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Write a Killer Cover Letter for a Scholarship in 2023 (w/Example)

David Jul 24, 2022

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It’s easy to get put off by scholarship applications that require a cover letter. Cover letters may seem annoying but there is a bright side here. A simple letter gives you another opportunity to convince the scholarship committee that you deserve to win the award.

So how do you start? What should you include in the letter? How should you end it?  In this post, we’ll answer all these questions and we’ll even provide a sample letter that you can use as a template in the end. 

What Is a Cover Letter? 

Let’s start with the basics. A cover letter for a scholarship is similar to a cover letter you’d submit for a job . What does that mean exactly?

It’s simply a letter you write to the scholarship committee. In the letter you should explain what makes you a great candidate for the award. You should also talk about how the scholarship will help you reach your educational and career goals . 

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The scholarship committee wants to find the most fitting students to invest their money in. Make them see the reasons why they should they invest in you. 

Why a Cover Letter? 

Whether you have those things or not, many scholarship committees look for something else.  They look at students who have overcome struggles. Students who are leaders in their community. And students who have unique hobbies. Your cover letter is the place to show off your unique self.

Although not every scholarship application requires students to submit a cover letter, when they do, it’s a great idea to submit a great one. Use the opportunity to think about how can you make yourself stand out from other applicants. What is unique to you that other applicants don’t have? Brainstorm and show it off!

What Should Your Cover Letter Accomplish? 

Your cover letter should do the following: 

• Highlight your strengths: Why do your strengths make you a good match for the scholarship? 
• Express what your plans are for the future: How will this particular scholarship help get you there? 
• Convey a clear structure: Your cover letter should flow in a clear and concise manner. 

Cover letters can be a great opportunity for you to convince the scholarship committee that you are the best candidate for the scholarship. Take time writing your cover letter and don’t wait until the final days before the deadline to start writing. A little bit of effort, could be the difference  that helps you win the award! 

Scholarship Cover Letter Example

Alexis Smith 4519 Owl St. Bend, OH 45052

The Scholarship Committee University of Pennsylvania  3440 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 

To Whom It May Concern, 

My name is Alex Smith and I am a high school senior in Bend, Ohio. In the fall of 2019, I will be starting my freshman year at the University of Pennsylvania at the Annenberg School of Communication with an intended major in communications.

Since my freshman year of high school, I have served on my school’s journalism team. During freshman and sophomore year, I worked as a writer. By junior and senior year, I became the senior editor and co-manager of the school paper. Throughout my four years of being part of the club, I have learned so much about journalism; from pitching creative ideas, to carrying out interviews, and writing up an article. I have also learned about editing and publishing. Although these tasks intimidated me in the beginning, I can confidently say that I now feel very skilled and knowledgeable about the field. 

I am particularly passionate about giving the underserved population a voice to be heard. Some of my favorite interviews and articles I have published have been with female refugees from the community here in Ohio. Some of my articles have been published in our local paper in Bend. 

Of course, there is so much that I still have and want to learn. I am eager to start my undergraduate education and learn from experts in the field. I am excited to take journalism, communication, and marketing courses and learn everything there is to know. I am also hoping to work with the Pennsylvania Daily and join the journalism club on campus. I want to take advantage of every opportunity offered to further my career and personal growth.

As you are well aware, the cost of college is very high. As much as I have saved during high school, I will still have to take out loans to fund my college education. I am planning to work part-time during my studies, but I don’t want work to interfere too much with my school work. This scholarship would greatly help me cover some of these fees and give me more time to focus on school.

I am very hardworking and creative, and I can’t wait to contribute my talents to the University of Pennsylvania. I would be so grateful to receive a scholarship. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, 

Alexis Smith

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David Tabachnikov is the CEO of ScholarshipOwl. Formerly at Waze and Google, David is an experienced CTO/R&D manager with over 10 years of experience of leading tech teams. David fervently believes that students should have greater access to education, and is passionate about using technology to help them achieve that goal.

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Professional Scholarship Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your scholarship cover letter should quickly capture the attention of the scholarship committee. Highlight your academic achievements and extracurricular activities that align with the scholarship's goals. In the second paragraph, discuss your future aspirations and how the scholarship will help you meet them. Ensure to express gratitude and acknowledge the opportunity the scholarship presents.

Cover Letter Guide

Scholarship Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Scholarship Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Writing a scholarship cover letter can be daunting, especially if you're already navigating the job market and understand the importance of standing out. Unlike your resume, which lists your achievements, your cover letter should weave a narrative around your proudest professional moment. It requires a delicate balance of formality and originality to avoid clichés, all while fitting your enthusiasm and story neatly within one page. Let's tackle how to craft a cover letter that makes a memorable impression.

• Introduce your profile to catch recruiters' attention;
• Use professional templates and examples to make sure your scholarship cover letter follows the best industry standards;
• Settle on your most story-worthy achievement to shine a light on what makes your application unique;
• Write a scholarship cover letter, even when you lack professional experience.

Ready to start with the basics: upload your resume to Enhancv's AI, below, to see the scholarship cover letter it would write for you.

If the scholarship isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

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Scholarship cover letter example

ANDREW CLARK

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Tailored Experience: The cover letter provides a customized example relevant to the media organization's values, like the investigative piece on school support staff, demonstrating the ability to create stories with significant community impact.
• Results-Oriented Achievements: It quantifies the success of previous work, such as a 65% increase in readership, which can be particularly persuasive by showing measurable outcomes connected to the applicant’s contributions.
• Passion for the Field: Expressing enthusiasm for meaningful storytelling and objective reporting indicates a genuine interest that goes beyond the standard requirements of the role.
• Alignment with Organizational Goals: Reference to the applicant’s desire to contribute to the "narrative integrity" suggests a shared vision with the potential employer, implying a good cultural fit.

Structuring and formatting your scholarship cover letter

Here's what the structure of your scholarship cover letter should include:

• Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date);
• Salutation (or greeting);
• Introductory paragraph (or your opening statement);
• Body paragraph (or further proof of your experience);
• Closing paragraph (with a call to action);
• Signature (that is optional).

Use the same font for your scholarship resume and cover letter - modern fonts like Lato and Rubik would help you stand out.

Your scholarship cover letter should be single-spaced and have a one-inch margins - this format is automatically set up in our cover letter templates and our cover letter builder .

When submitting your cover letter, always ensure it's in PDF, as this format keeps the information intact (and the quality of your document stays the same).

On one final note - the Applicant Tracker System (ATS or the software that is sometimes used to initially assess your application) won't read your scholarship cover letter.

The top sections on a scholarship cover letter

• Header: Include your name, address, phone number, email, and the date, ensuring the scholarship committee can easily identify and contact you.
• Salutation: Address the letter to the specific person handling the scholarships if possible, showing attention to detail and a personalized touch.
• Introduction: Introduce yourself, mention the scholarship you are applying for, and briefly highlight your academic achievements or unique qualifications that make you a strong candidate.
• Scholarship-focused Body: Detail your academic goals, extracurricular involvement, community service, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your educational and career objectives, emphasizing the alignment with the scholarship's purpose.
• Conclusion and Formal Closing: Summarize your qualifications, reiterate your gratitude for the opportunity, and close with a formal sign-off, such as "Sincerely," followed by your name, leaving a lasting professional impression.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

Academic Excellence: Strong grades and a proven track record of intellectual achievements reflect dedication and the capacity to excel in rigorous educational environments.

Leadership Experience: Holding positions in student organizations, clubs, or community groups demonstrates the ability to lead and manage teams, an essential skill in many fields.

Relevant Extracurricular Activities: Participation in activities related to the field of study or industry of the scholarship shows a genuine interest and initiative for growth in that specific area.

Community Service and Volunteering: A history of volunteering indicates a commitment to social responsibility and a willingness to contribute to the community, aligning with the values of many scholarship programs.

Unique Personal or Professional Experiences: Overcoming personal challenges, succeeding in diverse environments, or having distinctive work experience can set a candidate apart, showing resilience, adaptability, and a unique perspective.

Research Experience or Contributions to the Field: Any previous research, publications, or contributions to the professional field of the scholarship interest show dedication and a proactive approach toward advancing in the area of study.

What matters most when tailoring your scholarship cover letter salutation

Your scholarship cover letter greeting should feel welcoming to recruiters.

Use their first name (e.g. "Dear Marshall" or "Dear Sara"), if you've previously been in touch with the hiring manager and are on a more friendly basis.

If this is the first time you're contacting the recruiters, start your scholarship cover letter with:

• their last name (e.g. "Dear Ms. Ali" or "Dear Mr. Stevens") - look up who's the hiring manager for the role on social media or the company website;
• generalized greeting (e.g. "Dear HR Team") - just don't use "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear [Scholarship Committee Name],
• Dear [University Name] Scholarship Committee,
• Dear [Department Name] Scholarship Coordinator,
• Dear [Title] [Last Name],
• Esteemed Scholarship Committee,

Your scholarship cover letter introduction and the value you bring

Moving on from the "Dear Recruiter" to your professional introduction .

