Welcome to WITSPOT.ORG. Today, I will be highlighting the causes of Nigerian students’ failure to receive scholarships abroad. I understand you want to study overseas. But don’t you think that such an opportunity will not come cheaply? Based on our research, more than 70% of Nigerian students have an interest in studying abroad. Now you see how competitive this is. For you to get a scholarship, you have to be consistent in searching for it.
Moving forward, for many students, a scholarship is the only way to realize their ambition to study abroad because it is highly expensive to be schooling overseas.
Why then do so many scholarship applications not successful? Well, we’ll list the top mistakes students make while applying for scholarships in this article. They might seem obvious, but if you want your application to be successful, be sure to avoid them!
However, before I proceed. I have to include what a scholarship means in this article.
What does a Scholarship mean?
A scholarship is simply an award given to a student in support of their education that is based on their academic or other achievements.
While scholarship recipients are not required to pay back scholarships, the awards may have conditions that must be met throughout the period of support, such as maintaining a minimum grade point average or participating in a specific activity. Scholarship criteria typically reflect the values and goals of the award’s donor.
Now, let’s move on to the main reason why you visit this page.
5 Reasons Why Nigerian Students Fail In Their Scholarship Applications
1. Your Mind Set
I have to point this out first because this is where the problem is. Okay, let me say your mindset is the root of your failure. Don’t worry, I will explain just follow me without skipping any part.
In Nigeria, most people think that everything advertised on the internet is a scam. I understand you have to be vigilant, but at the same time try to be optimistic a little bit. Now, I’m sure you have seen different scholarship advertisements on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc, but you think it is all a scam right? No, not all of these Ads are fake. In fact, more than 70% of them are legit. You just have to try to find your way to the institution portal by following the guidelines in the advert.
What You Should Know Here [Solutions]
- Whenever you come across a scholarship online, check out the Sponsor. For example, “ Yale scholarships for African Students 2024/2025” the Sponsor of this scholarship is Yale University. After knowing the Sponsor, you have to be aware that you can only apply for this scholarship on the official website of Yale University. So, the next thing you have to do is to confirm if the application link will direct you to the official Sponsor website. To know the official Sponsor portal, look at the top of your browser.
- You have to be aware that all scholarship applications to study abroad is free of charge. If you come across a scholarship that is telling you to pay a certain amount of money then, it is a fraudulent advert. Don’t pay for it.
- Try to note that, no legit scholarship form will tell you to share it with different people on Whatsapp or Telegram before you can apply. If you come across any scholarship that instructs you to share it with maybe 5 friends on social media then, it is a scam. Don’t waste your time leave immediately.
- Most of the ADS about Scholarships you see on FACEBOOK or INSTAGRAM are not fake. You just have to read all the instructions on the landing page first. Then, check out the official scholarship portal to proceed with your application.
2. You’re Ineligible for the scholarship
Let’s be reasonable in our expectations. There are several scholarships available, and each one has unique qualifications. Therefore, if they want a straight-A student and you typically earn Cs, don’t bother applying. or if you are from Nigeria and the scholarship is for US citizens. or if you are pursuing a diploma and the scholarship is intended for postgraduate students. Simply said, you will not be awarded, and your time will be wasted. Research is the first stage in creating a strong scholarship application, which takes time. You must be aware of all your options and learn as much as you can about the requirements for each scholarship.
Almost every university and college has some kind of scholarship or bursary system – usually based on merit and always very competitive.
What You Should Know Here [Solutions]
- Check if the scholarship is available for the level of education you are in. For example, a scholarship can only be applied by a Masters’s applicant.
- Read all instructions vividly.
- Don’t rush to submit the application if you have not comprehended the scholarship criteria.
3. Lack of Consistency
This is another one of the reasons why Nigerian students fail In Scholarship applications. You only submitted one or two scholarship applications. Make as many applications as you’re eligible for! If you do, your chances of success increase. Yes, it takes time because you must tailor each application to the particular scholarship. You have no choice, if you truly want to study abroad.
What You Should Know Here [Solutions]
- Have it in your mind that good never comes easily.
