| Survey the range of scholarships available. |
| Determine which scholarships are realistically available by consulting the application criteria and deadlines pertinent to each scholarship. |
| Maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA). Note those scholarships for which candidates are screened according to GPA. (In some cases the relevant GPA may be based on grades achieved in a specialty area over a two-year period.) |
| Begin the application procedure early in the school year (September, or no later than October). The process of acquiring an application form, completing the form, gathering letters of reference and recommendations, and returning all relevant documents can take a considerable length of time. Remember that applications for out-of-province scholarships may take extra time to complete. |
| Chart the scholarships for which you intend to apply, making special note of the deadlines for each. This exercise will help you establish your own personal timeline. |
| Apply for as many scholarships as possible. Note those for which you can make one application for several scholarships and those for which you must apply individually. |
| Apply for a Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you do not have one. Recipients of scholarships are often required to have one. |
Prepare a letter of application early in the school year. Review and rewrite this letter a number of times throughout the year. In many cases, the initial screening of candidates will be based on the letter of application. Make sure you keep a copy of the letter for future reference.
The content of your letter should follow the format suggested by the individual institution. Make certain that the letter is neat and legible and use 8 1/2 x 11 inch paper, one side only. Include all relevant information, paying attention to details specified on the application forms. Keep the tone of the letter businesslike - be straight forward and concise. This letter should usually contain:
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· a brief outline of your interests, hobbies, and activities; |
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· a brief summary of positions and offices held by you in school, youth organizations, and the community; |
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· a short statement of your purposes in seeking to attend a post-secondary institution; |
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· information concerning awards, scholarships, and prizes you have won in any field; |
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· details of your employment in the last two years (including part-time and summer employment). |