Use those first two sentences of your scholarship cover letter to present the biggest asset you'd bring to the organization.

Don't go into too much detail about your achievement or the skill set, but instead - go straight for the win.

That is - what is your value as a professional?

Would you be able to build stronger, professional relationships in any type of communication? Or, potentially, integrate seamlessly into the team?

What comes next: your scholarship cover letter middle paragraphs

In the next three to six paragraphs (or the body of your scholarship cover letter) you have to prove your unique value .

Most candidates tend to mess up at this stage. They tend to just copy-paste information from their resume.

That's one big no-no.

Remember that when writing your scholarship cover letter, it has to be personalized. And, your ultimate aim is to catch the recruiter's eye.

So, look back on key job requirements and write down a list that includes the ones you cover.

Next, select just one key achievement from your professional (or personal) history that meets those advert keywords.

Narrate a story around how you've grown your skill set and knowledge. Also, aim to show the unique understanding or soft skills you bring about, thanks to your past success.

Two ideas on how to end the final paragraph of your scholarship cover letter

Closing your scholarship cover letter , you want to leave a memorable impression on recruiters, that you're a responsible professional.

End your cover letter with how you envision your growth, as part of the company. Make realistic promises on what you plan to achieve, potentially, in the next six months to a year.

Before your signature, you could also signal hiring managers that you're available for the next steps. Or, a follow-up call, during which you could further clarify your experience or professional value.

Keep this in mind when writing your zero experience scholarship cover letter

Even though you may not have any professional experience , your scholarship cover letter should focus on your value.

As a candidate for the particular role, what sort of skills do you bring about? Perhaps you're an apt leader and communicator, or have the ability to analyze situations from different perspectives.

Select one key achievement from your life, outside work, and narrate a story that sells your abilities in the best light.

If you really can't think of any relevant success, you could also paint the picture of how you see your professional future developing in the next five years, as part of the company.

Key takeaways

Turning your scholarship cover letter into a success is all about staying authentic to yourself and relevant to the job:

• Be creative with your scholarship cover letter introduction by stating something you enjoy about the company (that is genuine) or about your skill set (to get the recruiters' interested);
• Use single spacing and have a one-inch margin wrapping all around the content of your scholarship cover letter;
• Select just one past achievement from your career or life to tell a story of how you've obtained job-crucial skills and how they'd be beneficial to the role;
• The finishing paragraph of your scholarship cover letter doesn't necessarily have to be a signature but could be a promise of what you plan to achieve in the role;
• Instead of focusing on your lack of experience, spotlight your transferable skills, one relevant achievement, and career dreams.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

Best Resume Layout: 9 Examples and Templates That Recruiters Approve

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How to Write a Scholarship Cover Letter

Gabriel Jimenez-Ekman is a content editor and writer at Scholarships360. He has managed communications and written content for a diverse array of organizations, including a farmer’s market, a concert venue, a student farm, an environmental NGO, and a PR agency. Gabriel graduated from Kenyon College with a degree in sociology.

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Scholarship cover letters might seem intimidating, but they should not deter you from applying for scholarships. Sometimes, students are intimidated because they don’t know how to write a scholarship cover letter. The following guide includes a thorough description of what you should address in the letter and how to format it.

First, let’s talk about the most fundamental question: what’s the ultimate goal of the cover letter?

Goals of a scholarship cover letter

Create a personal appeal by letting your voice come through.

Most scholarship applications largely consist of forms and checklists, but cover letters are a great opportunity for the reader to hear you make your case in your own voice. While you should still maintain a formal tone, you should not be afraid to write personably.

Emphasize the importance of your accomplishments

Resumes and application forms are great opportunities to describe your duties at past positions you’ve held, but a cover letter is a great opportunity to go one step further.

Describe the skills developed in your past positions

Think about how past learning experiences helped shape your ambitions. For example, if you had an internship in the office of a local government official, you could use your cover letter to describe how your experiences helped hone your organizational skills and shape your sense of civic duty. 

• Share what you hope to pursue and build upon

How will you work towards your future goals and build upon your past experiences? Scholarship readers want to award their funds to students with a strong sense of ambition and an exciting future. Emphasize that you have big plans for the future, and how you will use the scholarship to accomplish them.

Highlight circumstances not addressed in the scholarship application

For example, if you have community service experience, but there was not a question in the application that allowed you to mention that, a cover letter is a great place to bring it up. This may not be specifically relevant to the scholarship, but speaks to your character and can help put you ahead of the crowd.

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Differences between a scholarship cover letter and a scholarship essay

Scholarship essays and cover letters have a lot in common:

• They are both opportunities to write about your future ambitions and show how you have reflected on your past experiences.
• Both allow you to make a personal appeal to your reader, and to bring up relevant information that was left out of the rest of the application. 

However, while there is a lot of overlap between scholarship cover letters and scholarship essays, there are a few key differences:

• Scholarship essays are written in response to a prompt, but scholarship cover letters do not have an explicit prompt. For students who are used to prompts, this can be a stumbling block.
• One way to help overcome this open-endedness is to imagine the prompt as: “ Tell me about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this scholarship. ” Remember, the goal of a scholarship cover letter is to introduce yourself and to make a compelling case for your candidacy while highlighting assets not showcased in the rest of your application.
• Another key difference is in formatting; there are specific formatting rules for a scholarship cover letter, which we will cover below. 

See also: How to write a winning scholarship essay

Formatting tips

While everyone’s cover letter is different and some scholarships may have specific requirements, here are a few general formatting tips to make your cover letter a success:

• Cover letters should be 1 page long, and it can be beneficial to break them down into small paragraphs to help the reader digest them more easily.
• They should also include a header with the date, your name and address, as well as your email and/or phone number.
• After the header, skip a line, and write the date.
• Skip another line, and include the name and title of the person you are addressing the letter to, and the address of the organization if available.

Some scholarships will list the name that the letter should be addressed. If you can’t find the name easily, try doing a bit of research to see if you can find the name of the person who will be reading your application. This can help put you ahead of your competition by showing that you did some additional research.

If you can’t find a name, you can skip that part of the header and write: “Dear selection committee” in your introduction. Here is an example header for someone who was able to find the name of their application reader:

James Wright 580 Chase Ln New Meadows, ID 83654 [email protected]

March 12, 2021

Ms. Carol Smith Better Business Bureau 12639 W Explorer Dr Boise, ID 83713

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing… ____________________________________________________________

Good luck writing your scholarship cover letter!  Be sure to apply to all the scholarships you qualify for. Remember, there are scholarships for all demographics, including for women , high school seniors , and Black students.  Some scholarships require essays and applications, but others are no-essay or easy to apply for scholarships . Remember, Scholarships360 is here to provide valuable resources and access to scholarships for students!

Key Takeaways

• Create personal appeal by letting your unique voice come through
• Emphasize the importance of your accomplishments and describe the skills learned in your past positions
• Highlight circumstances not addressed in your scholarship application
• Be mindful of any specific requirements when crafting your cover letter

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How to Write a Good Scholarship Application Letter (6 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 09 Sep 2020 Scholarship Application 191,638 views

Are you uncertain about how to write a scholarship application letter? You are in the right place. We will teach you how to write a killer scholarship application letter. Over 6 PDF application letter sample examples available for download. After examining the scholarship cover letter, we will then check out some scholarship letter samples. 

We will discuss

• What is a scholarship application letter?
• Parts of a scholarship application letter
•  Scholarship Letter Format
• What not to include in a scholarship application letter (Scholarship cover letter)
• Sample Application Letter for scholarships
• Scholarship Application Letter sample pdf
• Scholarship Application Letter samples Templates

Application Letter for Scholarship in College

Application to principal for grant of scholarship.

• Application Letter for financial need
• Application letter for master's degree
• Application letter for university

Checkout ongoing scholarships for internation students to study abroad

WHAT IS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION LETTER

So, a scholarship request letter is a cover letter that indicates your interest in a scholarship and ways in which the award would help you achieve personal and professional goals. It is a letter requesting scholarship consideration.This type  of letter is usually required along with other important documents by the University committee. The purpose of the scholarship application letter is to convince the committee that the candidate in question is highly eligible for the award. It is an instrumental tool in seeking financial backing. Further in this article, you will encounter scholarship application letter sample ad hoc. Checkout  best way to apply for scholarships and get taken

PARTS OF A SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION LETTER

As you must have seen in other articles , documents such as a scholarship essay or scholarship CV are drafted with caution, organization and professionalism. A scholarship application letter is not an exception. In order to capture the attention of the committee deeply, a scholarship application letter must be written in a well - structured manner. An application letter for scholarship pdf will be provided (scholarship cover letter pdf). The following parts make up an appealing scholarship application letter:

Contact Information

Self introduction and a milestone achievement.

