coming in and out of the house. And I couldn’t get enough of them. Movies brought stories to life in a way that books could not. I was head over heels for visual storytelling. 

Suddenly I wasn’t writing novels and short stories anymore. I was writing scripts for movies. Now I wanted to transfer my ideas to the big screen, rather than the pages of a book. But I was still doing the same thing I had always done. I was writing, just in a different format. To help with this process, I read the screenplays of my favorite films and paid attention to the way they were crafted. I kept watching more and more movies. And I hadn’t forgotten about my first love, either. I still cherished books and looked to them for inspiration. By the end of my junior year of high school, I had completed two scripts for short films. 

So why am I telling you all this? Because I want to turn my love of storytelling into a career. I’m not totally sure how to do that yet, but I know I have options. Whether it’s film production, creative writing, or even journalism, I want to find a major that suits my ambitions. Writing has taken me a long way, and I know it can take me even further. As I step into this next chapter of my life, I couldn’t be more excited to see how my craft develops. In the meantime, I should probably get rid of that dusty old GameCube. 

Feedback from admissions professional Bill Jack

Essays don’t always have to reveal details about the student’s intended career path, but one thing I like about this essay is that it gives the reader a sense of the why. Why do they want to pursue storytelling. It also shows the reader that they are open to how they pursue their interest. Being open to exploration is such a vital part of college, so it’s also showing the reader that they likely will be open to new things in college. And, it’s always fun to learn a little bit more about the student’s family, especially if the reader can learn about how the students interacts with their family. 

Prompt 2: “The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”

I remember my first impression of Irvine: weird. It was foggy, stock-full of greenery and eucalyptus trees, and reminded me of my 5th grade trip to a “science camp” which was located in the San Bernardino mountains. Besides Irvine, that was one of the few places in Southern California where you’d find so many non-palm trees. 

Of course, perhaps my initial impression of Irvine was biased, motivated by a desire to stay in my hometown and a fear of the unknown. While that was true to an extent, Irvine was certainly still a little peculiar. The city itself was based on a “master plan” of sorts, with the location of each of its schools, parks, shops, and arguably its trees having been logically “picked” before the foundation was poured. Even the homes all looked roughly the same, with their beige, stucco walls almost serving as a hallmark of the city itself.

Thus, this perfectly structured, perfectly safe city seemed like a paradise of sorts to many outsiders, my parents included. I was a little more hesitant to welcome this. As I saw it, this was a phony city – believing that its uniformity stood for a lack of personality. My hometown, although not as flawlessly safe nor clean as Irvine, was where most of my dearest memories had occurred. From the many sleepovers at Cindie’s house, to trying to avoid my school’s own version of the “infamous” cheese touch, to the many laughs shared with friends and family, I shed a tear at the prospect of leaving my home.

Moving into the foreign city, remnants of the hostility I held towards Irvine remained. Still dwelling in my memories of the past, I was initially unable to see Irvine as a “home.” So, as I walked into my first-ever Irvine class, being greeted by many kind, yet unfamiliar faces around me, I was unable to recognize that some of those new faces would later become some of my dearest friends. Such negative feelings about the city were further reinforced by newer, harder classes, and more complicated homework. Sitting in the discomfort of this unfamiliar environment, it started to seem that “change” was something not only inevitable, but insurmountable.

As the years went on, however, this idea seemed to fade. I got used to my classes and bike racing through Irvine neighborhoods with my friends, watching the trees that once seemed just a “weird” green blob soon transform into one of my favorite parts of the city. While I kept my old, beloved memories stored, I made space for new ones. From carefully making our way over the narrow creek path next to our school, to the laughs we shared during chemistry class, my new memories made with friends seemed to transform a city I once disliked into one I would miss. 

Through this transformation, I have come to recognize that change, although sometimes intimidating at first, can open the door to great times and meaningful connections. Although Irvine may have once seemed like a strange, “phony” place that I couldn’t wait to be rid of, the memories and laughs I had grown to share there were very real. As I move onto this next part of my life, I hope I can use this knowledge that I have gained from my time in Irvine to make the most of what’s to come. Even if the change may be frightening at first, I have learned to embrace what’s on the other side, whether green or not.

One huge plus to writing an essay that focuses on a place is that you might have it read by someone who has been there. Yet, what’s really helpful about this essay is that even if someone hasn’t been there, a picture is painted about what the place is like.  Admission officers have the hard task of really understanding what the student sees, so the use of adjectives and imagery can really help.  It’s also really clever to see that the green that’s mentioned at the beginning is mentioned at the end.  It’s a nice way to bookend the essay and tie it all together.

Prompt 6: “Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?”

I like getting lost. Not literally, of course, but figuratively. Whether it be in the story of a love song by Taylor Swift, or in the memories brought back by listening to my favorite childhood video game’s background music, I’ve always appreciated music’s ability to transport me to another place, another time, another feeling. 

Alas, I cannot sing, nor have I practiced an instrument since my middle school piano class days. So, perhaps Kurt Vonnegut was right. As he puts it, “Virtually every writer I know would rather be a musician.” While I cannot speak for others, I have certainly not debunked his theory. Writing allows many, including myself, to attempt to mimic the transformative power of music – even if our singing voices aren’t exactly “pleasant.” Just as you can get lost in music, you can do so in a story. Whether it is in George Orwell’s totalitarian Oceania, or Little Women’s Orchard House, the stories outlined in novels can provide an amazing look into the lives and worlds of others, and an escape from the worries and problems of those in your own.

While I am certainly not claiming to have the storytelling abilities of the Orwells or Alcotts before me, I’ve had fun trying to recreate such transformative feelings for others. When I was nine, I attempted to write a story about a little girl who had gotten lost in the woods, only managing to get a couple pages through. As I got older, whenever I was assigned a creative writing assignment in school, I wrote about the same pig, Phil. He was always angry: in my 8th grade science class, Phil was mad at some humans who had harbored his friend captive, and in my 9th grade English class, at a couple who robbed him. 

Thus, when I heard about a writing club being opened at my school in 11th grade, I knew I had to join. I wanted to discern whether writing was just a hobby I picked up now and then, or a true passion. If it was a passion, I wanted to learn as much as possible about how I could improve. Although my high school’s writing club certainly wasn’t going to transform me into Shakespeare, I knew I could learn a lot from it – and I did. The club challenged me to do many things, from writing on the spot, to writing poetry, to even writing about myself, something that’s hopefully coming in handy right now. 

From then on, I started to expand into different types of writing, storing short ideas, skits, and more in appropriately-labeled Google Drive folders. At around the same time, I became interested in classic literature, which largely stemmed from a project in English class. We had been required to choose and read a classic on our own, then present it to the class in an interesting way. While my book was certainly interesting and unique in its own right, nearly everyone else’s novels seemed more captivating to me. So, I took it upon myself to read as many classics as I could the following summer.

One of the books I read during the summer, funnily enough, was Animal Farm, which starred angry pigs, reminiscent of Phil. I had also started going over different ideas in my head, thinking about how I could translate them into words using the new skills I learned. While the writing club helped reaffirm my interest in writing and allowed me to develop new skills, my newfound affinity for classics gave me inspiration to write. Now, I am actually considering writing as part of my future. In this endeavor, I hope that Phil, and the music I inevitably listen to as I write, will accompany me every step of the way.

Admission officers might read 70 (or more!) essays in one day. It’s not uncommon for them to start to blend together and sound similar. This essay might not make you laugh out loud. But, it might make the reader chuckle while reading it thanks to the subtle humor and levity. Being able to incorporate a little humor into your essay (if it is natural for you to do… do not force it), can really be a great way to shed additional light into who you are. Remember, the essay isn’t merely about proving that you can write, but it should also reveal a little bit about your personality.

Prompt 5: “Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.”

I learned a lot of things during the summer I worked at Tropical Smoothie. I discovered the value of hard work. I figured out how to save money. I even mastered the art of the Mango Magic smoothie (the secret is lots of sugar). But most importantly, I learned the power of perspective. And I have Deja to thank for that. 

Deja was my shift supervisor, and one of Tropical Smoothie’s best employees. She was punctual, friendly, and always willing to lend a helping hand. She knew the store from top to bottom, and could handle pretty much any situation thrown her way. She made everyone around her better. On top of all that, she was four months pregnant! I was always impressed by Deja’s work ethic, but I gained an entirely new level of respect for her one day.

It was a Friday night, and Deja and I were working the closing shift together. It was very busy, and Deja and I were the only ones on shift. We managed to get by, but we were exhausted by the end of the evening. After wiping down the counters and mopping the floors, we closed up shop and went our separate ways. I was eager to get home. 

I walked a couple blocks to where I had parked my car. Well, it wasn’t my car actually. It was my dad’s ‘98 Chevy pickup truck, and it was in rough shape. It had no heat or A/C, the leather seats were cracked beyond repair, and the driver’s side door was jammed shut. I sighed as I got in through the passenger side and scooted over to the driver’s seat. The whole reason I was working at Tropical Smoothie was to save up enough money to buy my own car. I was hoping to have something more respectable to drive during my senior year of high school. 

I cranked the old thing up and started on my way home. But soon enough, I spotted Deja walking on the side of the road. There was no sidewalk here, the light was low, and she was dangerously close to the passing cars. I pulled over and offered her a ride. She got in and explained that she was on her way home. Apparently she didn’t have a car and had been walking to work every day. I couldn’t believe it. Here I was complaining about my set of wheels, while Deja didn’t have any to begin with.

We got to talking, and she confessed that she had been having a tough time. You would never know from the way she was so cheerful at work, but Deja had a lot on her plate. She was taking care of her mother, her boyfriend had just lost his job, and she was worried about making ends meet. And of course, she was expecting a baby in five months. On top of all that, she had been walking nearly a mile to and from work every day. The whole thing was a real eye opener, and made me reconsider some things in my own life. 

For one, I didn’t mind driving my dad’s truck anymore. It was banged up, sure, but it was a lot better than nothing. My mindset had changed. I appreciated the truck now. I began to think about other things differently, too. I started making mental notes of all the things in my life I was thankful for — my family, my friends, my health. I became grateful for what I had, instead of obsessing over the things I didn’t. 

I also gained more awareness of the world outside my own little bubble. My encounter with Deja had shown me first-hand that everyone is dealing with their own problems, some worse than others. So I started paying more attention to my friends, family members, and coworkers. I started listening more and asking how I could help. I also gave Deja a ride home for the rest of the summer. 

These are all small things, of course, but I think they make a difference. I realized I’m at my best when I’m not fixated on my own life, but when I’m considerate of the lives around me. I want to keep this in mind as I continue to grow and develop as a person. I want to continue to search for ways to support the people around me. And most importantly, I want to keep things in perspective.

Too often we can be focused on our own problems that we fail to realize that everyone has their own things going on in their lives, too.  This essay showcases how it’s important to put things in perspective, a skill that certainly will prove invaluable in college… and not just in the classroom.  Another reason I like this essay is because it provides deeper insight into the student’s life.  Sure, you might have mentioned in your activities list that you have a job.  But as this essay does, you can show why you have the job in the first place, what your responsibilities are, and more.

A few last tips

We hope these essay examples gave you a bit of inspiration of what to include in your own. However, before you go, we’d like to send you off with a few (personal statement) writing tips to help you make your essays as lovely as the memories and anecdotes they’re based off of. Without further ado, here are some of our best tips for writing your personal statements:

1. Open strong

College admissions officers read many, many essays (think 50+) a day, which can sometimes cause them to start blending together and sounding alike. One way to avoid your essay from simply fading into the background is to start strong. This means opening your essay with something memorable, whether an interesting personal anecdote, a descriptive setting, or anything else that you think would catch a reader’s attention (so long as it’s not inappropriate). Not only might this help college admissions officers better remember your essay, but it will also make them curious about what the rest of your essay will entail.

2. Be authentic

Perhaps most important when it comes to writing personal statement essays is to maintain your authenticity. Ultimately, your essays should reflect your unique stories and quirks that make you who you are, and should help college admissions officers determine whether you’d truly be a good fit for their school or not. So, don’t stress trying to figure out what colleges are looking for. Be yourself, and let the colleges come to you!

3. Strong writing

This one may seem a little obvious, but strong writing will certainly appeal to colleges. Not only will it make your essay more compelling, but it may show colleges that you’re ready for college-level essay writing (that you’ll likely have to do a lot of). Just remember that good writing is not limited to grammar. Using captivating detail and descriptions are a huge part of making your essay seem more like a story than a lecture.

4. Proofread

Last but not least, remember to proofread! Make sure your essay contains no errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. When you’re done proofreading your essay yourself, we would also recommend that you ask a teacher, parent, or other grammatically savvy person to proofread your essay as well.

Final thoughts 

With those in hand, we hope you now have a better sense of how to write your personal statement. While your grades and test scores are important when it comes to college admissions, it’s really your essays that can “make” or “break” your application. 

Although this may make it seem like a daunting task, writing an amazing personal statement essay is all about effort. Thus, so long as you start early, follow the advice listed above, and dedicate your time and effort to it, it’s entirely possible to write an essay that perfectly encapsulates you. Good luck, and happy writing!

Also see:  Scholarships360’s free scholarships search tool

Key Takeaways

• It may take some people longer than others to know what they want to write about, but remember that everyone, including you, has something unique to write about!
• Personal statements should be personal, which means you should avoid being too general and really strive to show off what makes you “you”
• Time and effort are two of the most important things you can put into your personal statement to ensure that it is the best representation of yourself
• Don’t forget to ask people who know you to read your work before you submit; they should be able to tell you better than anyone if you are truly shining through!

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Personal Statement for Scholarship: How to Write and Examples

Table of Contents

A substantial part of the applications are personal statement for scholarship. Writing a stunning personal statement is vital if you’re hoping to win a scholarship. The personal statement is your chance to convince the board that you deserve the scholarship. While your curriculum vitae may be remarkable, hundreds, perhaps even thousands of students are likely to be just as remarkable. A personal statement is an excellent way of setting yourself apart.

There’s no right way to write a personal statement for a scholarship, but here are some tips on how you can write a killer personal statement that can help you to elevate your pitch.

What is a personal statement for scholarship?

A personal statement is an overview of your accomplishments, talents, interests and objectives that are often included in applications for universities or scholarships or on resumes. It is a sample of writing (often about 2 pages) that describes you to the best of your abilities, your reasons for choosing the course you have chosen, your research interests, your goals and the creative ways you can add value to the program you are applying to.

The purpose of the personal statement is to provide an opportunity for those reviewing applications to learn more about you, your education goals, and how the scholarship will help you to continue your education.

How do you write a personal statement?

To guide you in composing your scholarship personal statement, here are some tips on how to get started.

Be concise, be organized, be focused

Make sure that your personal declaration follows a coherent order. Try to ponder how it might sound to an audience that doesn’t know you. Getting input from people you trust can help you get different points of view on how those who read it actually impact your personal statement. Avoiding long, drawn-out essay responses will not only help keep the attention of your reader, but will also show you’ve been thoughtful about your writing.

