How to Apply for Scholarships

Understanding how to apply for scholarships can help students achieve their academic goals without financial burdens. Scholarships offer access to quality education, reducing financial strain on families and allowing students to focus on their studies. Securing a scholarship requires thorough research, careful preparation, and attention to detail.

Our guide provides an in-depth overview of finding and applying for scholarships, equipping students, parents, and educators with the necessary steps to succeed in the application process. Let’s get started!

Table Of Contents

How to Find Scholarships
How to Apply for Scholarships
Nurturing Future Scholars with UNIS Hanoi!

How to Find Scholarships

Finding the right scholarship can significantly increase the chances of securing financial support for education. Students should also understand how to apply for scholarships and know some essential resources and methods for identifying scholarship opportunities.

Here are some typical sources of scholarships for students:

Scholarship Websites: Online websites offer a vast database of scholarship opportunities. These platforms let students search for scholarships using filters like study areas, achievements, and even hobbies. However, students must check the credibility of these platforms and stay alert for scams.
Search Engines: Using search engines with personal qualifying terms like “scholarships in STEM for international students” can target the search to particular preferences and fields of study.
Scholarship Providers: Numerous private institutions, organisations, and corporations award scholarships based on merit, special skill, or financial need.
Government: National and local governments often give financial aid to students. National scholarships tend to have broader eligibility criteria, while local scholarships may have fewer applicants, increasing the chances of success.
Schools: Many high schools and universities have special award schemes funded by alumni, other private contacts, or even the institution’s own endowment. Students should ask their school’s financial aid office.
School Counselling System: Guidance counsellors can assist students in understanding scholarship opportunities and the steps to apply.

How to Apply for Scholarships

Applying for scholarships requires careful planning and preparation. The following steps outline the key stages of a successful application process.

Step 1: Search for Eligible Scholarships

Scholarships generally fall into two categories:

Need-based scholarships: Awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. Applicants must provide financial documentation to support their claims.
Merit-based scholarships: Granted to students with exceptional academic, artistic, or athletic achievements. Some scholarships also focus on specific criteria such as gender, ethnicity, or career aspirations.

Students should consult their high school counsellors or university financial aid offices to explore available scholarships and assess their eligibility.

Step 2: Look for the Application Requirements

Most scholarships require specific documentation. Common requirements include:

Application Form: Ensure that all fields are accurately completed.
Essay: A well-written essay provides an opportunity to showcase personality, achievements, and aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation: Applicants should request letters from teachers, mentors, or employers at least a month in advance.
Copies of Transcripts and Diplomas: Some scholarships require academic records to verify eligibility.
Financial Aid Information: Need-based scholarships may ask for financial documents such as tax returns or FAFSA forms.
Resume/CV: A comprehensive resume highlights academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and work experience.

Step 3: Get a Head Start by Planning Ahead

Applying for scholarships requires careful planning and time management. Students should:

Start your search early and maintain a list of potential scholarships along with their deadlines. A digital or physical planner can help keep track of important dates.
Create a checklist of required documents and essays to ensure completeness. Staying organised reduces stress and ensures no required components are missing.
Some scholarships may require additional work, such as creating a video submission. Allocate sufficient time to complete these tasks without last-minute stress.
Be mindful of rolling deadlines, as some scholarships accept applications throughout the year, while others have fixed deadlines.

Step 4: Master Essay Writing

The scholarship essay is a critical component of the application. To craft a compelling essay, students should follow these steps:

Read the Instructions Carefully: Adhering to word count limits and formatting guidelines is essential.
Plan in Advance: Allow ample time to develop, write, and revise your essay. Rushing can result in a weak submission.
Find Your Unique Voice: Differentiate the essay by showcasing personal experiences and aspirations.
Create an Outline: Organise ideas logically to ensure clarity and coherence.
Make It Engaging: Scholarship committees read numerous essays; therefore, make yours compelling by injecting personality and passion. Avoid generic statements and instead use vivid language and storytelling techniques.
Proofread and Edit: Reviewing the essay multiple times and seeking feedback from teachers or mentors improves quality.
Tailor Each Essay: Customise your essays for each scholarship application instead of submitting a generic essay. Address the specific values and requirements of the scholarship provider.

Step 5: Submit Your Materials

After preparing all required documents, applicants should:

Verify submission guidelines (online or postal submission).
Ensure that letters of recommendation are submitted on time.
Double-check all documents for completeness and accuracy.
Keep copies of all submitted materials for reference.
Track the status of your applications and follow up if necessary.

By following the above steps, students can apply for multiple scholarships. Even if they are not awarded one, persistence increases the likelihood of securing financial assistance.

UNIS Hanoi fosters an inspiring and supportive environment where students can thrive and pursue their dreams. Through the Scholarship Programme, talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds receive full financial support and holistic development opportunities.

With access to top-tier education, extracurricular activities, and university guidance, many scholars have successfully shaped their futures. UNIS Hanoi’s commitment to Institutional Philanthropy ensures that every student, regardless of background, has the chance to excel and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Nurturing Future Scholars with UNIS Hanoi!

Securing a scholarship is a transformative step toward academic and personal growth. With the right resources, preparation, and determination, students can access opportunities that will shape their futures. For those wondering how to apply for scholarships, we offer guidance and resources to help make this process as seamless as possible.

At UNIS Hanoi, we are committed to supporting aspiring scholars in their educational journeys. If you are eager to pursue an exceptional education, we invite you to apply for our academic programmes. The application for the 2025-2026 academic year is now open. Contact our admissions team at admissions@unishanoi.org and begin a journey of excellence with us!