• Middle Part
• Key details of you and reason why the committee should choose you
• Expression of passion and reason why you want the scholarship
• Call to action paragraph
• Best Regards

Just as every formal letter contains the contact information of the sender and the receiver, the same applies here. A scholarship application letter should contain the name, street address, telephone and email of the sender (at the right side). Afterwards, the name of the organization, street address and zip code are placed on the left side when writing an application for scholarship request

First impression matters a lot and so is the first paragraph of a scholarship application letter. The first paragraph should indicate your zeal and your understanding of having such an award. It would whet the appetite of the reader. Start with a significant achievement that shows how much you value this particular course of study.

Key Details about Yourself and reasons for Choosing you.

A scholarship cover letter for students should entail relevant information about your achievements, the role models you look up to, your struggles to attain the scholarship and the victory you would achieve for getting this scholarship.

Expression of your passion

In this paragraph, the committee wants to encounter the zeal in attaining the scholarship and perhaps the sacrifices you must have made. This doesn't mean that you want to sound desperate. But you are expected to express how much you want the award in a constructive manner.

Call to action

In a letter to scholarship committee, a call to action paragraph is the last but not the least important. Do you want the committee to call you back? Then you just have to say it. Ask for a meeting arrangement and leave the notable  impression that you have more to discuss.

LETTER FORMAT FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Let's reiterate a point here. The content of the letter is as important as the structure of the letter. This means the format has to be set in a way that makes the content edible and appealing. It can also serve as a scholarship letter format for school. So how about you follow the few guidelines below:

• Use the correct spacing: 1 or 1.5.
• Don't be tempted to use justification. Left side align is easy on the eye.
• There should be one - inch margins for some white space and friendly impression.
• When it comes to the paragraph, there should be double spacing between them.
• Fonts like Calibri, Arial and Times New Roman are welcome.

WHAT NOT TO INCLUDE IN A SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION LETTER

To be more certain that you write only within the context of what is needed, here are some traps you just avoid.

1. Don't include your weaknesses

This is an opportunity to zone in your main strengths, achievements and skills. This is not the stage where you explain your weaknesses. Just like the example of letter of intent for scholarship below, focus on matching your strengths with some vivid examples.

2. Don't use an informal tone.

In the process of appealing one's heart, you may want to shift to an informal tone. That shouldn't happen. Your letter has to be precise, clear and formal. The scholarship letter examples below will give you a hint

3. Don't submit without proofreading

In a letter of interest for scholarship, it is essential that you check for grammatical errors and rectify them. One way you can achieve that is by asking someone to read the letter. That way you will have a more objective viewpoint.

4. Don't add unnecessary information.

You may find yourself adding unnecessary details that would only make your letter sound lethargic and unappealing. True, it is a personal letter for scholarship. However, details such as height, family tree or any other irrelevant information should be avoided.

5. Don't hide your need for financial assistance.

You may conclude that expressing your inability to pay tuition fees would sound desperate. Wrong! A scholarship is meant to alleviate a financial burden. So asking for financial assistance is highly expected. So an application letter for scholarship financial assistance is just appropriate. Relate your strengths and academic achievements. In the middle part of the scholarship application letter, you are free to explain how beneficial the organization's financial assistance would be to you.

Checkout how to get scholarship to study abroad

EXAMPLE OF APPLICATION LETTER FOR SCHOLARSHIP

Here is a sample scholarship application letter.

Mary Rowland

23, Streetview, Los Angeles,

California, USA,

[email protected]

+565 325 36771

7, September 2020

Admission Board,

Quebec University,

Lilyland Park,

Quebec, Canada

Dear Admission Officer,

I can't imagine any better opportunity to further my career in Marine Biology than this. So I am applying for a scholarship award for Masters in Marine Biology in the University of Quebec. This would be an added achievement to my victory in a 200 member school competition for Marine Biology. This would testify to my fervor for this field of study.

Ever since I was a kid, my parents would take me to all sorts of aquariums. Every time was a fascinating experience. But going back home never stopped my curiosity. I kept researching the nature and functionality of sea creatures. In time, I developed research and analytical skills, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Once, there was an elevator pitch competition with the title "The Impact of Whales in the Lives of Scuba divers". The topic sounded amusing and daunting at the same time. But my passion for Marine Biology never stopped me from giving it a shot. At the end, I was applauded for my great speech. In time, my presentation skills were furnished.

So shortlisting me for the scholarship award would be a privilege on my part as it would reflect on my grades, courseworks and projects.

Understanding the nature of sea animals and plants has propelled me to draw closer to high school students who are equally curious and craving for answers. So I took up full time as an aquarium tour guide. With this job, I shared my passion and enjoyed the satisfaction that pupils had after an interesting tour. However, my job provides a meager income. As much as I aspire to study Marine Biology, I would need financial assistance to bring my dream to reality. Therefore, I am humbly seeking monetary support.

How about we hold a meeting and discuss the impact the course of study would have on the next generations and the facilities that University has to contribute to the exposure of Marine Biology as a discipline?

Best Regards,

Mary Rowland.

SAMPLE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION LETTER PDF

So the above section of this article entails a sample scholarship application letter. For faster accessibility, we would advise you to download the scholarship request  letter sample PDF so as to fully be absorb every step that has been applied. Dowload Sample Scholarship Application Letter

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION LETTER TEMPLATES

You may have a more specific purpose in mind when writing a scholarship application letter. The purpose could be to gain admission in college or in University, appeal for a financial need or application for masters. In any case, here are the following templates and letter intent sample for scholarship and their sources.

Here is an application letter for high school

Download scholarship application letter for high school

Here is a request letter for scholarship from students

Download application to principal for grant of scholarship

Scholarship Application Letter for financial need

Here is a “reason for applying scholarship” sample letter.

Download scholarship application letter for financial need

Scholarship Application Letter for Master's Degree 

Here is a sample scholarship application letter for masters degree scholarships

Download scholarship application letter for masters degree

Scholarship Application Letter for University

The last application letter for applying scholarship

Download scholarship application letter for university

Striving to get a scholarship is a great goal to set. So kudos to you. With guidelines, tips and samples in the article, you will have no other choice but to succeed. Also you have been provided with a letter requesting scholarship consideration pdf. So write an application letter for scholarship confidently. However, that would not be the end of the scholarship application process. You will definitely be asked for a scholarship interview and even a scholarship recommendation letter. In any case, ScholarshipTab has all the answers. Simply subscribe to our newsletter and have a good digest of scholarship application strategies. Till we meet again.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Scholarship

Learn how to showcase your skills and personality in your scholarship cover letter and increase your chance of becoming a top applicant by reading our guide!

Article highlights

A scholarship cover letter is a crucial part of most scholarship applications. A well-written cover letter can have a significant impact in the decision-making process as it is your chance to showcase your unique experience and personality. In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know to write a great scholarship cover letter.

What is a scholarship cover letter?

A scholarship cover letter, also called a letter of motivation, is a letter you write to the scholarship committee to request their consideration for a grant and persuade them that you are a deserving candidate for the scholarship. The main intention is to highlight your academic accomplishments and academic record .

In this letter, you should showcase your strengths and skills in a way that explains why you are a great candidate for the scholarship. Also, this is your chance to provide a more detailed overview of your academic and extracurricular achievements and interests that may not be covered in a CV or resume .

3 reasons to write a scholarship cover letter

1. it can help make your application stand out.

Academic scholarships are extremely competitive so you need to make sure you do everything in your power to be considered. Here's where a scholarship cover letter steps in. Scholarship committees receive numerous applications from students with straight A's, extensive lists of extracurriculars, and high exam grades. Use your cover letter to stand out and explain why you should win the grant .

2. It allows you to communicate your future plans

For institutions and foundations, a scholarship is an investment, thus naturally they want to be confident that it will pay off. That's why outlining how a particular grant aligns with your future research or work plans can make you a top applicant.

3. It can demonstrate your level of English

The majority of scholarships for international students expect the applicants to have high English proficiency . Most of the time, they require you to attach a certificate to your application. But even then, seeing your level of language skills in a scholarship cover letter can win you some additional points. However, it's important not to go overboard - remember this isn't an artistic essay.

Different forms of scholarship cover letters

Apart from the standard scholarship cover letter, particular scholarships may require you to submit information about yourself in a different form. It can be:

• a personal statement , which is meant to tell who you are as a person, your interests and motivations;
• a motivation letter , which communicates why you chose a particular program or scholarship, as well as how you fulfill the requirements;
• an essay , which typically answers one specific question about you;
• a form or a document with a few questions , where you'll have to answer specific questions (which may or may not cover the information you'd usually provide in a cover letter).