Be reflective

A personal statement, just because it narrates challenging times, is not always impactful. Strong personal statements should show that the writer has reflected on their past experiences and achievements and learnt from them. Ideally, the writer will be able to show progress towards a clear outlook on how he or she sees the world and the direction he or she is heading in the future. An effective personal statement gives a clear sense of your personal qualities and how you used and developed them to respond to your challenges and opportunities.

Get personal

The readers want to get an understanding of who you are, and the only way to do that is by sharing a little about who you are. That’s why it is called a personal statement after all. This is your opportunity to share what you feel they should know about you for making an informed decision with the reader.

Make it authentic

A personal statement for scholarship should show you who you really are and what you support about, not what you assume the readers want to hear. Remember that those who read your application will also be able to read many other applications, and will be able to tell you immediately if what you write is honest and genuine. It’s also worth remembering that some programs require a finalist interview where it’ll be easy to spot those who haven’t been authentic in their personal statements.

Give yourself plenty of time for revisions

Before submission, personal statements need to go through several revisions. Read your writing to others, and rewrite the content and style for accuracy. Pay attention to proper grammar and punctuation rules, and don’t forget spell checking. It’s also strongly advised that you make use of campus resources to gain valuable insight into how to improve your personal statement for scholarship.

A short personal statement, a strong personal statement

“My love of astronomy started when I looked up as a child at the darkness of space and found it captivating and awe-inspiring at the same time.” “From seeing my first production on stage I have been passionate about William Shakespeare’s works. I am fascinated by the way in which Shakespeare is still relevant today.

Can you see why these two examples are inaccurate?

While they are very favorable and well-worded statements about why a student might want to study astronomy, or Shakespearean literature, both of these examples of Personal Statement lead to clichés and generalization very rapidly.

We are not suggesting that when writing a personal statement for scholarship you should not use positive words, but this positive language needs to be supported up with solid, specific examples and thorough analyses. Remember: Showing, not telling, is the key to an excellent personal statement.

Why, then, is Shakespeare relevant to today? What specific examples could you use of an author from the 16th century to demonstrate its relevance to the modern age? Similarly, proclaiming a love for night sky wonders is all well and good, but why did it make you want to study astronomy?

Impose a limit on how many adjectives or descriptive sentences you use in your writing. It is important to remember that a personal statement in a relatively short number of words has to accomplish a lot. If you over-use words such as ‘ambitious,’ ‘astonishing,’ and ‘awe-inspiring,’ you’ll end up repeating yourself.

Structure of a personal statement

Structuring your statement is important to ensure it reads well. Write your personal statement as an ongoing prose piece, just like an essay. You might want to follow this structure:

Introduction

Your introduction should be brief, explaining why you’re excited about applying for the scholarship. The strongest introductions often have an academic focus, so think about the reading of the background that you did.

Avoid such phrases as ‘I always have’ or ‘from a young age’ or anything like that. Focus on one particular thing about the offered field that interests you. If you have a hardship, leave your introduction to the end. Once the main body of your personal statement has been written, it will be clear what your strongest motivations for applying are. Then you can integrate that into your introduction.

The main body of your personal statement should include examples that show your preparedness.

Start by choosing between three or four examples. For an idea of what examples you could include here, refer back to step one. Try to have at least one example related to your course which focuses on academic reading. Just avoid listing skills or qualities, and explain in detail your skills and experiences. Make sure you show when writing about skills or qualities that they are relevant to your future studies.

Try to think academically, as well. Imagine you are an admissions tutor when choosing your examples: are you demonstrating your knowledge of the subject through detailed examples? Are you showcasing the skills you need to apply the scholarship successfully?

Your conclusion should summarize your statement’s key points and remind the granting committee of your strengths. This is a good opportunity to write about your future plans, too. How does the scholarship that you apply for fit into your larger picture?

Examples of personal statement for scholarship

Whether it’s a scholarship essay about yourself, a creative writing scholarship, or an essay on why you deserve the scholarship, the personal statement for scholarship examples below can help you better understand what may result from following a good format.

Personal statement for scholarship: Example #1

As a child of immigrant parents, I learned to take responsibilities for my family and myself at a very young age. Although my parents spoke English, they constantly worked in order to financially support my little brother and me. Meanwhile, my grandparents barely knew English so I became their translator for medical appointments and in every single interaction with English speakers. Even until now, I still translate for them and I teach my grandparents conversational English. The more involved I became with my family, the more I knew what I wanted to be in the future.

Since I was five, my parents pushed me to value education because they were born in Vietnam and had limited education. Because of this disadvantage, I learned to take everything I do seriously and to put in all of my effort to complete tasks such as becoming the founder of my school’s Badminton Club in my sophomore year and Red Cross Club this year. Before creating these clubs, I created a vision for these clubs so I can organize my responsibilities better as a leader. The more involved I became, the more I learned as a leader and as a person. As a leader, I carried the same behavior I portrayed towards my younger cousins and sibling. My family members stressed the importance of being a good influence; as I adapted this behavior, I utilized this in my leadership positions. I learned to become a good role model by teaching my younger family members proper manners and guiding them in their academics so that they can do well. In school, I guide my peers in organizing team uniform designs and in networking with a nonprofit organization for service events.

Asides from my values, I’m truly passionate in the medical field. I always wanted to be a pediatrician since I was fourteen. My strong interest in the medical field allowed me to open up my shell in certain situations: when I became sociable to patients in the hospital as a volunteer, when I became friendly and approachable to children in my job at Kumon Math and Reading Center, and when I portrayed compassion and empathy towards my teammates in the badminton team. However, when I participated in the 2017 Kaiser Summer Volunteer Program at Richmond Medical Center, I realized that I didn’t only want to be a pediatrician. This program opened my eye to numerous opportunities in different fields of medicine and in different approaches in working in the medicine industry. While I may have a strong love for the medical field, my interest in business immensely grew as I soon discovered that I didn’t only have to take the practical approach in the medical field. With this interest, I plan to also become a part of a medical facility management team.

In the future, I hope to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor by attaining an MD, and to double major in Managerial Economics. I intend to study at UC Davis as a Biological Sciences major, where I anticipate to become extremely involved with the student community. After graduation, I plan to develop a strong network relationship with Kaiser Permanente as I’ve started last year in my internship. By developing a network with them, I hope to work in one of their facilities someday. Based on my values, interests, and planned future, I’m applying for the NCS Foundation scholarship because not only will it financially help me, but it can give motivation for me to academically push myself. I hope to use this scholarship in applying for a study abroad program, where I can learn about other cultures’ customs while conducting research there.

Personal statement for scholarship: Example #2

Nothing is more important to me than ending racial inequality and discrimination in America, as I do not want my younger siblings to face the discrimination Black people continue to face in our present society. After winning our fight to freedom and provoking the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, why do Black teens face higher poverty rates than Whites and are still four times more likely to be incarcerated? “That was such a long time ago. You really need to get over it,” my White peers say when referring to racial inequalities. But, why then, in 7th grade, after winning Nazareth Academy’s Spelling Bee competition, did my fellow White classmate state with a heavy dose of surprise, “You know…when I first saw you, I didn’t think you were going to be smart?”

I hope to contribute to ending racial discrimination by utilizing our present interconnectivity and running a social media campaign titled #It’sNotOver. #It’sNotOver aims to oppose the widespread misconception that, because racial inequality was legally outlawed, de facto racial inequality does not still persist in our society. Our recent presidential election may have brought life to a ‘Divided America’, but it also exposed how influential social media is. By raising awareness of racial disparities that occur everywhere, I might encourage a new wave of change in our country like that of the present Time’s Up movement. Furthermore, if I can access the influence of celebrities in my #It’sNotOver campaign, like that of Time’s Up, I might similarly capture the attention of millions of people and inspire action against this issue across the globe.

I know that social media can only do so much in addressing these issues as not everyone can afford the luxury of having internet access. However, I hope that my campaign can inspire all those who do have access to take it upon themselves to be the change by being inspired by the fact that we are globally united in this issue. Although I expect negativity and criticism from people who either do not believe that this issue exists or do not believe in our cause, I am willing to encounter it if it means our society as a whole irrevocably can grow to accept each other’s differences.

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How to Write a Good Personal Statement for a Scholarship ( 7 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 12 Apr 2021 Scholarship Application 53,765 views

Have you been asked by the scholarship committee to provide a personal statement for a scholarship? Are you clueless on how to draft a statement of purpose for scholarship? Do you need a perfect step by step guide to get you started?  Say no more! We got you covered. Today, you will master the art of writing a winning personal statement.

You will learn the following:

• What is a scholarship personal statement?
• Types of Personal Statement topics
• Parts of a Personal statement for scholarship
• Perfect step by step guide to writing a winning scholarship personal statement
• Tips on scholarship personal statement: Dos and Don'ts
• How to structure and format a personal statement
• Sample example of a personal statement for scholarship
• Sample example of personal statement for scholarship pdf
• Personal statement for scholarship application examples

What is a Scholarship personal statement?

A personal statement for scholarship is a short content that conveys the message that you are a perfect candidate for a scholarship in an undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate programme. In your personal statement for scholarship 500 words, you will be providing solid evidence and examples pertaining to your experience and motivation. Your personal statement will explain why the particular programme is the right one for you, how it's connected to your personality and previous studies and what changes you would make in your society if you follow the programme.

The purpose of a personal statement is to invite the admission committee to get to know you better. You are to convince the admission committee that you are a good fit for a chosen degree. The aim is not to impress the application committee. Rather, the goal is to point to the kind of student you are. Like sample scholarship application letter for masters degree, you have to do some self - reflection to figure who you are and your future goals. When you do that, you can easily transfer your individuality to the essay.

Check out: How To Write A Letter Of Intent For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample LOI Example)

Six (6) Types of Personal Statements  Prompts

As earlier mentioned, your personal statement should share something about you. It should include aspects that have not been found in your résumé. It should indicate how deserving you are of the scholarship. It should be geared towards the scholarship provider's goals.

Usually there are various topics for composing personal letter for scholarship. You would choose one category prompt and develop your personal statement. Your choice of topic will determine the parts of your scholarship personal statement.

Prompt (1): Why do you want to attend this institution?

Simply let the committee know why you are interested in that institution. Focus on what makes the programme or scholarship so unique. Does it offer career services and facilities? Is it known for talented professors that you want to learn from?

Prompt (2): Overcoming a Problem

You will be asked to identify a problem or a failure you encounter. In personal statement for scholarship sample doc,this is where you will share how you overcame it along with the lessons you were able to learn. It could be bullying, addiction, loss of a family member or a close friend, moving to a new city etc. Share it and let the committee know the stuff of which you are made up.

Prompt (3): Creative topics

Some universities offer special, think - outside - the - box topics. They could be as tricky as "What can be actually be divided by zero?". In sample personal statement for scholarship application pdf like this, you could consider each question on its own. Brainstorm innovative ideas and see which ideas you feel passionate about.

Prompt (4): A Personal History of You

This topic asks you to relate an event in your life that incited a period of personal growth. You could also pinpoint a person who had a catalyzing effect on you and made you have a new understanding of yourself. Your first job, a unique talent that you have or a personal goal you achieved can be very catching ideas for your statement of purpose for scholarship application sample.

Prompt (5): Brainstorming New Ideas

This category of topics is about understanding how you relate with novel and diverse perspectives. You could refer to a time when you questioned a long - held belief. The reasons for changing your perspective could make a great scholarship personal statement for scholarship 500 words pdf. Universities want to know how you handle differences.

Prompt (6): Your Future Goals

What does your future look like? Do you want to be a professor? A chef? A journalist? This personal statement for scholarship application examples pdf prompt reflect on what you would like to become professionally. Through this topic, the scholarship committee wants to know how the scholarship would help you learn what you need to acquire so that you can achieve your career goals. They want to measure your level of awareness, vision and determination.

Parts of a Personal Statement for Scholarship

After you choose your topic, you may be tempted to quickly proceed with writing your sop for scholarship samples. Pause!!! You have one more step to take. You need to create an outline . An outline will help you to coordinate your thoughts and ideas. It will guide the direction of your writing and you would not be rewriting your content countless times.

There are two ways to create your outline. There is the process outline and the passion outline . If you want to discuss your personal growth, the process outline will help in explain the journey of your personal growth (before, during and after stages). If you want to share your passion, use the passion outline to relate various experiences that shaped you in becoming more competent.

After creating your outline, you can safely proceed with the sections of your statement of purpose for scholarship pdf.

Introduction Paragraph:

For example, say you are preparing a sample personal statement for fulbright scholarship. The introduction is the most sensitive part of your personal statement. Do you know why? You would need to grab the attention of your commitee and keep them reading. You could use a rhetorical question, a quick story, a surprising fact or simply a short explanation of what you will talk about in your content.

Body Paragraphs:

This part depends largely on your choice of topic and your choice of outline. If you are discussing about overcoming a problem, a personal history of you or your future goals, use the process outline and share the lessons, your background and your long - term career goals.

If, on the other hand, you choose to discuss a newly adopted idea, why you want to go to the school, or something creative, deploy the passion outline to think outside the box and relate your unique perspectives on life.

Just make sure that you are authentic, unique and use copious examples in your personal statement essay for scholarship.

Conclusion:

What if you are concluding your statement of purpose for fulbright scholarship? This is not just the part where you summarize the previous paragraphs. This is the point where you leave a lasting impression on your reader. Use a call - to - action or a hope for the future to explain why this scholarship is important to you.

Read: How to Write a Good Scholarship Thank You Letter (8 PDF Sample Examples)

The Perfect 8 Step - by - Step Guide to writing a Winning Personal Statement for Scholarship

Still concerned about how to start your example of personal letter for scholarship? Don't worry. Here is a step - by - step manual that can guide you from the minute you sight the essay prompt to the minute you hit "Submit".

Step One (1): Read your Prompts

Carefully read your topics. Understand what the scholarship committee is asking of you. Before choosing the prompt you want, try to grasp what the personal statement for university scholarship

should be like. Check carefully if there is anything like "Write on your topic in three pages of 600 words"!

Step Two (2): Be on the lookout for additional information

Are there rules and guidelines for additional information that may not be in the prompt? You need to read them carefully. Ascertain the kind of formatting that is required, when the scholarship application statement due date is or what you may need to submit with your personal statement.

Step Three (3): Brainstorm Novel Ideas

Don't rush to write the personal statement for applying scholarship with the first idea that pops up in your head. Consider various ways to answer the prompt you chose. Jot down all the ideas that come to mind and review them later.

Step Four (4): Outline your personal statement

Organize essential points and concepts of your content. As it was suggested earlier, this will help you coordinate your major ideas so that you won't forget them. In that way, you will write the best statement of purpose for scholarship.

Step Five (5): Create a mouth - watering introduction

When writing personal statement for scholarship, keep your thesis concise but at the same time, arrest the attention of your reader. Be more concerned about your story and less worried about big vocabulary. In a simple way, try to communicate the core concept of your content.

Step Six (6): Be yourself when writing the body paragraphs and conclusion

At this stage, make your scholarship statement example personal and relatable. Simply, write what you know. Find a way to share why your choice of topic is significant to you. Let the body paragraphs reflect your personal knowledge, experiences and passion. Make your essay as specific as possible and customize it to fit the scholarship.

