The biggest mistake you can make when applying for scholarships is to overlook the fine print. If they say to send your high school transcripts stapled twenty times, do it. If they say to include an essay on how to live La Vida Loca, do it. When requesting a letter of recommendation, ask that the writer take the time to personalize it and to print it on letterhead. Scholarship providers do not like to see generic recommendation letters.
Presentation is very important.
If at all possible, submit only typewritten applications. Make copies of everything that is submitted to scholarship providers. You should send your completed scholarship application packet via certified mail to ensure the scholarship provider receives it. Scholarship searching is an ongoing process, not a one-time project. Just as your academic status, qualifications, and interests change, so will the scholarships in our database.