Financial Aid

Preparation is key to success! Applying for scholarships can be a slow process, so allow yourself plenty of time. The more you prepare, the quicker and less stressful the process will be.

Common submission items

• Resume
• Standardized test scores
• Financial information (FAFSA form)
• Official grade transcripts
• Reference letters

Application Tips

• Read over all the eligibility requirements.
• Have someone proofread your answers.
• Submit your application before the deadline in case of technical problems
• Make a checklist of materials you must submit and their required format. 
• Once you have a solid essay, keep a copy of it to use as a foundation for other application essays.
• Use a professional looking email address 
• Keep up a positive attitude! This will not be a quick process, and you will probably not be awarded all the scholarships you apply for, but it will give you good practice for promoting yourself.

Reference Letters

Preparation is an important factor when applying.

• Approach your instructors, advisors, supervisors or anyone else who knows you and your work.
  • Don't ask family or friends to be your reference.
  • Get a wide variety of references. This way you can choose the best references depending on the type of scholarships you are applying for.
• Give your reference several weeks to work on their letter
• Supply your reference with information about your work background, resume, personal statement, and grade transcripts.
• Supply scholarship information so your reference knows what to focus on while writing the reference.
• Follow up with your reference at least two weeks before submission.
• If the reference cannot finish in time, have a backup contact.
• Send thank you notes!