Step Seven (7): Revise your personal statement

This time, re-read your personal statement sample for scholarship pdf with a critical eye. You can read it out loud and listen to the flow. Is it consistent? Is it logical? Is there a room for reworking?

Step Eight (8): Proofread, edit and hit "submit"

Look specifically for spelling and grammar errors. For example, say you are writing a fulbright personal statement example. Find a friend who has a strong command of the written word and can completely address the people alongside the content. Finally, submit your personal statement in the chosen electronic form (docx or pdf).

Tips: What TO do when writing a personal statement

• Start your personal statement for college scholarship with a captivating sentence so as to arrest the attention of the admission officers.
• Relate outside interests and passion of your course.
• Ensure you write what comes naturally.
• Have a close family relative or friend to proof read it.
• Be specific and express everything in short paragraphs.

Tips: What NOT TO do when writing a personal statement

• Don't attempt to sound too savvy.
• Don't procrastinate. Prepare the statement purpose for scholarship ahead of the deadline.
• Don't duplicate information from your resume.
• Don't spend too long on the introduction.
• Don't be dishonest. Yet, don't involve too much negative information.

Consider : How To Write A Good Scholarship Acceptance Letter (5 PDF Sample Examples)

Personal Statement Formatting

Now, here in Scholarship Tab , we say that the personal statement format for scholarship is as important as the content. So here is how to do a thorough formatting of your statement of purpose for scholarship sample.

Your personal statement must:

• be between 500 - 700 words.
• have short sentences of not more than 25 - 30 words.
• be between 1 - 2 pages.
• have a maximum of 47 lines.
• use headings (optional) to break up the content, eg "How did I develop my passion", "Why I wish to study in this college"...
• use Arial or Times New Roman font and size 12 - 14 px.
• be left - aligned and have 1.5 px line spacing.

Sample Personal Statement for Scholarship Application

Did you think we would leave you without a sample? Not a chance. Here is a personal statement sample for scholarship

 of Melissa, a student applying for Masters in Creative Writing. Read and learn:

“Can you compose a story for me? I am a keynote speaker at a conference. I want to start with a story and arrest the attention of my audience. Can you handle that for me?” That was a favor asked by my endearing lecturer in my university days. I could tell that he reposed confidence in my writing skills. So, for the umpeenth time, I agreed to assist him in storytelling. Let me explain how I became the capital helping hand of many keynote speakers.

I always remembered myself with a pen and a piece of paper. I wouldn't tag myself as an enchanting speaker. But I was surprisingly celebrated for my essays in school. My maths teacher would always frown each time I murdered the solution of a mathematical equation or geometry on the board. However, you could see the English teacher's face light up whenever she praised my writing performance to my parents. Miss Katherine, my English teacher, soon became my muse for acquiring a bachelor's degree in English Literature in my early 20s.

In high school, my writing prowess was noticeable even amongst my peers. Soon, I was dragged to theatre stage plays. Was I asked to perform? Not exactly! I was asked to write theatre scripts. In time, the refreshing and full - of - life dialogues stole the hearts of the returning audience and we would always win.

In my university days, I worked as a copywriting intern in an advertising agency. One of our clients was a Non - Governmental Organization (NGO) aimed at combating the effects of gender inequality. I was particularly touched by their projects. So I gave my very best in composing a thought - provoking content for their publicity. I was soon informed that the NGO gained immense popularity in a short period of time. I was elated. One day, the founder of the NGO called me while I was on a break. I still remember her words:

“I just want to thank you for the article you wrote for us. Thank you, Melissa for sharing your talent. You have helped thousands of women gain confidence in what we do and feel protected. You should be proud of yourself!”

That one - minute call revealed my life time purpose - to put the bemoaning thoughts, unmet requests, unrealized dreams and unattended needs of unprotected women in writing. This propelled to establish my magazine called WWW - Writing for Wonderful Women.

That's why I want to study Creative Writing. I want to develop my niche in the publishing world. I know that with the lecturers of this program,  I will sharpen my research and writing abilities. With your help, I could facilitate my dream - my dream of airing the views of less privileged women with a pen and a paper.

Check out: Top 20 Online Jobs for College Students 2021

Statement of Purpose for Scholarship Sample pdf

Did you like the above sample personal statement for masters scholarship? Do you want to remain inspired and get the best out of it before you write your own? Here is personal statement for scholarship pdf. Download it, digest it and compose your own masterpiece! Download  statement of purpose for scholarship sample pdf

Sample Letter Examples Personal Statement for Scholarship

We understand that there are specific scholarships whose personal statement need to be tailored. We want to share them with you as we desire nothing more but for you to excel. Here are some leading examples:

Sample Fulbright Personal Statement

Fulbright is a popular US cultural program that aims at improving intercultural relations, cultural diplomacy and intercultural competence between the people in the USA and other countries.

Here is a sample example of the personal statement to get the fulbright scholarship.

PTDF Scholarship Personal Statement Sample

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) aims at qualifying graduates and professionals in the field of engineering, geology, science and management in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria. Do you want to become a PTDF beneficiary?

Write, edit and download your ptdf scholarship personal statement sample here.

KGSP Statement of Purpose

The Korean Government Scholarship Program statement of purpose kgsp is designed to equip international students with opportunities to study at higher educational institutions in Korea for academic degrees. So you would need to compose a thought – provoking personal statement for kgsp

Check out this link and see how a well accepted kgsp statement of purpose looks like.

CFA Scholarship Personal Statement Sample

The CFA Institute Scholarships are intended to promote the highest standards of ethics, education and professional excellence. There are various types of scholarship such as access scholarship, women's scholarship or regulator scholarship.

If you are eligible for any of the above, download the tailored CFA Scholarship personal statement for scholarship examples.

Nus Merit Scholarship Personal Statement

What about the nus merit scholarship personal statement? The program is a highly coveted scholarship that targets high calibre of individuals that showcase academic excellence and outstanding leadership qualities.

If you have presented and excellent record of leadership, check out the sample nus merit scholarship personal statement

Sample Scholarship Personal Statement for Masters

Are you interested in getting a masters degree? Were you asked to provide a thrilling personal statement? 

Check out this smashing  sample scholarship application letter for masters degree pdf

So, as you can see, with the proper guide and excellent personal statement samples, your personal statement will help the admission officers to know more about you as a student, your goals and how the scholarship will help you continue your education. So write memorable personal statement essay examples for scholarships that stand out among the hundreds of other submissions.

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How To Write A Personal Statement For A Scholarship

• 6 minute read

• January 5, 2024
• No comments

The personal statement is arguably the most important component of many scholarship applications. Often, it’s your opportunity to present the strongest possible argument for why you ought to receive a scholarship. Personal statements give the applicant the best sense of who you are as a person, what makes you stand out from the competition, demonstrate your writing skills, and offer proof of your academic and artistic accomplishments.

You should approach your personal statement as you would an in-person interview. A well-written statement gives the data gathered in other sections of your application more focus, depth, and significance. It’s also a chance for you to discuss how elements outside of your educational setting have helped or hindered your capacity to take advantage of the academic and intellectual opportunities that are readily available.

Before you start filling out your scholarship application, you should spend some time thinking about how to write a scholarship personal statement that expresses who you are and why you deserve to receive a scholarship. Your personal statement should be a minimum of 200 words. To get you started, consider the following:

1. What are your strongest personality traits that make you an ideal candidate for a scholarship?

2. Does any attribute, quality, or skill distinguish you from everyone else?

3. What are your major accomplishments, and why do you consider them accomplishments?

4. What was the most difficult time in your life, and why? How did you overcome it?

5. What have you done outside of the school that demonstrates the qualities of an ideal candidate?

6. What are your most important extracurricular or community activities? What made you join these activities?

7. Why did you choose your area of study?

8. What are your career aspirations?

9. What are your dreams for the future?

10. How will the scholarship help you achieve your personal goals?

11. What has compelled you to attend LaGuardia Community College?

Although there isn’t a single right way to write a personal statement, the following advice is generally relevant:

Get a head start on your personal statement

Allow enough time to reflect on your subjects and carefully read the reasoning behind each question.

Make it plain. Maintain focus. Maintain organisation

Make sure the structure of your personal statement makes sense. Consider the possibility that someone who isn’t familiar with you will hear it. Seeking feedback from educators, friends, and family members can provide you with a variety of viewpoints on the impact your personal statement has on readers. Steer clear of lengthy, drawn-out essay responses to maintain reader interest and demonstrate your writing’s thoughtfulness.

Be Personal

The only way to give the readers an idea of who you are is to give them a brief overview of your persona. It is a Personal Statement, after all. This is your opportunity to tell the reader what you think they should know about you so they can decide wisely.

When using humour and clichés, use caution

Something that you find humorous or sardonically ironic may not seem that way to someone unfamiliar with you. Keep in mind that your statement is a chance for you to present a full picture of who you are. Don’t let platitudes represent you.

Think Carefully

Because a personal statement recounts difficult events, it is ineffective. Robust personal statements should demonstrate that the author has thought back on and taken lessons from their prior successes and experiences. The writer should ideally be able to demonstrate a progression towards a distinct viewpoint of how they see the world and where they plan to go in the future.

A strong personal statement conveys your unique qualities and demonstrates how you have grown and used them in response to opportunities and challenges.

Give it a genuine feel

Instead of writing what you think the readers want to hear, a personal statement should highlight who you are and what matters to you. Keep in mind that people who are reading your application will also be reading a lot of other applications, so they will be able to determine quickly whether or not what you are writing is sincere and real.

It’s important to remember that some programmes require finalists to attend interviews, where it will be simple to identify applicants who haven’t been sincere in their statements.

Give precise examples to support your points

Writing your statement in an overly general or ambiguous manner will not make it stand out. Though personal statements abound, only a small handful exemplify initiative through specific instances of proven motivation and leadership. However, instances are merely one component of the puzzle. It is also necessary to demonstrate how you have given meaning to your experiences and developed as a result of them.

Show that you have a clear idea of who you are, where you want to go, and how you plan to use your experiences and education to get there. Even though some events have lifetime or even long-term effects, it is usually preferable to concentrate on recent events because they provide more insight into who you are right now.

Last but not least, allow ample time for modifications

Before being submitted, personal statements should undergo multiple revisions. Read your work aloud to others, then make revisions to improve the style and content clarity. Remember the rules of proper punctuation and grammar, and don’t forget to spell-check. Utilising campus resources (a professor, teaching assistant, advisor, Student Academic Success Centre, classmates, or friends) is also advised to obtain helpful advice on how to enhance your statement.

Make sure you send your statements to the Prestigious Scholarship Advisor for editing and advice on rewrites if you are applying for prestigious scholarships.

Structure of a Personal Statement

To help you stand out from the other applicants, your statement should be well-structured and written. A picture of you as a person, a student, and a possible scholarship recipient should be included in the statement. This is your chance to tell your story. The following ideas will help you divide your statement into four short paragraphs:

Paragraph 1: Introduction

A captivating introduction will draw the reader in.

• Tell us about yourself, your origins, and your family history.
• Describe any unique family or personal circumstances that have an impact on your need for financial support.

Paragraph 2: Body

• Explain why are you the best candidate for the scholarship. What have you done so far? This is where you begin to support your case.
• Why did you choose to attend LaGuardia? What is your major? How did you choose your major?
• What are your positive qualities, accomplishments, work experience, internships, volunteer work, leadership experience, extracurricular activities, personal problems you have overcome, etc.?

Paragraph 3

• Connect your goals with the opportunities receiving the scholarship will provide. What are your plans?
• Be specific about your plans for pursuing your goals. Where do you plan to transfer? What is the highest degree that you plan to achieve? i.e. Associate, Bachelors, Masters, Ph.D.
• What are your career goals? How do you plan to use your education to achieve your career goals? Explain the importance of your major in today’s society.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion

This is your last chance to impress and persuade the reader. What impact would the scholarship have on your education and your future? Recap why you are a good candidate to receive the scholarship.

It takes more than just listing your accomplishments to create an engaging personal statement for a scholarship; you also need to paint a vivid picture of who you are. Reiterate at the end of your statement your dedication, enthusiasm, and readiness to change the world. Stress how appreciative you are of the chance and how committed you are to using it for both personal development and wider impact.

In closing, convey your hopes, objectives, and how this scholarship will act as a springboard for your future pursuits in a firm yet humble manner. Recall that this is your last opportunity to make a lasting impression, demonstrate your commitment to success, and make a positive impact on the world. We hope that these tips will motivate you and assist you in organising. The finest tool available to you for showcasing your unique talents to them is your personal statement.

• This question addresses the essential elements and content that should be incorporated into a scholarship personal statement. An Introduction, Body and Conclusion.
• Many applicants wonder about the ideal length or word count required for a compelling scholarship personal statement. Your statement should be a minimum of 200 words.
• This question aims to gather insights on strategies or techniques that can help an applicant’s personal statement shine among competitors.

Victor Ekong

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Writing a Winning Personal Statement for Scholarships: A Comprehensive Guide

A personal statement for a scholarship is any narrative or story you want to tell about yourself and your career goals. It can be a short anecdote, a longer essay, or even a series of points.

The scholarship officer will read your personal statement closely , so make sure it’s solid and clear! They will probably take notes as they do so, making eye contact with you at times.

In addition to helping them determine if you are eligible, this also gives an idea of how you communicate and what you like. Both of these things are important to consider when deciding what field you would like to study.

There may be some questions about your choice of school, so make sure yours sounds convincing! While it’s not required to include all details about your life, they might ask why you have chosen this specific program over others.

A good way to avoid being questioned is by creating a detailed argument that supports your decision. This step-by-step guide will help you to write a winning personal statement for scholarships.

You can read this article for writing an effective email to professors for scholarships and Sweden government scholarship .

Read the requirements carefully

While most scholarship applications ask you to include a personal statement, some require nothing more than saying why you want the scholarship!

Some programs even pay nominal fees to write your own personal story. If this is the case with your program, then writing about yourself is totally free !

So how much weight do these statements carry? For many scholarships, it’s very little. The reviewers of your application already have a profile of you as a person that can help them determine if you are a deserving student.

For other awards, the personal statement can make or break your chances of being accepted. It may be the only piece of evidence they look at beyond the standard forms like transcripts , test scores, and essays.

In those cases, yours needs to show not just that you know who you are but also convince them that you deserve to receive their award.

Create a list of your best qualities

A personal scholarship statement should tell someone about you, what you have done in past studies, who you are as a person, and what you want to do with your education and career.

It is very common to see scholarships that ask you to write a short paragraph based on the following topic and bullet point. So let’s use those as templates! T he next part of this article will help you create a great personal scholarship statement template based on the following topic and bullet point: “What I like to do in my free time.”

Bullet point: Doing something creative

I played the guitar for nine years so I could actually pay attention while I listened to songs and learn some new ones.

Music has inspired me to create my own tunes, which I then record myself. It helps take my mind off of things and I still enjoy it now. Art has helped shape who I am today and gave me inspiration to keep learning more ways to express myself.

