Scholarship application checklist
Print this or copy it into your notes, and work top to bottom for each scholarship you apply to. Most rejected applications fail on missing documents or a blown deadline, not on merit. This list is the fix.
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 and 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, tailored to 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 their 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
- Every file is named clearly and in the required format
- Every essay answers the exact prompt asked, not a generic version
- Proofread by someone other than you
- No placeholder text, wrong award name, or last-year dates left in
- Submitted with time to spare, and saved the confirmation
The official source is always the authority. If anything here conflicts with the funder's instructions, follow the funder.
Put it to use
Browse scholarships open for application now, or read the advice guides for the detail behind each step.