Step-by-Step Beginner Guide to Scholarships and Graduate School Applications

 

Step-by-Step Beginner Guide to Scholarships and Graduate School Applications

Step-by-Step Beginner Guide to Scholarships and Graduate School Applications

Many people always find it difficult to navigate the scholarship or graduate school application landscape because they do not know where to start from. The graduate school application, as well as scholarship application involves a series of processes that vary with time, and one must be wary of every step and where to get what. 

One common question I always receive from prospective applicants is "where do I start from?" "Where do I get scholarships to apply to?", "Where do I get schools or programmes to apply to?"; "How did you do it?" and inter-alia. I have dedicated this post to beginners who are struggling to navigate the process of applying for scholarships and admissions.

Let us start with answering the common questions beginners always ask. Modern technology has made everything easily accessible in every part of the world through mobile devices, and that's why the world today is a global village: communication is easy, information is free and accessible in just a click. 

You only need internet connectivity, and you are all good to go. There is no need to ask people these days about where to get scholarships or schools to apply to when everything is at your fingertips. You just need your internet and also sit on your buttocks to read widely. There are a lot out there, and I believe you cannot exhaust everything. 

One of the easiest ways to identify and apply to schools and/or scholarships is the use of Google Search Engine/ Safari/Firefox/Yandex or any browser on your phone. Just connect to the internet first, then start typing something into the search box, then boom! Lots and lots will appear. 

But before you do that, you need to have a plan. You need to decide by creating a list that must include 1. the country (s) you want to study. And that is because some countries may not be safe or may have language barriers, which may limit your ability to explore or immerse yourself in the culture of the people. Some people also decide on a continental level instead of country-specific: for example, someone can say they want to study in Europe, Africa, America, or China. So, first decide on the country or continent you want to study in. 2. Decide on the programme/course you want to study. Whether you want to study a PhD, Masters, Undergraduate, Diploma, or Certificate programme, you need to pre-determine that earlier in the process. List the names and levels of programmes you want to study, either in Excel or MS Word for easy reference. 

After the first two steps, you can start your search online using any browser by combining keywords that include the programme name, level, and country or continent. For example: "List of master's programmes in Real Estate in the United States; Fully funded scholarship for master's in environmental science programmes in the UK for African Students; Universities in Europe with fully funded PhD programmes in Economics for international students" and many others. Just search for something, and you will see massive results. Take your time and read the vast results from the browser, take note of things that are important to you, and keep links for future reference as well.

Another important thing to note is that Artificial intelligence is now incorporated in every browser or search engine, which you can chat with like your pal or send voice notes to and receive instant and relevant answers. Take advantage of AI to make your search easier.

 

The second best way to start as a beginner is to create a LinkedIn account if you do not have one already. Create a very good and structured account by providing every detail needed, especially your profile photo, education history, employment history including internships, leadership experience, voluntary experience, publications, certifications and awards, and many others. Doing that will make your profile visible to others to connect with you. 

After making sure your account is grounded, start connecting with people through the network section of LinkedIn. Connect to as many as possible. But remember, LinkedIn is a professional platform, so do not share content that is not fit for that space, as some content is meant for social media platforms. 

Start connecting with people who share scholarship opportunities or professors or lecturers at universities you want to attend, as they also share funding opportunities in their universities or departments. I do share a lot of opportunities as well on LinkedIn; you can also connect with me and also connect with a page called "Scholarship180 Mentorship Hub" on LinkedIn: a lot of opportunities are shared there. Connect to a lot of pages/groups to get updates on opportunities shared. 

After making good use of the above two platforms, that is, Google search engine or browser and LinkedIn, try to also connect with individuals who can mentor you, especially those who have gone through the process or have won a scholarship before. You need a mentor in this journey; it's not a lonely one. You need someone to show you the way; what to do and what not to do; and to review your essays. If you don't have someone to mentor you, that is why scholarshipsonsultancy.com exists to guide you step-by-step through the process. You will be paired with an experienced mentor to address all your concerns.

Do not also forget to watch Youtube videos as well. There are a lot of Youtube videos out there that share available scholarship opportunities. Subscribe and watch how to get little things done, step-by-step.