study abroad scholarship essay tips

Write An Award Winning Study Abroad Scholarship Essay With These Tips

by Mary Walton March 29, 2023

• Scholarships & Funding

The BEST Scholarship Essay Tips

Scholarship deadlines are just around the corner, and if you want to study abroad , now's the time to get those scholarship applications in! You'll be writing a lot of scholarship essays, so it's important that you get it right. Essay writing is challenging, even for the most talented and dedicated students. Fortunately, technology can make a lot of things easier, and writing scholarship essays is one of those things.

Here's the best tips for writing scholarship essays to use if you want to make a good impression and get the funding you need to study abroad . With these scholarship essay tips in mind, you can surely write an award winning study abroad application essay!

Avoid “one size fits all” scholarship essays.

It's very likely that you're going to be applying for more than one study abroad scholarship. As this is the case, it's tempting to create a scholarship essay that will suit all of them, and then send it off to everyone. However, no essay will suit every scholarship application. Essays are very personal in this regard, and every team is looking for something different. Give yourself time to craft a scholarship essay that's designed to answer their questions.

Know your audience.

Before you start writing, think about what the scholarship committee is looking for in an applicant. Do they want someone who's overcome adversity in the past? Someone who's excelled in a particular subject? The answer should be in the question that they've set for you. Keep this in mind as you plan your scholarship essay.

Give yourself time.

Your teachers are right, no essay will be great if you hammer it out the night before it's due. It's especially true of scholarship essays. Start your plan at least a week before you think you should. This gives you enough time to start writing an outline, and start creating a rough draft of your scholarship essay. Once you're done writing, you'll still have plenty of time to edit. You can also use EssayPro ! If you don't have time for writing your essays, you can always try out this academic essay writing service to complete your assignments on time.

Make sure you're answering the question.

Many scholarship essays fail because the applicant didn't actually answer the question that was set for them. You may feel as though you are answering the question, but read the question carefully and thoroughly before you start writing your scholarship essay.

For example, you may be given the question: “Name a time when you challenged a belief or idea. Why did you do this? Would you do it again?” When you read this question, you may think about how you decided to study law, even though your family wanted you to something else. If the question was different, this would be a great answer. However, look at the question again. It's asking for a time you challenged one particular belief, and your reasoning behind it. Always keep your eye on the prize if you want to write an award winning study abroad scholarship essay.

Be personal.

Your scholarship essay is all about you, so take the time to really delve into what makes you, YOU. Remember, you want to show the committee that you're the student they're looking for. If you're talking about a time when you volunteered, for example, give them the reasons why volunteering for that cause was so important to you. Really give the readers a sense of who you are (this is one of the most important scholarship essay tips ever!).

Use online tools to help you write your scholarship essay.

You don't have to write your essay alone. There are lots of online tools that will help you get the most out of your essay, and provide you with even more scholarship essay tips than this list. You can improve your confidence and skills by taking advantage of the following tools next time you sit down to write a scholarship essay.

• Essay Map : This tool is great for visual learners. Give it all the details of your essay, and it'll create a fully formed plan for you. It’s fun and easy way to start writing.

Anyone Can Win a Scholarship to Study Abroad!

And, you don’t have to waste a lot of time to do so. These scholarship essay tips will help you write the best award winning study abroad scholarship essay you can. Use them when you're planning and writing, and you'll have a scholarship essay that shows you off in the best possible light.

Find a study abroad program , search for scholarships , & start writing your scholarship essays!

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10 tips on how to write a winning scholarship essay

Studying abroad can be a costly affair for international students, but scholarships can offer some respite . Scholarship applications typically require students to write a scholarship essay to show the admissions committee why they deserve funding.

While competitive, the essay gives you a platform to demonstrate your strengths, goals and accomplishments, both in and out of the classroom.

It requires plenty of thought to produce a winning scholarship essay, but with the cost of tuition rising each year – one academic year’s tuition fees at a US university can range from US$40,000 to US$52,000 while fees at a UK university could start from £9,250 up to £30,000, depending on the course major — the results may be well worth your effort. 

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get busy, here are 10 tips on writing a scholarship essay:

The scholarship essay gives students a platform to demonstrate their strengths, goals and accomplishments, both in and out of the classroom. Source: Patrick T. Fallon/AFP

Scholarship essay tip 1: Highlight what makes you unique

There is no perfect scholarship essay or writing formula, but the vast majority of winning essays give the scholarship committee a good idea of what drives you, your passions and what you want to do with your education. 

In short, write about who you are to the scholarship judges. Make them believe in you and your story.

Scholarship essay tip 2: Read the statement and identify key themes

Your scholarship essay prompt can be either a sentence or a question. From there, identify the theme and what you should expand on. This could be about leadership, your impact or even the community. 

You could write about certain experiences and accomplishments, how and why you chose to be involved in these activities, the challenges you faced and how you overcame these, as well as lessons learnt from the experience.

The more you understand these themes, the more examples you can include to showcase your skills and abilities and how you used them.

For example, 2013 QS Leadership Scholarship winner Hayley Capp ‘s essay statement was: “Where I have demonstrated responsible leadership, or innovation, and how it made a difference either in my community or in my work.”

Capp founded a branch of Enactus – “where people either work with social enterprises or to create a social enterprise, using business and entrepreneurial skills to develop solutions to social problems and make a difference to communities” – at her university during her undergraduate studies.

In her scholarship essay, Capp used her experience of collaborating with Enactus members in Uganda to design strategies for addressing high youth unemployment levels.

Scholarship essay tip 3: Be passionate

Some essay prompts will give you free rein to write about any topic, which will give you the advantage of writing about something that you enjoy or that means a lot to you.

For example, your prompt may ask you to describe your proudest accomplishments. You can discuss your volunteer experiences , or perhaps about looking after your sick family member despite having a busy schedule. An understanding of your family circumstances can give the admissions committee a holistic view of you as sports, extracurricular activities or even community service can be a privilege that requires resources an applicant may or may not have access to. 

Because Joy Zhou ’s supplemental scholarship essay asked her to describe an experience with an extracurricular activity of her choosing, she wrote about how she managed to found a Science Olympiad club in her high school despite numerous challenges, including objections from the athletic director.

“Try to go with something that you have been doing for a long time and think if there is something quirky or different about your experience in it, or there is some aspect of that experience that you can use to sum up the entirety of your experience doing the extracurricular activity or if there is a passion burning, you can write about that too,” Zhou advises.

Vanderbilt University awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Zhou.

Scholarship essay tip 4: Learn what moves the judges

Why are the judges or universities giving this scholarship? You have to dig deep to understand their motivations behind the scholarship, and what their mission is, be it to increase equity or the university’s competitive advantage.

Take a look at previous scholarship winners and read their essays or excerpts, and you will have a better idea of what appeals most to the scholarship committee.

Having a better understanding of what the scholarship committee is looking for will give you a better shot than writing an essay by shooting in the dark.

Scholarship essay tip 5: Create a strong hook

The beginning of your essay should have a strong hook. A powerful opening sentence will help you draw a reader in and convince him or her to read the rest of your essay.

Ritesh Verma wanted to be a millionaire so he studied stock patterns and professional trades and even made some money over two years. He felt he was ready to go even further so he asked his parents to fund an Ameritrade account but “the stock market took it within a week”.

He began his essay with,  “It was ironic that my life shattered into a million pieces,  or so I thought. What’s this dream? Well, I had a vision myself as a millionaire, realising that millionaire stock trader lifestyle that’s our ties across the internet.”

His essay helped him win a scholarship worth over  US$100,000 to study at the University of Maryland, College Park.

Scholarship essay tip 6: Be aware of the word limit

Many scholarships will have a word limit, so stick to it — it’s there for a reason. If you exceed the word count, your scholarship essay, however great and well-written, may be disqualified.

You can keep track of your word count when using  Microsoft Word or Google Docs. There are also apps to help you keep track of your words, including letter counter .

Scholarship essay tip 7: Plan, plan, plan

Your main goal is to make your scholarship essay stand out from the competition. One surefire tip is to plan what goes into your essay.

Create a structure (introduction, body and conclusion) that works for you — a winning scholarship essay may vary in structure, so you need to decide what would work for you that suits your content and writing style.

Scholarship essay tip 8: Persuasive writing

This might be of interest to you if you have not heard of the persuasive “writing triangle” before: ethos, pathos and logos. A great scholarship essay uses this triangle for maximum persuasive effect because these three techniques are excellent for pulling in the reader’s attention.

Ethos uses credibility or reliability to establish your knowledge on the subject matter. Your life experiences – which most scholarship essays ask about (luckily!) – are a form of ethos, so use this to your advantage.

Pathos makes use of emotional appeals like creativity and imagination. For example, you may be asked to talk about an imaginary future and how you will make this a better one with your invention or strengths.

Finally, logos refers to using logic to make your points more factual. Your scholarship essay can include key statistics about a related social issue that you want to discuss.

Scholarship essay tip 9: Be realistic and specific 

Why do you deserve a scholarship? This can be a challenging question to answer, particularly for a need-based scholarship, as you may struggle to decide how honest you want to be about your financial or family circumstances that have led you to apply for a scholarship in the first place.

It’s important to note that you should never lie in your essay. If you know what you want to get out from your scholarship is funding for your studies, state it in your essay. Explain how the scholarship can help you to achieve your goals.

Scholarship essay tip 10: Revise

Above all, make an effort to revise your scholarship essay. Take breaks whenever possible and look at your essay with fresh eyes. This way, you will find more ways of revising your essay to ensure the final copy reads and flows well.

Find someone you can trust – your teacher, friend or advisor – to read your draft. Sometimes, they will find mistakes you have missed and can give you feedback on how to improve it.

All in all, we understand writing a scholarship essay is not easy, but with these tips, we hope that you will have an easier time doing this. All the best!

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Articles & Advice > Financial Aid > Blog

How to Write a Winning Study Abroad Scholarship Essay

Studying abroad is a big and expensive part of many students' education, and scholarships can help with that. Here's how to ace those study abroad scholarship essays.

by Ashley Halsey Professional Educator and Writer

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Nov 23, 2019

Studying abroad is a dream opportunity that can have so many benefits, some of which you may not even realize as you head into your application or daydream about having the chance to go. The most obvious benefit is that you get to experience a different culture, different people, or a different way of life. This is fascinating on its own and could be considered reason enough to start your application. Add to that the opportunity to freshen your perspective with a change of scenery, make new friends, potentially pay lower tuition and living fees, learn a different language, and broaden your understanding of the world, and you’ve got something all students should at least think about doing while at university.

