Scholarships
Educational Funding and Financial Evidence.
Securing scholarship funding for your education requires presenting strong financial evidence to demonstrate your need. Scholarship committees will want to see documentation that verifies your financial situation and need for assistance. Having the proper supporting materials prepared will help boost your application and chances of receiving an award.
One of the most important materials to include is your family income tax returns from the past year. Provide copies of the first few pages that show your total annual income. If you are considered a dependent on your parents’ taxes, you will need to submit their returns. Tax documents help the committee understand your household’s financial capacity and ability to pay for college.
It would be best to gather supporting documentation for any sources of financial aid or loans you have already received. This could include award letters for grants, information on student or parent loans, or documentation of scholarships from other organizations. Showing what aid, you currently have assisted the committee in determining your remaining financial needs not already been met.
Statements showing the costs of your tuition, fees, room, and board at your selected college are very important. Most colleges provide standard student budget worksheets that outline average costs. Submit paperwork that details the current annual price of attendance at your school. Reports on college savings or college funds are also beneficial to include if applicable.
Budget worksheets outlining your family’s monthly living expenses are another helpful financial piece. Detail necessities like housing, food, utilities, medical costs, and loan or debt payments. Providing a full picture of expenses demonstrates your financial obligations outside of just education costs.
Special financial circumstances that increase your need, like parents who are unemployed or have very low incomes, large medical bills, or siblings also in college can be addressed. Notes from financial aid advisors, doctors, or counselors supporting your case are valuable to submit.
Organize all of your financial documentation neatly in a single application packet or portfolio for easy committee review. Include a short cover letter highlighting your most compelling need factors. Proving your financial need with carefully gathered supporting evidence provides credibility and strengthens your case for receiving scholarship funds. With the right materials prepared, you can boost your eligibility for financial assistance awards.
All the best!