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Scholarships and Enrollment Communication Division of Strategic Enrollment and Student Affairs

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Scholarships and Enrollment Communication
ESSBL 3.104
Email: scholarships@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 665-2935
Phone Alt: (956) 882-4026

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Scholarship Tips

Things they look for when evaluating your Applications

What do Committees look for? There are no common items that every committee member looks for. However, there are some items that stand out when evaluating a scholarship application. The following are a list of those items.

Neatness

Whether consciously or subconsciously, most committee members will show more favor toward an application that is presented in a more clear and concise manner. This does not mean that handwritten essays are forbidden, but it does mean that the majority of reviewers would prefer a typed essay. All paperwork should be consistent in size to the extent possible. All documentation that is submitted should have the applicant’s name and/or ID number clearly indicated on the paperwork.

Achievement

Involvement in a social or academic organization is great, and growing success within the organization demonstrates achievement. Being part of the track team, for example, is notable, and it is even better if you win city or state recognition or awards as part of the team. Achievement is not only being a member, it is being an officer. 

Consistency/Improvement

The applicant should show a gradual progression in all things. There should be a trend of getting better in all areas. If a student is already number one in his/her class or has a 4.0, then they should remain consistent. Otherwise, committees would expect the candidate to show improvement from the freshman year to the senior year.

Ethics/Values/Morals

There is no specific accomplishment that can fulfill this category. It is exhibited in different areas. Committees look for the applicant who does something extra—something that is not achievement-oriented yet reflects their own values, i.e. doing volunteer work at the local hospital, holding down a part-time job, participating in a neighborhood clean-up campaign, helping out a local nursing home, tutoring, etc.

High standards/determination

Reflected in grades, test scores, recognition of others as mentioned in letters of recommendation, career and life goals as reflected in essays and overcoming adversity (personal, economic, social) in the past.

Individuality/Independence

This can be reflected in many areas. The format and content of some essays reflect individuality. This is often reflected in humorous essays. Working for all four years of high school shows independence. Creating or leading an organization shows initiative and independence. Individuality and creativity are often reflected in the applicant’s style in his/her application.

How Do Students Enhance Their Chances?

  1. Read the entire application and all of the instructions before you begin

  2. Know the deadline

    • Get your application(s) in on time
    • Ask for recommendation letters early
  3. Make it easy to read, be clear, thoughtful, and concise

    • Type your application and any required essays
    • Proofread!
  4. Have a friend or mentor proofread

    • Ask someone whose judgment you respect to proofread your application.
  5. Apply for multiple scholarships

    • Applying for multiple scholarships greatly increases your chances of winning one. If possible, use the same essays and recommendation letters to save time.
  6. Don’t pay for scholarship services

    • Don't waste your money on scholarship search services that promise to help you tap into vast amounts of unclaimed financial aid funds. There are many websites that provide the same information for free.

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