Of course, study abroad isn’t as easy as signing a form and away you go. Most of the time, you’ll need to have some financial support from an institution before you can go galloping off. To earn this, you’ll almost always have to write an essay and compete with your peers for the opportunity. So, here are some tips for making sure that it’s you getting on that plane and not anyone else.

Read the prompt carefully

The most classic error students make with any essay is not answering the question. This goes for travel abroad writing as much as anything else. “You can write the most incredible essay full of perfect demonstrations of your intelligence and passion, but if it doesn’t answer the question, it won’t get considered at all,” says Jake Cole, an educator at Writinity . You’ll also write a more informed essay if you really understand the parameters of your question. You might easily be vague in how you respond if you don’t really know what you’re responding to. A good technique is to reread the question several times, highlighting operative words when they occur to you as a way to keep things under control.

Related: How to Read a College Application Essay Prompt

Surprise your reader

It’s easy to write formulaic essays —an intro, a few body paragraphs, a conclusion, and you’re done. A study abroad essay is unorthodox by nature, so you definitely don’t want to limit yourself in form or substance. The other thing you’re up against is how much competition there is for each spot in the program. The people who make decisions will read hundreds of essays, and you want to make sure yours stands out so come decision time, they haven’t forgotten yours exists. Take an approach to your essay that’s different from what you suspect others are going for. Use your alternative approach as a connection to how strongly you feel about the application. It’s easy to dash off a standard essay, but it’s difficult to slowly piece together something more unusual and specific. It shows care and attention, two traits they’ll want to see to prove you actually deserve the scholarship. 

Run your essay past the right people

It’s easy to get too insular as you work on an essay. They tend to take a good amount of time, and most people prefer to work in isolation. This means you could write an essay for six hours without even stopping to let your own mind have a subjective overview, let alone get an outside opinion. “Whenever I write anything extended, I will always run it past people around me. In the case of a scholarship essay, past winners, parents, people from where you are hoping to transfer to, and your professors are going to be your biggest resources as you try to put something of consequence together,” explains Kaya Gopal, tutor at DraftBeyond and ResearchPapersUK . Always get second, third, and fourth opinions on your content to make sure you’re in the best position to avoid getting lost in your own work, which can definitely happen if you aren’t careful.

Related:   Secrets to Writing an Amazing Scholarship Essay  

This is always important! Making mistakes in a standard essay is bad, but you’re fighting so hard in a study abroad scholarship essay that if you aren’t vigilant about the small things, those judging your work will be eager to cut you out to save themselves the trouble. Proofreading is a complex process. It’s harder than just passing an eye over your work. There are different layers to it: Does your essay’s logic stand? Have you done everything you said you’d do? Is it structured correctly? Is all the spelling correct? The grammar ? The syntax? Each of these details is as important as the rest. Again, getting these things correct helps demonstrate to readers how committed you are to your application and how much work you’re willing to put in to be accepted. Conversely, if you fail to proofread, it comes across like you don’t care about your application.

Do your research

Before you write your essay, you need to research the country, city, and institution you’ll attend if you get the scholarship and, in a different sense, you need to research yourself. Researching yourself means knowing why it is that you actually want the scholarship and how it will be instrumental in making a difference in your life. This means taking some time for reflection.

Related: List: The Experts’ Choice: Terrific Study Abroad Programs

Studying abroad is such an incredible opportunity, so you have to do everything in your power to ensure the application you put in to secure funding is as strong as possible. Hopefully these tips will help as you think about writing your essay.

Find scholarships to fund your study abroad goals with our Scholarship Search tool.

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Ultimate Guide to Writing a Study Abroad Scholarship Essay 

It's no secret that young people can study abroad for free today. For example, if they speak the state language of the country in which they intend to study and have chosen a state university, or they have successfully passed the competitive selection and received a scholarship. Grants and scholarships to study abroad partially or fully cover the cost of education and allow students to save money.

Enter your text here ...

In most cases, when applying for a scholarship and participation in the contest, the student needs to write an essay. But often students have a lot of questions regarding writing this type of paper: how to write, what to write about, etc. Students try to write an essay as best as possible because they dream of receiving a scholarship. Some decide to turn to scholarship experts and get essay writing help online , while others try to complete the assignment without any professional assistance.

In this article, we will tell you how to write a good essay for an international scholarship.

8 Scholarship Essay Writing Tips for Students

Tips to help students write stellar essays are listed below:

• First of all, you need to understand what the main idea of the essay should be, or what global question it should answer. In order to understand this, you need to study all the information on the grant. Perhaps it indicates what the essay should be about. You can also contact the representatives of the educational institution in order to find out what topic should be represented in the paper;
• Then, you can start collecting the necessary information for writing an essay. This information should include the main problems or difficulties of the issue that will be discussed in the paper. It is also important to use personal experience and personal qualities that will help you solve these problems and difficulties. It is advisable that you show your future contribution to the development of a particular sphere. Try to write as concretely as possible, avoiding common phrases and high-profile statements;
• To make your essay more interesting, try to focus on some competitive ideas. If you already have these ideas, describe them, and if not, try to highlight and describe a few. It is important to move from simple to complex. You should write down all the ideas that come to mind and do not omit anything. Then you can choose something suitable. Do not forget to pay attention to such eternal difficulties as cultural traditions, professional features, etc.;
• When writing an essay, you can use the question-answer technique. Ask a question that will reveal the topic of the paper and answer it with the help of your main idea (you searched for it in the previous step). Do not forget to describe the main advantages of your idea and its influence on the problem in general;
• Now you can work in draft. Define the structure of your paper, describe the problem, ask a question, represent the idea, as well as your experience and personal qualities. In general, write on your own how you feel, do not abuse the headers and clichés. Remember that your essay will be read by a jury member who wants to see a living story. This person will decide: to give you a scholarship or not;
• It is important to re-read the essay after writing it in a draft. If, in your opinion, the essay is well written, proceed to the final version. Pay attention to the introduction and conclusion. These small structural components of an essay plan a very important role: the introduction usually attracts the reader and conclusion briefly describes the results. Do not forget to create a list of literature in accordance with the requirements of the university;
• Timeout is the final step in writing an essay. Leave your paper for a while and go about your personal affairs: take a walk, read an interesting book, watch a movie, etc. After a while, re-read your essay, highlight those points that need to be adjusted and correct them. Be sure to check for errors. It is better to do this several times, and even better — ask your parents or friends to check your paper;
• And most importantly — send the application, essay and other necessary documents as early as possible, but no later than the day before the end of the reception. Very often a situation arises where the preparation and collection of necessary documents, as well as work on an essay, take a lot of time and energy, so the young man is simply lost in time. Therefore, make sure that the work you have done is not in vain.

We hope that these simple tips will help you write a winning essay , represent yourself in the best way and get a scholarship to study abroad !

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Writing a Compelling Scholarship Essay

Tips and tricks to make your essay shine.

Scholarships are a great way to offset the cost of a study-abroad program, but scholarships can be limited in how many are offered per semester. So it’s important that you make sure that your scholarship essay is readable, portrays who you are as a student and makes you stand out from the other applicants.

Here are 6 tips to make your scholarship essay shine:

1. If there’s an essay prompt, follow it!

Read it several times over so that you are sure that you understand what you are being asked to write about. As you read the prompt several times, note down ideas that come to mind. You can use these ideas later as you start to write your essay. This is absolutely critical: Do not deviate from the prompt! Your ability to write about a very specific question is what’s being assessed—and will serve you well in your university studies.

2. No prompt? Then write what you are passionate about!

Write about a subject area, an event or something that you value. When you enjoy what you’re writing about, you’ll have a deeper connection to the essay and can produce a thoughtful, competitive essay.

3. Stick to the word count.

Here’s a handy tip: As a rule of thumb, 250 words is equivalent to one typed page, double-spaced. Have you already written an essay for a previous class? Open it up and run a word count on it. You’ll have a better idea of how long or short you’ll need to write for the scholarship. Most organizations won’t penalize you for going a few words over the limit, but try to come as close as possible.

4. Have a clear introduction, body and conclusion statement. You should be precise in your writing and have an easy-to-follow statement.

Your introduction should get the reader’s attention and provide a very specific statement of why you are writing this essay.

The body paragraphs should address your “why” in your introduction. Use as many body paragraphs as you need to explain your “why.” It’s easier to read many short paragraphs than a couple of long paragraphs.

The conclusion summarizes what you explained in your body paragraphs and answers “why I should be awarded a scholarship.” You can also include a short “thank you for this opportunity and reading my submission.”

5. Leave yourself enough time!

Don’t wait until the last day to start working on your scholarship essay. Make sure you take time to think about what you want to write, draft the essay and then revise and revise again, and potentially again. We’d recommend giving yourself about two weeks before the deadline—and leave a couple of days in between your brainstorming period, your writing period and your revising period. This will help you have fresh eyes to find sentences that aren’t grammatically correct, phrases that don’t address the prompt and so on.

6. Proofread, proofread, proofread.

Would a grammatical error on your scholarship essay really keep you from your educational goal? It could, according to Randeep Kullar, manager for our Career Services.

“The biggest thing that I've noticed in reviewing any kind of document is that the minute there is a grammatical error, it pulls me away from the content,” says Randeep. “It's an automatic red flag for me. If I see that the author’s first language isn’t English, then I will take this into consideration and give them a bit of leeway, as learning another language is a feat unto itself that shows how adaptable and versatile the individual is in other ways.

“Overall, grammar is important, and it points to a variety of skills that employers, schools, et cetera, look for in candidates. However, any good reviewer of an application will take context into consideration and look at supporting documentation or details, if available, that paint a more comprehensive approach of a candidate.

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• Writing a Winning Scholarship Essay to Study Abroad

How to write a winning scholarship essay to study abroad

Write a strong scholarships essay with these useful tips.

Studying abroad can be an enriching and life-changing experience, but it can also come with a little hassle. Fortunately, there are many scholarship opportunities available to students who wish to pursue their education overseas. However, with so many applicants vying for limited funds, it's important to stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is by writing a compelling scholarship essay that showcases your strengths, goals, and passion for your field of study. In this blog, we'll provide tips and strategies to help you craft a winning scholarship essay that can help fund your study abroad dreams.

Help me study abroad

What is the format for the scholarship essay to study abroad?

