Writing a recommendation letter for a scholarship can be a daunting task, but it is a great honor to be asked to write one. In this article, we will discuss how to write an effective recommendation letter for a scholarship, provide some tips on what to include, and give examples that you can edit as needed.
Opening
If you have been asked to write a recommendation letter for a scholarship, it means that the person you are writing about has made a significant impact in their field of study or community. It is important to take this task seriously and provide a well-written letter that reflects their accomplishments and character.
Tips for Writing a Recommendation Letter for Scholarship
Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a recommendation letter for a scholarship:
1. Start with a title
Your recommendation letter should have a clear and concise title that reflects the purpose of the letter. For example, “Recommendation Letter for the XYZ Scholarship.”
2. Use specific examples
Avoid generalizations and use specific examples to illustrate the student’s qualities and accomplishments. This will make the letter more compelling and give the reader a better sense of who the student is and what they have achieved.
3. Highlight the student’s strengths
Make sure to highlight the student’s strengths and accomplishments, and explain why they are a good fit for the scholarship. Use specific examples to back up your claims.
4. Be positive and enthusiastic
Show your enthusiasm for the student and their potential by using positive language and tone. This will make the letter more engaging and persuasive.
5. Keep it concise and focused
Avoid rambling or going off-topic. Keep the letter concise and focused on the student’s accomplishments and why they are a good fit for the scholarship.
6. Proofread and edit
Always proofread and edit your letter before sending it. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure the letter is well-organized and easy to read.
7. Follow the instructions
Make sure to follow the scholarship’s instructions for submitting the recommendation letter. Some scholarships may require the letter to be submitted online, while others may require a paper copy.
Examples
Academic Excellence Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Jane Smith for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. Jane has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic performance throughout her high school career. She is a dedicated student who has earned a 4.0 GPA and has taken several advanced placement courses. Jane is also active in her community, volunteering at a local food bank and tutoring other students.
I am confident that Jane would excel in any academic program and make a positive contribution to her community. I strongly endorse her application for the Academic Excellence Scholarship.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Leadership Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend John Smith for the Leadership Scholarship. John has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills throughout his high school career. He has served as the captain of the football team and has organized several charity events in his community.
John is a natural leader who is respected by his peers and teachers. He is a hard-working student who has maintained a 3.8 GPA while balancing his leadership responsibilities. I am confident that John will continue to be a successful leader in college and beyond.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Community Service Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Sarah Johnson for the Community Service Scholarship. Sarah has demonstrated a strong commitment to her community throughout her high school career. She has volunteered at a local homeless shelter and has organized several fundraising events for charity.
Sarah is an exceptional student who has earned a 3.9 GPA while balancing her community service work. She is a natural leader who has motivated her peers to get involved in community service projects. I am confident that Sarah will continue to make a positive impact in her community and beyond.
Thank you for your consideration,
Emily Smith
STEM Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Tom Davis for the STEM Scholarship. Tom has demonstrated a strong interest and aptitude for science, technology, engineering, and math throughout his high school career. He has taken several advanced placement courses in these subjects and has participated in several STEM-related competitions.
Tom is an exceptional student who has earned a 4.0 GPA while pursuing his passion for STEM. He is a natural problem-solver who enjoys taking on challenging projects. I am confident that Tom will excel in any STEM-related program and make a positive impact in his field.
Sincerely,
Linda Brown
Diversity Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Maria Gonzalez for the Diversity Scholarship. Maria is an exceptional student who has overcome many obstacles to pursue her education. She is a first-generation college student who has worked hard to maintain a 3.5 GPA while balancing her family responsibilities.
Maria is also an active member of her community and has volunteered at several organizations that provide services to underserved populations. She is a compassionate and empathetic person who is committed to making a positive impact in her community.
Best regards,
Carlos Rodriguez
Athletic Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Mark Johnson for the Athletic Scholarship. Mark is an exceptional athlete who has demonstrated outstanding performance on the basketball court. He has been the team captain for the past two years and has led his team to several victories.
Mark is also a dedicated student who has maintained a 3.7 GPA while pursuing his passion for basketball. He is a natural leader who is respected by his teammates and coaches. I am confident that Mark will continue to be a successful athlete in college and beyond.
Thank you for your consideration,
Jessica Lee
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a recommendation letter for a scholarship?
A recommendation letter for a scholarship should include specific examples of the student’s achievements and character, as well as a positive and enthusiastic endorsement of their application.
How long should a recommendation letter for a scholarship be?
A recommendation letter for a scholarship should be one to two pages long, and should focus on the student’s strengths and accomplishments.
What should I do if I don’t know the student very well?
If you don’t know the student very well, it is best to decline the request to write a recommendation letter. If you do agree to write the letter, make sure to be honest about your level of familiarity with the student.
Should I use a specific format for the recommendation letter?
While there is no specific format for a recommendation letter, it is important to follow the scholarship’s instructions for submitting the letter. Make sure to address the letter to the appropriate person or committee, and to include your contact information.
What should I do if I am asked to write a recommendation letter for multiple students?
If you are asked to write a recommendation letter for multiple students, make sure to personalize each letter and avoid using generic language. Use specific examples to illustrate the strengths and accomplishments of each student.
What should I do if I am asked to write a recommendation letter on short notice?
If you are asked to write a recommendation letter on short notice, try to prioritize it and complete it as soon as possible. If you are unable to meet the deadline, let the student know as soon as possible so they can find another reference.
Conclusion
Writing a recommendation letter for a scholarship is an honor and a responsibility. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you can create a compelling letter that reflects the student’s achievements and character. Remember to be positive, enthusiastic, and specific in your language, and to proofread and edit your letter before submitting it.