The cost of tuition fees is on the rise globally. However, if you are looking to study in the U.S., your expenses are especially sky-high. If you live outside the U.S., you will need education loans and grants to realize your dreams. According to John Giorgi, founder of the Giorgi fellowship, grants are a useful avenue to help you lower the financial demands of an ivy-league institution. However, the trick is to find the right grant and apply. The process can be tedious, time-consuming, and extremely competitive. However, there are several ways to improve your chances of getting a grant.
Here are the top tips that will allow you to do just that.
John Giorgi on finding the right grants
A quick internet search will reveal that there are plenty of grant options that you qualify for. It is, therefore, a great idea to maintain constant tabs on the available grants if you are targeting a particular institution. Keep in mind there is no limit to how many grants you can apply to increase your chances and make sure you apply for multiple ones. Additionally, it is vital to read the grant requirement and criteria before applying – there is no point in applying if you don’t fit the stipulations.
Stick to the rules
John Giorgi as stated in the previous section, you need to go through the rules and regulations section carefully. You might have questions and doubts even after reading the rules, so make sure to reach out to the authorities through the provided contact number or e-mail. Make sure you have all the materials necessary for the application process. Maintain a checklist and cross-of items as you complete them, including filling the form and submitting the essay.
Write and proof-read
John Giorgi a significant part of any grant program is essay submission. Keep in mind that most U.S. and European institutes ask for English essays, and if this isn’t your native language, you will need to work hard. Keep in mind the grant board is looking for a certain level of mastery of the language.
Therefore, make sure your essay is neat, structured, easy-to-read, and free of grammar errors. You will also need to explain your academic and personal goals, so make sure you present a clear and concise idea of who you are as a candidate deserving the grant. You can take help from an English tutor, copy-editors, professional proof-readers to spell and grammar checks your essay.
Preparation is the key
Several grants will ask for a one-on-one interview after you clear the first hurdle of the essay submission. Keep in mind you will be chosen alongside quite a few just like you. If you are looking to ace this final hurdle, then you need to stand out among the competition. Showcase who you are, your skills, and your goals in person. Prepare in advance and research sample interview questions to avoid unwelcome surprises during the interview.
Grants are vital, the cash amount notwithstanding. The prize money may vary, but it will bring down your expenses and allow you to develop networks within similarly placed students and peer groups. All the best!