There are a lot of scholarships and bursaries available to students. You think you might be able to complete in the academic category, or you’ve got some volunteer or leadership experience, or at the very least, you should make it into the financial need category. How do you get started? And how do you put together an application that stands a good chance of winning? After reading hundreds of awards applications and sitting on local and national scholarship selection committees, we’ve got some advice for you.

1. Start early! The scholarship season begins in January, with the first of the deadlines at the end of the month.
2. Do your research. Check out the listings within our website. Sign up with www.studentawards.com. Not only can you see all the scholarships and bursaries that meet your profile, but you’ll also be sent emails every time there’s a new award.
3. Don’t underestimate yourself, but be realistic. Study the main award criteria. Does your program, year of study, and length of study qualify?  Do you meet the demographic criteria (gender, disability, equity group, etc.)? Apply for awards that match your experience and abilities. If your marks are in the average to above average category, apply for scholarships. If you’ve done some meaningful volunteering and service in the community, try for the awards the value involvement and leadership.
4. Give it your best shot. Some applications can be a bit of work (after all, scholarship donors are looking for people who are dedicated and motivated) and we know they’re a gamble, but unlike a lottery ticket, you have some influence on your chance of success.
• Read the selection criteria carefully.
• Analyze the questions and create thoughtful responses.
• Follow instructions and attach everything requested.
• Hand it in by the deadline date.
5. Get some help. No, it’s not a sign of weakness, but an effective strategy for improving your chances of success.
   • Your guidance counsellor at school has seen many scholarship applications. Ask for suggestions on how to produce a strong application.
   • We want our students to win! The ACC Awards Office will be happy to review your application and offer suggestions.
   • Talk to your parents and friends—especially when describing your work and volunteer experience or your personal characteristics. They’ll often think of things you forgot, or didn’t consider important.
6. Ensure your references understand the criteria of the award. This will help them to comment on why they think you meet the criteria.