How and When to Apply for International Scholarships

Studying in top international universities in on the bucket list of many students around the globe. However, the budget limitations restrict it to a dream for many. This is where scholarships step in and help you manage the heavy expenses of studying abroad. In this article, we will discuss in length about how and when to apply for international scholarships, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and more.

For students wanting to study abroad, it is no news that applying to reputed international universities is an expensive affair. However, the good news is, that all top universities provide candidates with exceptional academic records with financial aid to help them complete their education. All a candidate is required to do is a thorough research of all the scholarships available, check their eligibility and above all apply for the one(s) he feels he is best suited for. Candidates should be well aware of the fact that putting together a scholarship application is an exhausting affair, however, if done with the right dedication, can yield beneficial results.

The process of applying for a scholarship is simple, however, the lack of information around it can make the application a daunting task. However, candidates who want to know how and when to apply for international scholarships need only to read further to get their answer.

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When to Apply

'the early bird gets the worm' – it is extremely important for students looking to apply for financial aid to start well in advance. It is always advisable for students to apply well before time to avoid any last minute confusion. Starting in advance will only allow the candidate to put in more effort and dedication into his application. It is advisable to apply ahead as the candidates would require time to research the scholarship, request for relevant information and application form and complete their application before the specified time set by the funding organization body. A lot of times scholarship deadlines may close before the start of an academic year.

Scholarship Checklist:

• List of scholarship funding your course/college
• Check your eligibility
• Keep in mind application dates and deadlines
• Organize documents (academic record, bank statements, confirmation of your study plans)
• Informing your references about your scholarship application plans
• Successful submission of your scholarship application form

Check Eligibility

It is important for candidates to check their eligibility before applying for a scholarship. Scholarships are mostly divided into merit-based scholarships and need-based scholarships, it is rare for a candidate to be eligible for all the scholarships available. It is important for candidates to work on the scholarship(s) that is most suited to them, as this way they would be able to save time and also put in maximum effort. The last thing for a candidate would be to spend time putting together an application for a scholarship that he does not meet the criteria for.

Being Organized

It is important for a candidate to be organized while working on a scholarship application. It is imperative for a candidate to keep all his information handy and provide all the information as accurately as possible. It is important for candidates to provide up-to-date information and above all provide as much information as requested on the application form. A half-baked application does not set of a good impression. Candidates should also be open to the possibility of appearing for additional examinations to further their application for financial aid.

Presentation

It is important for candidates to put their best foot forward. Students should treat their scholarship application as a job interview and perform their best. It is important to start with providing accurate information devoid of any silly mistakes. It is important to provide all relevant information asked in the application form and above all have it proofread before submission. Candidates should also keep references handy with their application as this would only bring their application closer to the financial aid.

Meeting Deadlines

Just how students are advised to start early with their application form. They are also advised to complete their application before the last date to avoid any last minute mix-up. Students should always give themselves a few days of margin for any last minute surprises. Candidates should remember that applications received after the last date would not be considered for financial aid.

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