5 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Scholarships
Winning a scholarship can completely transform your academic journey, but the competition is tough—and even strong candidates often lose out due to simple, avoidable mistakes. Whether you're applying for local Nigerian opportunities or international fully funded scholarships, avoiding these five mistakes could give you the edge you need.
1. Not Checking Eligibility Properly
One of the most common reasons applications get rejected is because the applicant doesn’t meet all the eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are limited to specific countries, age ranges, courses, or academic levels (e.g., undergraduate or postgraduate).
Example:
The NNPC/TotalEnergies Scholarship is only for Nigerian undergraduates in specific disciplines like Engineering, Medicine, and Geosciences. Applying when you’re studying a different course, or not yet admitted, leads to instant disqualification.
Tip:
Always read the eligibility section thoroughly before you even start your application.
2. Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
Missing documents such as academic transcripts, proof of admission, recommendation letters, or an updated CV can sabotage your chances, even if you meet all other requirements.
Example:
The Federal Government Scholarship Board (FSB) often disqualifies candidates who forget to upload their LGA certificate or who submit unverified transcripts.
Tip:
Create a checklist for each scholarship you apply for and crosscheck every required document before submission.
3. Poorly Written Motivation or Personal Statements
Your motivation letter is one of the few places where you can speak directly to the scholarship reviewers. A generic, copied, or poorly written letter shows a lack of effort and reduces your chances dramatically.
Example:
Some students recycle the same motivation letter for every application. If you’re applying for the DAAD Scholarship in Germany, for instance, but don’t mention Germany or your proposed university, it shows poor preparation.
Tip:
Customize every letter. Focus on your goals, how the scholarship fits into them, and how you will contribute to your field or society after graduation.
4. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Apply
Scholarships often have long application windows—but most students wait until the final days, which leads to rushed applications filled with errors or missed uploads due to network failures.
Tip:
Start preparing at least 2–3 weeks before the deadline. Submit early to avoid last-minute panic.
5. Overlooking “Smaller” or Local Scholarships
While many students focus on big international scholarships like Chevening, Erasmus, or Fulbright, they often ignore smaller or local ones that may have less competition.
Example:
The Lagos State Scholarship Board, SEPLAT JV Scholarship, and Agbami Medical Scholarship have supported hundreds of Nigerian students—yet many overlook them.
Tip:
Apply widely. Even if a scholarship offers less funding, multiple small wins can cover your full tuition or upkeep.
Final Advice: Apply Smart, Not Just Hard
Applying for scholarships is not just a numbers game. Quality, strategy, and attention to detail matter. Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll increase your chances of winning significantly.
Stay consistent, stay sharp, and never miss an opportunity.