Whatever artistic expression you love – painting, drawing, sculpture, designing clothes, making crafts, writing stories, composing music, anything – go beyond what you have done before to experiment with it.

Create a list of your best accomplishments

One of the biggest parts of writing a personal scholarship statement is creating a strong narrative about yourself. You will want to take some time to think about what you are doing with your life, and what achievements matter most to you.

It’s not enough just to say that you studied hard and got good grades. What else did you do? Did you volunteer? If yes, then tell us how much you helped through your experience in community service.

You can also describe projects that you worked on, or lessons that you learned from others. For example, if you were trained in science, talk about how you applied what you had learned to improve upon something or make sure everything was organized properly.

If you have done things like traveling or spending money on hobbies, emphasize how these skills prepared you for college. Talk about how you invested in yourself by giving yourself more opportunities.

With all of this as the nucleus of your essay, use it to explain why you deserve scholarships. Emphasize the importance of education in your family, and how investing in yours has been an investment in yourself.

Thank you so much for reading our article! We hope you enjoyed it and found it helpful. Please feel free to comment below and share with your friends.

Combine the two lists into one long list

When writing your personal statement , combine the two lists in this article into one. Make sure to focus on how you have lived your life so far, and include examples of these behaviors.

These are not talking about being married twice or having children at an older age , but instead examples of teamwork, self-motivation, responsibility, and leadership. These are all things that show someone cares about others and wants to do good.

This way, your readers will see that you understand what it means to live with conviction and why you are worthy of their time and money.

Personalize your statement

A personal scholarship statement is not like other types of academic statements, such as a college or career synopsis. This type of statement does not contain information that can be found elsewhere.

It’s your story — we mean that literally! Your personal scholarship statement should tell your own unique story about you, what makes you an important part of the community, and how you contribute to the success of others.

Your personal scholarship statement should also emphasize things such as leadership skills, teamwork, communication, and motivation. All these qualities are valuable in people who want to pursue scholarships so they can further their education.

You might mention something related to this in your statement, but don’t make it the focus otherwise it will lose its impact.

Proofread your statement

After you have written your personal scholarship application , it is time to proofread it to make sure that everything makes sense and is clearly stated. As mentioned before, most scholarships require you to include some kind of proof of your academic achievement or career goal. This can be an essay, a testimonial, or even just a letter stating how you are committed to education.

Make sure that your statements agree with each other and tell a cohesive story! If there are any major points that do not match up, then either rephrase them or look at what else the organization has asked for as proof. You want to make sure that everyone understands who you are and what you like so do not take short cuts in this area!

Also, double check your spelling and grammar- nothing looks bad if you pick just one mistake. When editing, use a good quality writing program such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs to improve upon their built-in tools.

Send it to the scholarship organization

Once you have gathered all of your applications, it is time to send them! Depending on the type of scholarship, you will need to submit these documents via email. Some may even require you to log into their website using your social media accounts or pre-existing account tools.

Make sure to check that they provide a specific timing frame for receiving submissions. Many scholarships tell recipients how long it can take to process applications, so be aware of this!

After sending off your application, wait for a response. If one isn’t received in a set amount of time, you might want to consider whether this fellowship is worth your precious money. You would also want to verify that they actually award the prize – nothing fake here!

Hopefully you will find this article helpful as you prepare to write an effective personal statement for a scholarship! Best of luck out there.

Narrow down your list of best qualities and accomplishments

When writing your personal statement, you will want to focus on why you deserve this scholarship. What are your strengths? What achievements do you have that show how talented you are?

You can’t write about yourself all the time, so look at the past instances where you showcased your talents and see what you could add to make it more persuasive as an argument in their favor.

Your personal statement should be a concise, smooth narrative that paints a picture of you as a person — not only what you like and what hobbies you have, but also how you interact with others, what values you hold dear, and anything else that may help connect you with other people (or avoid connecting you with others!).

If there’s something you’d like to improve, consider whether or not it makes sense to devote extra effort to improving it now. Sometimes, things just aren’t worth the investment if you’re trying to pursue something new .

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5 Easy Steps to Winning a Full Scholarship

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How to write a personal statement for scholarship | tips with example/template.

• July 13, 2024
• by Opportunitiescircle 4

Are you ready to apply but stuck with a Personal Statement for Scholarship? International Scholarship is a transformative journey that opens the door to success through financial assistance, but it comes with some requirements. While applying for a scholarship, you may need to submit several documents, including a Personal Statement for a Scholarship. As scholarship competition is fierce, a scholarship personal statement for undergraduates and masters needs to stand out and make an impact to distinguish you from the crowd.

This comprehensive guide will highlight how to write a personal statement for a scholarship within the word limit, provide personal statement examples, and provide other tips for writing a personal statement for master’s and undergraduate students. A personal statement for Scholarship is not just about listing your achievements; it’s about narrating a story that convinces the selection committee to select you for the Scholarship.

This guide will break down the steps to write a personal statement for a Scholarship that stands out including a personal statement for scholarship sample. After following the instructions, you will be able to impact the selection committee and convince them that you’re the right fit for the grant or Scholarship. So, get ready to dive into this journey of self-discovery together. Your personal statement is more than just words on paper; it’s the key to unlocking the Scholarship you aim for. So, let’s make it awesome!

What is a Personal Statement?

Many students ask, what is a personal statement for scholarship.  A personal statement is a document intended to introduce yourself, share your background, highlight your achievements, and express your goals and aspirations to achieve any international scholarship . A personal statement aims to showcase your qualities, accomplishments, relevant experiences, motivation, and interests, helping the committee understand why you are a deserving candidate for the scholarship. A personal statement portrays your personality and tells why you’re the perfect candidate for the scholarship.

Your personal statement helps you connect better with the selection committee that showcases your narrative, uniqueness, and contribution to the academic world. Usually, a personal statement for the scholarship includes details about your academic and career goals, community involvement (social work), challenges you may have overcome, and any other factors that make you a right fit for the scholarship. Now the question ‘What is a personal statement’ is clear, let’s head to how to write a personal statement. Do not worry; a sample personal statement is given at the end, where you can see how to write about your interests and write a personal statement for scholarships.

Writing an Exceptional Personal Statement for Scholarship

It is pertinent to comprehend the instructions and criteria for a personal statement for a scholarship application in detail. After comprehensively understanding the scholarship’s goal and objectives, improvise and structure your personal statement sample by resonating with the personal statement criteria to become a standout candidate poised for academic excellence.

Write a Compelling Story

Drafting a compelling story for a personal statement for scholarship format and structure would be great. You can write a captivating introduction by sharing a defining experience or moment and a personal anecdote that makes you unique and inspires you to follow a goal in your career.

Highlight Achievements

Try to include the most relevant achievement and link it with the question in the personal statement. (Look at the sample template given at the end under the personal statement heading for the scholarship sample, template, and tips.) Explain and highlight your leadership roles, academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, etc. Most important is to write about your involvement in community and social services. Highlight your interest, commitment, and discipline of interest.

Personal Growth and Development

A sample personal statement for scholarship application discusses challenges and how they shaped you as a person. How did that contribute to your personal development of character, perspective, and resilience? Include how you were able to overcome the difficulties and grow from adversity.

Use Examples to Share Your Narrative

Use examples to share your experiences and plans. You must prove that you are aware of the responsibility you have been assigned and how you will use this opportunity to accomplish your goals. Separately describing your short-term and long-term goals will help them better understand your skills and plans and if you’re the right candidate to be awarded the scholarship to study abroad.

Be Authentic

Structure and examples of personal statements for scholarships should be solely and utterly based on truth to yourself and the scholarship committee. Avoid over-exaggerations and be detailed. Your personal experiences should be related to your goals and future career aspirations.

Why Do Scholarship Committees Require Personal Statements?

The selection committee uses personal statements for scholarship for selection purposes to gain a holistic and deep understanding of applicants. This understanding goes beyond their academic achievements and grades. As a scholarship committee, it wants to identify passionate individuals who, along with excelling academically, possess qualities such as leadership, determination, and strong commitment to their culture and community. Only a well-written personal statement can help the committee assess your suitability for the scholarship and your potential to contribute positively to your field of study and society.

Common Scholarship Personal Statement Prompts

The following prompt asks for both a personal statement for a scholarship sample of 500 words and a personal statement for a scholarship sample of 250 words. Scholarship personal statement prompts can generally differ in a wide range, but some commonly held themes exist. Some common prompts include:

• Describe your academic and professional goals.
• Discuss any pertinent challenge you’ve overcome and how it has shaped you.
• Give a reason why you are a strong candidate for this scholarship.
• Explain your extracurricular activities, community/social service, or leadership roles.
• Discuss your passion for your field of study and how you can contribute to it in the future.

These are some of the generally asked questions. However, it is essential to understand the specific prompt for each scholarship as it guides the structure, content, and focus of your personal statement. Make sure to include all the relevant themes in your response.

How to Write a Personal Statement for Scholarship?

Thoroughly researching the Scholarship Opportunities is very important to know every detail about it and make sure to complete all significant instructions of scholarship information as each scholarship might consist of different requirements, eligibility criteria, and questions. It is essential to map out a chart online or on a notepad related to your deadlines, planning, values, and support you may require to submit for your scholarship. You must be thinking about how to write a personal statement for scholarship. Don’t worry; Opportunities Circle is here to help you write a scholarship-winning personal statement. We have listed some steps for writing a personal statement for scholarship.

Reflect on Qualifications and Goals

Assess your academic qualification and extracurricular achievements and how they relate to your strategic or long-term goals. Your personal statement for the scholarship (250 or 500 words typically) consists of why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship, what makes you different from others, and why you should be awarded the scholarship opportunity.

Create a Timeline

Time division is one of the most vital considerations when applying for an international or national scholarship abroad. Even within scholarship, each section and subpart of it should be given particular deadlines, like writing a personal scholarship. Creating a timeline allows you to finish your personal statement well before time. The earlier you start, the more opportunity you have to draft, make revisions, and seek feedback from peers, mentors, or others. Refrain from procrastinating as it can lead to rushed and incomplete submissions, so it’s essential to plan your personal statement for the scholarship draft or sample carefully.

Formatting and Style

Formatting and style should follow the pattern provided by the scholarship committee or university. Adhering to all the details like formatting, font, or length guidelines provided by the scholarship committee is the first thing in mind when a student thinks ‘about how to write a personal statement for a scholarship’. Follow the instructions to avoid disqualification. The second point for writing a personal statement for scholarship is to use a professional and clear writing style. Avoid slang and informal tone, and don’t drag the content; be specific and to the point. Proper editing and Proofreading: make sure that your personal statement for scholarship, for both 250 words and 500 words, is free of grammatical errors and typos. Thoroughly proofread your work.

Tips for Writing a Scholarship Personal Statement

• Action matters the most: use specific detailed examples and experiences in the industry to support your CV. For example, don’t say you are a leader; narrate your leadership experience.
• Compelling Opening: The beginning of any personal statement for scholarship undergraduate and postgraduate should capture the committee’s attention.
• Share some personal story or a thought.
• Connect Your Experiences to Your Goals: A personal statement should explain the connection of your past experiences with your goals. Then relate it to how achieving the scholarship will help you achieve that goal.
• Address Potential Weaknesses: Address your weakness honestly and positively in your personal statement for scholarship application. Weaknesses can be any gap in your academic records.
• Stay Confident and optimistic: Maintain a positive and confident tone throughout your personal statement. Convey your belief in your abilities and your commitment to your goals.
• Enthusiasm: Your personal statement for scholarship should prove your genuine enthusiasm for your future goal in your field of study.
• Be focused, specific, and concrete: Try to give relevant examples only; even the experience in those examples should be straightforward. Follow the word limit and stay on topic.

Personal Statement for Scholarship Examples:  

A lot of students are looking for personal statement for scholarship examples. Below are a few personal statement samples for scholarship that will give you a better idea about how you can also write a personal statement. 

Personal Statement for Scholarship Example #1

Hailing from an agricultural village in Punjab (Pakistan), I have had a very close relationship and understanding of agriculture and farming since a young age. Farmers plowing and harvesting the land have always piqued my interest. I pursued my bachelor’s in Agriculture due to my keen interest in the field and my sense of responsibility to my farmer’s community. Over time, I watched the usage of fertilizers and other chemicals to increase the quantity of crops while affecting the quality of land and produce. This issue raised my interest in the field of agriculture and motivated me to pursue my bachelor’s. Now, I want to pursue a master’s degree and learn from the best mentors and professionals to contribute to resolving this global challenge, making agricultural practices sustainable, and building healthy communities leading to sustainable food growth.

Hands-on experience during my internship and community service has increased my interest in contributing to the advancement of sustainable agriculture. I have actively engaged in research projects focusing on environmentally friendly farming methods. My leadership experiences extend beyond the workplace. As the head of the Society for Sustainable Agriculture, a community-based organization, I initiated projects to educate local farmers about the benefits of sustainable agriculture. This involvement honed my leadership and communication skills and instilled in me a sense of responsibility toward community-driven agricultural development. The above experiences have deepened my understanding of the intricacies of agricultural systems and fueled my desire to be at the forefront of transformative change in the industry.

I am not merely seeking a degree; I want to pursue knowledge that will empower me to create a positive impact in agriculture. Through coursework and research at XYZ University, I aim to explore cutting-edge techniques and methodologies that can address current agricultural challenges and contribute to global food security. Receiving the scholarship would validate my dedication to sustainable agriculture and be a catalyst for driving meaningful change. I am eager to leverage this opportunity to collaborate with esteemed faculty members and fellow scholars, enhancing my skills and knowledge to make a lasting difference in the agricultural landscape. I am seeking a partnership in my mission to revolutionize agriculture. With the support of the XYZ scholarship, I can contribute significantly to sustainable agricultural practice, leading to sustainable food production.

Personal Statement for Scholarship Example #2

Food Chemistry has always fascinated me; the reactions when any chemical is added to another and the changing properties and nature of the original chemical have always piqued my interest. Applying chemistry in daily routine, for example, how the cream of milk transforms into cheese and butter, how milk turns into curd, and so on.

As my interest grew in this field, I opted for food science as an undergraduate program and am now seeking to pursue food chemistry at XYZ University. I’ve participated in a number of research activities, working to improve the quality of food by applying the laws of chemistry. In addition, I conducted research in this field, opening a new perspective on food that can work as medicine.

My experiences have taught me the importance of attention to detail, careful observation, and teamwork. These skills will be essential as I continue my studies and pursue a career in this subject. My passion for food chemistry, academic achievements, and research experience make me a strong candidate for this scholarship. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. I am committed to pursuing a food chemistry career, and I believe this scholarship will help me achieve my goals. With the financial support and encouragement provided by this scholarship, I am confident that I will be able to make a meaningful contribution to the field of food chemistry and society.

Writing a personal statement is crucial in acquiring a scholarship. Follow the tips and personal statement template provided above. Also, before submitting your personal statement, do a final review to ensure it is well-articulated, error-free, and aligned with the scholarship’s vision and goal. Your personal statement should accurately reflect your achievements and aspirations and how you are a great fit or a deserving scholarship recipient.

