What to remember when applying for local scholarships Key points to ensure a successful application submission. February 26, 2019

Contents Overview Cover Letter Scholarship Resume Criteria Additional Enclosures Submission Package February 26, 2019

Overview Local Scholarship / Bursary package will be posted on school’s web-site at end of February Application deadline is April 5, 2019, 3:00 p.m. HINTS: Give yourself time – don’t do everything at the last minute. Start preparing your cover letter early. February 26, 2019

Cover Letter Prepare one, typed cover letter addressed to Mrs. S Confortin, Chair of Ballenas Secondary School Scholarship Committee. Provide one letter but if a particular scholarship requires the application be sent to the organization or individual, an additional cover letter is required. In the letter, indicate why you are a qualified candidate for a local scholarship and / or bursary. What should be in your cover letter? Think about your personal experiences. Don’t make it just a written version of your resume. Be sure to explain how activities have affected or shaped the person you are today, but don’t go into detailed lists (save that for the scholarship resume) Items to include; 1. academic and / or vocational achievements 2. extra-curricular activities (athletics, student government, dry grad, etc.) 3. community activities / services The following are extremely important to include: 4. post-secondary educational plan / intended area(s) of study and future career goal 5. any other qualifications (i.e.: financial need, employment, etc.) February 26, 2019

Criteria Each scholarship / bursary has criteria by which the successful recipient is selected. Review the criteria to ensure you are eligible. Review the criteria to determine if additional information is required (e.g., resume, reference letters, transcript of grades). HINT: Apply for ALL scholarships / bursaries for which YOU ARE ELIGIBLE. Do not apply for anything you are not eligible to receive. February 26, 2019

Additional Enclosures Some scholarships require additional information. Please ensure your application is complete. If applying for a scholarship that requires a letter of recommendation, ask in a timely manner so the letter writer doesn’t feel rushed provide the letter writer with a completed Background Information form (available on web-site). February 26, 2019

Additional Enclosures cont. If you apply for a scholarship / bursary that considers financial need, include the ‘Assessment of Financial Need’ document. If the application requires a school transcript of grades, do not worry about getting one. The secretary will make sure it is included with the package. Some applications require a separate application form. These are available in the Counselling Office. February 26, 2019

Submission Package Application Form Scholarships / bursaries for which you are applying have been indicated. Information page has been completed. Cover Letter (see cover letter page for details) Scholarship Resume (see scholarship resume page for details) Assessment of Financial Needs form (if required) February 26, 2019

Submission Package cont. Other items if required to meet the criteria requirement needs for your application: Letter(s) of Reference Separate cover letter Separate application form HINTS: You do not need to include several copies of everything. If a copy needs to be made for applications going outside Ballenas, we will make the copy for you. February 26, 2019

Conclusion Use your time wisely – don’t procrastinate! Review criteria Ensure you meet requirements Ensure you include all documentation Prepare a well-written cover letter. Prepare detailed scholarship resume Ask for reference letters at least two weeks in advance. Hand in complete application package by 3:00p.m. on April 5, 2019; late submissions will not be considered. February 26, 2019