A standard format for scholarship essay s exists to guide applicants on what to include in their writing. The format can vary depending on the specific requirements of the organisation. However, there are some common elements that are typically included in such essays. Here's a suggested format you can follow:

Introduction: Begin with a captivating opening sentence or anecdote that grabs the reader's attention and introduces the main theme of your essay. Clearly state your purpose for applying for the scholarship and studying abroad.

Background and motivation: Provide background information about yourself, including your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any relevant experiences that have influenced your decision to study abroad. Explain your motivation for seeking this particular scholarship and why studying abroad is important to you.

Goals and aspirations: Clearly articulate your academic and personal goals related to studying abroad. Discuss how this opportunity aligns with your long-term ambitions and how it will contribute to your personal growth, cultural understanding, and future career prospects.

Fit with the program/country: Highlight why you have chosen the specific study abroad program and country. Discuss how the program's curriculum, faculty, resources, or location align with your academic interests and goals. Show your knowledge and understanding of the host country's culture, history, and language, and explain how immersing yourself in that environment will enhance your educational experience.

Financial need: If the scholarship is based on financial need, provide a concise explanation of your financial circumstances and how the scholarship would alleviate your financial burden, enabling you to pursue your studies abroad.

Conclusion: Summarise the main points of your essay and reiterate your enthusiasm and commitment to studying abroad. End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Remember to make your essay to the specific scholarship requirements and word limit, and always proofread and revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar before submitting it.

12 Tips to write a winning scholarship essay to study abroad

If you will follow these tips, you can craft a unique and compelling scholarship essay that effectively communicates your qualifications, aspirations, and the reasons why you are the ideal candidate for the scholarship. Here are some tips and strategies for you to consider when writing a scholarship essay to study abroad :

Follow the word limit: Know the essay's word limit to ensure you stay within the specified boundaries. This shows your ability to effectively communicate your ideas concisely.

Personalise your introduction: Instead of starting with a quote that takes up valuable space, begin your essay with a captivating introduction that showcases your unique profile and immediately grabs the reader's attention.

Strike a formal-yet-engaging tone: Maintain a formal tone throughout your essay while incorporating descriptive language that brings your experiences and aspirations to life. Strike a balance between professionalism and engaging storytelling.

Prepare with notes: Before starting your first draft, jot down key points, ideas, and anecdotes you wish to include in your essay. This preparation will help you organise your thoughts and ensure a focused and coherent essay.

Relevant achievements only: Avoid overcrowding your essay with extra achievements. Instead, selectively include accomplishments that are directly relevant to your chosen course of study and the nature of the scholarship.

Communicate clearly with appropriate vocabulary: Use clear and effective language to express your ideas. Avoid the temptation to include overly complex words solely for the sake of sounding more formal or knowledgeable. Communication is key.

Craft a concise conclusion: Keep your conclusion brief, yet impactful. Express gratitude for the opportunity and briefly reiterates your enthusiasm for the scholarship.

Research the scholarship provider: Take the time to research the scholarship provider and understand their goals and motivations. Make your essay reflect how your aspirations align with their mission, showing a genuine connection.

Be authentic, avoid overselling: While it's important to highlight your strengths, be authentic and avoid overselling yourself. Focus on presenting a well-rounded picture of who you are and the value you would bring as a scholarship recipient.

Understand the expectations: Thoroughly read and comprehend the scholarship statement to understand what the selection committee expects from you and your essay. Address their specific criteria and demonstrate your ability to meet their expectations.

Highlight the impact of the scholarship: Emphasise how receiving the scholarship will play a crucial role in achieving your dreams and goals. Showcase your gratitude and the ways in which the scholarship will make a significant difference in your educational journey.

Proofread attentively: Take the time to proofread your essay multiple times to catch any grammatical or spelling errors. Carefully review the content, structure, and flow of your essay to ensure a polished and error-free final draft.

Types of scholarships available to study abroad

There are different types of scholarships offered for students interested in studying abroad , and with careful strategic planning and thorough research, you can secure the most suitable one. Scholarships for international education generally fall into the following categories:

Indian government scholarships to study abroad

Here are some of the Indian government scholarships for Indian students to opt for when stepping out to make their dream of studying abroad come true:

Read more:    Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships

By following these tips and strategies you can easily write a strong and effective scholarship when planning to pursue your further studies abroad. Also, you can get in touch with our international education experts at IDP to know more about studying abroad. They will help you with the admission procedure.

Talk to our international education experts

Updated on Aug 23, 2023

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Scholarship Essay Tips

Related content, related resources.

If you want to be competitive to receive scholarships for study abroad, you’re going to need to put in some quality time and effort. By following these tips, you’ll be able to write essays and applications that stand out and have a better chance of receiving additional funding.

Don’t procrastinate.

It’s easy to put off applications until the last minute, but, just like your professors always say, it’s very easy to tell which applicants wrote their essay at the last minute. Give yourself plenty of time to outline, draft, write, edit, have others read, re-edit, and submit your application.

Pay attention to the little things.

Proper grammar and spelling might seem like a very small factor in a successful application, but it actually makes a huge difference. Even if you write an extremely compelling essay, you won’t be taken seriously as a candidate if your spelling and/or grammar is lacking. Plan extra time in your personal writing timeline to visit the UNO Writing Center to receive constructive feedback on your application.

Follow guidelines.

Unfortunately students often forget to include all the required information and their applications are immediately put on the bottom of the stack. If there are prompts, be sure to answer all of the questions. If there are formatting specifications, take the time to make sure your application follows them. Following directions is the simplest way to improve your chances of earning a scholarship.

Tell your story.

Scholarship committees typically have to read through dozens (or even hundreds) of applications at one time. Make yours stand out by going beyond surface-level responses and infusing your writing with your unique personality and circumstances. Instead of writing, “I want to be immersed in culture” (a phrase found in many study abroad scholarship essays), explain why and how you plan to do so:

• How will this program help you achieve your future goals?
• How will this scholarship help make the program a reality for you?

If the scholarship is need-based, speak to your financial situation. If the scholarship is academically focused, spend time elaborating on your dedication and success as a student. Scholarships will be granted to the students with the most compelling (and well-written) stories.

Be concise.

Because of the high volume of applications that scholarship committees read through, you need to capture their attention immediately. There’s no need for a lengthy introduction in your essay. Provide necessary context and then get to your point. If you can deliver your story in a clear and succinct way, you’re going to shine as an applicant.

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Top 5 Tips for Writing Winning Study Abroad Scholarship Essays

Posted on November 07, 2019

The Essay: A time consuming, often dreaded part of any scholarship application. However, the essay is a very crucial part of the application and a great way to stand out from the crowd of applicants and make your application shine. This is an opportunity to convey why you want to study abroad and how the scholarship will help you reach this goal. Here are a few simple tips that will help your scholarship applications essay stand above the others.

• Be authentic. Why are essays a crucial part of a scholarship application? Because they are able to draw a picture of who you are as a person more so than just your transcripts, GPA, or test scores. So, show them your true self! Take the time to introduce yourself, explain who you are and how the study abroad experience will impact you academically, professionally and personally.
• Stay on topic. Address the prompt and don’t get side tracked. After each paragraph, go back and make sure that the information that you wrote in that paragraph is a necessary part of sharing your story. Any extra added details will only take away from your core message. Remember, a concise essay will be more impactful than one filled with“fluff”. Stick to the prompt and make sure you answer all the questions listed.
• Be specific. When writing about your accomplishments, experiences, or anything else about yourself, it’s important to illustrate a complete picture. This can achieved with the CAR method: First, provide the c ontext of the situation. Next, describe the a ction you took. Finally, share the r esults of the situation. Follow this method and the impact of the situations you describe will be very clear to the people that read your essay.
• Submit early. As a college student, you probably already know that technological problems often strike at the least convenient times. Therefore, it’s a good idea to get your essay submitted early so you can avoid any last minute inconveniences that come in between you and submitting a quality application on time. You can stay on top of your goal of submitting your essay early by setting a deadline to wrap up the writing process about two weeks prior to the actual submission deadline. Creating weekly reminders in your phone or planner will help you stay on track of your goal to submit your essay early. Also, finishing an essay early allows you the opportunity to…
• Have someone peer edit your essay. Typos and grammatical errors can escape even the most polished writer. Therefore, it doesn’t hurt to have another pair of eyes read your paper to pick up anything you’ve missed. In addition to scouring your essay for errors, the person proofreading your essay will also bring a fresh, new perspective to your work. They can pick out parts of your essay that seem wordy or unnecessary, suggest stronger word choices, or find a way to make your transitions flow a little bit better.

If your family or peers are too busy to read your essay, check with your university to see if they provide a service where students can have a writing consultant look over your work for free!

Now that you have the tools to write an outstanding essay, check out these study abroad scholarship opportunities !

Author: Amira Beasley

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Essay Writing for Study Abroad Scholarship

Essay Writing Tips for Study Abroad Scholarship

Fulfill your dream of studying abroad! Our free scholarship essay guide covers everything from opening and preparing to writing advice and problem-solving to revising, editing, and submitting your essay!

What you learn in Essay Writing for Study Abroad Scholarship ?

About this course.

This free course discusses the role a perfectly crafted essay plays in scholarship application and the key components of a winning essay. Starting right from topic selection, to writing techniques, it addresses common essay writing challenges and how to overcome them. To turn essays into compelling stories, it also discusses revision and editing techniques before your final submission.

• Course Outline

In this module, you will learn about scholarship essays, their significance, and their role in study abroad scholarships. Discover the key components, structure, and qualities that make an essay truly outstanding.

In this module, you will learn crucial pre-writing skills for scholarship essays. Explore topic selection, brainstorming, and understanding prompts, along with techniques for choosing compelling subjects and conducting accurate research.

In this module, you will learn essential writing techniques for scholarship essays. Explore crafting captivating introductions, setting the right tone, and engaging readers. Discover how to structure compelling arguments, support them with details, and use storytelling and personalization effectively.

In this module, you will learn strategies to tackle common essay challenges. Explore persuasive writing techniques, ways to overcome writer's block, meeting word limits, and addressing sensitive or personal topics with sensitivity and skill.

In this module, you will learn the crucial steps of revising and editing scholarship essays. Discover self-editing techniques, avoid common mistakes, and learn how to seek and incorporate constructive feedback for the final touches.

In this module, you will learn the essential steps of finalizing and submitting your scholarship essay. Explore the checklist before submission and understand the submission guidelines for a successful application process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the essay's purpose in a scholarship application?

