Tips for a Strong Scholarship Application

Scholarship assessors want to understand your personal journey. When responding to questions about your background and circumstances, consider including:

• Your academic achievements, career aspirations, and passion for your chosen field.
• Any challenges or barriers you have faced (e.g., financial hardship, personal circumstances, underrepresentation in your field) and how you have worked to overcome them.
• Any extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or leadership roles that demonstrate your commitment and potential.

Example 1: 
Instead of: "I have financial difficulties,"
Try: "I support my family while studying and struggle to cover tuition and materials."

Example 2: 
Instead of: "I am passionate about my field," 
Try: "I have maintained a distinction average and completed industry internships to develop my skills." 

Assessors need to understand exactly how the scholarship will help you. Be as detailed as possible when listing what you need support for, such as:

• Tuition fees: Partial or full assistance.Study materials: Books, software, or lab equipment.
• Professional development: Courses, workshops, or networking events relevant to your field.
• Tools of trade: Items required for specific courses (e.g., culinary tools, hairdressing kits, carpentry tools).
• Uniforms and protective gear: Required for practical courses.
• Transport or living expenses: If they directly affect your ability to attend classes.

Where possible, attach supporting documentation such as receipts, quotes, or link to workshops and professional development courses.

Tip: Avoid vague statements like "I need help with expenses." Instead specify: "I require $300 for a required industry toolkit and $500 for course textbooks."

Describe what receiving the scholarship would mean to you and how it will impact your education and future. This is your chance to connect emotionally with the selection panel. Consider including:

• How the scholarship will allow you to pursue your academic and career goals.
• Any plans you have for making a positive impact in your field, industry or community.
• How the scholarship will ease financial stress and allow you to focus on studies.

Tip: Use a personal, heartfelt approach while remaining professional.

Example 1: 
“Receiving this scholarship would be a life-changing opportunity, allowing me to complete my studies in renewable energy and gain invaluable industry experience. With this financial support, I will be able to focus on advancing my knowledge in sustainable technologies, such as solar and wind energy systems, without the added pressure of financial stress. My long-term goal is to contribute to Australia’s growing renewable energy sector by developing innovative, cost-effective solutions that reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This scholarship will not only help me achieve academic success but also empower me to work on projects that promote environmental sustainability and address the urgent challenge of climate change.”

Example 2: 
"Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of pursuing my qualification in Early Childhood Education, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and practical placements. With this support, I can dedicate myself to developing the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality, inclusive education and care for young children. I am particularly passionate about working with children in underserved communities, where access to quality early education can make a profound difference in their future. My goal is to become a qualified early childhood educator, fostering a positive learning environment that supports every child’s growth and development. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my career aspirations but also enable me to give back to my local community by supporting families and ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to succeed”

Your application and any personal details provided will be treated with complete confidentiality. Only the scholarship evaluation panel will have access to your information.

Tip: Be honest and open. The selection panel is there to support you, and sharing your genuine circumstances can strengthen your application.

☐ Have you answered all questions fully and provided enough detail

☐ Have you attached supporting documents where required and/or to strengthen your application?

☐ Have you clearly explained how the scholarship will benefit you?

☐ Have you proofread your application for clarity and grammar?

☐ Have you submitted it before the deadline?