Dozens or even hundreds of top students may be competing with you for major scholarships, so it is important to gain any edge possible. By carefully putting together your application packet, you can help give yourself that edge. Here’s how.

1. Type everything if possible. If not, write in black ink so your materials can be photocopied easily by the scholarship selection committee.

2. Do not provide reference letters from friends, neighbors or co-workers. Instead, ask employers and teachers to write letters of reference for you. It is always best to provide references from people who have supervised, taught, or mentored you.

3. Nobody wants to work harder than necessary, so make the scholarship judges’ job easy by making sure all of your documents are well organized and readable.

4. Be sure to provide all requested information. Incomplete applications are often totally disregarded.

5. Waiting until the last minute to file your application can create a bad impression. Be early.

6. Attach all documents together with a large paper clip. Do not use staples. Put everything in an attractive, well constructed folder.

7. Mail the folder in a large envelope so nothing will have to be folded and everything will arrive looking crisp.

Will following these rules guarantee you a scholarship? Sorry, it’s not that easy. But, all things being equal, they will increase your chances. Good luck.

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