There are many scholarships, bursaries and awards available for university students. Scholarships are generally available in every program and to students in every year of study. But how do universities decide which applicants will be the lucky recipients of this important funding? You might be surprised.

Yes, a lot of scholarship applications require good grades, but some do not. Bursaries usually focus on demonstration of financial need, and students can also gain the attention of decision makers through school and community involvement, extracurricular activities, and their personal statement. Some awards only require your acceptance to University and enrolment in courses. Check out these new student entrance awards for on-campus housing at the University of Regina!

Every student that applies has a reasonable chance of receiving a scholarship, but if you follow our tips, you’ll have the edge over your peers and a much better chance of winning one (or more) of these awards to help finance your education.

4 tips to increase your scholarship application success

1. Apply! You might be eligible for a few entrance awards automatically, but most of the time, you can’t receive a scholarship or award if you don’t apply. Carve out some time and make this a priority. As mentioned, there is very good chance you are eligible for something. Most universities have a dedicated database for you to search for scholarships that you might be eligible for. Check out the award database at the University of Regina, Saskatchewan.

2. Include all your documents. Make sure you read each award application carefully and submit all the required documents on the first try. In many cases, if you forget to submit something they asked for, you will be screened out of the competition.

3. Apply for the right awards. Focus your efforts on the awards and scholarships that you know you are eligible for based on the criteria that has been listed. Too often students spend a great deal of time completing applications that they aren’t actually eligible for, and never get to apply for the ones that they are eligible for. Make a list of your top targets, complete those applications, and then expand to others if you have time.

4. Ask for help. University staff are wonderful people, and their goal is to support you. If you have questions about awards, or the application process, they would be happy to help. Look for contact information on the scholarships and awards section of their website. You might even find additional resources, like drop-in sessions!