A Guide to Applying for Scholarships
1
Make Sure You Qualify
Before investing time in an application, confirm that you meet all of the scholarship's requirements.
Applying for a scholarship you do not qualify for wastes your time and the reviewers' time.
Read the Requirements Carefully
• Read every eligibility criterion — grade level, GPA, field of study, residency, financial need, etc.
• Note any requirements that must be met at the time of application vs. at the time of award.
• Look for citizenship or residency requirements if applicable.
Common Eligibility Factors to Check
• Academic standing (minimum GPA or class rank)
• School enrollment status (full-time vs. part-time)
• Geographic requirements (county, school district, or state)
• Area of study or intended major
• Extracurricular involvement or community service minimums
• Financial need thresholds
Pro Tip: Create a simple checklist for each scholarship you are considering. Check off each requirement to confirm you qualify before beginning the application.
2
Requesting a Letter of Recommendation
A strong letter of recommendation can help your application stand out. Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths.
Who to Ask
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A teacher, professor, coach, employer, or community leader.
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Someone who can provide specific examples of your character and achievements.
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Avoid asking family members or close friends.
How to Ask
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Ask at least 3–4 weeks before the deadline.
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Ask in person when possible, then follow up by email.
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Provide the scholarship details, deadline, your resume, and any submission instructions.
Following Up
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Send a reminder one week before the deadline.
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Always thank your recommender after they submit the letter.
Pro Tip: Build strong relationships with teachers and mentors—they can become valuable recommenders for future scholarships and opportunities.
3
Writing a Scholarship Essay
Your essay is your chance to show the selection committee who you are beyond your grades. A thoughtful, personal essay can help you stand out.
Before You Write
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Read the prompt carefully.
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Brainstorm personal experiences related to the topic.
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Decide on the main message you want to share.
Writing Your Essay
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Start with a strong opening.
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Use specific examples and write in your own voice.
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Connect your experiences to your goals.
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Stay within the required word count.
Before You Submit
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Proofread for spelling and grammar.
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Ask a teacher, parent, or counselor to review it.
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Make sure your essay is original and written specifically for the scholarship. Never submit an essay written for another purpose.
Pro Tip: The best scholarship essays are honest, personal, and authentic. Focus on sharing your story rather than writing what you think the committee wants to hear.
4
Completing the Written Application
Your application is the foundation of your submission. A complete, accurate application shows attention to detail and helps you make the best impression.
Before You Begin
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Read through the entire application before filling it out.
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Make a checklist of all required forms, documents, and signatures.
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Confirm the deadline and how the application should be submitted.
Filling Out the Application
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Complete every section and write "N/A" if something doesn't apply.
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Double-check your personal information, including your name, school, and GPA.
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List activities, honors, and experiences from most recent to oldest.
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Use clear, consistent formatting throughout.
Before You Submit
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Review your application one final time.Make sure all required documents are attached.
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Ask a parent, teacher, or counselor to review it if possible.
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Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline and keep a copy for your records.
Pro Tip: Create a scholarship tracker to keep track of deadlines, required materials, and submission status. Staying organized can help you avoid last-minute stress.
5
Obtaining Transcripts and Proof of Community Service
Many scholarships require official transcripts and verification of community service hours. Request these documents early to avoid last-minute delays.
Obtaining Your Transcripts
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Request official transcripts from your school's registrar or guidance office.
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Allow 5–10 business days for processing.
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Check whether official or unofficial transcripts are required.
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Follow the scholarship's submission instructions carefully.
Documenting Community Service
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Request a signed letter verifying your volunteer hours.
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Include the organization name, your role, dates of service, and total hours.
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Keep track of your hours throughout the year instead of waiting until application season.
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For Peirano Family Foundation scholarships, check if your community service hours are listed on your school transcript. If not, request verification from your guidance counselor.
Staying Organized
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Keep digital and printed copies of all your supporting documents in one folder.
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Clearly label your files (e.g., LastName_Transcript_SchoolName and LastName_ServiceLetter_OrganizationName).
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Track which documents you've submitted for each scholarship.
Pro Tip: Request transcripts and service verification 3–4 weeks before your deadline to allow plenty of processing time.
6
A Final Word of Encouragement
Applying for scholarships takes effort, but it is effort that pays off. Every well-prepared application is an investment in your future. Do not be discouraged if you do not win every scholarship you apply for — persistence is key. Apply broadly, stay organized, put your best foot forward, and know that the Peirano Family Foundation is rooting for you every step of the way.
Before You Hit Submit
✓ Application completed
✓ Essay proofread
✓ Recommendation letter submitted
✓ Transcript attached
✓ Community service verified
✓ Submitted before the deadline
Ready to Apply?