How to secure letters of recommendation for your scholarship application

Applying for scholarships can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to securing letters of recommendation.

A strong letter of recommendation can make all the difference in a scholarship application and can help demonstrate your academic achievements, leadership potential, and character.

In this article, we will provide tips on how to secure letters of recommendation for your scholarship application.

Choose the Right Recommenders

Choosing the right recommenders is crucial to securing strong letters of recommendation.

Ideally, you should select recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic achievements, leadership potential, and character.

This could be a teacher, a mentor, a coach, or a supervisor. It is important to choose recommenders who can provide specific examples of your accomplishments and qualities.

Ask Early and Politely

When asking for a letter of recommendation, it is important to ask early and politely.

Give your recommenders enough time to write a strong letter and provide them with any necessary materials, such as a copy of your resume, transcripts, and the scholarship application guidelines.

When asking for a recommendation, be polite and respectful, and provide your recommenders with a deadline for submission.

Provide Background Information

Provide your recommenders with background information about the scholarship, including its purpose, requirements, and selection criteria.

This will help them tailor their letter of recommendation to the specific scholarship and demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Provide a Template or Guideline

Providing a template or guideline for your recommender can help ensure that the letter of recommendation is structured and contains all the necessary information. This can also help your recommender save time and effort when writing the letter.

Follow Up and Express Gratitude

It is important to follow up with your recommenders to ensure that the letter of recommendation has been submitted on time.

A simple thank-you note or email expressing gratitude for their time and effort can go a long way in maintaining a positive relationship with your recommenders.

Consider Providing Additional Information

If you feel that your recommender may not have enough information about your achievements or qualities, consider providing additional information, such as a list of your accomplishments or examples of your leadership potential.

This can help your recommender write a stronger letter of recommendation.

Conclusion

Securing letters of recommendation for your scholarship application can be a challenging task, but following these tips can help you secure strong letters of recommendation that will make your application stand out.

Remember to choose the right recommenders, ask early and politely, provide background information and a template or guideline, follow up and express gratitude, and consider providing additional information if necessary.

By doing so, you can increase your chances of receiving funding for your academic and professional goals.