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Writing a Personal Statement

Perhaps the most critical piece of many scholarship applications is the personal statement. It is often the chance for you to make the best case for why you should be given a scholarship. Personal statements allow the reader of your application to gain the strongest feel for who you are as a person, what sets you apart from other applicants, provide evidence of your intellectual and creative achievements, and show your writing ability.

Your personal statement should be treated as the equivalent of a face-to-face interview. A well-written statement adds clarity, richness, and meaning to the information collected in other parts of your application. It is also an opportunity to explain how factors outside of your school environment have enhanced or impeded your ability to maximize available academic and intellectual opportunities.

While there is no one correct way to write a personal statement, here are some tips that are universally applicable:

Start on your personal statement early.

Give yourself time to think about your topics, and carefully consider the rationale behind each question.

Be clear. Be focused. Be organized.

Make sure your personal statement follows a logical structure. Try to think about how it may sound to an audience who doesn’t know you. Getting input from people you trust—teachers, friends, relatives—can help you get different perspectives on how your personal statement affects those who are reading it. Avoiding long, drawn-out essay responses will not only help keep your reader’s attention but will also show that you were thoughtful about your writing.

Get personal.

The readers want to get a sense of who you are, and the only way to do this is to share a bit about who you are.  After all, it is called a Personal Statement. This is your chance to share with the reader what you feel they should know about you to make an informed decision.

Make it authentic.

A personal statement should showcase who you are and what you care about, not what you believe the readers want to hear. Remember that those reading your application will be reading many other applications as well and will be able to tell right away if what you are writing is honest and authentic. It is also worth keeping in mind that some programs require an interview for finalists where it will be easy to spot those who have not been genuine in their personal statements.

Be careful with humor and clichés.

What might seem funny or bitingly ironic to you might not seem that way to someone who doesn’t know you. Remember that the personal statement is an opportunity for you to give a complete picture of yourself. Don’t allow clichés to speak for you.

Be reflective.

A personal statement isn’t effective simply because it chronicles difficult circumstances. Strong personal statements should show that the writer has reflected upon and learned from their past experiences and achievements. Ideally, the writer will be able to show progression towards a clear perspective of how he or she sees the world, and what direction he or she is headed towards in the future. An effective personal statement gives a clear sense of your personal qualities and how you have used and developed them in response to your opportunities and challenges.

Use specific examples to illustrate your ideas.

Being too vague or writing too generally will not make your personal statement memorable. Thousands upon thousands of personal statements discuss initiative, but only hundreds show initiative using concrete examples of demonstrated motivation and leadership. But examples are only one part of the equation. You also need to show how you have assigned meaning to your experiences and how you have grown from them. Prove that you have a sense of who you are, where you are going, and how you are going to use your education and your experiences to accomplish your goals. Although some events have long-term or even lifetime ramifications, it is usually better to focus on recent events because they shed more light on who you are right now.

Finally, give yourself plenty of time for revisions.

Personal statements should go through several drafts before submission. Read your writing to others, and revise for clarity in content and in style. Pay attention to rules of correct grammar and punctuation, and don’t forget to spell-check. It is also recommended that you make use of campus resources (such as professor, teaching assistant, advisor, Academic Assistance and Tutoring Center, classmates, or friends) to gain valuable insight into how to improve your personal statement. If you are applying for prestigious scholarships, make sure to submit all personal statements to the Prestigious Scholarship Advisor for editing and guidance on re-writes.

We hope these tips will help you get organized and will inspire you. Your personal statement is the best tool you have to show us the individual gifts you have to offer.

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How to Write a Winning Scholarship Personal Statement With Examples

In this article, we’ll talk you through why a scholarship personal statement is important and questions to brainstorm before you get started.

We have great tips for how to adapt your statement depending on what the prompt question is, what to include and three examples of winning scholarship personal statements.

Our favourite statements use life experiences as a metaphor for success. One makes a connection between high jumping and medical school!

We also loved hearing about an aspiring party planner who spotted a niche in the market which led to a scholarship and a computer science star helping his local community online.

Table of Contents

What is a scholarship personal statement.

• Tips for writing an Effective Scholarship Personal Statement – what should you include?

Scholarship Personal Statement Example #1

How to adapt your scholarship personal statement.

• Scholarship Personal Statement Example #2
• Scholarship Personal Statement Example #3

Brainstorming questions for your personal statement

Why is writing a winning scholarship personal statement important.

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

It’s a short essay or paragraph about yourself, written for the purpose of applying for scholarships.

It should focus on your strengths and explain why you deserve the money being offered by the scholarship provider.

Remember that a scholarship might be money that can pay for school fees, accommodation or living expenses, or take the form of a portion of your school fees being paid for you so you should be clear about what you are applying for and make sure your statement mentions this.

A personal statement should sound honest and genuine in order to stand out from the competition.

Show them what makes you unique, such as your interests and achievements, and explain you deserve financial support from the scholarship provider.

A good way to do this is by sharing stories that showcase your passion for certain causes or topics related to your field of study or career goals.

Additionally, make sure that your language is appropriate; avoid using slang words or phrases that may not be understood by those reading your application materials.

Finally, keep in mind that shorter sentences tend to be more effective than longer ones when it comes to writing personal statements and stick to the word count!

Tips for writing an Effective Scholarship Personal Statement- what should you include?

1. identify your motivation for seeking a scholarship.

Explain the reasons why you need a scholarship.

Commonly, these can include financial hardship in your family, not having any close family support, coming from a single-parent or foster-parent home, parents who are disabled or out of work, coming from a low-income family or neighbourhood, and receiving government assistance like food stamps and housing aid.

List all of these reasons in your scholarship personal statement along with any other relevant information that might help the committee understand why you need their help paying for college tuition fees.

Make it clear that these challenges have made you stronger!

Explain why you deserve the scholarship by listing all of your achievements and successes that have led up to this point in time – be sure to emphasize anything that shows off your intellectual abilities as well as any awards or recognition related to these achievements such as being an honour roll student or National Merit Scholar designation.

Talk about your future goals and make it clear how obtaining a degree will help further those goals – this could include anything from pursuing an advanced degree in medicine to becoming an entrepreneur who needs business knowledge to create jobs in your hometown.

2. Write about a challenge you have faced and how you overcame it

Writing about a challenge you have faced and how you overcame it can make a great personal statement for scholarships.

You will show potential scholarship providers that you have the determination, perseverance, and resilience to overcome obstacles in order to achieve success – in other words, the challenge is a metaphor.

Additionally, sharing what lessons you learned from the experience will demonstrate your maturity, flexibility and ability to learn from difficult situations.

Colleges and scholarship awarding bodies are looking for positive people who are hard workers.

Explaining how this challenge helped make you stronger will make your application stand out from others in a positive way.

3. Talk about an interest or passion of yours

Talking about an interest or passion can help you write an effective personal statement for scholarships because it gives you the opportunity to share your motivation, achievement, leadership, and commitment.

By discussing these topics in your statement, you will be able to showcase why this particular field is important to you and how it has impacted your life.

This will help scholarship selection committees understand why they should award you with a scholarship and recognize your potential contributions as a future leader in the field.

In example #2 above, Sara wrote a fantastic personal statement about her passion for making parties affordable and personalised for ordinary people.

Volunteering at a retirement community, I was able to use my party planning skills for completely unique parties – ‘grandma’ baby showers!

So many of the residents were excited about becoming grandparents or great-parents but were far from family.

I created personalised party kits with cakes, balloons and banners for a relatively low cost and it was a wonderful way for residents to share baby photos and feel that they were included in the celebrations.

In the future, I intend to use my degree in event planning to set up my career as a party planner, specialising in events for seniors.

She went on to explain that she had made enough money from this unique service to put herself through 2 years of community college and intended to continue on a smaller scale while studying full-time.

4. Explain how a scholarship will help you achieve your goals

Your statement needs to give the awarding committee a clear understanding of what the scholarship will provide and how it will help you achieve your goals.

• ‘I would like to study X because it will help me achieve my career goals’ doesn’t really give enough information.

• ‘ I plan on transferring to School X after receiving my Associate degree from College Y in order to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in Z field of study’ is better – but it doesn’t really make your application stand out.

• ‘My long-term career goal is to become an ABC practitioner/specialist with a Master’s Degree in XYZ field of study from University ABC by 2025, in order to help disadvantaged youth in the region reach their full potential.’ tells them how helping you to achieve your goals might help other people.

5. Provide details about your education so far

There’s no need to talk in too much detail, but remember that the committee will have a huge stack of applications to look at and it’s helpful for them not to have to keep flipping between your CV/resume and your personal statement.

Mentioning that you graduated High School with a 3.8 GPA and have been accepted to XYZ university to study Social Sciences with the aim of becoming a social worker will help them stay focused on the big picture.

6. Add any other information that will strengthen your application

When writing a personal statement for scholarships, it is essential to include information that can’t be found in your resume or transcript. This includes

• painting a picture of who you are
• sharing something about yourself that isn’t already known
• showcasing your strengths.

Additionally, it should complement the other parts of your application and relate to the scholarship provider’s goals.

Finally, it can acknowledge any weaknesses but focus primarily on positive aspects and how any setbacks have made you stronger and more resilient.

7. Conclude with a statement of determination

A statement of determination reinforces your strengths and shows the granting committee that you are determined to succeed.

By ending with a brief summary of why you are the best candidate, right after stating how this scholarship will fund your degree, it will impress the readers and make them more likely to award you with the scholarship.

8. Proofread and revise your work carefully

• Take a break from the computer: Give yourself at least a 12-hour break before you start editing your work to give your brain and eyes time to relax.
• Read your essay from top to bottom: Read your essay several times from beginning to end, paying extra close attention to spelling, grammar, punctuation, capital letters and sentence structure.
• Have someone else read it over for a fresh perspective and help catch anything you missed during the reading process.

9. Include a relevant essay title

Why is this point 9 and not point 1? You never know how the direction of your essay might change during the writing process!

A relevant essay title can help provide a clear focus and direction for an effective personal statement for scholarship but be prepared to be flexible. Jessie’s essay, which we looked at earlier, ended up having the title ‘Setting the bar high’ which was a great play on words and referred both to high-jumping and the goal of achieving a medical degree.

By including a relevant essay title, you are able to write an opening paragraph that is both engaging and persuasive, thus increasing your chances of winning a scholarship.

10. Follow the instructions given by the scholarship provider

Research the scholarship you are applying for and familiarize yourself with its requirements and criteria.

Make sure that all documents required by the scholarship provider (including transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.) are included with your application package when submitting it.

Then proofread again!

When writing a personal statement for a scholarship, it is important to focus on why you deserve the award and how it will benefit your future.

The statement should be concise and interesting, while still providing enough information about yourself to demonstrate why you are deserving of the scholarship.

It is also important to include relevant details such as volunteer work, academic achievements, or extracurricular activities that have helped shape who you are today.

A good example of a scholarship personal statement can be found below:

(Free topic) – Setting the bar high

Every Saturday morning I spend three hours throwing myself backwards over a high jump bar in a feat that seems impossible. If you flinch or hesitate, you will crash into the bar and be out of the competition. When I was younger, and dreaming of being a doctor, some teachers thought I was setting the bar too high and advised me to aim lower. I approached my academic studies with the same determination as the high jump and have been offered a place at medical school.

I grew up in a very conservative small town in the south, where there are a lot of team sports for boys but few for girls past the age of 12. I came to high jumping quite late compared to other sports, when I was 13. I came 4 th in the under-14 state championship the following year and took 3 rd in the under-15s. What was interesting was that several of my teachers were very encouraging about me going to college and playing sports but nobody took me seriously when I told them I wanted to study medicine.

As I got stronger and started attempting higher and higher jumps in competition, my grades went up too. The confidence I got from winning medals and being a role model to other young athletes was reflected in my success in the classroom. The motto of the college I will attend is Vim Promovet Insitam, or ‘learning promotes one’s innate power’. The more I learn, in class and on the sports field, the stronger I feel, and more able to achieve my dreams and help others.

My family have always encouraged me to be the best I can be. My parents have raised me and my 4 siblings with good values, to rise to a challenge and to understand the importance of teamwork and supporting our community. I hope that one day I can come back here to practice medicine at the local hospital – and coach high jump at the weekends!

If you have written a good statement for a free topic (meaning you choose what to write about) it’s possible to adapt that essay and use it to answer other questions, so you can apply for several scholarships at the same time!

Common topics to prepare essays for:

1.      A challenge you overcame

2.      an important life event.

3.      An important community issue

4.      How you want to change the world

5.      how you are from an under-represented group in this program, 6.      what values are important to you.

Look again at the essay above and you can see how with some small changes, particularly in the introduction and conclusion, the essay could be adapted to suit all these questions.

Jessie is talking about not being considered ‘smart’ enough to be a future medical student in the context of the challenge of high jumping.

Using the word challenge, with synonyms such as ‘difficulty’, also changing the form of the word and using common collocations (challenging, challenged, rise to the challenge, greatest challenge) really ties the statement to the question.

Jessie could focus more on how being selected for the regional team and winning 1 st place in the regional competition showed her that she was capable of academic excellence and succeeding at anything she put her mind to.

3.      An important community issue to you

This would be a challenging angle for this essay, but we would suggest focusing on the lack of female role models encouraging young women to join sports teams in her neighbourhood.

There are usually many more sports teams for boys but girls are under-represented. Perhaps Jessie could also talk about the privilege of mentoring younger teammates and encouraging academic excellence as well.

Jessie might talk more about the importance of affordable, accessible health care to all and make the link between children being healthy and being able to attend school.

Not all students will be from an under-represented group. However, if you are, there are different ways to approach this question.

If Jessie felt comfortable discussing identifying as queer, then writing about the challenges of being an LGBTQ+ student in her small, conservative town would be appropriate.

Jessie could also talk about her racial or cultural heritage as a child of minority parents who immigrated to the USA when she was young.

If she had a physical disability, that would also be an appropriate topic to discuss. What’s important in this type of question is honesty and candour.

Jessie could focus on the importance of focus and determination.

Remembering the motto of the school she was accepted to, she can talk about the importance of helping empower young people to believe in themselves and their potential for success.

She could also talk about the importance of compassion – trying to move past being hurt by the lack of encouragement from her teachers in the early stages of her education.

Even better she could talk about gratitude for their help later on when she blew past all their expectations for her, as a role model for other young women.

Scholarship Personal Statement: Example #2

‘A creative way to solve a problem’

Volunteering at a retirement community, I thought of the perfect way to help pay my way through Junior College. I was able to use my party planning skills for completely unique parties – ‘grandma’ baby showers!

Growing up, I was raised by a single mom my who always encouraged me to study hard and aim for college. I got babysitting jobs as soon as I could and started earning a little extra money helping some of the parents throw birthday parties for their children. This was the beginning of a love of helping plan unique and special events and working towards my dream job of becoming an events coordinator. I needed to find a way to put myself through school to get an event management degree.

As well as babysitting and a few waitressing shifts that fit with my classes, I volunteered once a week to run a crafts class for local seniors. I realized that many of the residents were excited about becoming grandparents or great-parents but were often far from family or couldn’t travel easily. With the support of the care workers, I threw a ‘grandma baby shower’ for one of my favourite ladies there and was inundated with requests for more.