- You have to be fully ready to try your luck with any scholarship application you come across.
- Create an extra-time for scholarships research
4. Lack of Proper Arrangements
You need time to organize yourself as well as conduct research. Find some suitable referees and explain to them what you need them to say and do. Make arrangements for the necessary paperwork, such as transcripts, which may need to be certified. Don’t take the chance of omitting something crucial since else there is no purpose in sending the application.
Surprisingly often, this occurs. Don’t think all scholarships fall into the same intake timetable because they all have distinct deadlines. It’s over after that date has passed. Additionally, submitting it late reflects poorly on your organizational skills.
What You Should Know Here [Solutions]
- Watch out for the deadline
- Adequate planning is essential
5. You are not Brilliant enough to win the Scholarship
The truth is some scholarships are meant for scholars. Some questions were created by the scholarship selection committee to see whether you possess the qualifications they are looking for. Therefore, not answering the question appropriately, the committee will presume you don’t have enough academic skills. This means that you can lose your application to each scholarship if you don’t follow the precise instructions or completely respond to the questions.
What You Should Know Here [Solutions]
- Mind your spelling, If your application includes even one spelling error, some committees will reject it. It must be flawless and showcase your skill in the English language.
- If you are given an essay to write, try to proofread it before submission.
- You have to be intelligent enough to win a scholarship.
How to win a scholarship in Nigeria
Winning a scholarship to study abroad can be a life-changing experience. Not only does it provide the opportunity to further your education and career prospects, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture and gain a global perspective. However, the competition for scholarships can be fierce, and it’s important to know how to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you win a scholarship abroad.
Start early
The earlier you start preparing for a scholarship, the better your chances of success. This means researching different scholarship programs and identifying which ones are the most relevant and appropriate for you. It also means giving yourself plenty of time to complete the application process, including gathering any necessary documents and writing a strong personal statement.
Choose the right program
There are many different scholarship programs available, and it’s important to choose the one that is the best fit for you. Consider factors such as the country where the program is located, the type of degree you will be pursuing, and the duration of the program. You should also consider the specific eligibility requirements for each program and make sure that you meet them.
Show your passion
Scholarship committees want to see that you are passionate about the subject you will be studying and that you have a clear plan for how you will use your education to make a positive impact in the world. Be sure to highlight your interests and experiences in your personal statement and demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the scholarship.
Demonstrate financial need
Many scholarship programs are designed to support students who may not otherwise have the means to study abroad. If you can demonstrate that you have a financial need, you may be more likely to receive a scholarship. Be sure to include information about your current financial situation in your application, and consider applying for need-based scholarships in addition to merit-based ones.
Leverage your network
Networking can be a powerful tool when it comes to winning a scholarship. Reach out to your friends, family, and colleagues and ask if they know of any scholarship programs that might be a good fit for you. You can also contact your school’s study abroad office or career center and ask if they can provide any guidance or support.
Tailor your application
Each scholarship program is different, and it’s important to tailor your application to the specific requirements of the program you are applying to. This means carefully reading the application instructions and following them to the letter. It also means customizing your personal statement and other application materials to highlight the reasons why you are the best candidate for the scholarship.
Show your commitment
Scholarship committees want to see that you are committed to your education and that you will make the most of the opportunity to study abroad. Be sure to highlight any relevant experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your dedication to your studies and your future career. You can also include letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to your character and commitment.
Wrapping Up Reasons Why Nigerian Students Fail In Their Scholarship Applications
Having said that it takes time for something to be possible. Consistent is the key to a successful scholarship application. However, I have to let you know WITSPOT has different scholarship applications. Just click the link below to find out the one that is suitable for you.
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I’m confident that this post have given you one or more information about the reasons why students fail to win a scholarship and a possible solution to it. If you have any other opinions drop it in the comments section.
His name is Ibrahim Olamide ” the CEO of WITSPOT.ORG He is a writer, poet, educational consultant, and also reporter who cherishes reporting the latest updates in educational news around the world. Also, he is committed to assisting the learners in terms of learning and other aspects. |UNILORITE|