How to write a cover letter for scholarship: step-by-step guide

The main purpose of a scholarship cover letter is to showcase your strengths and goals and why those make you a great match for the grant. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you write a cover letter for scholarship:

Review the scholarship’s application requirements

Before writing your cover letter for a scholarship, always check the application requirements . Every scholarship can have different expectations, some applications even have specific questions they want you to answer, so make sure to do thorough research to tailor your cover letter to a specific grant .

This can give you a better idea of what to include in your application and highlight the experiences and skills that are not included in your resume but may increase your chances of being the winner.

Write an introduction

The introduction is where you can make a positive first impression on the scholarship committee and let them get to know you. In the introductory paragraph, you should cover:

• who you are,
• how you learned about the scholarship,
• why it sparked your interest.

Avoid using generic phrases and templates, and adjust your introduction to better fit the specific scholarship you are applying for.

Highlight your professional experience and internships

In the first body paragraph, you should highlight relevant skills and achievements and your professional experience and internships . Depending on the scholarship requirements, choose suitable experiences from your previous education and explain how they allowed you to gain knowledge and skills related to a particular field. This can demonstrate your learning style and commitment to personal growth.

Share your academic ambitions and interests

Describe your academic interests and ambitions in the next body paragraph. Generally, scholarships search for potential and want to help promising students to pursue their interest in academia. So keep in mind that scholarship committees may look for candidates with academic aspirations and ambitions .

Talk about your aspirations post-graduation

It is also important to talk about your post-graduation aspirations and long-term goals. Whether you want to continue your education or enter the industry, show the reviewing committee how this scholarship is a good investment in your future. Highlight how this funding could impact your career post-graduation.

Summarize your goals and credentials with a conclusion

Restate your interest in the scholarship and why you are a great candidate in the last paragraph of your scholarship cover letter. You can include your contact information and encourage the reviewing committee to reach out to you. This is also a good place to express gratitude for considering your application.

Proof-read and update your cover letter

Always check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes at least twice as they can point to a lack of attention to detail. Consider asking someone else , ideally, a professor, to review it and provide their insights and feedback . This way you can avoid missing any errors and adjust your tone and writing style .

Tips for writing a scholarship cover letter

Here are some other important things you should keep in mind while writing a scholarship cover letter:

Make your cover letter unique and personal to your interests and achievements

The reviewing committee has gone through many cover letters, having seen those generic templates and patterns numerous times. This is a chance for you to make your cover letter personal and unique . Describe your specific goals, showcase your personality, and provide all relevant information that can help you stand out.

Format your letter in a professional manner and check for errors

Match your letter to the recommended formatting to make it look more professional:

• use a simple font and an appropriate size
• check the margins on the sides of the pages
• check the spacing between the lines
• try to make it one page long (unless a different length is specified)

Always double- or triple-check for spelling mistakes . According to Forbes , typos and grammar mistakes are among the top 5 reasons why many students have their applications rejected.

Include quantifiable accomplishments

Choose quantifiable achievements that reflect the criteria related to applicants' skills and accomplishments. It helps the reviewing committee determine how you compare to other candidates . Consider including your grade average, your most notable project, and numerical data that demonstrates your performance in relevant academic and extracurricular activities.

Don’t forget to provide evidence to back up your points

It is helpful to refer to evidence to support your points. For example, you may consider mentioning the specific source of your skills or situations where you have successfully applied them. It's best to avoid including any information that cannot be backed up .

Here's a piece of advice from Swedish Institute Scholarship recipient Suci Ariyanti :

Be honest. Never give false information, or exaggerate things. Not only will the SISGP committee do random checks on applicants, but it is also important to keep your integrity intact.

New scholarships from educations.com

Women scholarship for international students 2024.

Application deadline: 25 August 2024 at 12:00 CEST

This $5,000 Women scholarship for international students will be awarded to globally-minded female students beginning their undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate studies in the Fall 2024 semester or after. The award is meant to help cover your tuition fees and share your unique story as a woman with the world!

Undergraduate in STEM Scholarship 2024

Application deadline: 13 October 2024 at 12:00 CEST

Our STEM degree scholarship will be awarded to students starting their STEM studies in the Fall 2024 semester or later and is worth up to $5,000 . Students from all countries who will be studying for an undergraduate STEM degree abroad at a college or university can apply for this scholarship. We believe that students who study abroad become the next generation of globally-minded adventurers – so we want to help more of you reach your potential.

Graduate Study in the USA Scholarship 2024

Application deadline: 22 September 2024 at 12:00 CEST

Graduate Study in the USA scholarship is our first ever Master's degree scholarship . Students beginning their studies in the Fall 2024 semester or later can be awarded up to $5,000. It's open to international students from any country outside the USA who will be pursuing a Master's degree abroad at a college or university in the USA. It can be used to help cover tuition fees and get you one step closer to your next great adventure, in the USA.

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A scholarship cover letter gives you an opportunity to highlight your academic accomplishments and academic record and persuade the reviewing committee that you are a great candidate for the scholarship. Providing more information about you lets them get to know your personality and adds details to your application.

Make sure to spend enough time on this cover letter since it's a very important evaluation point during the decision-making process. Thoroughly research the requirements and tailor your letter to a specific scholarship . And don't forget that transparency is key , the selection committee aims to choose you for who you truly are!

Keystone Team Author

The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.

How to Write a Winning Cover Letter for a Scholarship

 dans 

Many people overlook the importance of the cover letter when putting together a scholarship application . 

They work hard to get good grades, pull together convincing recommendation letters, write a strong CV, and then throw the cover letter together at the last minute. 

This can be a big mistake: in the highly competitive world of scholarships, a persuasive cover letter can help you stand out from hundreds or even thousands of other applications, and convince the selection committee to look at you more closely.

You may have the skills, abilities, and passion that the committee is looking for, but this will be useless if you can’t write a good cover letter that conveys this clearly. Keep reading to learn how to write a killer cover letter for a scholarship that’s sure to impress the selection committee.

Tips for Writing a Killer Scholarship Cover Letter

You don’t have to be an experienced writer to write an impressive cover letter, just take the time to follow a few effective tips that will make your cover letter stand out.

Start with a Compelling Intro

A busy selection committee may only read the first few lines of your cover letter – so this could be your only opportunity to impress them. They will most likely skim through each letter so you need to make sure you have a short, compelling intro that will draw them in and read the rest of your application more closely.

To write a compelling intro, be sure to show your passion for the program you want to study. Introduce yourself and share a little about your current studies, education history, or goals for the future. There is no ideal length for a cover letter intro, but keep it short, concise, and free from fluff.

There’s nothing wrong with mentioning your achievements — after all, you need to sell yourself — but don’t make the entire cover letter about you.  Remember, your goal is to convince the committee that you can contribute to the program and the community in general. Your cover letter should reflect passion and dedication. 

Don’t underestimate the persuasiveness of being humble.

Keep it Concise

The scholarship committee wants to know where you’ve studied and why you are applying for the programme . This doesn’t mean they need to know absolutely everything about you. People often go into too much detail and end up with a two- or three-page letter filled with irrelevant information.

Here’s how to write a relevant, engaging cover letter:

• Briefly share a little about yourself: keep this to two or three lines
• Mention your most relevant qualifications
• Talk about why you are the ideal candidate for the scholarship
• Explain how you plan on using the scholarship to meet your future goals

A cover letter should be short, simple, and to the point. Don’t add unnecessary information.

Follow the Right Structure

It can be difficult to know how to please a committee you have never met. How do you write a cover letter that will convince them to read the entire application? It can be helpful to start with the outline and work from there.

A good cover letter should start with a compelling intro, the lead into an opening paragraph, followed by the body of a few paragraphs, a closing paragraph, and a call to action. Of course, you can tweak the structure to suit your preferred writing style.

Keep the Tone Formal

Your cover letter should have a formal tone and use simple yet professional vocabulary. That being said, the letter shouldn’t sound like it’s written by a robot. You should keep the tone formal, but engaging and readable.

Pay Close Attention to Formatting

Formatting is important, as it speaks volumes about your professionalism and how serious you are about getting the scholarship.

Keep these tips in mind when formatting your cover letter:

• Use 1 or 1.15 spacing
• Use double-spaces between paragraphs
• Use left alignment
• Keep a one-inch margin
• Use your digital signature

Once you have formatted your document correctly, save it in PDF format.

Check Spelling and Grammar

Lastly, double-check your cover letter for spelling and grammar mistakes. You can use tools like Grammarly to find and fix grammar errors. 

It’s also a good idea to have a second pair of eyes look over your cover letter. Ask a friend or family member to take a look, or hire a proofreader to edit the document.

Write a Winning Cover Letter

A cover letter for a scholarship should highlight your strengths and your motivations. A short, simple, and concise letter that’s relevant to the scholarship programme is all that the scholarship committee wants to see. 