I created personalised party kits with cakes, balloons and banners for a relatively low cost and it was a wonderful way for residents to share baby photos and feel that they were included in the celebrations. The money I earned was enough to pay my share of the rent and bills at home and I am starting to save for state college. A scholarship to help pay tuition costs will mean I can continue my party business at the weekends to pay my other expenses and otherwise focus on my studies.

In the future, I intend to use my degree in event planning and my love of creative problem solving to set up my own business as a party planner, hire community college students to work part-time for me and specialise in events for seniors.

Scholarship Personal Statement: Example #3

Prompt – Why do you deserve this scholarship?

My name is John Abrams and by helping me, you’ll be indirectly helping many other students in the future. I am a student, a leader, a tutor and a future employer.

I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Computer Science at XYZ State College. I maintain a 4.0 GPA and am an active member of several student organizations on campus including the Coding Club and the local Big Brother/Big Sister volunteer team.

I have tutored classmates in IT, science and math throughout my own high school years and now coordinate a group tutoring middle school and Junior High school students online. I’ve been able to procure tutoring jobs for several of my fellow students in this way, thanks to parents recommending me to their friends and asking me to introduce them to reliable tutors for their children. It made me realize that I am good at finding the right people for the right jobs and will put this skill to excellent use in the future.

During the pandemic, I volunteered with the ABC online Coding Club, helping kids from lower-income families learn to code, interact with other students online in a safe environment and encourage them to consider studying computer science in the future. As well as working on coding through popular games, we worked on some community projects as well, with the kids designing some interactive features for our local animal shelter’s website. Everybody loved it and the shelter got a lot of extra traffic on social media leading to increased adoptions. I believe that volunteering is the best way to appreciate what we already have and a few hours a week can make all the difference in the community.

My goal is to one day use my skills to set up an outstanding online tutoring business with a focus on IT and coding for kids and teens, doing projects to learn new skills that can also benefit worthy causes in the students’ own communities.

Before you start – use these questions to brainstorm ideas then go through the tips step by step to make sure you have covered all the important information.

• What do you want to do professionally when you graduate? Why do you want to do it?
• What kinds of things do you need to learn in order to get where you want to go? How will the things you need to learn help you?
• Does the school have a reputable program? (How did you hear about it?)
• Does it have a well-known faculty? • Does it have state-of-the art facilities ? • Does it have a great network of graduates who could be mentors?
• Emotional barriers or challenges you have faced and how they have helped shape you into the person you are today.
• Key events or key people from your life that have influenced and inspired you.
• Accomplishments, events, and realizations that sparked periods of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Volunteer work or community service activities that have shaped who you are today and what they have taught you.
• What is your best quality?
• What makes you unique?
• How could winning this scholarship benefit other people?

1. It gives you the opportunity to showcase your strengths and qualifications

You are giving the reader an in-depth look at who you are as a person as well as your qualifications.

A well-written personal statement adds meaning to the information collected in other parts of your application and gives readers an opportunity to get a better sense of who you are as an individual.

Additionally, it shows how factors outside of your school environment have enhanced or impeded your ability to maximize available academic opportunities.

A strong personal statement can help ensure that you receive the scholarship or program that best fits your needs while showcasing the qualities that make you worthy of financial support.

2. Helps the awarding body understand why you are deserving of their scholarship

Writing a winning scholarship personal statement helps the awarding body understand why you are deserving of their scholarship by providing them with the necessary information to make an informed decision.

By including anecdotes, examples, and personal stories in your essay, you can highlight your strengths and accomplishments while also showing them why you need the money.

Additionally, providing specific reasons as to why you deserve the scholarship will help them see that you are truly deserving of their support.

Ultimately, writing a stand-out essay will help win over their hearts and minds so that they know they’re giving it to someone who truly needs it and deserves it.

If the scholarship is for a small amount (every little helps) such as $500, make it clear what you will spend it on – books, or software – and it’s a great idea to say how you could share these or pass them on to other students later.

3. Allows you to focus on your own personal story and goals

Writing a winning scholarship personal statement helps you focus on your own personal story and goals by giving you the opportunity to tell your story in a unique way that highlights the lessons you have learned, the changes you have made, and the goals you are working towards.

If possible, make your experiences a metaphor for success.

For example, we were very impressed by the story of Jessie, who received a scholarship to help pay for medical school following her success as a high school regional high-jumping champion. She wrote,

‘Every Saturday morning I spend three hours throwing myself backwards over a high-jump bar in a feat that seems impossible. If you flinch, or hesitate, you will crash into the bar and be out of the competition. When I was younger, and dreaming of being a doctor, some teachers thought I was setting the bar too high and advised me to aim lower. I approached my academic studies with the same determination as the high-jump bar and have been offered a place at medical school. ‘

The motto of the university she would attend is Vim Promovet Insitam, or ‘learning promotes one’s innate power’. Later in her statement, she used this motto to make the point that the more success she had academically, the more confidence she gained in high-jumping, and vice-versa. This a great way to connect her chosen school and her suitability for both the course and a scholarship!’

4. Allows you to showcase your writing skills

Writing a winning scholarship personal statement requires you to be concise, authentic, and grammatically correct.

You need varied sentence structure and a logical movement from point to point.

Avoiding clichés such as “from a young age” or inspirational quotes will help make your statement feel unique without sounding like everyone else’s.

You will be able to impress scholarship committees with an impressive, unique piece of work that stands out from the rest.

5. Helps you prepare for other scholarship applications

Writing a scholarship personal statement helps you prepare for other scholarship applications by giving you practice in crafting a compelling narrative that showcases your potential.

You will ‘tweak’ every statement to make it fit the application but you won’t need to start from the beginning every time, so it’s important to keep all your applications organised.

Each one you write gives you valuable experience in presenting yourself as an attractive candidate while also gaining insight into what types of narratives are most effective in winning over judges.

This knowledge can then be applied when preparing for other scholarship applications.

6. Provides you with an opportunity to reflect and be proud of your accomplishments

As Jessie said, the more we learn the more inner power we have. Sometimes we can get caught up in academic work and can forget our goals or motivation.

Writing scholarship personal statements helps you reflect on your past experiences and achievements and learn from them.

It gives you the opportunity to showcase your strengths, such as resilience, determination, leadership skills, teamwork ability and more.

It also allows you to show progress from where you are and where you are headed in the future.

7. Helps you connect with the awarding body

Scholarship personal statements can help you connect with the awarding body by providing an insight into your background, experiences, and achievements that is not available by just looking at your GPA or letters of recommendation.

By sharing your story and highlighting what makes you special, you can create a connection with the awarding body that will make them more likely to choose you over other candidates.

It’s so important to research the awarding body – do any of them work on non-profit or community projects that connect to your experience and what you want to study?

Sara’s experience, detailed below, is a great example of an innovative idea tailored to an application, that helped her get both a place at a prestigious college and a substantial scholarship.

8. Could lead to a valuable monetary prize

The value of writing a winning scholarship personal statement is immense.

Writing a strong personal statement can help you stand out from the competition and give you the opportunity to earn multiple scholarships that could potentially cover all or part of your college expenses.

The more you practice, the better you get.

Keep and organise all your applications to save time in the future.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the purpose of a scholarship personal statement.

It’s to provide an opportunity for applicants to humanize their profile beyond their transcript, GPA, and test scores by highlighting their personality, values, goals, and what makes them special.

The specific goal of the personal statement depends on the scholarship on offer. For example, for scholarships that aim to provide opportunities for students with career ambitions in the non-profit field may be looking for applicants with strong technical skills or civic-minded community service leaders of the future.

By reading your personal statement along with your academic record and other application materials such as the achievements/activities list, scholarship review committees can make decisions about who they think are the best candidates to receive a scholarship.

What should the format of a scholarship personal statement look like?

If there are no specific instructions regarding font and layout, we recommend that you have one-inch margins on all sides, double-spaced lines, no additional line spaces between paragraphs, and 12-point Times New Roman font.

Write out an outline for your essay, making sure it flows smoothly from topic to topic and makes sense as written.

How can I make sure my scholarship personal statement stands out?

• Be organized and gather all necessary materials correctly, including correct grammar, professional writing style and any necessary documents such as letters of recommendation and transcripts.
• Ensure that your personal statement honestly depicts who you are by using anecdotes to illustrate your unique personality and portraying who you really are overall. People remember stories so choose your best story!
• Make sure that your personal statement follows a logical structure and is well organized; think about how it may sound to an audience who doesn’t know you and revise for clarity in content and style accordingly.
• Read over your writing with others for feedback on grammar rules, punctuation use/mistakes and clarity in content/style before submitting it to prestigious scholarship advisors if applicable for editing help with rewrites if necessary

How can I ensure that my scholarship personal statement is really original?

• Stay away from cliches! Brainstorm and outline your personal statement using the questions above. This will help ensure that your statement is organized, concise, and free of clichés.
• Use correct grammar and language skills: Make sure that you have excellent grammar and language skills when writing your personal statement; this will make it easier for the scholarship committee to understand what you are trying to say without getting distracted by mistakes.
• Ensure variety in sentence structure. The shortest sentences can be used for making the most important point for added impact.

How can I incorporate my experiences in my scholarship personal statement?

• As above – Brainstorm: Think about your life story thus far, including notable personality traits, skills, accomplishments, passions, difficulties and obstacles, goals, extracurricular activities and inspirational people.
• Be authentic: Make sure that every personal statement for scholarship applications talks honestly and truthfully about your experiences.
• Choose examples: Select between three or four examples that demonstrate your preparedness for future studies, your determination to succeed and your flexibility in the face of challenges.
• Try to mention an experience or quality that is important to the awarding body. For example, the Lions Club Scholarships are awarded by a group that values good citizenship and community involvement above all else. Make sure there is a clear link between your story, your qualities, your financial needs and the organisation to which you are applying.

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How to Write a Personal Statement for a Scholarship

Last Updated: March 11, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 130,609 times.

Applying for scholarships is a common experience for many college-level students. However, some students may get overwhelmed when they learn scholarships require personal statements or essays in response to a specific prompt. Scholarship essays are a critical part of applying for funding, as they give the scholarship committee an idea of how an applicant relates to their organization and the goals of their scholarship. A strong essay can help an applicant stand out from a pool of people with similar credentials. All it takes is a little bit of time to plan the essay in advance, and a critical eye for revisions.

Planning Your Essay

• Prompts may also give you guidelines regarding things like essay length or word count. Check carefully to see if your prompt specifies things like, “Write 500 words on the topic,” or, “Write two to three pages.”

• Check the web page for the scholarship or the group or organization offering it to find additional rules and regulations.
• If something is not specified by the scholarship provider, such as the length of your submission or the due date, contact the providing organization and ask, “What are the guidelines for this scholarship?”

• Your first idea may still provide for the most cohesive essay, but brainstorming multiple ideas helps you think outside the box and consider multiple facets of the prompt.
• Jot down your ideas in no more than a few sentences. If you can, give yourself a full day and night to clear your head, then come back and review your ideas with fresh eyes.
• When reviewing your ideas, try to avoid obvious answers. If, for example, the prompt is to write about someone you admire, avoid talking about the President or a well-know philanthropist. Turn instead to your own experiences to make your essay unique.

• Make each important concept it's own heading, then add two to three points under it supporting your core point or idea.
• If you don’t like traditional outlines, you may want to try flowcharts, thought webs, or other forms of visual organization to show how your ideas relate.

Drafting Your Essay

• Try to keep your thesis as concise as possible. Worry less about fitting in big vocabulary words and more about making your point clearly and meaningfully in as few words as possible.
• For example, “Some theorize that it is possible to travel through time because of evidence such as,” may be shortened to, “Time travel theories may be supported by arguments such as.”

• If your prompt asks you directly about personal ambitions or experience, don’t just provide a synthesis of what you have done. Also touch on why your schoolwork and extracurricular activities are important to you.
• Make your essay stand out by talking about why your experience is personally significant.
• If your prompt does not deal directly with personal experience, still find a way to talk about why the topic you choose to address is significant and meaningful.

• Use your first draft as an opportunity to get down all of your points and ideas. Do not worry so much about flow or formatting. Start by ensuring the content is present.
• If possible, give yourself a day or two between writing your first draft and revising your essay. This way, you are more likely to catch errors with grammar and formatting. [6] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

• This means avoiding trying to write a general essay that you can use for all application. Take the time to customize your essay to fit each scholarship, because even if both ask, "What was an experience that changed your life?" an academic and a community service scholarship are going to expect two different kinds of answers.

• Try reading your essay out loud to yourself. Listen closely to what you are saying to see if it makes sense. [7] X Research source
• Trying working from a print-off if possible, alongside a computer screen. This way, you can make notes and edits on your paper before changing everything in your text document.

Finalizing Your Essay

• Try working one line at a time and covering up the rest of your essay with a blank sheet of paper to focus your attention on what you are editing at that moment.
• Do not rely on computer spelling and grammar checks, as they often miss common mistakes such as homophones and alternating verb tenses.

• Ask someone you know has a strong command of the written word. They should be able to identify common spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as reading for the overall flow of the essay.
• Let your editor see the prompt, as well as your essay, so that they can understand how clearly and completely you address your essay topic.

• If your essay is more than one page, add your last name and page number to the header or footer of each page.

• Confirm receipt of your application if you don't get one electronically. Call into the scholarship office and ensure that your application, including your essay, has been received.

Expert Q&A

• Give the essay to a multiple peers or reviewers to read and critique before sending it in. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Do not repeat information that is located elsewhere within your application. Your essay should be comprised of personal information that you decide to provide. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.studentscholarshipsearch.com/tips/scholarship-essay-tips.php
• ↑ https://www.inc.com/john-boitnott/10-longtime-brainstorming-techniques-that-still-work.html
• ↑ https://www.estrellamountain.edu/students/scholarships/essay
• ↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview. 18 June 2020.
• ↑ http://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/the-scholarship-coach/2013/01/31/4-ways-to-make-your-scholarship-essay-stand-out
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/Proofreading.html
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/561/01/
• ↑ http://writing2.richmond.edu/writing/wweb/peeredit.html
• ↑ https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarship-application-strategies/tips-for-formatting-scholarship-application-essays/

About this article

If you need to write a personal statement for a scholarship, carefully read the scholarship application to see if there is a particular subject or prompt you should follow. Once you know the topic for your statement, write about why you are interested in your field of study, how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals, and what you think you can bring to the program. In addition, you should make the essay specific to the particular scholarship you are applying for. For tips on finding someone to proofread your scholarship essay, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Mar 14, 2018

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Scholarship Personal Statement

Ai generator.

To any student who wishes to apply for a scholarship knows that there are some scholarship committees who would ask for a personal statement . When applying for a scholarship regardless of what type it is, applicants often get asked to write down a personal statement before they are accepted. This is to show the scholarship committees a bit about you. 

Easy? Sure is. Now the question is, do you have any idea on how to write it and what to write. If you don’t, it’s okay. No need to panic, we got you covered. Here are some 4+ scholarship personal statement examples in PDF you can use as a guide or even as a format to write your own. Let’s check them out.

