How to write a successful application

Some advice for the road ahead:

1. Get the readers attention!

You have five seconds. If the reader does not get interested in your letter immediately, it will be put aside. Think about how articles are written: short but to the point, and the most important things first. Be personal, write simply but thoughtfully, and ask someone to read the copy; is there anything that catches their attention?

Example:

My name is Johnny Shoelace, I am 20 years old and I have made my mind up to become an incredibly good economist! I want to make money and economy is something everyone can both understand and help other people to improve their situation. If I take a supplementary night course in bookkeeping/accountancy at the same time as my economic studies I have the chance to receive a job as an economist directly after university. This is exactly what I want to do, but it would mean that I do not have time to work extra, which is why I am now applying for economic support.

2. Be Clear!

The person reading your application wants to get a clear picture of you and your needs, and would preferably want to know that the contribution will lead to something concrete, such as an art exhibition, or an educational thesis. If your text is simple, straight forward, and clear, you will look like a person who knows what he/she wants, and spends his/her energy on getting exactly that.

3. Layout

The first impression is the most important one. The text should look professional, be machine/computer written and divided into paragraphs. Some space in the text makes the words not look like a big mess, and a well-written letter on nice paper shows you are a neat, well-organized person. You have to make sure the reader picks your letter amongst hundreds of others by getting attention! A little sticker on the envelope or a colored envelope can make the difference! Use your imagination. It should not become over-done, but something that simply catches the eye.

4. Ambition

Show what you work hard for what you want, that you have a goal and that you see beyond the scholarship. You know exactly what you want to achieve. You meaningful task is just waiting for you, but you need help getting there! It is a person reading your letter, not an institution, and you can get that person to see the contribution as an investment in you.

5. Recommendations

To ensure the reader that you are someone to go for, you can include recommendations from an old employer, teacher, or someone else that is a reliable, trustworthy person whose words weigh heavily. Naturally, you choose someone who you have managed to charm and who wants you to do well.

Step 1: Call the fund and ask if they have a special form they want you to use for your application.

Step 2: Write the application, which should not be longer than 1 page. Use about half of it of your background, and the other half for your plans and future. Make a good copy and then leave it for a couple of days. After those days you will look at the application with new eyes. Ask someone to read it and collect other documents: grades, final exam results, teacher recommendations, employment recommendations (with name and number of a reference person), a list for your income and expenses, and your birth certificate if needed. Never send originals, only copies.

Step 3: Send the application, wait for a week, and then call the fund. Introduce yourself in a friendly way, and ask if your application has arrived. If they say yes, ask if you remembered to send everything that they need. If they pick up your application, it is no longer on the bottom of the pile. Thank them, and hope that they now remember your name.

Step 4: Did you get a no? Don't give up! There are heaps of funds to choose from, but sometimes you have to sweat a little for the money!