Structure your cover letter properly, start with a compelling intro, and pay attention to important details like spelling, grammar, and formatting.

EDHEC offers scholarships for our online programmes and diplomas that cover up to 40% of tuition.

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How to Write a Good Cover Letter for Scholarship Application (5 Sample Examples PDF)

Scholarship Application 14,402 views 06 April, 2022

Do you need to write a good cover letter for scholarship, or you are in search of scholarship cover letter samples to guide you with your scholarship request? This article provides cover letter format for scholarship application, as well as cover letter for scholarship application pdf examples as templates for you to start writing your proposal letter for scholarship.

Every scholarship evaluation board or committee have a lot to take into consideration when making the decision on who to award a scholarship to. Decisions can be based on academic excellence and skills, or on economic factors such as low income.

In many cases when applying for a scholarship, the scholarship committee may ask you to attach a scholarship application cover letter. You should also provide details about how the scholarship will help you reach your educational and career goals when writing a cover letter for a scholarship.

Note that your letter of interest for scholarship, is one of your best chances to stand out from other candidates applying for the same scholarship, and you need to take it seriously. Read on to find out some tips on how to write a simple application letter for scholarship, which can also become the best cover letter for scholarship application when compared to cover letters from other candidates.

Related: How To Write A Good Recommendation Letter For Scholarship Application (8 Sample Examples PDF)

Article guide:.

What is a scholarship cover letter?

Parts of a cover letter for scholarship

TIPS: What to do when writing a cover letter for scholarship application

TIPS: What not to do when writing a cover letter for scholarship application

Letter formatting for a scholarship cover letter

Sample cover letter for scholarship application

Other sample examples of cover letter for scholarship application

What is a Scholarship Cover Letter?

A cover letter for scholarship application is an important and useful document that gives applicants for a scholarship the opportunity to express themselves and also provide details about their capabilities and goals.

A scholarship proposal letter which should be written to a scholarship committee, should explain what makes you a great candidate for the award, because the scholarship committee wants to find the most fitting students to invest their money in. Make them see the reasons why they should they choose you.

There are lots of applicants with excellent academic record who fit the bill of a great scholarship candidate. However, many scholarship committees look beyond just grades when choosing their preferred candidate for the award. 

They look at students who have overcome struggles, as well as students who are leaders in their community, with unique hobbies. Your cover letter for award application is your best choice at convincing the scholarship committee.

Parts of a Cover Letter for Scholarship

Whether you are writing for an undergraduate scholarship award, or a cover letter for masters’ scholarship, or a cover letter for PhD scholarship, you need to ensure that your cover sheet for scholarship application meets the application standards.

Specifically, there are five parts of a cover letter for applying scholarship.

Personal information

Just like every other ordinary letter, there must be a head section that shows your full name, department, University name, and address, on your cover page for scholarship application.

Salutation and opening paragraph

Start with an opening paragraph that briefly introduces who you are, and your relevant experience, how you learned about the scholarship, and why you are interested in applying.

Body paragraph(s)

What you are really addressing in this section is what makes you deserving of this particular scholarship, so make sure that everything you include in your cover letter for scholarship essay, bolsters your case. You may need just one body paragraph or several (always check the length requirement first).

Closing paragraph

End your application cover letter for scholarship with a closing paragraph that restates your interest in the scholarship and why you should be considered. Include a call to action to inspire the committee to reach out to you.

You can do this with a simple "sincerely / best regards", your full name and signature.

TIPS: What to do When Writing a Cover Letter for Scholarship Application

When writing a cover letter applying for scholarship, here are some tips on what you should do:

Be polite and honest

You don't need to write your family problems all at once in your scholarship cover letter. Simply explain your reason for needing financial aid in a polite and clear manner.

Keep your letter concise

When writing a cover letter for scholarship, you should try to make it short and direct as possible.

Attach necessary documents

On submitting your scholarship cover letter, ensure that you attach necessary documents that prove the validity of your challenges to make your story convincing.

Submit your request on time

Submit your cover letter as soon as possible to give your college ample time to review your request.

Go by the book

Stick to the college's procedure on how to appeal the initial scholarship package.

TIPS: What Not to Do When Writing a Cover Letter for Scholarship Application

Here are some tips on what you should avoid when writing a cover letter for scholarship:

Do not neglect your achievements

When writing a cover letter for scholarship application, don't feel timid to include details about your hard work and success record.

Do not show arrogance

You didn't save money with a scholarship committee for your education. Therefore, you shouldn't sound rude or too demanding when writing your cover letter.

Do not generalize your address

Don't just address your cover letter directly to the scholarship committee office, if possible, address your cover letter directly to the designated person at the committee office.

Don't be in a haste to submit your letter

Do not send your scholarship cover letter without proofreading for possible grammatical errors.

Avoid unnecessary complaints

Remember your cover letter is not for you to write about historical problems in your family, so avoid complaining too much or demanding too much sympathy.

Letter Formatting for a Scholarship Cover Letter

The structure and layout of a scholarship cover letter is as important as its content. This means that your letter must be readable and pleasing to the eye. Therefore, only a good scholarship cover letter format can catch the attention of the recipient.

Here are some tips to follow for a good scholarship cover letter format:

Maximum number of pages should not exceed one and a half

Set one inch margin on all sides

All texts should be aligned to the left (pleasing to the eye)

Line spacing is 1 or 1. 5 inch

Double spacing between the paragraphs

Use fonts like Calibri, Arial and Times New Roman

Send cover letter in a PDF format

Sample Cover Letter for Scholarship Application

We understand that you might need a scholarship cover letter maker, or a good cover letter for scholarship application sample to guide you when writing your cover letter, hence why we have included a cover letter for a scholarship sample in this section.

For proper demonstration on how to write a good scholarship cover letter, here is an eye catching scholarship cover letter template, which is a good sample for undergrad and masters’ application, and also a good sample of cover letter for PhD scholarship.

Grace Nicholas

Student, Department of Computer Science

Concordia University College of Alberta

Edmonton, AB D9E 3E3

5th April, 2022

Joe Barnabas

Student Affairs Department

Edmonton, F6 D93E BE3

RE: Scholarship Application

Dear Mr. Barnabas,

I am writing to submit my application for Concordia University College of Alberta’s Scholarship Program for fall 2022.  Presently, I am a first-year student of the Master of Computer Science program. In order to prove my diligence, I have enclosed copies of my academic accomplishments.

I am currently facing some financial difficulties, which has seen me struggle to pay my fee for the fall semester. I am planning to obtain a part-time job to manage the finances of my studies, but it would not be enough to cover the full tuition and accommodation fee. Based on my deprived financial condition, I request for a student scholarship so that I would be able to continue my studies in anticipation of an improved financial situation.

If you have any questions regarding my application, please feel free to contact me anytime at (000) 555-0335.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

(Signature)

Cover Letter for Scholarship Application PDF

So the above section of this article entails a sample cover letter for scholarship application. For faster accessibility, we would advise you to download the cover letter sample PDF, so you can fully absorb every step that have been applied.

Download cover letter for a scholarship sample

Cover Letter Template Scholarship PDF

This section will guide through some scholarship cover letter examples which will also act as a cover letter for scholarship application template for you to start with.

There are several circumstances that require different types of cover letter for scholarships. With different cover letter for scholarship application examples, you will have a clear picture of how yours should look like. Hence, why we have different cover letter for scholarship pdf examples in this section, which you can download for future reference.

Here are five cover letter template scholarship PDF examples.

Cover Letter for Fellowship Application PDF

Download cover letter for fellowship application pdf

Cover Letter for University Scholarship

Download cover letter for university scholarship pdf

Cover Letter for PhD Scholarship Sample

Download cover letter for phd scholarship sample pdf

Cover Letter for Master’s Degree Scholarship

Download cover letter for master degree scholarship pdf

Student Loan Appeal Letter Sample

Download student loan appeal letter sample pdf

Hopefully this guide on writing a scholarship cover letter will be helpful when you need to apply for scholarships. If you are searching for scholarships abroad, see our list of ongoing scholarships you can apply for. However, if your scholarship application gets denied, you can search for countries that allow you to work while studying.

Read: 13 Best Countries for International Students to Study and Work 2022

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Cover Letter for Scholarship Sample 2023

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Download this cover letter for scholarship template in Word for free

This sample cover letter for scholarship is available to download for free in Word format. You can readily customize it according to your academic achievements and goals to create a compelling cover letter that sets you apart from other applicants. Donwload this free example!

• File format:  Word (Microsoft)
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Organizations don’t award scholarships unless they’re convinced that you’re a deserving student worth their investment. In such instances, a cover letter for a scholarship comes to your rescue, demonstrating your genuine interest in the funds and the organization offering it.

But how do you start writing a scholarship cover letter? What should you include and exclude in this letter? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we will share 7 essential steps to help you craft a convincing scholarship cover letter to help you stand out.