4+ Scholarship Personal Statement Examples

1. scholarship personal statement.

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2. Sample Scholarship Personal Statement

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3. Scholarship Personal Statement Format

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4. Basic Scholarship Personal Statement

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What Is a Statement?

A statement is a sure and straightforward declaration of something in either through speech or writing.

What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a written account of a person’s accomplishments, concentration, etc. It is also a part of an appeal for a certain position or academic programs.

What Is a Scholarship Personal Statement?

A scholarship personal statement is basically what it is. It is a statement or an essay written by an applicant for a scholarship. wherein the applicant talks about himself or herself, their achievements, their goals and dreams. It also talks about their strengths and places to improve on. 

What Should I Put In a Personal Statement?

To apply for a scholarship, applicants are told to write a personal statement. However,  the question is, what should I write about? What do you have to write in it? Here are some simple steps or tips you can follow on how to write a scholarship personal statement and what to write in one. 

• About You . 

This is where you introduce yourself. Your complete name, your achievements, your dreams, goals in life, what you want to take up in college. Your strengths and weaknesses. 

• Your Reason for Applying .

A part of your statement has to include the reason you are applying for the scholarship. Give some good things about yourself and convince them why you think you deserve the scholarship. What do you have that they are looking for? Explain to the committee why you deserve to be sponsored and how it could benefit you in the future. 

• Watch Your Tone.

When writing your personal statement, watch your tone. Do not be too proud of your achievements nor do you underestimate yourself to the point where you let others think you are not confident enough. To put it simply, your tone when writing has to be polite and professional.

Lying about your achievements in your personal statement will not get you anywhere. Furthermore, there is a possibility that they will find out and you would not be allowed to apply for the scholarship. 

It is okay to have fun writing your personal statement as well as being professional. 

How long is a personal statement?

When writing the scholarship personal statement, it may depend on how much you are willing to write. But the standard types usually have 3 to 4 detailed paragraphs. However, you may write as much as you wish as long as you are putting the necessary information in it.

Is writing your achievements a requirement in writing down the scholarship personal statement?

It is not necessarily a requirement but it’s encouraged by many to write down your achievements on paper so the school or committee handling the scholarship can see them.

I have no achievements but I do have experience, is that fine?

That is perfectly fine. You may list down your experiences and the months or years. This is also a wow factor to think about when you want to add it in your personal statement.

There you have it. Once you find out what to write, how to write it and how you think you should write it, it would be easier from this point in time. The best advice I can give to you is practice. Practice writing on your personal statement as this is mostly a hit or miss type. But don’t give up, knowing the tips and viewing the examples can really help you with writing your personal statement for a scholarship.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

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12 Tips to Write a Winning Personal Statement for Scholarships

By Khachik Gevorgyan

Writing the personal statement is among the most formidable of all the tasks you face when applying to graduate or professional school, from choosing universities to preparing for and choosing standardized tests, from soliciting recommendations to having transcripts sent out. Let’s face it: the admission process for graduate and professional schools is more competitive today than ever. The increase in application has been especially dramatic in recent years. Admissions officials recognize that “the numbers,” (GPAs and test scores) don’t tell the whole story about the candidate. A personal statement for scholarships is the only way an admission committee can strip away numbers to uncover the human candidate.

A personal statement provides an account of who you are, what you have accomplished within your own experiences and opportunities, and what you intend to accomplish during graduate school and beyond. As such, writing a compelling personal statement is an essential step in the journey toward securing educational funding. Crafting this document involves more than just showcasing academic achievements. It requires a deep introspection of one’s experiences, aspirations, and the unique qualities that set the applicant apart.

Knowing how to write a personal statement for scholarships effectively can unlock numerous opportunities for aspiring students. This piece of writing should reflect the student’s academic and professional goals and convey their passion, drive, and the impact they aspire to make in their field or community. If you must prepare one, note that crafting a personal statement that resonates with the scholarship committee requires a blend of honesty, clarity, and creativity. It’s a chance to tell a compelling story, one that highlights resilience, dedication, and the vision for one’s future.

This guide examines 12 essential tips to help you create a personal statement that stands out, engages the readers, and significantly enhances their chances of winning a scholarship.

Things to Consider When Writing a Personal Statement

As hard as it’s to write in general, it’s even more difficult to write about oneself. But don’t be discouraged. We have advised many applicants and assure you that everyone has problems composing these statements. If you know anyone who cranks one out in two hours without agonizing over what he or she is writing, chances are they’ve learned the tricks and tips of writing a personal statement. Good ones take time. Bad ones can sabotage your chances of securing that scholarship.

A well-crafted personal statement can open doors to educational and professional opportunities, which makes it an invaluable component of any application. In order to write a winning personal statement, there are several key factors to consider:

• Understand the purpose of the statement
• Reflect on your unique identity
• Balance professionalism and personality
• Have a clear structure
• Be authentic and honest 

12 Tips to Write a Personal Statement for Scholarships

Good personal statements are tough to write. A compelling personal statement is more than just an academic summary; it’s a narrative that weaves your experiences, aspirations, and personality together. Here are 12 tips to help you write a good personal statement for scholarships and keep the task in perspective:

• Understand the scholarship criteria : Before you begin, you must understand what the scholarship committee is looking for. Tailor your personal statement to align with the mission and values of the scholarship. Doing so shows that you’re a suitable candidate genuinely interested in what the scholarship stands for.
• Be specific : Admissions representatives have seen it all. There’s no new concept to them. However, you can still make your statement stand out by illustrating your assertions with examples. It is important to avoid generalized statements, such as “I would be a great doctor because I have an excellent work ethic.”
• Show, don’t just tell : Use specific examples to illustrate your points. Instead of simply stating that you’re a hard worker, describe a situation where you demonstrated hard work. This approach makes your personal statement essay for scholarships more engaging and convincing.
• Avoid clichés : For instance, medical schools do not want to hear that you want to “help people.” This statement is overused and not a strong enough reason to admit you into the school. Remember, the personal statement aims to set you apart from other candidates. 
• Reflect on your experiences : many applicants fail to remember or include facts (experiences, events, and achievements) that are extremely relevant, either to their career choice or application, in terms of explaining what makes them tick. Discuss experiences that have shaped your goals and character.
• Clearly highlight your accomplishments : While humility is important, don’t hesitate to talk about your achievements. You should mention awards, recognitions, and significant accomplishments and explain their relevance to the scholarship.
• Find an angle : If you’re like most people, your life story might lack significant drama. So, finding a way to make the statement interesting is a big challenge. Find a “hook” for your essay, a controlling idea that ties it together. It could be a story or an interesting characteristic.
• Discuss your career goals : Clearly articulate your career aspirations and how the college scholarship will help you achieve them. This shows that you have a plan and are committed to using the scholarship for its intended purpose.
• Use professional writing services : If you’re struggling with writing, consider getting help from professional personal statement writers on CustomWritings, for example. They provide guidance, editing, or drafting assistance to ensure your personal statement is polished and effective. They can also provide you with examples and samples of successful personal statements.
• Tell a story : A personal statement is (in many cases) just that: a sort of story. By this, I don’t mean you should fabricate or invent anything. Be truthful and stick to the facts. Just think in terms of telling a story. If your statement is fresh, lively, different – not to mention articulate – you’ll be putting yourself way ahead of the pack.
• Keep it concise : Be sure to stick to the word limit and ensure your personal statement is concise and to the point. Long-winded essays can lose the reader’s interest. Ensure that every sentence adds value to your statement.
• Proofread and edit : Errors in your personal statement writing can detract from its impact. The first thing you should do is click on the spell check button. Once that is complete, read your statement aloud. This ensures that your paper makes sense and flows correctly. Next, take the time to review your writing with a fine-tooth comb and correct any spelling/grammatical errors. Top of Form

Personal Statement Format for Scholarships

It’s important to adhere to a format that showcases your experiences and aspirations clearly and compellingly when crafting a personal statement for college scholarships. The format of your personal statement plays a significant role in how the scholarship committee perceives your narrative. Typically, a personal statement should be short and concise. It should not exceed one or two pages. It’s advisable to use a standard font and size, with clear paragraph breaks and margins that make the text easy to read. Start with a title that encapsulates the essence of your personal statement to immediately engage the reader. Whether you’re a high school student or a post-grad applicant, the format is largely the same. It must emphasize clarity and coherence. 

The general structure of the personal statement has three parts:

• Part I: Introduction

The Hook : This could be a story, quote, surprising statement, etc., that sets the stage for the rest of your statement.

Thesis Statement : The hook should transition into a thesis statement, which describes the overall theme of the personal statement. It is important to stick to one theme.

• Part II: Body

This section is the bulk of your statement. It should address the thesis statement and answer the question posed on the application. Using your theme, you should address why you would be a good candidate for the college scholarship and how you know you will succeed. Address your strengths, experiences, and accomplishments. It is important to use specific examples from your experiences to support your statements. Avoid making assumptions, using clichés, or stating the obvious.

• Part III: Conclusion

Conclude the statement by summarizing everything that was previously addressed. The last sentence or two should relate to the hook. Make sure that the reader is not left hanging. 

Take the Next Step!

Personal statements are a challenging genre of writing, but the rewards for writing yours well are certain to be worth it. Don’t undersell yourself, don’t be afraid to stand out, and don’t worry about sounding “too braggy.” Remember, the effort and thought you put into your personal statement can significantly impact your pursuit of educational funding.

Published on Nov 20, 2023

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Scholarship Personal Statement Example that Won $250,000

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples for scholarships.

Here is the personal statement of an applicant who got admitted to several top graduate schools for a degree in business and management.  Variations of this personal statement got scholarships of upto $250,000 at Columbia, Harvard, and NYU. Read this essay to understand what a top scholarship personal statement should look like.

Sample Personal Statement that Won Scholarship

“The world is your oyster. It’s up to you to find the pearls.” – Chris Gardner, The Pursuit of Happyness.

This part of my life is known as helplessness. I was sitting alone in the factory office on a Saturday morning, crying my heart out. I truly and deeply felt I had nowhere to go. Never in my life had I felt more marginalized. What could have possibly gone so wrong in these eight months? My varsity had given me everything; I had been a tennis captain, a top debater, a mentor for my juniors, a leader in organizing humanitarian efforts for various social causes, and a co-editor of a middle eastern magazine.

Right after graduating, I was inducted as a Trainee Engineer at one of the best employers in Dubai. And yet, eight months later, I had stuttered in my professional career. I decided to quit my job that morning and return to my native city, Doha. There was something wrong in either my career choice or my job that had accentuated my decision to give up rather than gritting it through.

This part of my life is known as a struggle. After coming back, I had two options; either seek another engineering job or switch careers. I enrolled in a local MBA program, where I realized what had gone wrong in my first job. As I studied through courses on general management, I came across two concepts that perfectly summed up my reason to quit: “Person-Organization fit” and “Authenticity.” While the former contributed towards leaving my job, if only I had been more aware of the latter, I would have had the courage to say no to an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering and seek what excited me.

It was purely peer pressure that made me take up the degree in the first place. I come from a family of engineers and doctors. My parents belong to a generation that solely believed that every intelligent being should automatically take up a career in STEM. In my case, I belonged to the top 5 percent of students based on my high-school scores and had scored in the top 1 percent of the entry test takers for the undergraduate engineering program. So even though my English teacher beckoned my parents to help me consider an undergraduate degree in Economics and Finance, they were convinced I had to live the family pride and become an engineer.

My teacher’s advice was based on my off-the-class discussions on regional economics, trade barriers, and the industrial revolution and how these conversations had enthralled me. While my journey through my undergraduate degree was tumultuous, I never felt more at home during my MBA classes. My life finally had a purpose. As I was sitting in a Corporate Finance class, the professor started discussing how to calculate the enterprise values of firms. I can never forget that brimming feeling in my body. I had just experienced an epiphany.

I finally understood the financial and economic aspects of engineering and innovation. Throughout my MBA, I fell in love with every course on Finance. I participated in “The Global Investment Research Challenge” hosted by the CFA Society, where we had to write an equity research report on a leading food FMCG company in Saudi Arabia. Our business school participated for the first time in this competition, and we secured 2nd in the local round and received the “Outstanding Research” award. After graduating from business school, I was inducted into a Management Trainee Program in the Corporate Banking stream at a top local bank in Doha. From there on, I have never looked back.

This part of my life is known as resilience. I had become a phoenix. As I rose from the ashes of regret, criticism, and inertia, I felt myself resembling Mike Ross from the hit TV series “Suits.” A prodigy ready to make his mark on the banking industry in the middle east. I grew in my banking career at an exceptional rate. Within two years, I landed myself a role at a top multinational bank (“Standard Chartered Bank”) in Dubai in their “Corporate & Institutional Clients” team. The USD 20 million asset portfolio, which comprised Large Corporate clients, was being run on an ad-hoc basis for the past six months: without an Associate or a Relationship Manager (RM). The clients were furious with the service being provided, and we needed more time to pull out of the fire and rebuild the whole portfolio. With the help of my RM, I rebuilt the portfolio and the relationships from scratch. I increased portfolio utilization and cross-selling by more than 100 percent in less than three months. By the end of the year, our portfolio had achieved an increase in revenue by more than 15 percent.

Not only have I successfully managed all external stakeholders, but I was also identified as a critical resource in writing top-quality credit applications and understanding various internal bank policies. Although I was making progress in my career, my passion was to move on from commercial banking into mainstream Corporate Finance roles. In 2020, based on my performance, I was allowed to attend a two-week boot camp on Financial Modeling in London. From mastering techniques on making three-statement forecasting models using Microsoft Excel to advance corporate finance valuation topics such as Leveraged Buy-out and Mergers & Acquisitions, I attended the training with the brightest of associates. This exhilarated me.

During my stay in London, I networked with the senior management of the Corporate Finance team within the bank. I needed to take my next step toward a more prominent role in Finance. I could either stay in the bank and apply for various Corporate Finance roles in its Dubai / Singapore / London offices or achieve something more than just becoming an investment banker or a corporate finance specialist. After much deliberation, I concluded that to achieve my personal and professional goals, I need to pursue a graduate degree from “Harvard Business School.”

This part of my life is known as happyness. When Gardner saw the word happiness spelled incorrectly, it did not hit him at that time what he was trying to achieve. It was only when he was able to secure something whose value was far greater than its tangible value did he comprehend. Gardner equated his “happyness” to his raison-d’être. For me, my happyness does not lie in becoming the best banker in the world; rather, it lies in shaping Qatar into one of the best economies in the world. My long-term goal is to set up a venture capital fund in Qatar, which is focused on incubating startup companies and helping them create net positive value.

Qatar is currently ranked 39 on Global Competitive Index and 27 on Global Innovation Index. A population of 3 million people where more than 45% are under 25 years of age – there is some drastic change required in the leadership. The current leadership, be it on the government or corporate, is broadly reactive and not active in resolving various challenges they face. Sadly, the reactive leadership has trickled down on the youth as well. My long-term goal can be achieved through my short-term goals, doing a genuinely global business degree and initially working at private equity firms.

