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Scholarship application checklist

Print this or copy it into your notes, and work through it from the top for each scholarship you apply to. Missing documents and missed deadlines are avoidable reasons for rejection, and the list is meant to catch them.

Before you start

  • Confirmed the deadline on the official page, in your own time zone
  • Read the full eligibility criteria and checked you meet every one
  • Checked whether you must have (or be applying for) admission first
  • Noted the return, bonding, or work-back obligations, if any
  • Listed every required document with its format and page limit

Core documents

  • Academic transcripts, certified or official where required
  • Degree certificate or proof of expected completion
  • CV or resume in the required format and length
  • Personal statement or motivation letter, written for this award
  • Research proposal, if the scheme requires one
  • Language test result (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) still valid on the deadline
  • Passport or national ID matching the name on your application

References

  • Confirmed how many references are required and what type
  • Asked each referee at least three weeks before the deadline
  • Sent each referee your CV, the award details, and the deadline
  • Checked whether references are uploaded by you or sent directly

Final checks before you submit

  • Each file is clearly named and in the required format
  • Each essay answers the prompt as it is worded for this award
  • Someone other than you has proofread it
  • No placeholder text, wrong award name, or last year's dates left in
  • Submitted with time to spare, and the confirmation saved

The funder's official instructions take priority. If anything here conflicts with them, follow the funder.