Skip to Main Content
Ask Us

Scholarship Applications: Guidance and Resources

This is a guide to creating and submitting successful scholarship applications.

To apply for college scholarships, students usually need to gather the following documents:

  • Application form
  • Copy of national ID or passport
  • Attested copies of transcripts or diplomas
  • Extracurricular Activities Log
  • Community Service Log
  • FAFSA Form
  • Test Scores
  • Statement of purpose
  • Personal statement
  • Recommendation letter(s)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)** AND/OR **Resume**

The requirements for scholarships may vary depending on the organization offering the scholarship. However, most scholarships take academic and extracurricular achievements into account when awarding scholarships. These achievements typically fall into one of two categories: academic and merit-based achievements. Organizations typically assess academic achievements by looking at the student's GPA, the classes they took, and their performance on standardized tests (like the SAT or ACT). Merit scholarships, like their academic counterparts, are highly competitive and prestigious. Participation in extracurricular activities and leadership skills are common requirements for these types of scholarships. Need-based scholarships are awarded solely based on the student's or their family's financial situation. Luck-based scholarships, on the other hand, are awarded randomly. If you plan to apply for any scholarships or other types of financial aid assistance, it is a good idea to keep these additional documents with the information you will need to complete the FAFSA: High school transcripts, transcripts for previous college work, contact information for references, copies of letters of recommendation, and a current resume.