To highlight your uniqueness, aspirations, and reasons for studying abroad, making you stand out to the committee.

Can I use the same essay for multiple applications?

Customize each essay for the specific scholarship, although you can recycle ideas.

What are key components of a successful essay?

An engaging start, clarity on your goals and study abroad's role, evidence of readiness, and a compelling conclusion.

How important are grammar and formatting?

Crucial. They reflect your effort and attention to detail, so proofread thoroughly.

Should I get feedback on my essay?

Yes, feedback can enhance your essay's alignment with the scholarship's criteria.

Will I have lifetime access to the free guide?

Yes, you will have lifetime access to this guide. 

How much does this guide on Essay Writing for Study Abroad Scholarship cost?

It is an entirely free guide from Great Learning Academy.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to find and win study abroad scholarships.

General Education

Studying abroad is one of the most exciting activities you can do as a college student, especially if you’ve never been abroad before or are trying to learn a foreign language. But like college, study abroad programs can cost a pretty penny, which is why you should definitely apply for study abroad scholarships.

In this guide, we'll go over how much study abroad programs typically cost, what kinds of study abroad scholarships are available and what these scholarships usually cover, how to find study abroad scholarships, and finally how to make your scholarship application stand out.

What Are Study Abroad Programs?

Study abroad programs allow a student, usually a college student, to attend a foreign college or university, typically for a semester, summer, or full school year. The purpose of study abroad programs is to broaden students’ horizons and expose them to new experiences and challenges by letting them live in a foreign country and adapt to another culture (and possibly another language).

Study abroad students typically earn college credit through the foreign institution they study at, which can then be transferred back to their home institution (exactly how these grades transfer will vary depending on the university).

As an example, in my spring semester as a junior at USC, I participated in a study abroad program with Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. There, I got to take a full class load, and those grades were later transferred to USC, ultimately appearing on my undergraduate transcript.

Some study abroad programs offer internship and/or volunteer opportunities or require them as part of the program. In addition, some programs might require you to live with a host family, whereas others will simply provide you with a dorm or apartment.

There are many benefits to study abroad programs besides merely exposing you to new cultures.

For one, you can put the experience on your resume, which might give you a leg up in your job applications after you graduate college, especially if you're thinking of working in an international setting or for a more globally minded business.

Studying abroad can also give a big boost to your language skills if you’re in a country whose language you’re trying to learn, particularly if you’re living with a host family that doesn’t speak any English!

Finally, all the experiences and challenges you’ll more than likely face abroad will help you mature and grow as a person. Ideally, you’ll become confident in your everyday abilities and learn to trust and rely on yourself even more than you were able to before you went abroad.

How Much Do Study Abroad Programs Cost?

As we’ve explained, there’s a huge array of study abroad programs out there. And these don’t just vary in length and location but also in cost.

A semester-long study abroad program will normally cost just as much as, if not more than, a semester at your home university.

Why? In addition to paying for study abroad tuition and fees, you’ll generally need to pay for things such as meal plans, housing, airfare, books, field trips, and foreign ATM fees.

The cost of your study abroad program will vary depending primarily on the following factors:

• Location of the foreign college: Private universities based in well-off countries mean higher tuition and living expenses
• Length of the program: The longer the program, the higher the cost
• Whether you get any study abroad scholarships: Such scholarships could be internal (via your home institution) or external (via the US government or other organization) ⁠— we'll talk more about them in the next section

Because there are so many types of study abroad programs out there, it's difficult to come up with an average cost of a program. According to GoAbroad.com, the average cost of a single semester-long study abroad program is around $18,000.

This website also offers an extensive analysis of the average costs of a wide array of study abroad programs around the world .

But the reality is that there’s huge variation in how much you’ll pay to study abroad.

Ultimately, how much you must pay to study abroad will depend on a lot of factors. But one thing is for sure: if you manage to snag a study abroad scholarship, you’ll be able to reduce the amount you have to pay overall —and that's a great feeling!

What Are Study Abroad Scholarships?

Study abroad programs can be pretty expensive ⁠— even more expensive than a semester at your home university.

The best way of countering these costs is to apply for (and hopefully win!) some study abroad scholarships. There are study abroad scholarships not just for undergraduates, but also for high school students (usually graduating seniors) and graduate students.

Here are the main categories of study abroad scholarships:

• Need-based scholarships: These are based purely on financial need. You’ll usually have to provide evidence of how much you have in your savings, how much your family makes, etc.
• Merit-based scholarships: These scholarships are based on your academic achievements, typically your college transcripts/GPA, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and essay(s).
• Program/school-specific scholarships: These scholarships are given out by specific study abroad programs or the schools running the programs. The CIEE scholarships and the CEA scholarships are two examples of this scholarship type.
• Language/location-specific scholarships: These scholarships are for students studying a particular language and/or in a particular country. Examples include the Boren Scholarship and the Critical Language Scholarship .
• Major-specific scholarships: These scholarships are geared toward students studying a certain field, such as art or STEM. One example is the Generation Google Scholarship for those interested in computer science.
• Scholarships for underrepresented minorities: These scholarships target those who are part of a minority group, such as a racial/ethnic group, women, people with disabilities, etc. For example, the Robert B. Bailey Scholarship and the Global Experiences Scholarships .
• Specialized scholarships: These scholarships are for students who meet specialized criteria, such as those who belong to a certain group, those with a unique interest or hobby, or those who complete a special requirement. Two examples are the Corinne Jeannine Schillings Scholarship and the Study Abroad Journal Scholarship .

As you can see, there’s a big variety of study abroad scholarships. This means that there's also wide variation in what costs scholarships can cover. For example, CEA offers travel vouchers for offsetting the costs of travel to and from your study abroad destination.

Most study abroad scholarships will give you a specific amount of money ⁠—often ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars ⁠— that can be applied to things such as tuition and fees, housing or homestays, meal plans, travel, books and other school supplies, etc.

Other scholarships might specify how and where you can use the award.

In terms of eligibility, whether you qualify for a study abroad scholarship will, once again, depend on the scholarship you apply for and its eligibility requirements.

• A high GPA ⁠—often a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA is required, though some scholarships, such as those given out by CEA, require upwards of a 3.7 !
• An impressive resume/CV, ideally with relevant work, leadership, or volunteer experience
• Strong letters of recommendation
• A compelling and well-written essay

How to Find Study Abroad Scholarships: 4-Step Guide

You know what kinds of study abroad scholarships exist, but how do you actually find ones you can apply for? In this section, we give you a step-by-step guide to help you track down the best study abroad scholarships for you.

• Step 1: Apply for FAFSA

First things first, every year before the new college academic year starts, you should apply for FAFSA , or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. With FAFSA, you can become eligible for government-funded loans or grants, which you can usually apply toward tuition and fees ⁠, including those of your study abroad program.

FAFSA can also tell you whether you're eligible for a work-study job , which lets you earn some extra cash at your home university before you go abroad.

Step 2: See If Your Study Abroad Program Offers Scholarships

Once you’ve decided which study abroad program you want to participate in, start doing research to see whether that program or the organization that runs it offers any study abroad scholarships to students.

Some popular organizations you’ll likely see running study abroad programs are the following:

For example, say you’re a current student at the University of Pittsburgh who's thinking of studying in Paris for a semester. This study abroad program in Paris is run by CIEE , so you should go directly to the CIEE website to see what study abroad scholarships they offer.

Step 3: Check Your School’s Funding Resources

Most universities have a wealth of resources and links you can use to help you find study abroad scholarships and summer study abroad scholarships.

I first advise getting on your home university’s official website and going to the study abroad programs pages. You should be able to find a section somewhere about funding for study abroad programs. For example, on the University of Michigan study abroad page , there are links for "U-M Funding" and "External Funding Sources."

You can also check your university’s general funding page to see whether there are any regular scholarships you might be able to apply toward study abroad.

Note that I recommend seeing whether you’re eligible for internal (university-based) scholarships before you start looking for external study abroad scholarships (see Step 4 for tips on doing this).

If you can’t find any scholarships on your school’s official website, make an appointment to see your study abroad advisor. They should be able to tell you what scholarships you're eligible for and which scholarships can be applied to which programs, countries/languages, and majors.

Your advisor might also have some suggestions for external funding resources you can use if funding isn’t available through the school or the program you want to do.

Step 4: Search for Study Abroad Scholarships Online

If you haven’t secured any funding through your home university or study abroad program, then it’s time to start looking outward at external study abroad scholarships.

The best way to find these, besides asking your school and study abroad advisor, is to search for them yourself online. Tons of study abroad scholarships and summer study abroad scholarships are available to high school, college, and graduate students.

You can use the following resources to browse study abroad scholarships and summer study abroad scholarships you might be eligible for:

• Abroad101 : One of the most detailed study abroad scholarships lists that organizes scholarships by program/organization
• Go Overseas : An annually updated list of the most popular study abroad scholarships
• Diversity Abroad : An extensive list of study abroad scholarships that mainly target first-generation, minority, and low-income students
• StudyAbroad.com : A long list of study abroad scholarships
• GoAbroad.com : A list of study abroad scholarships with updated information on eligibility, costs, deadlines, etc.

Note that when looking for scholarships, don’t feel the need to limit your searches to study abroad scholarships specifically — in actuality, many regular scholarships for college or graduate-level education can be applied toward study abroad programs, too.

As for regular scholarships that aren’t necessarily specific to study abroad (but might be able to be applied toward a study abroad program), here are some of the best search engines you can use:

• The College Board
• Scholarships.com

For more tips on how to find scholarships for college, check out our comprehensive guide .

6 Tips for a Great Study Abroad Scholarship Application

So far we've looked at how to find study abroad scholarships, but how can you ensure that you’re giving yourself your best shot at winning one? Below, we go over six crucial tips to keep in mind as you apply for study abroad scholarships and summer study abroad scholarships.

#1: Maintain a High GPA

One of the most important parts of your study abroad scholarship application will be your GPA (typically your undergraduate GPA, assuming you’re applying as a college student).

The majority of merit-based study abroad scholarships require a minimum 2.5 GPA ⁠— possibly a minimum 3.0 ⁠ — but your GPA should be a lot higher than this minimum if you really wish to stand apart from other applicants. A 3.5+ GPA will be your best bet, though the higher, the better!

More importantly, be sure that your major GPA (if you've already declared a major) is pretty high ⁠— ideally, 3.7+. This tip is crucial if you're applying for study abroad scholarships that are for students interested in particular majors or fields of study.

