A scholarship is a financial award that is usually given to students based on their outstanding academic achievements. Generally, scholarships are gifts that don’t need to be paid back.
They may come from various sources and there are various types too, including merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Most organisations that offer scholarships consider them an investment rather than a gift.
There may be conditions that apply, such as:
• Maintaining a certain average. If your average is too low, your scholarship may even be cancelled.
• Performing on the field.
• Others may expect certain acts of service
• It may also be contingent on entering a certain career
Some students may receive the money directly. In other cases the money is given to the student’s tertiary institution. The money is specifically designated for school expenses and shouldn’t be used on other things other than paying tertiary fees or buying textbooks or equipment.
When you are looking for a scholarship, keep in mind that it’s important to start searching as soon as possible. You can also use a free scholarship matching service. Do your research and make sure that you find the right type pf scholarship for your needs.
Make sure that you apply to every scholarship for which you are eligible and make sure that you don’t miss deadlines for applying. The earlier you apply the better.
A good way of improving your chances is by tailoring your application to the sponsor’s goals. Do the research to make sure that you can figure out what the sponsor is looking for so that your application fulfils their criteria fully.
If you have excellent results you may be awarded a scholarship by a donor that has specifically identified you and is interested in giving you some help towards achieving your education goals.