For many students, scholarship money can be the difference between access to higher education or a lifelong stint at a minimum-wage gig. There are numerous benefits to receiving scholarship money, all of which contribute to the overall success of a higher education student. While the process to obtaining a scholarship is tough, the end result is well worth it as you set yourself up with the educational credentials to pursue your professional goals.
Benefits
The most obvious benefit to receiving scholarship money is to help pay the cost of tuition for taking classes at a higher education institution. Moreover, scholarship money may also help to cover the cost of books, supplies and other college-related expenses. For some students, scholarship money can even help to pay for living expenses while in school, particularly for those students staying in on-campus housing.
Process
The process to landing a scholarship is fairly lengthy. In addition to an application, scholarships generally require an essay stating why you deserve the award as well as letters of reference and impeccable transcripts. Some students can also get an athletic scholarship, where monies are awarded based on grades and athletic performance.
Misconceptions
A scholarship award does not mean an automatic full ride through school. Some scholarships are only partial, meaning they don't even cover the full cost of tuition; others are only for the first year. Depending on the type of scholarship you receive, you may still need to take advantage of student loans, grants or other types of financial assistance.
Considerations
Make sure you understand all details of the scholarship when you apply and accept one. Depending on the scholarship type, you may be restricted in terms of your eligibility for other forms of financial assistance while attending school under the guidelines of your existing award.
When you apply, take your time and make sure you submit all paperwork, or your application may be denied. Allow someone else to proofread your essay to ensure that it is error-free before submitting.
Tags: higher education, scholarship money, cost tuition, financial assistance, receiving scholarship