If your GPA isn’t super high but meets the minimum requirement, don’t feel discouraged. You can always make up for a lower GPA by strengthening other parts of your scholarship application.

#2: Write a Persuasive, Interesting Essay

Most merit-based study abroad scholarships require an essay or statement (possibly more than one) about your achievements, your goals, and your reasons for wanting to study abroad.

If you’re applying to a need-based scholarship, you might also have to submit an essay explaining your financial situation and how you plan to use the scholarship money to reach your goals.

The required essay length will vary depending on the scholarship, but you’ll usually have to write around one to two double-spaced pages.

Here’s an example of a basic study abroad scholarship essay prompt (this one's for the CIEE study abroad scholarships ):

In 300 words or less, explain to us how your CIEE program will impact your college experience and/or future career plans.

Other study abroad scholarship essay prompts might be more specific than this, especially if the scholarship is aimed at students who belong to a particular group or who are in a specific major.

One example of this is the current essay prompt for the API diversity scholarship :

Students are sometimes concerned about how they will be perceived in their host country and for some, it’s a matter of how their race, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, etc. will impact their experience.

Describe an encounter that demonstrates the importance of diversity to you and what significance it has for your study abroad experience in your respective host country. (2 pages maximum)

These are just some of the forms your study abroad scholarship essay prompt might take. Make sure to read the directions for your scholarships closely.

In addition, keep in mind the following essential tips as you write your scholarship essay:

• Take your time: Don’t rush the essay-writing process, as the essay is often one of the most important parts of the scholarship application. Carve out plenty of time for brainstorming ideas, writing, and editing.
• Be authentic: Write in a way that's true to your voice and who you are. Use anecdotes and be honest about why you want to study abroad and how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
• Be specific: Don’t just say you want this scholarship so you can study abroad and enjoy a different culture. Clearly explain why you want to go to this country, how the program will help you in your academic or professional goals, and what makes you the best candidate. Concrete examples and anecdotes are your friends!
• Edit your essay and have others help: Writing a scholarship essay and then immediately turning it in will likely doom you to rejection. Make sure you spend at least a few days editing and proofreading your essay, and have someone else, such as a parent or teacher, look it over, too.

#3: Get Glowing Letters of Recommendation

Some study abroad scholarships require you to submit one or more letters of recommendation, so you’ll need to make sure that your letters are top-quality and present you as a strong candidate for the scholarship.

In general, you'll want to ask a professor (or a teacher, if you're in high school) for a letter of recommendation. But which professors should you ask?

Here are the ideal types of professors to consider approaching about writing you a letter (note that you'll have an even stronger letter if a professor fits more than one of these criteria):

• A professor who knows you well and can speak to your specific strengths and goals
• A professor whose class(es) you've excelled in (even better if these classes are in your major!)
• A professor whom you’ve worked with outside of class on research or an extended project
• Your thesis or dissertation advisor (if you’re a grad student)

Although we have a separate guide on how to ask a teacher for a letter of recommendation , here’s a recap of some of the most important tips to keep in mind:

• Give your professor a lot of time to write it ⁠ —at minimum a month, but six weeks or longer is ideal.
• Ask in-person ⁠. Scheduling a face-to-face meeting to talk about the letter of recommendation will make you appear more mature, confident, and prepared. It also gives you time to discuss the nitty-gritty of the scholarship.
• Give your professor lots of information ⁠. Writing a letter of recommendation is no easy feat, so be sure to provide your writer with info about the scholarship, the program, the deadlines, and yourself (e.g., your resume/CV, unofficial transcripts, essay draft, etc.).
• Check in often via email. Once your professor has agreed to write you a recommendation letter, make an effort to keep in touch and check in every so often on their progress on your letter. It’s also a smart idea to send a polite reminder for the letter submission deadline as it draws nearer.

#4: Find Ways to Showcase Your Talents and Skills

Many study abroad scholarships require you to submit a resume/CV ⁠— ideally one that illustrates your strengths, accomplishments, and talents.

You’re in charge of what goes on your resume, so think about the most impressive items you could put on yours (that are also relevant to the study abroad scholarships you’re applying for).

For example, if you’re an engineering major applying for an engineering scholarship, you should highlight specific engineering- or STEM-related extracurriculars, accomplishments, and skills you have, such as participation in your school’s engineering club or an award you received at a math competition.

Here are some ideas for what you could put on your resume:

• Volunteer experience
• Internship/work/research experience
• School clubs you’re in
• Awards/honors/scholarships you’ve won
• Organizations you’re an active member of
• Languages you know or are learning
• Other relevant proficiencies/skills

For specific examples of accomplishments you could put on your resume, check out our list of 70+ academic honors examples .

I also recommend looking at our sample resumes and CVs and our free resume and CV templates . Even though these articles are mainly for those applying to graduate school and not study abroad scholarships, most of the tips and examples in them should still apply to you!

#5: Take Your Time

One of the most important tips to remember as you work on your applications for study abroad scholarships is to not rush them.

These applications can take a long time to complete, especially if you need to write more than one essay, so give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, gather all the materials you'll need, and check your application before you submit it.

It’s best to give yourself at least a few months to work on applications and a minimum of six weeks (since you’ll most likely need to get a letter of recommendation).

If you’re applying for multiple study abroad scholarships, you'll definitely want to keep track of all your scholarship deadlines. Put on your calendar or in your planner every upcoming scholarship deadline along with the name of the scholarship so you don’t miss any crucial dates or accidentally confuse two different scholarship deadlines for each other.

#6: Ask Someone to Look Over Your Application

Our last tip is to get someone you trust, such as a parent, a friend, or a professor, to look over your study abroad scholarship applications before you submit them. This tip is especially important if you have an essay component because having someone else read it will ensure it has no obvious errors or inaccuracies.

Make sure the person who is checking your application knows exactly what kinds of materials were required for it, such as whether it needed official transcripts or an essay of a particular length.

Once you get the green light from the person, look over your study abroad scholarship app one last time, referring to the application instructions as needed, before you submit it.

Recap: How to Get Study Abroad Scholarships

Studying abroad can be an amazing experience for college students, and one that I myself highly recommend doing.

But as we know, study abroad programs can be pretty costly, especially if you don’t have any scholarships to help you out. This is why it’s vital that you apply for as many study abroad scholarships as possible.

Many kinds of study abroad scholarships are available, from those based purely on financial need to those that target students in specific minority groups or specific majors.

For most merit-based study abroad scholarships, you’ll need to have the following to be a strong candidate:

• A high GPA (3.5+ is ideal)
• A well-written essay
• An impressive resume/CV
• Step 2: See if your study abroad program offers any scholarships
• Step 3: Check your school’s funding resources
• Step 4: Search for study abroad scholarships online
• Maintain a high GPA
• Write a persuasive, interesting essay
• Get glowing letters of recommendation
• Find ways to showcase your talents and skills
• Take your time
• Ask someone to look over your application

After reading this, you should be well on your way to winning some study abroad scholarships!

What’s Next?

Most people study abroad in college but what about in high school? Read our expert guide to figure out if studying abroad in high school is right for you .

Part of having an impressive study abroad scholarship application is achieving great grades. Learn what an impressive high school GPA is and what the average college GPA is by major .

Looking for other college scholarships? Then check out these amazing full-ride scholarships you could win for college !

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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How to Write a Scholarship Essay for Study Abroad

Study Abroad Scholarships | Updated 15 Jan, 2024

The opportunity to  study abroad can be exciting, invigorating, and can help you attain educational experience. Living abroad and discovering new things can change your perspective on life but many students wonder how they can afford to pay for the costs associated with study abroad courses. Traveling to other countries is not cheap, and living there can be expensive.  

Follow these few tips to enhance your scholarship essay for study abroad. Here, scholarships play a significant role as they can help you cut down on extra expenses. Of course, receiving a scholarship cannot be guaranteed just because you ask for one. So, you have to create a scholarship application essay that will help you stand out from your competitors. To get ahead of the competition, you need to excel through the quality of your writing. Remember, many scholarships have thousands of applicants all looking for the same money. You need to be the best of them. To help you stand out, we’ve assembled a few tips that can make your study abroad essay has a powerful impact.

Tips for Writing a Classy Scholarship Essay 

a. Write with passion and use the words from your heart:  First things first, make sure that the essay you will write is veracious and captures your real self. Only by being honest and sharing your inner self with your readers can convey your passion for studying abroad. If you try too hard to write an essay, assessors will know as   writing is an art and must come from within the heart. Falseness is always detectable, and it will make it more difficult for the scholarship committee to evaluate who you are. Be yourself and use your feelings and emotions to honestly explain why you deserve the scholarship.            

b. Write what you know, not what they want to hear:  When you write, focus on your own experiences and the unique perspective you bring through your writing. An authentic essay is worth more than all the Google research in the world. You should always write the truth about your own experiences, and that means that you need to avoid faking facts, embellishing stories, or relying on outside research to report on events you did not personally experience. The committee will not care whether you can research a topic or report on other people’s lives. They want to hear from and about you.            

c. Always read the essay question carefully before you begin:  Scholarship essay questions are often broad and intentionally allows a variety of responses. However, that does not mean you can write about anything with no rules whatsoever. Instead, you need to read your essay question carefully and review it to determine what you need to include in the essay to meet the requirements. An off-topic essay will end up in the discard pile. You would not want to lose out on the scholarship money because you did not write on the right subject. 

d. Do not settle for your first draft:  When you finish writing the first draft of your essay, congratulate yourself for completing the first step. But that does not mean you have finished writing. Never send your first draft. Consider it as an invitation to the circular file — the trash can. Other students will spend hours or even days editing and perfecting their essays, and you should, too. Take the time to carefully revise each sentence and paragraph to make sure everything is as perfect as it can be. Ask yourself at each stage whether the words are clear and whether the audience will understand what you mean. Spare yourself extra time to fully revise your essay. After all, the first draft is never the best. There is always room to improve. 

e. Take inspiration from great essays:  You cannot learn to write well without being a great reader. Review collections of great essays to find inspiration for your own. Doing so can provide you with the tools you need to develop for intense writing and have a better instinctive knowledge of the best way to start an essay. But there is one thing you need to be careful about i.e. when you read numerous essays, there may be a tendency to unconsciously mirror what you have read. Be sure that you are not plagiarizing any of the essays that you read. You would not want your essay to turn out to be so close to a well-known essay that the scholarship committee will recognize the text or the essay you are referring to. There have been multiple cases where a scholarship applicant has been caught borrowing too much from popular essays.

f. Seek professional help:  If you find yourself completely at a loss and need help to write your papers, turn on to a professional essay writing service like WriteMyPaperHub. These online writing companies use professionals to produce custom-written papers that can set you apart from the crowd. When you need a little help or are looking to hire someone to create great writing for you, feel free to contact a reputable service and say: I want to  pay someone to write my essay  like experts from WriteMyPaperHub do online.