So, let’s get started!

Cover Letter for a Scholarship Example

Full Name Address Phone Number Email Address

Scholarship Organization’s Name Scholarship Organization’s Address

Dear (Mr/Mrs or Academic Title) (Surname),

I am writing to express my strong interest in the ABC Scholarship for the pursuit of a Master’s degree in Architecture at XYZ University. With a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and a commendable 3.92 GPA, I am thrilled to embark on this next phase of my academic journey within the field of architecture.

Throughout my undergraduate career, I consistently demonstrated excellence in my academic pursuits, earning a place on the Dean’s List for outstanding performance in architectural design. These achievements underscore my unwavering commitment to my chosen field.

Beyond my academic accomplishments, I have actively engaged in various extracurricular activities and research projects that have honed my knowledge in the architectural field. These experiences have further allowed me to understand the challenges the construction community faces in a detailed manner.

The ABC Scholarship would be instrumental in easing the financial burden that often accompanies graduate studies. With your support, I would be able to wholeheartedly dedicate myself to academic and research pursuits, contributing meaningfully to the field of architecture.

I humbly request your support through the ABC Scholarship for the (Year). I appreciate your time and consideration, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to discuss this remarkable scholarship further. If you have any inquiries or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at my email (email address) or by phone (number).

Sincerely, Leah Richards

Craft a Stellar Cover Letter for a Scholarship

Crafting a standout cover letter is your golden chance to showcase why you are the perfect fit for a scholarship. Your cover letter should be a canvas where you paint a vivid picture of your qualifications, aspirations, and the sincere passion you hold for your chosen field of study.

The following essential steps will guide you in crafting a persuasive cover letter in no time:

1. Carefully review the scholarship you are applying for

Before you start crafting a cover letter for a scholarship, make sure to go through the requirements of the program you are applying for. Every educational scholarship or funding program has different requirements, eligibility criteria, and objectives.

To have your scholarship application accepted, you need to tailor it according to the requirements provided by the organization. This thoughtful approach demonstratesyour keen awarenessof what the scholarship stands for and sets you apart by showcasing your authentic enthusiasm.

For example, if a scholarship program strongly emphasizes community service, your cover letter should highlight your experiences and commitment to community involvement.

2. Begin your cover letter with a personalized header and salutation

Avoid using generic headers to start your cover letter for the scholarship. Remember, the header of your cover letter will be the first thing the reader will notice. As the first impression is the last one, personalize this space using appropriate credentials .

• First, begin by mentioning your name, address, email, and phone number. Next, include the name and contact information or, most probably, the address of the organization you are addressing.
• For the salutation part, don’t go with something like “ To Whom It May Concern. ” Instead, take time to research the name of the person providing the scholarship program.
• You can then start your cover letter by mentioning, “ Dear, Mr/Mrs (Surname of the Provider). “

3. Craft a captivating yet concise introduction

Educational funding organizations receive a bunch of scholarship applications every now and then. As a result, distinguishing yourself from the sea of deserving and competent candidates requires a thoughtful approach.

One effective strategy is to begin with a captivating yet concise introductory paragraph in your cover letter. Avoid lengthy self-descriptions ; instead, kick things off with a catchy sentence that briefly introduces yourself and your intention to apply for the scholarship.

Additionally, you can also mention any personal connections or experiences that have led you to pursue this opportunity. Make sure to maintain the tone of enthusiasm and determination to make the reader want to continue reading.

4. Highlight academic achievements

The next step in crafting an job-winning cover letter involves highlighting your academic achievements :

• You can begin by mentioning your most recent qualifications and explain how they serve as a foundation for your future aspirations.
• This integration of past accomplishments with future endeavors enhances the flow of your application and underscores your dedication to continued academic excellence. Furthermore, you can also use specific examples to illustrate your passion for learning.
• For example, you could say, “My Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science has provided me with a solid foundation in programming and problem-solving. I am excited to further build upon this foundation through a Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence.”

5. Discuss your experience and projects

In this part of your cover letter for scholarship, you must demonstrate your practical knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world situations.

You can start by highlighting any relevant professional experience you’ve gained, such as internships, part-time jobs, or research projects.

These experiences offer valuable insights into your chosen field of study and showcase your commitment to eliminating the gap betweentheory and practice.

6. Showcase your future academic goals in a cover letter for a scholarship

In this section, it’s essential to outline your future academic goalsand how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Start by preparing a comprehensive paragraph discussing your future academic goals and aspirations . Convey how receiving this scholarship would be a significant stepping stone towards achieving your educational and career objectives.

Here’s an example to showcase your future academic goals in your cover letter for scholarship :

“In my academic journey, I aspire to obtain a Master’s degree in renewable energy technologies. Obtaining this scholarship will alleviate financial constraints and enable me to pursue an advanced degree, enhancing my expertise in advancing sustainable energy solutions.”

7. Close your scholarship cover letter with a compelling CTA

To conclude your cover letter for the scholarship, you must close it with a compelling CTA to show you are eager to get the opportunity. Additionally, in this section, you also have to express gratitude to the review committee for considering your application.

By the end, provide your contact information to have the funding organization reach out to you in case of any queries. Finally, close the scholarship cover letter with polite greetings such as “sincerely” or “regards” and sign off by writing your full name.

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Cover Letter for Scholarship FAQs

What important guidelines to follow while crafting a cover letter for scholarship.

Here are some important guidelines to consider while crafting an effective cover letter for scholarship :

• Mention your quantifiable achievements, like your GPA.
• Enlist your future goals in a precise manner.
• Show your dedication to your field and its advancement.
• Maintain a polite and professional tone.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple scholarship applications?

No, you cannot use the same cover letter for multiple scholarship applications. Every scholarship has different requirements and eligibility criteria . In order to showcase your genuine interest, it is advised to tailor your cover letter for every scholarship program.

How to download this free cover letter for scholarship?

To download this free cover letter for scholarship , follow the below steps:

• Scroll to the upper right corner of the page.
• Select the Word format compatible with your device.
• Click the download box.
• Start editing.

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ROTC Scholarships

Pay for college with the army’s help..

Cover your college education while gaining valuable leadership skills in Army ROTC with financial support from the Army.

Get a scholarship with Army ROTC.

Scholarships and other monetary support are available to help with costs when you join Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Focus on your education and graduate into a secure path as an Army Officer—and with less debt for the school years your scholarship covers. You’re eligible if you are a high school student enrolling in college, enrolled in college, or an active-duty enlisted Soldier.

Reach your financial goals.

Get tuition and fees covered.

Get the full college experience, only with less debt, in exchange for a career serving in the Army as an Officer after graduation. ROTC scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements and can be applied to any of the 1,000+ participating schools, covering either tuition and fees or room and board.

Get money for expenses and books.

Receive monthly help to offset living and book costs. All ROTC scholarships include an extra $420 each month throughout the school year for expenses like housing, along with $1,200 each year to spend on books.

Apply in high school or college.

You’re eligible to apply for an Army ROTC scholarship at a participating school upon completion of your junior year of high school or as a college student.

High School

Here’s what to know when applying for an ROTC scholarship in high school.

Start the application process.

To get started on your ROTC scholarship application, create an account and log in to the Scholarship Application. From there, you’ll locate and contact the Recruiting Operations Officer at the school you plan to attend. Most of them have served before and understand the process you’re going through.

Important dates to remember

ROTC scholarship applications opened on June 12, 2023. Applications must be started no later than March 4, 2024 to be eligible for review by the Army ROTC National Scholarship Board for the 2024 – 2025 school year.

Due October 9, 2023

Applications will be reviewed from October 16 – 20, 2023.

Due January 15, 2024

Applications will be reviewed from January 22 – 26, 2024.

Due March 11, 2024

Applications will be reviewed from March 18 – 22, 2024.

Your obligation with an ROTC scholarship

Your acceptance of the ROTC scholarship means a future service obligation of eight years in the Army, with requirements for active duty and/or the Army Reserve or Army National Guard depending on the scholarship. You may be eligible to serve part time in the Army Reserve or Army National Guard while pursuing a civilian career immediately after graduation.

Scholarship recipients who wish to exit the ROTC program may do so after their freshman year of college without any obligation. 

Here’s what to know when applying for an ROTC scholarship in college.

Types of scholarships available.

You’ll have access to four-year, three-year, or two-year scholarships if you decide to join Army ROTC as a college student. Four-year scholarships are most common for students who are on a five-year college plan, while two-year scholarships are more common for those who attend certain participating two-year community colleges before transferring to a four-year university.

To get started on your ROTC scholarship application, locate and contact the Recruiting Operations Officer at your school to discuss how to apply. Most of them have served before and understand the process you’re going through. Their years of experience will help the process.

Scholarship recipients who wish to exit the ROTC program may do so after their freshman year of college without any obligation.

