What makes a strong essay for a college scholarship application?

You’re smart to ask these questions early—the scholarship essay is a key part of the application, and it’s normal to feel nervous about how to approach it. A strong scholarship essay usually combines three major elements:

1. Authenticity: Committees want to see who you really are. This doesn’t mean you have to have the most dramatic or unique story; it means you should be honest and let your personality shine through. If you’re a first-gen student and have dealt with family challenges, it’s okay to write about that, especially if you focus on specific moments or lessons you’ve learned, rather than just summarizing hardships.

2. Specificity: The detail is almost always what sets a story apart. Rather than vague statements like, “I faced a lot of difficulties,” zoom in on a particular day, decision, or conversation that shaped you. For example, maybe there was a night you spent helping your sibling with homework when your parents were working late, and that moment made you resolve to be a supportive figure in your community. Little moments can say a lot about who you are and what you value.

3. Purpose: Committees want to see that you have clear goals and that receiving the scholarship will help you reach them. Be direct about how the funds would enable you to pursue a specific dream or contribute to your community. Tie your past challenges or passions into what you hope to achieve moving forward.

Writing style matters too—your essays should be clear and engaging, but you don't need to sound overly formal or use big words. Read your essay out loud; if it sounds like you, you’re on the right track.

As for tailoring your essay: It’s best to tweak your essays for each application, especially since prompts might be different. Some may ask about goals, others about community impact or diversity. You can reuse core stories or paragraphs, but always customize so it’s clear you paid attention to that particular scholarship’s values. For example, if the scholarship is for future healthcare workers, mention what inspired your interest in healthcare, even if you’re using a basic story you’ve told elsewhere.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask teachers, mentors, or friends to read drafts and give feedback—they can help you see where your voice shines, or where you might clarify things. Remember, your story doesn’t have to be flashy; it just has to feel real and purposeful. You’ve got this!