Tips for Applying for University of Alberta Scholarships
A scholarship application is an opportunity for you to describe your best attributes and accomplishments at the U of A and in your community. Below are some tips to help you with the application.
- Ensure you carefully read all sections of the application. Any incomplete submissions will not be considered for awards.
- Work on your application in a document outside of the Student Application Portal to take advantage of spelling and grammar correction software and avoid technical problems in the application.
- Focus on your greatest achievements. Select your top achievements or experiences that you are most proud of and focus on those in your application. Achievements or experience could include but are not limited to: mentorship, community involvement, volunteerism, public service, athletics, academics, and involvement in societies/clubs.
- Responses should be thoughtful and well-developed. Your application should highlight who you are and what you are passionate about.
- Provide specific examples of experiences that demonstrate reflection and growth within your experience or more generally in your life.
- Think about what sets you apart from other scholarship applicants. Outline experiences or achievements that demonstrate your impact.
- Be creative, show your passion, and put things in your own words. A well crafted, unique application will allow you to stand out!
Tips for choosing a reference
Only certain scholarships require a reference, so references may or may not be contacted to provide further insight into your application. References will not be required to submit a reference letter at the time of application submission but will be contacted by the U of A at a later date if a reference is needed.
- Choose a reference who can describe specific attributes that set you apart from other scholarship applicants.
- Pick someone that has firsthand knowledge of your accomplishments.
- Make sure you select a reference who can be objective and try not to use a family member.
- It is your responsibility to ensure your reference submits their letter by the deadline provided (only if requested). A missing reference letter will render your application incomplete and will not be considered.
If you have a permanent disability and need accessibility support to complete your application, learn more and apply early for applicant accommodations, or contact dosdean@ualberta.ca for assistance.