Scholarships are a powerful way to fund your college education, but standing out with so many applicants can be tough. Depending on the scholarship you’re applying for, you may be one out of hundreds or thousands of applicants.
DECA’s scholarship program provides over $200,000 in scholarships to high school and college DECA members at the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) each year. DECA Inc. administers the program based on guidelines set by the donor. DECA scholarships are strictly merit-based.
Here are six strategies to increase your chances of scholarship success:
1. Start Early
Scholarship deadlines vary, but most fall between January and April. Begin your application process as soon as possible to avoid last-minute stress. DECA scholarships are due on January 10, 2025.
2. Stay Organized
Organization is key when applying for scholarships. The scholarships you apply for might all require different documentation. Keep track of what you need and when it is due.
3. Pay Attention to Details and Requirements
Follow each scholarship’s instructions carefully. Formatting, deadlines and filing out each section thoroughly can make or break your application.
4. Highlight Your Uniqueness
Emphasize your individual achievements, awards, leadership roles and volunteer work. Be specific and quantify your impact whenever possible.
5. Grades and Recommendations
Good grades demonstrate a strong work ethic and ambition. They can set you apart, especially for merit-based scholarships. Letters of recommendation from those who know your work and believe in you can also be powerful.
6. Don’t Forget to Proofread Before Submitting
Carefully complete every application section. Even without an essay, highlight your achievements and show you understand the scholarship's purpose. A well-written, error-free application makes a strong impression.