Stop Trying — Get Things Done

When writing a scholarship essay, your major goal is to put the substance over the form. Yes, the form is important, as it plays a major role in any academic assignment. There are rules in the academic world, and it is a good idea not to forget about them if you want yourself in. However, formality should not go before the substance of what you have to say about yourself in a scholarship essay. You need to understand that 98% of candidates are applying for the same spot with a similar background, equivalent grades, and test scores. For a scholarship committee member, you all look very alike, and your major task is to look different in a good way. Follow the tips above, but do not forget about your own experience. At this point, you already have written some essays — more and less successfully. Choose the most successful articles and analyze what you did right. It is the best way to determine your strengths and use them to achieve another bigger goal.

Note:  WeMakeScholars  is an organization funded and supported by the Government of India that focuses on International Education finance. We are associated with 10+ public/Pvt banks/ NBFCs in India and help you get the best abroad education loan matching your profile. As this initiative is under the Digital India campaign, it’s at free of cost. The organization has vast experience dealing with students going to various abroad education destinations the US, Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Italy, China, France  among others.

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Gilman Scholarship Essay Tips from an Alum

Uc merced study abroad stories of interest.

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is due Tues, Oct 3. We heard from a UC Merced and UC Education Abroad Program returnee and Gilman Scholar recently who had some very down-to-earth advice on the statement of purpose essay requirement for prospective Gilman applicants.

UC Merced is considered by many to be the most diverse campus in the University of California system, and our students are well-positioned as potential Gilman applicants:

• UC Merced is designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI)
• 61% of our students are Pell Grant recipients (fall 2013)
• 65% of our students are first-generation (fall 2014)
• In terms of enrollment by ethnicity our campus demographic consists mostly of students traditionally underrepresented within study abroad
• And so many other areas are considered for the scholarship

A recent Gilman Scholar had this to say about writing the statement of purpose:

If you’re a first-generation college student, “try using the fact that you’re a first generation college student in a … genuine and advantageous way. What were some of the struggles of being a first generation college student? Simply stating that you are a first generation college student does not qualify you for the scholarship; the point is to relay certain struggles you’ve had being a first generation college student.”

“I would home in on struggles you have had leading up to studying abroad; you have to think about it in the perspective of the people giving you the scholarship. What makes you eligible for the scholarship? Why would they give you money and not someone else who is in financial need? What would you use the money for?”

“Research more about [your host country] and talk about why you want to go there in the first place. … What about the culture, land, and country are you going to be benefiting from? What makes it crucial to your career path?”

“I would address things like: what is the program you are going to take part in? How are you going to incorporate studying abroad into your future goals? What skills might you be achieving by studying abroad? How will you be involved when you study abroad?” Talk about “hardships and struggles!”

And on the follow-on service project proposal:

“[D]on’t be afraid to get creative! They love it when students are creative. For instance, I had a friend (also a Gilman Scholar) who created a cookbook of the country’s food where she also wrote about cultural things. I … wrote and did a 365 photo project. Don’t be afraid to propose something fun; it shows that you’re passionate about being in the country that you’re going to.”

Need more help and tips ?

Learn more about study abroad scholarships .

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6 Tips for a Stellar Study Abroad Scholarship Application

• Phoebe Skok - [email protected]

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• Laura Margoni - [email protected]

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Are you intrigued by the thought of studying, working or teaching abroad? Want to learn about geology in the Swiss Alps , do hands-on research in the Galapagos or analyze the impacts of natural disasters in Taiwan ? Then you should think about applying for the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship , a distinguished federally funded study abroad program aiming to increase access to global experiences. 

Started in 2001, the scholarship program provides historically underrepresented students with the opportunity to study abroad and gain a global perspective. Students who are U.S. citizens and receive the Pell Grant are eligible for the scholarship, and can get up to $5,000 in federal funding toward studying abroad. 

With application deadlines in March and October, it’s never too early or too late to apply and get a jumpstart on the global adventure of a lifetime. But, competition can be fierce: approximately one out of four applicants are accepted to the program. UC San Diego is a 20-year Gilman top producer for large institutions, making it the perfect place for you to give it a shot. Preparing a stellar application package is key—here are some tips and tricks for success.

1. Take advantage of available resources 

UC San Diego’s Study Abroad Office is well-versed in helping students craft high-quality applications for the Gilman Scholarship. Twenty-seven students from UC San Diego were awarded the scholarship for the last application cycle; the university is a Top 20 Gilman Scholar Producing Institution. 

“Throughout January and February, we offer weekly scholarship essay writing workshops,” explained Andra Jacques, the Global Partnerships and Programs Manager at the Study Abroad office. The Study Abroad office partners with the OASIS Language Arts Tutorial Services to offer comprehensive instruction on essay content and structure. Additionally, the staff work one-on-one with students to further develop their essays. 

Jacques, a veteran study abroad educator and a two-time Fulbright alum, has worked with hundreds of students to develop their essays. Having also served on the Gilman Scholarship Review Committee, she has unique insight into what makes an application stand out. 

“Our 90-minute workshops are really helpful for students to get their brain juices flowing and help them feel less overwhelmed,” Jacques said. “Attendees build mind maps around how a global experience fits into their goals and how to draft a narrative around their past, their present and their hopes for the future. We’ve had a very high application success rate for students who attend the workshops.”

2. Workshop, workshop, workshop

The bulk of the application is the three essays: a personal statement, a statement on building mutual understanding and a follow-on service project proposal. Students often feel daunted by the essays; telling your story in a limited word count can be intimidating. Still, sometimes all it takes to start an impactful essay is just putting words on a page. 

“Scholarship committees read a lot of essays; they really want to know who you are and why you’re pursuing study abroad,” Jacques said, noting that the Study Abroad office specializes in helping students determine what parts of their personal journey were critical to where they are now and how to share their story in a compelling way. In addition to Jacques, several other Study Abroad Office Advisors have served on the Gilman Review committee as well.

Don’t be afraid to write, and rewrite. Telling your own story can be tricky and even scary; sometimes, you might need to try again from another angle. After all, the personal statement is meant to be just that—personal.  

3. Brainstorm: how does a global experience fit into your life story and future goals?

Another goal of the Gilman Scholarship is to further cross-cultural understanding at home and abroad. Applicants must write a “Building Mutual Understanding” essay focusing on how they will represent themselves and the United States while abroad and what they plan to bring back from their host country to their community and beyond.

Senior Nhat Pham felt overwhelmed when first starting the essay, but ultimately crafted a statement he was proud of. Pham, who is currently studying abroad at Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan through UCEAP's Engineering and Science program, found it helpful to break down his essay into three components: how he would interact with the university and its programs, the university’s culture and possible community service opportunities that could benefit his host city and country, as well as American-Japanese relations. 

“I ultimately settled on the theme of connection and adaptability,” Pham explained, noting that he related his experiences as a Vietnamese American to help illustrate his eagerness to learn and adapt to an unfamiliar culture while also showcasing American diversity and goodwill. 

His recommendations? After researching the university, program and surrounding area, imagine yourself in the environment and how you might thrive. There’s no one meaning for “building mutual recognition,” and it might look different depending on the country and the program. 

“ Learning a foreign language is also an act of building mutual recognition, so activities such as language exchange or taking language classes can help one interact with the local students,” Pham said. “Don’t be afraid to be creative in crafting your essay to show your enthusiasm about your chosen program and how you represent American goodwill to the world.”

4. Decide where you want to go. And why you want to go there

When the world is wide and opportunities are everywhere, landing on a host country, city and institution can be difficult. One way to help narrow down your choices is to hone in on your goals for studying abroad and what you hope to get out of the experience. 

“Whether it’s research, learning another language or just general academics, consider what countries can help you achieve your goals,” Pham said. He knew he wanted to choose a year-long program with a strong emphasis on research. As a mathematics major, he was interested in working with leading Japanese math professors and experiencing a different math environment than what he’s had in the U.S.

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“I was also interested in living in Sendai as well, since it’s not as well-known a city compared to other big cities in Japan,” Pham added. “And, Tohoku University is one of the top public research institutions in Japan, so it also augments my research work quite well.”

5. Establish a clear and specific service project 

Just as Gilman Scholars grow personally while abroad, they help their communities grow too. Upon returning home, Gilman Scholars create educational projects reflecting on their time abroad to share with their peers. Applicants submit a project proposal for this “follow-on service project” as part of their application package. 

“Students have to think critically about how they want to use their time abroad to offer their community a global perspective,” Jacques said, noting that project proposals might range from information sessions with a church or club to a study abroad blog. “Gilman is really about having this wonderful global experience and encouraging others to join as well.”

Pham designed his project with Poway High School’s AVID program, a system for underserved middle and high school students that aims to help close the achievement gap and prepare students for higher education. An alumnus of his high school’s program and a former AVID tutor, Pham knew that while the program readied students for college, studying abroad wasn’t really talked about as an option. He wants to change that. 

“My project focuses on introducing students in AVID to the Gilman Scholarship and inspire the student body to pursue study abroad in college to improve their knowledge and experience in our interconnected world,” Pham said, adding that he hopes to scale his project to be school-wide and potentially district-wide. “For many low-income and first-generation students who are Pell-eligible, I want them to become familiar with Gilman Scholarship and the financial help available to those students”

6. Spend time crafting a strong application

At first glance, the Gilman Scholarship application can seem like an enormous undertaking, especially in the middle of the quarter. Still, Jacques cautions, don’t let writing the essays burden you or discourage you from applying to the scholarship. The time spent crafting a solid application is well worth it for the chance at a $5,000 award and the experience of a lifetime.

“Let’s say you spend 10 hours total working on your Gilman application,” Jacques said. “When you receive the scholarship, you’ll effectively have earned $500 an hour - that’s a great deal. The time commitment on the front end is definitely worth it because the payoff can be great in the end.”

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Top 18 Study Abroad Tips

November 21, 2023

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As you prepare for the study abroad adventure of a lifetime, consider our inside study abroad tips to make your experience smoother.  

Follow along as we break down our tips for studying abroad into five categories: Study abroad application tips, study abroad essay tips, studying abroad packing tips, safety tips, and even a few pointers once you’re on program.  

