Flickr user Nalini Prasanna
There are plenty of myths surrounding scholarships and who is likely to win them. So much so, in fact, that scholarships can start to feel almost unattainable. But don’t worry just yet, because all of those myths are just that: myths.
While writing skills are always a good thing to keep sharp and continually strengthen, you don’t have to be an A+ English whiz-kid to earn scholarships.
Not All Scholarships Require an Essay
First and foremost, while many scholarships will request an essay, not all of them even have an essay element. They might require just a transcript of grades, proof of your volunteer / extracurricular involvement, or an interview. Alternatively, the scholarship may ask for something more creative that doesn’t involve writing skills either.
Essays Are More About the Content
Not to say that quality isn’t important, of course—as quality writing can more effectively communicate what you’re trying to say to the reader—but the content is really the heart of the essay. For scholarships, the sponsors are looking for a certain characteristic, or a passion for a certain subject, or a dedication to a certain sport or cause.
Pay attention to the prompt, do your research into the sponsor, and use their values to your advantage, and you’ll be just fine. What is said is more important than how it’s said. And of course, make sure you meet all the criteria for the scholarship! If you don’t meet the requirements, you won’t be considered, no matter how amazing your essay or application is. Luckily, there are plenty of scholarships out there, so you’re bound to find one that’s right for you.
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| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
6.97%-15.03%* Variable
5.99%-14.00%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
6.37% - 16.70% Variable
4.50% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
4.98% - 16.70% Variable
4.07% - 15.66% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.07% - 11.31% Variable
4.39% - 10.39% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
6.22% - 16.08% Variable
4.09% - 15.66% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
6.54% - 11.08% Variable
3.95% - 8.01% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 18.26% Variable
4.11% - 15.90% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
4.98% - 12.79% Variable
8.42% - 13.01% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
