1. There is no universal way to apply for scholarships. Each scholarship program has unique requirements, deadlines, and processes. Some require university admission first, while others don’t. Certain scholarships require you to have a supervisor, and some don’t. Make sure to carefully read the details of each scholarship on its official page to avoid mistakes. This information is always available.
Stop 🛑 asking generic questions like “How do I apply?”
2. Be Clear on Eligibility
Scholarships exist for nearly every field, course, and academic level—whether you’re an undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. candidate. While there are opportunities for all academic achievements, having a strong academic record significantly improves your chances. Generally, postgraduate scholarships are easier to find compared to undergraduate scholarships. However, this doesn’t mean undergraduate scholarships don’t exist.
3. Where to Find Scholarships
Start by searching university websites, official scholarship portals, and reputable organizations like Commonwealth, Erasmus, Fulbright, and other well-known scholarship bodies. Additionally, follow educational blogs, newsletters, and even social media accounts dedicated to scholarship announcements.
When I was applying for scholarships, they often “found” me via my email and WhatsApp groups.
I subscribed to reliable newsletters and joined groups. Every week, I received more scholarship opportunities than I could handle!
4. Now, assuming you find a scholarship and wonder whether or not you’re eligible from a blog. What do you do? Comment “I am interested” or DM the person who posted and ask, “How do I apply?”
Nooo! Honestly, these two approaches only show how disinterested you are!
Here’s what you should do instead…
5. Hit the link and take your time to read and understand who can apply and how to apply. If you have the time, read the FAQs—most of your questions are already answered there.
Honestly, there’s no point in rushing to find where to apply without understanding what you’re applying for.
Don’t go and embarrass yourself 😁😁😁
6. Now you’re ready to apply. Don’t do it while you’re walking or doing other things.
Take it seriously.
Every scholarship is different. Carefully tailor each application to meet the specific requirements of the scholarship you’re applying for. This includes writing a customized motivation letter, essay, or research proposal. Generic applications will reduce your chances of success.
7. Before I continue, remember: it is totally okay to seek help if something is unclear.
Everyone asks questions, and that’s totally fine.
But stop asking, “Is this fully funded?”, “Can Biology students apply?”, “How about with a 2:2 or 3rd class degree?” These questions only show that you didn’t do your part by simply reading the call.
If you, as the applicant, can’t read, who will? Me? Come on!
8. When you finally apply, remember to follow up with your referees to submit recommendation letters.
9. Once you apply, forget about it.
Pray if you believe in it. If you don’t, just know that you’ve done all you can to give yourself the best shot at the scholarship.
10. Focus on your next applications!
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.