Many graduate students apply for several fellowships each year.
Fellowships are scholarships that are awarded to graduate students based on merit, need or the student's program of study. These scholarships are an important part of a graduate student's funding because the student does not have to work for the money or pay it back like a student loan. Fellowships can be awarded by the institution or by an organization or corporation that is separate from the university. No matter which organization awards them, all fellowships have an application process, and the application usually involves writing a letter that explains how the fellowship will benefit your studies.
Instructions
1. Begin the letter by typing your address. Skip a line space, and type the date. Skip another line space and type the organization's name and address on separate lines. Skip an additional line space.
2. Create the salutation by typing "Dear Sir or Madam" followed by a colon. Fellowships often do not list a contact person, but if you want to get the edge over your competition, contact the fellowship committee to ask the name of the head of the committee and address the letter to that person. Taking the time to research this information shows the committee that you have initiative.
3. Begin the letter by introducing yourself and identifying the fellowship you are applying for. Always state the fellowship name because the company or institution may offer more than one fellowship. Give a brief statement that overviews your letter, such as "I would like to take this opportunity to explain why I am a good candidate for the XYZ Corporation's rhetorical studies fellowship, as well as explain how the fellowship will help me achieve my goals as a rhetoric and technical communication graduate student at Big City University."
4. Read the criteria for the fellowship carefully. If the fellowship is merit based, begin the second paragraph by explaining your achievements as an undergraduate student, such as your awards, academic qualifications and extracurricular activities. If the fellowship is need based, begin by discussing your financial situation and explain how the fellowship will help you pay for your education.
5. Cover each element in the criteria listed on the fellowship information sheet or web page, and explain how you meet that criteria. If the fellowship is need-based, you should discuss your academic qualifications and achievements as well because these elements could serve as a tiebreaker if two finalists for the fellowship have equal need. Similarly, if the fellowship is merit based, mention your need for the fellowship or how the money provided will help you meet your goals.
6. Thank the fellowship committee for their time. Give them your telephone number and email address in case they have additional questions. Tell them if there is any supporting information, such as a resume, enclosed in the envelope for their reference.
7. Proofread the letter very carefully. An error on an application letter for a fellowship can eliminate you from the committee's consideration.
8. Create the closing by typing "Respectfully," and skipping three line spaces. Type your name. Print the letter, and sign your name above your typed name.
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