Introduction
High school seniors in the United States and Canada who wish to pursue a degree in journalism, writing, communications, or a similar subject may apply for the merit-based Alexander Graham Scholarship. This esteemed award, named for telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell, offers up to $10,000 year for a maximum of four years of undergraduate study.
How to Apply
Below are the key steps on how to apply for the Alexander Graham scholarship;
- Meet the eligibility criteria. Double check that you meet all the requirements before proceeding.
- Gather your materials. This includes your high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, a list of extracurricular activities, honors and awards, volunteer work, and writing samples.
- Complete the online application. This includes submitting all your materials as well as writing three short essays on given prompts related to your interest in journalism and communication.
- Get two letters of recommendation. Ask teachers who can speak to your abilities and potential in journalism, writing or communication. Submit these with your application.
- Submit by the deadline. The application deadline is in early February each year. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Eligibility Requirements for the Alexander Graham Scholarship
To be eligible for the prestigious Alexander Graham Scholarship, you must meet several basic requirements.These requirements are;
1. Academic Standing
You must be enrolled as an undergraduate student at an accredited U.S. or Canadian college or university. In terms of grades, you’ll need to maintain at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale to qualify and remain eligible.
2. Area of Study
The scholarship is open to students in a wide range of majors, including but not limited to technology, engineering, mathematics, and life sciences. However, preference is given to students pursuing degrees in fields closely related to the work and legacy of Alexander Graham Bell, such as communication, speech-language pathology, and deaf education.
3. Residency
You must be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States or Canada to qualify for the scholarship. The scholarship does not have any restrictions based on state or province of residence.
4. Enrollment Status
Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to apply. You must be enrolled at least part-time, which is usually defined as 6 or more credits per semester. The scholarship can be renewed for up to four years of study.
5. Financial Need
While the scholarship does consider academic achievement and area of study, financial need is also an important factor. Preference is given to applicants with a demonstrated need for financial assistance to fund their college education. You must complete a FAFSA or similar financial aid assessment to determine your expected family contribution.
How to Apply for the Alexander Graham Scholarship
Below are the tips in applying for the Alexander Graham scholarship;
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Alexander Graham Scholarship, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. You must be a high school senior planning to enroll full-time in an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S. or Canada. You need a minimum 3.5 GPA and must demonstrate financial need.
2. Gather the Necessary Materials
The application requires several components. You’ll need official high school transcripts, ACT/SAT test scores, a personal essay, two letters of recommendation from your teachers, and a completed FAFSA form. The essay prompt will ask how you intend to use your degree to make a positive impact.
3. Submit Your Application on Time
The deadline for the Alexander Graham Scholarship is January 15th each year. You must submit your full, completed application, including all supplementary materials, by this date. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
4. Application Review and Notification
The scholarship committee will review all applications in February and March. They evaluate applicants based on academic achievement, community service, financial need, and the strength of the personal essay. Finalists may receive phone or Skype interviews in April. Winners will be notified in mid-May and the scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to the college or university the recipient will attend. Scholarships are renewable for up to four years if the recipient continues to meet eligibility criteria.
Tips for Writing a Strong Alexander Graham Scholarship Essay
Below are the tips in writing unique application for Alexander Graham scholarship;
1. Focus on a Specific Theme
Select a theme or topic to focus your essay around, such as overcoming adversity, a meaningful experience that shaped you, or a cause you care deeply about. Discuss how this theme has influenced your goals and outlook. Keep your essay cohesive by tying each paragraph back to your central theme.
2. Showcase Your Personality
The judges want to get to know you and what makes you unique. Share details about your life experiences, values, and personality to help the judges understand what kind of person you are. Discuss your passions, quirks, sense of humor, and anything else that gives the reader insight into your character.
3. Highlight Relevant Achievements
Discuss any achievements, experiences, skills, or qualities that make you an excellent candidate for this scholarship. Explain how these attributes will help you succeed in your educational goals. For example, discuss any leadership roles in school activities, volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs. Discuss how they have prepared you for success.
4. Express Your Future Goals
Explain your educational and career goals to demonstrate your passion and motivation. Discuss the specific program of study you want to pursue and your plans after graduating. Explain how the Alexander Graham scholarship will help you achieve these goals through financial support. Discuss the impact you hope to make with your degree.
5. Proofread and Edit
Carefully proofread and edit your essay for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors before submitting. Have others review and provide feedback on your essay. Make any final edits to ensure your essay is clear, cohesive, and compelling. With a strong essay and solid application, you’ll increase your chances of winning this prestigious scholarship.
Conclusion
You stand a good chance of winning the Alexander Graham Scholarship if you submit a compelling application, have a great love for writing and communicating, and are a little bit lucky. Wishing you luck! Start the application process now.
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FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers for the interview for the Alexander Graham scholarship;
1. How do I apply for the scholarship?
To apply for the Alexander Graham Scholarship, you must first meet the basic eligibility criteria, which includes being a graduating high school senior in the U.S. or Canada with a minimum 3.5 GPA. If eligible, you can apply on the scholarship website by submitting an essay describing your future goals, transcripts, test scores, and two letters of recommendation. The deadline is typically in early February.
2. What is the scholarship amount?
The Alexander Graham Scholarship awards recipients $10,000 per year for up to four years of undergraduate study at an accredited four-year college or university. The total scholarship amount is $40,000. Funds can be used to pay for tuition, fees, books, and room and board.
4. When will I find out if I received the scholarship?
Scholarship recipients are notified in early April via both email and mail. The scholarship funds are distributed directly to the college or university you plan to attend.