Requirements to be eligible for an ROTC scholarship.

To be accepted for any ROTC scholarship, you must meet these standards.

Be a U.S. citizen.

Be at least 17 and under 31 in year of commissioning.

Have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Have an unweighted high school GPA of at least 2.50 if you’re in high school while applying.

Have taken the SAT or ACT.

Take the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) .

Meet the physical weight and height requirements .

Agree to accept a commission and serve in the Army , Army Reserve , or Army National Guard .

Career-building scholarship programs

Nursing scholarships.

Nursing students can apply for any Army ROTC scholarship by following the directions above. Being a nurse in the Army provides you with opportunities not found in the civilian world, including a three-week paid Nurse Summer Training Program, which introduces students to the Army Medical Department and the roles and responsibilities of an Army Nurse Corps Officer .

Enlisted Soldier Scholarships

As an enlisted Soldier, you have access to the Green to Gold program and scholarship opportunities to cover costs for tuition or room and board, while you earn your undergraduate or graduate degree.

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Sean ‘diddy’ combs has honorary howard university degree revoked, $1m donation returned after shocking abuse video.

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Howard University revoked Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree Friday and will return his $1 million donation amid the music mogul’s mounting abuse accusations.

Howard’s Board of Trustees unanimously voted to take back Combs’ degree, which he was given by the Washington, DC-based historically black university in 2014, and cut ties with the rapper, the school said .

The board additionally agreed to return Combs’ $1 million donation, disband the scholarship program in his name and terminate all gift agreements with Combs and the Sean Combs Foundation.

“Mr. Combs’ behavior as captured in a recently released video is so fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs that he is deemed no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

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Dear Colleague Letter: NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Program (S-STEM) Scholarship Supplements for Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Recipients

May 28, 2024

Dear Colleagues:

With this Dear Colleague Letter (DCL), the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Directorate for STEM Education (EDU) invites active Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program recipients to submit supplemental funding requests to provide scholarship support for students who meet the qualifications for the NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Program (S-STEM).

A well-educated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce is critical to maintaining the competitiveness of the U.S. in the global economy, yet there continues to be high attrition among STEM undergraduate students across U.S. colleges and universities 1 . The NSF S-STEM program addresses the need for a high-quality STEM workforce in STEM disciplines supported by the program by providing scholarships to academically-talented, low-income students with demonstrated financial need who are pursuing associate, baccalaureate, or graduate degrees in these disciplines. This DCL encourages active ATE recipients to submit supplemental funding requests to provide S-STEM scholarships to eligible students participating in active ATE projects.

Supplemental Funding Request Preparation Instructions

Supplemental funding requests from current ATE recipients should be limited exclusively to funds for student scholarships and should align with the eligibility requirements outlined in the S-STEM program solicitation .  Namely, prospective scholarship recipients must:

• Be citizens of the United States, nationals of the United States (as defined in section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act), aliens admitted as refugees under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, or aliens lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence. Please note that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) individuals are ineligible for support from this solicitation unless they meet the requirements listed in the first sentence of this bullet by the time of application;
• Be enrolled at least half-time as defined by the institution in a program leading to an associate degree in an S-STEM eligible discipline;
• Demonstrate academic ability or potential as defined by the institution;
• Be low-income. The definition of low-income must follow the institutional guidelines for income thresholds that qualify the student as low-income (for example, see eligibility requirements for the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) Pell and TRIO grant programs or for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) public housing program . The institution's definition of low-income must be included in supplementary documents within a letter from the Financial Aid Office.
• Have demonstrated unmet financial need. Demonstrated financial need for undergraduate students is defined by the US Department of Education rules for need-based Federal financial aid Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In the case of S-STEM, institutions are required to follow the calculations in section II.B of NSF 24-511 that include other grants, fellowships, and scholarships but not loans (see https://studentaid.gov/complete-aid-process/how-calculated#need-based ). Income from potential work study should not be included in the calculation for undergraduate students. Loans should not be included in calculations of unmet need for students.

The supplemental funding request must include the following:

• A detailed summary of proposed work that describes the planned scholarship program including institutional context and numbers 2-7 below.
• Pool of Potential Scholars: A description of the pool of potential scholars, including the table below.
• Retention and Graduation Rates: A description of current 1-year retention rates and graduation rates for the above pool of students in each S-STEM eligible discipline that is included in the request.
• Cost of Attendance: Cost of Attendance (COA), determined by each educational institution, is the total amount it will cost a student to go to school, including tuition and fees; on-campus room and board (or a housing and food allowance for off-campus students); allowances for books, supplies, computer equipment, transportation, loan fees, dependent care, mandatory health insurance, graduation fees, and costs related to a disability; and miscellaneous expenses.
• COA - Student Aid Index (SAI) - other grants and scholarships (which for the purpose of this program should exclude loans and work) = Unmet Need.
• The SAI is determined by the FAFSA form and represents the expected family contribution toward the COA ( https://studentaid.gov/ ).
• Determination of Financial Eligibility: A description of the determination of financial eligibility including the institution's definition of low-income must be included in the request.
• Description of Academic Eligibility: The request should describe clear and equitable selection criteria for scholarships and describe how scholars will be selected out of the pool of all qualified individuals.
• Student Support Services: The request should discuss already existing academic and student support structures that are relevant to the S-STEM supplement and describe ways in which the S-STEM supplement will use or enhance those structures. These activities need to respond to the documented low-income student and institutional needs or goals.
• Letter from the Financial Aid Office or equivalent: The letter should certify the Office's understanding of the guidelines and requirements of the S-STEM program, confirming the institutional definition of low income, that the eligible students will meet its definition of low income, and stating their commitment to support the project as described in the proposal if awarded. This letter should be included in the other supplementary documents section.

Additional guidance on the contents of each of the above listed items can be found in Section V.A.5 of the S-STEM solicitation. Additional guidance on preparing and submitting a supplemental funding request may be found in Chapter VI.E.5 of the  NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide .

Supplemental Funding Details

Support will be provided through S-STEM supplements to existing ATE recipients. Funding shall not exceed 20% of the total original ATE award. Scholarship costs should be entered as Participant Support Costs (line F.1. of the budget request sheets) in the proposed budget. Indirect costs (F&A) are not allowed on participant support costs. Therefore, indirect costs are not permitted for this supplemental funding request.

Target Date

Supplemental funding requests may be submitted at any time in FY2024 or FY2025.

Submission and Review

All supplemental funding requests will be reviewed in accordance with the NSF’s merit review process.

Supplemental funding requests cannot be submitted without prior NSF approval. To explore submission, please contact the cognizant Program Officer (see list below) of the award to which the supplement will be attached by sending via email, a 2-page (maximum) summary of the planned funding request including a draft budget. You will then be contacted on how to proceed.

Principal investigators with questions pertaining to this DCL may contact:

• Celeste Carter, Program Director, EDU/DUE, [email protected]
• Thomas Kim, Program Director, EDU/DUE, [email protected]

James L Moore, III Assistant Director, EDU

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S.B. Amateur Radio Club & Wireless Foundation Announce Annual Scholarship Winner

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June 4, 2024 – SANTA BARBARA, Calif.

The Santa Barbara Amateur Radio Club and the Santa Barbara Wireless Foundation are pleased to announce the recipient of their annual scholarship, awarded to an outstanding local high school graduate who plans to pursue higher education in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM).

Mateo Olin Ferreira , a graduating senior at Orcutt Academy Charter High School , was awarded the 2024 scholarship at Santa Barbara Courthouse on Monday, June 3. Ferreira is set to graduate with a 4.0 GPA and plans to attend Allan Hancock College for initial credits before transferring to California State University, Long Beach to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business.

Ferreira is an Eagle Scout in Troop 87, a tenor saxophone section leader, a football player and referee, and a Catholic altar server. He plans to continue his education with summer internships to gain practical experience in his field and aims to contribute to the advancement of green energy production.

Brian Milburn, the president of the Santa Barbara Amateur Radio Club and Santa Barbara Wireless Foundation, and Levi C. Maaia, Ph.D., a board member and the chair of the scholarship committee, presented Ferreira with a certificate and a financial award to support his college expenses.

“Our goal is to ensure that more students choose academic and career paths in science and technology,” said Milburn. “Mateo has set himself up for success with his plan to attend community college and then Cal State Long Beach.”

Ferreira is the latest recipient of this scholarship, which is awarded annually in June. Applicants must be high school seniors in Santa Barbara, Ventura or San Luis Obispo Counties who plan to study Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics in higher education. Applicants should have an excellent academic record. While not requirements, preference is given to applicants who hold an active FCC amateur radio license. 

Donations to the scholarship fund and applications by members of the class of 2025 may be submitted at scholarships.sbwireless.org .

