Bethel AME Church

General Tips On Applying For Scholarships, Grants and Awards

Parents and potential student applicants attending scholarship committee workshop

• Apply to as many sources as possible, even if you believe that you may not qualify. However, do try to be realistic in your selection. Apply to those where you at least meet the basic requirements.
• Costs certainly can represent an obstacle, but it's important for you to adopt a mindset that just won't let you quit. It's up to you to energetically investigate all avenues leading to aid for which you are eligible. Do not rule out any school of your choice as too costly until you have checked out every source.
• Email when possible rather than phoning to request information.
• Be certain to make inquiries about deadlines for filing for financial aid. File as soon as possible, but even after you have mailed/submitted the application remember to follow up with any information about yourself that subsequently becomes available. This might be a newspaper article, award or personal recommendation that may help promote your cause.
• Keep copies of all documents in case of loss.
• If within a reasonable time you have not received a response from the source, follow up. Be assertive!
• Maintain a positive attitude and a pleasant disposition when applying for awards and communicating with representatives.
• If you are turned down, apply again the following year. You might be a recipient the second time around!