The biggest tip we can give students is to apply, apply, apply! Not everyone is awarded a scholarship right away so don't be discouraged; persevere. Intensify your search. Keep a record of all scholarships and reapply each year.

Here are some additional tips:

• Start early. Each donor has its own deadline. Research potential donors.
  
• Be prepared. Write an application request letter, send for transcripts, test scores and ask for at least two letters of recommendation from people who know your educational success and potential.
  
• Evaluate yourself in relation to the requirements:
  • What career do you hope to pursue?
  • How do your goals and ambitions relate to the implied goals of the scholarship?
  • How do your qualifications compare to the requirements of the scholarship?
  • What are your past successes, achievements, honors received and positions of leadership held?
  • What are your abilities and potential?
  • Where do you want to see yourself in five years? Ten years?
  • What accomplishments and in which way would you like to be remembered?
    
• Write to all possible donors. Do not call. Make the letter short and to the point; identify yourself; request information and an application. Make sure to include personal contact information.
  
• Present yourself professionally on the application as if you were applying for a job. Be complete, concise and clear in your responses. The application represents you to the scholarship committee.
  

For assistance in locating possible scholarships try the FastWeb (Financial Aid Search Through the WEB) scholarship search service.

Remember, when searching for financial assistance such as scholarships you should not pay any money, these web-sites offer free assistance in searching and are legitimate.