10 TIPS FOR WRITING EFFECTIVE SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS

Start gathering material on yourself and build a file or resume. Things to include:
- GPA, class standing, courses selected
- School and community activities
- Honors or awards
- Hobbies or interests
- Work or volunteer experience-Special or unusual learning experiences
- Continue to examine and refine your personal goals. You may be asked to write essays on these topics:
- What are your educational and career goals?
- Where do you see yourself five years from now?
Read the instructions and make sure you understand them before you start writing. Scholarship essays should use this formatting unless specified otherwise:
- Double spaced
- Times New Roman font
- 12 point font
- One-inch top, bottom, and side margins
Begin the writing process by writing an outline.
Make sure your outline touches on every aspect required per the instructions.
Write your essay by elaborating on each of the points in your outline.
Use clear, concise and compelling language throughout the essay.
Don’t be afraid to “toot your own horn.” You need to talk about yourself and your achievements honestly so that others will know what you are capable of.
Make sure your grammar and spelling are impeccable.
Read the question again and then read your essay to be certain that the essay addresses every point.
Have someone with strong writing and editing skills proofread the essay before you submit it.

Outline Sample

Brief Background

Tell about yourself.
How did you get to where you are today?
What is important to you?
Give concrete examples that reflect your character and your strengths.
Include extracurricular interests: volunteer work, hobbies, things that make you stand out or are unusual.

Need

Conclusion

Wrap it up with a couple of sentences.
The ending should make your essay feel finished.
You can include how your education so far has made a difference to you.
You can thank the judges.
Avoid an ending that is too lofty or idealistic (With my education, I plan to change the world into a beautiful, peaceful place.)

West Liberty Community School District

High School Counseling Dept.