The Santa Barbara Wireless Foundation, together with the Santa Barbara Amateur Radio Club, forms a nonprofit, public benefit organization that develops and supports wireless telecommunications technologies in support of public safety, emergency communications, community service, and scientific research in the Santa Barbara region. More information can be found at www.sbarc.org and www.sbwireless.org .

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At Museums, a Revolution Gains Momentum

Faced with dwindling attendance and changing demographics, museum directors are shifting their approach, with an eye toward “radical hospitality.”

By Ted Loos

Reporting from Washington

When Melissa Chiu began her tenure as the director of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden 10 years ago, she had a stray thought about the institution’s location, on the National Mall, and its appearance, a doughnut-shaped concrete structure by the architect Gordon Bunshaft with a certain resemblance to a spaceship.

“Maybe some of our visitors thought it was the Air and Space Museum,” she said of the popular institution next door, which, like the Hirshhorn, is part of the Smithsonian and which was getting more than six million visitors a year at the time. “So, OK,” she said, “that’s not a bad thing.”

Chiu — who is appearing this week at the Art for Tomorrow conference in Venice with the artist and writer John Akomfrah to discuss how artists and museums can work together to address social, political and ecological issues — did not wait around for confusion to boost attendance at her museum. (The annual conference was founded by The New York Times, and is convened by the Democracy & Culture Foundation, with panels moderated by Times journalists.)

The number of people visiting the Hirshhorn has increased dramatically since she started in 2014, when the museum received 552,000 visitors. In 2018 and 2019 that figure was up more than 50 percent, and even in the post-lockdown phase of the pandemic, a time when many museums have faced a slump in visitors, the numbers are still well above that decade-old baseline.

The issue of attendance has been a focus of museums large and small across the country lately, as tourism has shifted, interest on the part of younger people has waned in some places and regional demographics have changed. Museums have taken various steps to manage the challenge: featuring newer and sometimes lesser-known artists, catering more to local audiences, and adding technological enhancements to attract nontraditional visitors.

Seated in her office surrounded by high-energy art — including Lucio Fontana’s “Spatial Concept: Expectations” (1962), a red canvas with large, dramatic slashes in its canvas— Chiu talked about what she calls “radical accessibility,” her guiding principle.

“How do we welcome everyone?” she said. “Radical accessibility became an important way of working for us when we thought about really fulfilling our national mission.”

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Hirshhorn. Founded as the nation’s modern and contemporary art museum in 1974, it was fueled by a gift of some 6,000 artworks from the collector Joseph H. Hirshhorn.

A current show, ​“Revolutions: Art From The Hirshhorn Collection, 1860—1960,” showcases art from the founding gift alongside more recent acquisitions. Near the beginning of the show is an 1884 John Singer Sargent portrait hung next to a portrait by the contemporary Ghanaian painter Amoako Boafo.

“It’s a great way of signaling our intentions,” said Chiu of the pairing, which links two works of similar subject matter that were painted by very different artists in very different times.

The Hirshhorn is free to the public and always has been. But given the number of other free options on the Mall, that does not mean that visitors necessarily stream in.

Chiu dated the beginning of the attendance bump to the 2017 show “Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors.” Kusama, now 95 and living in Japan, has been an acclaimed artist since at least the 1960s, and she has had a particularly robust late-career renaissance. Her Instagrammable, selfie-friendly work at the Hirshhorn became a sensation, boosting museum attendance to 1.1 million that year, an all-time high.

“There were lines from 3 a.m. and it broke the Smithsonian server three times with the demand for passes,” Chiu said. “We had never seen anything like it.”

The programming decisions may have attracted people, but Chiu and her team have also made serious efforts to engage viewers with the exhibitions once they are inside.

Chief among the innovations is the Hirshhorn Eye, a mobile video guide that shows artists talking about their works; it has been adopted by other Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of African Art.

Chiu also drew attention to the museum in an unconventional way with a six-episode TV show, The Exhibit: Finding the Next Great Artist . The competition series featured Chiu as the lead judge, and one of the prizes was a solo show at the Hirshhorn.

The biggest item on Chiu’s future agenda is outdoors: an overhaul of the sculpture garden that sits on the Mall. The $68 million project, which is being designed by the Japanese artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, is scheduled to be completed in 2026.

Without expanding the garden’s footprint, the renovation will feature 50 percent more artworks from the collection than it had previously, and more than triple the amount of seating.

“We’re the only museum with an active presence on the Mall,” said Chiu, referring to the garden’s position directly on the Mall. She hopes to capture more of the 35 million annual visitors to the manicured grassy expanse. The museum’s entrance will be reoriented to that side, too.

Chiu and her staff’s challenge, of having a huge potential audience so close to their museum, which is free, is the opposite situation in many ways to that faced by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art , with an adult admission of $30 and a downtown San Francisco location that is proving challenging for visitors.

Attendance at SFMOMA is down since 2019, from nearly 900,000 visitors that year to around 600,000 in 2023.

Christopher Bedford, the museum’s director since 2022, has his own mantra for bringing people back, that sounds similar to Chiu’s: “radical hospitality.”

“We are attempting, without a compromise in scholarship, to meet people more where they are in terms of their interests,” Bedford said.

Populist programming is at the heart of his efforts, notably the current music-themed show, “Art of Noise,” and a sports-related exhibition, “Get in the Game,” planned for the fall.

“They don’t advance art history, they advance social and political history through art,” said Bedford of the shows.

One of Bedford’s “fixations,” he said, was that, in his opinion, many modern and contemporary museums don’t provide any cultural context for modern art, and they assume visitors’ knowledge of the subject with a posture of, as he put it, “‘You should appreciate this.’”He contrasted that with shows of ancient art at other museums, which take pains to explain the social and cultural context in which the works were made.

The same should be true of the 20th-century works by Ellsworth Kelly and Andy Warhol at SFMOMA, Bedford said, “So we assume total ignorance on the part of the consumer.”

To that end, in July the museum will open a gallery called “Museums 101,” where rotating installations will frame modern art in the context of modern life. The first presentation will look at the idea of newness in art, with works by Isamu Noguchi and Georges Braque, alongside developments like the baby monitor and the telephone.

Also, although SFMOMA charges visitors to get into its primary galleries, Bedford creatively deploys the 60,000 square feet of the museum that is free — an amount of space that is larger than some entire museums, he notes.

In July, part of that free space will house a new commission by the artist Kara Walker, the multidisciplinary artist and a winner of the MacArthur Fellowship, sometimes known as the “genius grant.”

“You’ll cross the threshold and experience a multimillion-dollar installation by, in my view, the country’s most important artist,” Bedford said — and, crucially, such free programming may beckon visitors into the main galleries as paying customers.

Another issue is where the museum’s visitors come from, given that San Francisco has had a blow to its image in recent years , because of problems like homelessness.

“Our museum is scaled for national and international tourism as well as the local audience,” said Bedford, referring to the fact that SFMOMA is one of the country’s largest modern and contemporary art museums. “We’ll scratch and claw our way back with the locals — and when that moment comes, it will be irresistible to tourists, too.”

Accessibility and hospitality are measured in total visitors to museums, but also in the type of people who come through the door.

At the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, the director, Rand Suffolk, has focused on the diversity of his audience, given that the 2020 census reported that 47 percent of Atlanta’s residents were Black.

In 2015, when he arrived in the director’s chair, the museum’s attendance was 15 percent Black, Indigenous and other people of color (BIPOC); in both 2022 and 2023, it was 57 percent.

“We call it the mantra of our DNA: growth, inclusivity, collaboration and connectivity,” Suffolk said.

The exhibition slate has been the primary lever. “We’ve made significant changes in our programming,” Suffolk said, citing a dramatic shift to shows that focus on women, BIPOC and L.G.B.T.Q. artists. “We’ve doubled down.”

The upcoming exhibition “Tyler Mitchell: Idyllic Space,” running June 21 to Dec. 1, features images by Mitchell, an Atlanta native who was the first Black photographer to shoot the cover of Vogue.

But the museum is also shifting its marketing. “It was exhibition-focused,” Suffolk said of the older campaigns, which were driven by touting prestige. “It used to be, ‘We’re the leading art museum in the Southeast U.S.’ But we don’t want to lead with that now.”

By contrast, the current messaging centers on the line, “My place too,” which Suffolk and his team think emphasizes the idea of belonging.

Echoing Bedford’s term, Suffolk added, “We’ve increased our hospitality.”

Visitors, of course, have their own ideas of what will make them feel welcome.

The Hirshhorn’s quirky architecture has one facet that Chiu said visitors often cited in their feedback: Currently, there are only bathrooms on the basement level, and more are needed, particularly on the primary exhibition floors.

Chiu said that would be addressed in a renovation of the building itself, a long-term project that she intends to embark on after the garden overhaul.

Accessibility, like everything else, takes time. “At a museum,” Chiu said, “change is a seven to ten-year proposition.”