My recent experiences have taught me the basic skill set required by any top banker. Still, it has been broadly lacking in helping me become a better leader who embraces diversity and bridges the entrepreneurial finance gap. So, what other place than HBS to cultivate these traits and skills? In her book “Harvard Business School Confidential,” Emily Chan talked about a particular characteristic of active leadership when she said, “Speak so that people listen.” So, not only do I want to learn about leadership, but I also want to talk about it with my peers by joining various Clubs and Activities at HBS.

With a Harvard degree, I can advise startup companies on exemplary leadership, proper management, and the right capital structure to maximize their enterprise value. After I have achieved this and developed the right network, I shall shift back to Qatar and replicate this model locally.

In a precarious world where advanced countries are becoming less receptive towards open borders and getting lost in hate and fear rhetoric, now is the time to embrace diversity. Imagine a country that can tap into its youth and make it’s living immersive. Imagine a host of enterprises from Qatar that eventually turn into Fortune 100 companies and are admired for their innovation, openness, and global outreach worldwide. Imagine, behind all this, a business school believing in its candidate and his happyness.

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SOP for Scholarship: Sample, Format, PDF & Tips

• Last Updated On August 8, 2024
• Published In General

Did you know there are over 1,00,000 scholarships available each year in Europe itself , and a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a critical part of the selection process? Even top universities like Oxford and Imperial College of London require an SOP as part of their scholarship applications.

Table of Content

A compelling SOP for scholarship applications showcases your achievements and highlights your motivations and future aspirations. 

Here’s a key highlights table summarising the most important information you’ll be exploring in this guide on writing an SOP for a scholarship.

What is a Scholarship SOP?

A Scholarship Statement of Purpose (SOP) is an essay that explains your motivation for applying for a scholarship. It allows you to express your educational goals, career plans, and reasons for needing financial support. 

According to a survey, 70% of admission committees consider the SOP a crucial part of the application process . Various types of scholarships require SOPs, including merit-based, need-based, and field-specific scholarships. 

Also Read: What is the full form of SOP?

Now that you know what a Scholarship SOP is, explore the differences between a Scholarship SOP and a General SOP.

Difference Between a Scholarship SOP and a General SOP

One of the main differences is in focus. 

While most of General SOPs emphasise academic and extracurricular achievements, Scholarship SOPs focus on the need for financial support and the impact of the scholarship on the student’s future.

Here’s a table comparing the differences between a Scholarship SOP and a General SOP.

Having understood the differences between SOP types, it’s time to explore why an SOP for Scholarship application is important.

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Importance of SOP for Scholarship

Understanding the importance of an SOP can motivate you to put your best effort into crafting it. Remember, a strong SOP is crucial in determining your selection. 

Here are the main reasons why an SOP for scholarship is important.

• Formal paper that helps the scholarship committee know the applicant : An SOP provides a window into your personality, goals, and motivations. It’s your opportunity to make a personal connection with the committee.
• Can be the deciding factor for acceptance : A well-written SOP can set you apart from other applicants with similar academic achievements, giving you a competitive edge.

8 Types of Statement of Purpose for Scholarship 

There are many scholarships available, each with specific requirements and criteria. According to statistics, there are over 1.7 million private scholarships in the United States alone. Each type requires a different focus and approach. 

Here is the list of types of scholarships available that would require an SOP.

• Academic Scholarships : Available for students with a good GPA (depending on the university and course) and strong applications. If you’re applying for this type of scholarship, highlight your academic achievements and how they align with your long-term goals.
• Average Performance Scholarships : Given to students with average grades but notable achievements in various fields. You could mention how your participation in a science fair or art competition sets you apart.
• Athletic Scholarships : Awarded based on demonstrated physical and athletic abilities. Share stories of your leadership in sports teams and how the scholarship will support your athletic and academic growth.
• Women Scholarships : Assist financially, socially, or career-challenged women to continue their education. Explain how the scholarship will empower you to overcome challenges and pursue your career goals.
• Scholarship for Minorities : For students from small minority groups based on ethnicity, culture, or religion. Discuss how your background and experiences motivate you to contribute to your community.
• Community Service Scholarships : For students involved in volunteer community service. Highlight your commitment to serving others and how the scholarship will enable you to continue making a difference.
• Creative Scholarships : For students in creative fields like arts, music, or other professions. Provide examples of your creative work and explain how the scholarship will support your artistic development.
• Unusual Scholarships : Given for unique qualifications like being left-handed or organising prom parties. Emphasise your unique traits and how they make you a deserving candidate.

Now that you are familiar with different scholarship types, understanding the proper format is essential.

Also Read: Scholarships for Indian students in the USA 2024: Eligibility & Benefits

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Format of statement of purpose for scholarship.

Always remember that the word count for your SOP for scholarship should be between 800 to 1000, with each paragraph of around 100- 150 words. 

The format of your Scholarship SOP can significantly impact its effectiveness. A well-structured SOP is easier for committees to read and understand, and most successful SOPs follow a clear format. 

Here are some important formatting guidelines for writing an SOP.

• Font Style: Times New Roman or Arial
• Font Size: 12
• Line Spacing: 1.5
• Inset a 1-line space between paragraphs

Here is the format for writing a Statement of Purpose (SOP) for a scholarship.

1. Introduction

Begin with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. Introduce yourself and specify your purpose for applying for the scholarship. Briefly outline your academic background and future aspirations, setting the stage for the details that will follow.

2. Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs should contain the following details.

• Academic Achievements Highlight your academic background, including relevant coursework, GPA, and academic awards. Discuss any special projects or research that demonstrate your expertise and passion for the subject.
• Experiences and Skills Showcase relevant work experience, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or leadership roles that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Provide examples of how these experiences have prepared you for the challenges of the program.
• Motivation and Goals Explain what sparked your interest in this field of study and how your goals align with the program’s curriculum. Describe your long-term career aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
• Financial Need (if applicable) If financial need is a factor in the scholarship criteria, explain your situation concisely and professionally. Highlight any personal or family circumstances that underscore your need for financial support.

3. Conclusion

Briefly summarise your key qualifications and reiterate why you’re the ideal candidate. Express your gratitude for the committee’s time and consideration, and end with a positive note, expressing your eagerness to contribute to the university’s community.

Also Read: Statement of Purpose: Check SOP Format, Meaning & Sample for Visa 2024

For a clearer understanding of the format, refer to the sample SOP for scholarship application provided below.

Sample of Statement of Purpose for Scholarship

To offer a clearer understanding of how to showcase your qualifications and ambitions effectively, here’s a sample of Statement of Purpose for scholarship application. The statement of purpose for scholarship example given below demonstrates how to weave together your experiences, goals, and passion into a compelling and persuasive narrative. 

Use this sample SOP for scholarship application as a guide to craft your own SOP and emphasise your distinct strengths.

Statement of Purpose for Scholarship Example

“Introduction

As a passionate student with a strong desire to contribute to the field of environmental science, I am writing to apply for the [Scholarship Name] at [University Name]. This scholarship will provide me with the financial support necessary to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. 

This field has always fascinated me and driven my academic pursuits. Growing up in a rural area, I witnessed firsthand the impact of environmental degradation on local communities, and I am determined to make a difference in this field.

Background and Academic Achievements

Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence. I graduated high school with a GPA of 4.0, ranking in the top 5% of my class. My academic performance earned me several awards, including the Excellence in Science Award and the National Honor Society Scholarship.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have engaged in various extracurricular activities that have shaped my interests and skills. As the president of the Environmental Club at my high school, I organised and led several initiatives aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues. 

For example, we successfully implemented a recycling program that reduced waste by 30% within the school premises. This experience taught me valuable leadership and teamwork skills, as well as the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation.

Field of Study and Career Goals

My passion for environmental science stems from my desire to address pressing environmental challenges and find sustainable solutions. I am particularly interested in studying ecosystem restoration and conservation, as I believe these areas are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and mitigating the effects of climate change. 

My long-term goal is to work with international organisations such as the United Nations Environment Programme, where I can contribute to global efforts in preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable development.

Pursuing a degree in environmental science at [University Name] will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve my career aspirations. The university’s renowned environmental science program, with its emphasis on hands-on research and fieldwork, aligns perfectly with my academic interests and career goals.

Research Interests and Projects

Throughout my high school years, I took every opportunity to expand my understanding of environmental issues through independent projects and community initiatives. One project involved studying the impact of local agricultural practices on soil quality, where I collaborated with a local farmer to implement sustainable farming techniques. 

This project was not only rewarding in terms of academic growth but also highlighted the positive effects of community-based solutions on the environment. The practical knowledge and skills I gained from these experiences have prepared me well for the rigorous research opportunities offered at [University Name].

At the university, I am particularly interested in contributing to ongoing research on renewable energy sources and sustainable agriculture. These areas are vital for reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring food security for future generations. 

By participating in these research projects, I aim to develop innovative solutions that address both local and global environmental challenges. My goal is to publish my findings in academic journals and present them at international conferences, contributing to the body of knowledge in environmental science.

Community Involvement and Leadership

Community involvement has always been an integral part of my journey, and I am committed to continuing this engagement at [University Name]. I have volunteered with various environmental organisations, such as [Organisation Name], where I participated in tree-planting campaigns and environmental education workshops for local schools.

At university, I plan to establish an environmental advocacy group that focuses on raising awareness about sustainable living and implementing green initiatives on campus. The leadership skills I have developed through past experiences will enable me to organise events and campaigns that engage and inspire others effectively.

Contribution to the University and Community

In addition to the academic benefits, the [Scholarship Name] will enable me to contribute positively to the university community. I am committed to engaging in activities that promote environmental awareness and sustainability on campus. By joining student organisations such as the Environmental Action Club and participating in community service projects, I aim to inspire others to take action toward environmental conservation.

Moreover, I plan to collaborate with fellow students and faculty members on research projects that address local environmental issues. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to promote a culture of sustainability within the university and encourage others to become advocates for positive change.

I am committed to pursuing a career in environmental science and making a meaningful impact in the field. The [Scholarship Name] at [University Name] represents a crucial step toward achieving my academic and career goals. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies, engage in research, and actively contribute to the university and community.”

Maximise your chances of securing a scholarship by getting your SOP professionally reviewed. Get in touch with Leap Scholar now and let our experts help you craft a winning statement of purpose.

Tips to Write a Good SOP for Scholarship

Incorporating the following tips can help you create the best SOP for a scholarship. SOPs that follow these best practices are likely to have a higher success rate.

• Back up information with facts : Provide specific examples to support your claims. Instead of saying you’re passionate about science, mention a project or competition that demonstrates your interest.
• Avoid overly complex language : Keep your language clear and concise. Avoid jargon and complex terms that might confuse the reader.
• Draft and revise carefully : Writing is a process. Create multiple drafts and refine your writing to ensure clarity and coherence.
• Keep the SOP within the word limit : Adhere to the word count to maintain focus and brevity.
• Recheck and get feedback : Ask others to review your SOP for clarity, grammar, and style. Constructive feedback can help you improve your essay.

It’s common to make mistakes while writing your SOP, so next, read about some common pitfalls you should watch out for.

Also Read: SOP for Canada: How to Write SOP for Visa & Universities Guide

Do’s & Don’ts for SOP for Scholarship

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your SOP’s effectiveness. Following these guidelines will help you to minimise the rejection of your SOP for scholarship.

To Conclude

Crafting an effective SOP for a scholarship is essential for obtaining the financial support necessary for your academic pursuits. By adhering to the guidelines provided in this detailed guide, you can enhance your chances of success and effectively present your qualifications and aspirations.

Remember to personalise your statement, provide specific examples, and adhere to the recommended format and word limit. A well-written SOP not only highlights your qualifications but also sets you apart from other applicants, increasing your chances of receiving the scholarship.

Open the doors to your dream university by getting personalised guidance on crafting a compelling SOP for scholarship applications. Schedule a consultation session with our expert counsellors to get your SOP reviewed!

F requently Asked Questions

Q. what is an sop for scholarship.

Ans. An SOP for Scholarship, or Statement of Purpose for Scholarship, is an essay that explains your motivation for applying for a scholarship. It allows you to express your educational goals, career plans, and reasons for needing financial support. This document is crucial as it showcases your achievements, aspirations, and financial need to the scholarship committee.

Q. How do I start an SOP for Scholarship?

Ans. Begin your SOP with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. Introduce yourself, specify your purpose for applying for the scholarship, and briefly outline your academic background and future aspirations. This sets the stage for the detailed information that will follow in your statement making it the best SOP for a scholarship.

Q. What is the ideal length for an SOP for Scholarship?

Ans. The ideal length for an SOP for Scholarship is between 800 to 1000 words. This word limit ensures that you provide comprehensive information about your background, motivations, and goals without being overly verbose. Adhering to this limit helps maintain focus and brevity.

Q. What should I include in the financial need section of my SOP?

Ans. In the financial need section, clearly articulate your financial situation and why you require the scholarship. Describe how receiving the scholarship would ease your financial burden and enable you to focus on your studies. Provide context regarding your personal or family circumstances to underscore the significance of the financial support.

Q. How can I make my SOP for Scholarship stand out?

Ans. To make your SOP for Scholarship stand out, provide specific examples that highlight your achievements and experiences. Use clear and concise language, and ensure your SOP is well-structured. Tailor your SOP to reflect the values and criteria of the scholarship you are applying for.

Q. Can you provide a sample of a statement of purpose for scholarship?

Ans. Yes, a sample of a statement of purpose for scholarship is provided in the guide. It includes a detailed structure with an introduction, academic background, motivation, contributions to the university and community, career goals, and a conclusion. The statement of purpose for scholarship example in the blog offers more clarity on how to write an SOP for scholarship.

Q. What are common mistakes to avoid in an SOP for Scholarship?

Ans. Common mistakes to avoid include grammatical errors, being overly personal or repetitive, and criticising other programs. Additionally, avoid dishonesty and ensure your SOP adheres to the specified word limit. Recheck your work and get feedback to minimise errors.

Q. How should I format my SOP for Scholarship?

Ans. Format your SOP for Scholarship with the following guidelines. Font Size: Times New Roman or Arial  Font Size: 12 1.5 line spacing Insert a 1-line space between paragraphs to enhance readability.

Q. What is the difference between a Scholarship SOP and a General SOP?

Ans. A Scholarship SOP focuses on financial need and personal circumstances, while a General SOP emphasises academic and extracurricular achievements. The tone of a Scholarship SOP is more personal and reflective, highlighting personal challenges, whereas a General SOP is more professional, focusing on academic and career aspirations.

Q. Why is an SOP for Scholarship important?

Ans. An SOP for Scholarship is important because it provides a window into your personality, goals, and motivations. It helps the scholarship committee understand your background and the impact of the scholarship on your future. A well-written SOP can be the deciding factor for acceptance.

Q. How do I address my career goals in an SOP for Scholarship?

Ans. Outline your long-term career goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Discuss your vision for your future career and how you plan to contribute to your field of study and society. Mention any specific organisations or roles you aspire to work with, demonstrating your forward-looking perspective.

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