Read More: Your Study Abroad FAQs [Answered!]

Study Abroad Application Tips  

Our CIEE study abroad application is pretty straightforward. You can even watch a few of our application FAQ videos to help you with the process.  

Here, we’ve highlighted a few key tips when filling out your application.

Tip #1: Get expert advice.

Before you start your study abroad application, it’s a good idea to check in with your school’s study abroad office and academic advisor to ensure your study abroad plans align with your academic goals and discuss any additional details. They might even offer some of their own tips for studying abroad!  

Tip #2: Fill out the scholarships and grants portion of your application.  

To assist with the cost of your study abroad program, pay close attention to the scholarships and grants portion of your application. We break down our scholarships and grants into three categories:  

• Need-Based: Offered to students with demonstrated financial need
• Merit-Based: Offered to students with strong academic achievement  
• Other: Offered to students based on alumni status or specific program choice

See what type of financial support you may be eligible for!  

Read More: Study Abroad Scholarships: Everything You Need to Know

Tip #3: Keep track of important deadlines.  

This is one of our most important study abroad tips: Stay organized throughout the application process; including keeping track of important deadlines. Depending on the study abroad program you choose, your deadlines will vary. Mark them on a calendar, schedule reminders on your phone, and do whatever else to help ensure you fill out your application on time!  

And if you have any questions, feel free to contact us . We’re happy to help.

Tip #4: Obtain your passport and visa as soon as you can.  

If you don’t already have your passport when you start your CIEE study abroad application, take the necessary steps to get one, or renew an existing one as soon as possible. And depending on the length of your study abroad program, you’ll likely need a visa as well. We recommend having your passport and visa in hand six to nine months before you take flight.  

Study Abroad Essay Tips  

The essay is an integral part of the CIEE study abroad application. Note a few of our study abroad essay tips to help you craft a meaningful narrative – you got this!  

Read More: How Do I Write a Personal Statement for Study Abroad?

Tip #5: Find your why.  

Before writing your study abroad essay, identify what you’re truly passionate about. Getting to know you and learning more about your interests is important when assessing study abroad applicants, and getting personal will help provide context about how a study abroad experience will benefit you.  

Read More: What are Your Goals for Studying Abroad?

Tip #6: Explore how your passions translate to your future.  

After identifying what you’re passionate about, discuss how you plan on practicing your interests in the future, either as a career or as a meaningful hobby. For example, you might have set your sights on continuing your education and learning more about a specific subject area .  

Tip #7: Align your goals with a CIEE Study Abroad program.  

This is where you put it all together: After detailing your passions and how you want to incorporate them into your future, pinpoint which CIEE study abroad program will help you fulfill your goals.

Read More: Why Study Abroad? Top 7 Benefits of Studying Abroad

Your study abroad essay is really a chance for us to get to know you and learn more about why a study abroad experience will enrich your personal, academic, and even career goals. Our study abroad essay tips will help you assemble your thoughts in one impactful piece!  

Study Abroad Packing Tips  

Before you jet off to your study abroad destination, you’ll want to know what to stuff in your suitcase. Let’s dive into some of our study abroad packing tips.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Your Study Abroad Packing List (10 Essential Items!)

Tip #8: Make copies of the essentials.  

To be extra careful, it’s a good idea to make copies of your essential documents, like your passport, driver’s license, and travel insurance, before you go.  

Tip #9: Pack comfortable walking shoes.  

When you study abroad, you’re going to explore a lot. And that usually means walking nearly everywhere. That’s why one of our top study abroad packing tips is to include comfortable walking shoes to make your treks more enjoyable! Save your nicer pair of shoes for the occasional night out.  

Tip #10: Look up the country’s currency ahead of time.  

You’ll want to bring some cash along with you for souvenirs, a few meals out, and more. And that means converting your U.S. dollars to the currency available in your study abroad destination. A country’s currency is relatively easy to find online. For example, much of Europe uses the Euro, Japan uses the Japanese yen, and Australia uses the Australian dollar.  

Tip #11: Download a few language learning apps or pack a language book.  

While you’re not required to know the official language of your study abroad destination, it’s a smart idea to at least familiarize yourself with common words and phrases in the language that is widely spoken there so you can better communicate with locals and navigate your new international city while on program.  

Try downloading a few language learning apps or including a language book in your packing list – this will go a long way!  

Study Abroad Safety Tips  

Just like when you visit any new place, you want to be aware of your surroundings and follow any safety guidelines in an unfamiliar environment. The same goes for your study abroad program. While CIEE offers best-in-class safety and a 24/7 support team , it’s always smart to travel as safely as possible. Note a few of our study abroad safety tips here.  

Tip #12: Avoid traveling alone at night.  

No matter where you visit, it’s always best to avoid traveling alone at night. When you’re exploring after the sun sets, try tagging along with friends, or at the very least, let a few friends know where you’re going and what you’re up to.  

Tip #13: Keep valuable items on your person.  

When you’re adventuring throughout your study abroad location , it’s a good idea to keep valuable and important items, like your driver’s license or cash, in a secure location on your person – like a crossbody bag, fanny pack (also known as a waist pack), or backpack. You can even get a padlock. It’s always best practice, no matter where you are in the world, to keep valuable items close to you and in safe gear.  

Tip #14: Ensure your tech is always charged.  

Another vital thing to look up before your travels is which type of electrical outlets your new international city has. Y ’ll want to buy some converters to make sure you can charge your electronics, like your cellphone and laptop or tablet, in your new study abroad location.

And as a study abroad safety tip, it’s important to keep your tech charged at all times, just so you’ll always have a way of communicating with others, looking up directions if you get lost exploring, or researching available emergency contact numbers in your new city if ever needed.  

Tips for Study Abroad on Program  

We’ve compiled a few bonus study abroad tips, too – particularly for when you’re actually on your study abroad program!  

Tip #15: Budget as much as possible.  

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a study abroad program; trying delicious new restaurants, spending nights out, and visiting obscure museums with high fees might get out of hand quickly. Try to be mindful of your spending during your program and try to budget as much as possible.  

Utilize the public transportation system in your new international city, grocery shop when you can and try making culturally authentic recipes at home, take advantage of any possible student discounts, and download apps like Ryanair for more affordable plane tickets. You can navigate your study abroad destination in a cost-effective way – it might just take some research ahead of time to find the best deals! 

Read More: Budgeting Tips and How to Afford Studying Abroad  

Tip #16: Get to know the locals.

Studying abroad is an authentic experience; you’ll get to meet people from all over the world and dive into new cultures. And a really great way to deepen your global perspective even further is by getting to know the locals.  

When you find yourself out and about, start conversations with others respectfully and thoughtfully – you’ll learn more about their views and backgrounds, and most importantly, you’ll be making connections throughout the world.  

Tip #17: Find some hidden gems.  

In addition to the courses and cultural excursions in your CIEE program, when you live and study in a new place, you’ll get to do lots of exploring on your own. Try to find some lesser-known sites and attractions and uncover a few hidden gems during your study abroad adventure. It’ll make your experience even more exciting.  

Tip #18: Document your experience in a travel journal.  

Our last, but certainly not least, tip for studying abroad is to document your study abroad experience in a travel journal or similar log. Journaling your experience will serve as a pretty cool keepsake to look back on and help you reflect on and enrich your experience during your study abroad program. Include photos, postcards, and little mementos like receipts to make it fun!  

Get on Your Way

Studying abroad is the experience of a lifetime, and following our study abroad tips and advice will help you better prepare and enjoy the experience that much more. Use these recommendations – no matter where you decide to travel – as study abroad Europe tips, study abroad Australia tips, and more!  

Bon voyage!  

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Mastering the art of securing scholarships to study abroad: A step-by-step guide

Sign up to know more about study abroad Scholarships

Scholarships are a great way for international students to finance their education and pursue their academic and career aspirations. Scholarships not only provide financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses, but also offer opportunities to network with scholars, researchers, and professionals from around the world.

However, with the high level of competition, standing out in scholarship applications can be a daunting task. In order to maximise their chances of securing a scholarship, international students need to go beyond just meeting the basic requirements and demonstrate their passion, commitment, and potential to excel.

In this guide, we will explain how to get scholarships to study abroad, and tips to master the art of securing scholarships to study abroad.

Table of Contents

1. research, 2. prepare your application materials, 3. improve your language skills, 4. build your network, 5. write a compelling essay, 6. prepare for interviews, 7. submit your application, 8. stay persistent, 1. start early, 2. research thoroughly, 3. focus on your strengths, 4. customise your application, 5. write a strong essay, 6. ask for recommendations, 7. follow the guidelines, 8. prepare for the interview, frequently asked questions, how to get scholarships to study abroad.

Securing scholarships to study abroad can be a competitive process, but with proper planning and execution, it is possible to increase your chances of success.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of securing scholarships to study abroad:

To start the process, you need to research the available scholarships that are relevant to your field of study and destination country. Begin by looking at the websites of universities, organisations, and government agencies that offer scholarships. Check with your academic advisor, professors, and peers to identify additional sources of funding. Ensure that you carefully read the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines for each scholarship you are interested in.

Once you have identified the scholarships you want to apply for, start preparing your application materials. Most scholarships require transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and a resume or curriculum vitae (CV). Ensure that you carefully read the instructions for each scholarship and tailor your application materials accordingly.

Make sure that your transcripts reflect your academic achievements and that your essays clearly explain your interest in the program and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals. Your recommendation letters should be from professors, mentors, or professionals in your field who can attest to your abilities and potential.

If the scholarship requires proficiency in the language of instruction in your chosen program, it is essential to improve your language skills. You can take language courses or immerse yourself in the language by practising with native speakers. This can also demonstrate your commitment and interest in the program and your destination country.

Networking is an essential part of securing scholarships. Reach out to professors, mentors, and professionals in your field of study to learn about potential scholarship opportunities. Attend networking events and conferences to meet people who may be able to provide you with valuable information and support. Join online groups and forums related to your field of study to connect with others who share your interests.

Many scholarships require applicants to submit an essay or personal statement. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for your chosen field of study, your goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Ensure that you carefully follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the scholarship provider. Your essay should be well-written, free of errors, and tailored to the scholarship you are applying for.

Some scholarships require applicants to participate in an interview. Prepare for these interviews by researching the scholarship provider, practising your responses to common interview questions, and dressing professionally. Prepare to discuss your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and future plans.

Once you have completed your application materials, carefully review them to ensure that they are complete and accurate. Submit your application by the deadline and follow up with the scholarship provider to confirm that they have received your materials. Keep a record of the scholarships you have applied for and their deadlines.

Securing scholarships can be a competitive process, and it may take multiple applications to secure one. If you are not selected for a scholarship, do not give up. Continue to improve your application materials, network, and language skills, and apply for other scholarships that you are eligible for. Stay persistent, and eventually, you will find success.

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Tips to master the art of securing scholarships to study abroad

Securing scholarships to study abroad can be a competitive process, but there are several tips that can help you master the art of scholarship applications and increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you get started:

It's important to start researching scholarships and preparing your application as early as possible. Many scholarships have early application deadlines, so it's essential to start your research and planning well in advance.

Spend time researching different scholarships and their eligibility requirements. Look for scholarships offered by universities, governments, private organisations, foundations, and corporations. Use scholarship databases such as International Scholarships, ScholarshipPortal, and International Education Financial Aid to help you find suitable scholarships.

Highlight your strengths, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities in your scholarship application. Emphasise how these experiences have prepared you for studying abroad and why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship.

Customise your scholarship application to match the eligibility criteria of the scholarship. Make sure your application addresses the specific requirements of the scholarship, and avoid submitting a generic application for multiple scholarships.

A strong scholarship essay can make all the difference in your application. Take time to write a clear, concise, and compelling essay that highlights your achievements, personal background, career goals, and why you deserve the scholarship. Make sure your essay stands out from other applicants.

Ask for letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or other individuals who know you well and can provide a positive assessment of your academic and personal achievements. Make sure you give them enough time to write the letter and provide them with the necessary information to make it effective.

Make sure you follow all the guidelines and instructions for the scholarship application. Check and double-check your application before submitting it to ensure you have included all the necessary documents and met all the eligibility requirements.

If you are invited for an interview, prepare well in advance. Research the scholarship provider and their selection process, and practise your interview skills with friends or family members.

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Mastering the art of securing scholarships to study abroad requires strategic planning, research, and strong application skills. Understanding the different types of scholarships available, eligibility criteria, and application requirements can significantly increase the chances of securing a scholarship. With the right approach and resources, students can unlock the doors to some of the most prestigious universities in the world and achieve their academic and professional goals.

1. What types of scholarships are available for studying abroad?

There are a variety of scholarships available for studying abroad, including those offered by universities, governments, private organisations, foundations, and corporations. Scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, or a combination of these.

2. When should I start applying for scholarships?

It's best to start researching and applying for scholarships as early as possible, as many scholarships have early application deadlines. Ideally, you should start the process at least 6-12 months before you plan to begin your studies abroad.

3. How can I find scholarships to study abroad?

You can find scholarships to study abroad by researching online scholarship databases, contacting your university's study abroad office, checking with your government or the government of the country you want to study in, and looking for scholarships offered by private organisations or corporations.

4. What should I include in my scholarship application?

Your scholarship application should include your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal background, and career goals. Make sure to highlight how your experiences have prepared you for studying abroad and why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship.

5. How can I make my scholarship application stand out?

To make your scholarship application stand out, make sure to customise your application to match the eligibility criteria of the scholarship, write a strong essay that highlights your achievements and personal background, and ask for recommendations from individuals who know you well and can provide a positive assessment of your achievements.

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Immerse Education Essay Competition 2024

Published: 09 Apr 2024 272 views

The Immerse Education Essay Competition provides the opportunity for students aged 13-18 to submit essay responses to a question of their choice relating to a subject of interest. There are over twenty questions to choose from which can be found in the full Essay Competition Guide. 10 winners will receive a 100% scholarship to study at a world-leading university of their choosing. Outstanding runners-up also receive partial scholarships.

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About Immerse Education

Essay competition, aim and benefits of essay competition, requirements for essay competition qualification, application deadline, how to apply.

Immerse Education was founded in 2012 with the aim of providing students aged 13-18 with unparalleled educational experiences. We have educated thousands of students through our exceptional academic enrichment programmes in the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge University, University College London and the University of Sydney. Check out our courses in Cambridge, Oxford, London, Sydney and Online courses. At Immerse, we are committed to the highest quality of education. Our programmes are unique in their focus on academic rigour, stimulating our participant&rsqu... continue reading

• Funded scholarship to study abroad:  The essay competition offers students like you the chance to win a full or partial scholarship to one of their Online Programmes or residential programmes in locations such as Oxford, Cambridge, Sydney, London and more.
• Ongoing support from Immerse while you write:  Full support from the team as you write your essay, with free guides and top tips to help you along the way. Sign up to receive the full Essay competition Guide and free tips and tricks as you write.
• Demonstrate what you know:  The competition is a chance for you to demonstrate your content knowledge by answering advanced university-style questions.
• Build your skills and knowledge:  The opportunity to apply and advance your essay writing skills. You will likely learn something new in the process!
• Develop your self-discipline:  A chance to strengthen your self-discipline as you commit to a challenging project and complete it from start to finish.
• 1st place: 10 winners will receive a 100% scholarship.
• Runners Up will be awarded partial scholarships of up to 50% to study their chosen subject with Immerse. The number of runners-up will be determined by the number of entries received and the quality of the work submitted. Usually, around 7% of entrants receive scholarship funding to attend an Immerse programme.
• The Immerse Education Essay Competition is open to students worldwide of all nationalities.
• You must be aged between 13-18 during your chosen programme.
• Be interested in all subjects, from Architecture to Medicine, Creative Writing to Film Studies.

For more details, visit  Immerse Education website

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Essay on Viksit Bharat: A Path to India’s Development

• Updated on  
• Apr 5, 2024

Essay on Viksit Bharat: The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, has an ambition for India; that is to make India a ‘Developed Country’. The Leader has stated that every action of an Indian civilian should be done to make India a developed country; that is, Viksit Bharat.

The formal launch of the Viksit Bharat Mission was a major milestone in India’s development. It is an opportunity for India to show its true potential and become a developed country by 2047, which will complete the 100 years of India’s independence. With the rapid development in major sectors of the economy , experts have predicted that this mission will be accomplished within its time limit. 

This Blog Includes:

Viksit bharat history, viksit bharat key objectives, developments so far.

Quick Read: Essay on Digital India

On 11 December 2023, the Indian Prime Minister launched the Viksit Bharat @2047 scheme via a video conferencing platform. In this video conference, he declared the formal launch of this scheme along with its four pillars: Yuva (Youth), Garib (Poor), Mahila (Women) and Kisan (Framers).

Viksit Bharat represents a blueprint for India’s development. It aims to achieve the ‘India Great’ target by the year 2047; which was termed as ‘Amrit Kaal’. On 3rd March 2024, the Prime Minister chaired the Council of Ministers, where he talked about a plan for the next five years to work on the ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision.

He stated that if the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) forms a government after the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the government will aim to make India a global power in terms of economic growth, social development, technological innovations and soft diplomacy. 

‘ Today, the goal of the country is Viksit Bharat, Shrestha Bharat!’ – PM Narendra Modi

The Viksit Bharat has been the prime focus of the NDA. The Prime Minister has expressed his ministry’s action plan to make India a developed nation by 2047. The immediate objectives of the Viksit Bharat scheme are economic growth and sustainable development goals, better standard of living, ease of doing business, infrastructure, social welfare, etc.

To achieve the Viksit Bharat objectives, the Indian Prime Minister aims to enable every Indian citizen to participate in the country’s development at their own level. PM Modi’s vision is strong and sustainable, where every individual will be offered decent living standards and an opportunity to serve their mother country. 

The government is encouraging investors to invest in India for advanced economic growth in the subsequent years. The sub-schemes launched under this mission show the government’s dedication to creating a favourable environment for economic growth and business development.

The government is constantly encouraging the youth to actively participate in the government’s schemes and engage in entrepreneurial activities. With schemes like Startup India, Made in India, and Digital India, more and more people are encouraged to participate in the government’s plans for India’s development.

The government is launching schemes on its digital platforms that encourage people to understand the importance of indigenous products and rely on their skills.’

Developing world-class infrastructure to promote sustainable development and an enhanced standard of living for everyone is another objective of the Viksit Bharat scheme. The government is launching large-scale projects to develop the country’s infrastructure, which includes the construction of world-class roads and highways, trains and railway stations, ports, etc. Some of the popular projects launched by the government are the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana , Smart Cities Mission, Bharatmala, Sagarmala, etc. 

Quick Read: 200+ English Essay Topics

Unveiling the 10 pillars of Viksit Bharat Abhiyan with #economy at the core- paving the way for a #prosperous and #Developed India. India’s model of #development should lead the way for the world to follow. To know more, visit: https://t.co/sqRvRGJePp pic.twitter.com/qhYT2UqeLf — Viksit Bharat Abhiyan (@ViksitBharat) March 5, 2023

India is currently ranked #5 in economic development in the world, where the nominal GDP is approximately USD 4 Trillion. However, the Indian government is planning to secure the 3rd spot in economic development by surpassing Japan and Germany. 

On 3rd March 2024, the Prime Minister discussed the entire roadmap of this scheme with the Cabinet Ministers. Viksit Bharat is a result of over 2 years of intensive preparation. It involves a holistic approach where all the ministries are involved to achieve its prime objective: Make India Great.

The government strategised its planning by consulting its ministers, state governments, academic institutions, private organizations, and ordinary people to come up with innovative and sustained ideas for India’s growth.

Ans. The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, has an ambition for India; that is to make India a ‘Developed Country’. The Leader has stated that every action of an Indian civilian should be done to make India a developed country; that is, Viksit Bharat. The formal launch of the Viksit Bharat Mission was a major milestone in India’s development. It is an opportunity for India to show its true potential and become a developed country by 2047, which will complete the 100 years of India’s independence. With the rapid development in major sectors of the economy, experts have predicted that this mission will be accomplished within its time limit. 

Ans. Individuals can visit the MyGov portal to participate in the Viksit Bharat scheme at https://www.mygov.in/.

Ans. On 11 December 2023, the Indian Prime Minister launched the Viksit Bharat @2047 scheme via a video conferencing platform. The four pillars of the Viksit Bharat scheme are Yuva (Youth), Garib (Poor), Mahila (Women) and Kisan (Framers). The immediate objectives of the Viksit Bharat scheme are economic growth and sustainable development goals, better standard of living, ease of doing business, infrastructure, social welfare, etc.

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For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu.  

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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