Tips for completing a Foundation scholarship application
Drafted vs. Submitted – You may save your General Application by pressing “Save and Keep Editing”
which places the application in a “Drafted” state. Applications can be accessed 24/7 and edited
numerous times. Once you click “Finish and Submit”, your application has been submitted and no
more changes can be made.
Grammar & Spelling count! – Use proper grammar and spelling. Misspelled words will count against
you. Use Spell check and proof read numerous times! Ask someone else to look over your essays. We
recommend asking the writing lab, a teacher or a mentor to review and critique your essays.
Community service – The Reviewers are looking for well-rounded individuals. Not completing this
section could mean the difference between getting a scholarship or being passed over. If you have
no activities we recommend joining a club or volunteering now. Save, volunteer then submit.
Clothing and food donations are not considered community service.
Cell phones - Do not fill out the application using your phone or tablet. Use a desktop or laptop that
has WORD. Don’t have a computer? Use the ones at the library. Do not use texting terms or emoji’s.
No NAMES – Do not put your name, family members or teacher’s names in the body of your essay.
Foundation scholarship applications are sent to reviewers on an anonymous basis.
Use the Help screens - Be sure that you do not answer any box incorrectly or forget to fill in any
boxes. Use and read the HELP screens. Still not sure…Save, ask and then submit.
Don’t be humble - Make sure you give yourself credit where credit is due with the activities and
accomplishments in your life. Don’t feel as if any activity or special quality is too insignificant.
Quality matters - It’s not about the QUANTITY of the things you’ve done; it’s about the QUALITY of
them, what you learned, and your potential to use those experiences in the future.
Deadline approaching – Don’t miss the deadline. There are no exceptions and no excuses allowed.
How to write a great essay
Be compelling – The selection committee members look for well-rounded students. Write a
compelling essay that conveys your background, your experiences, your ambitions, and your
personality. Make a lasting impression! Leap off the page with a powerful passion.
Make an outline - Organizing your thoughts will make the essay read easier and help you avoid
putting in meaningless information.
Get feedback - Always have someone else read your essays to catch any errors and give you valuable
feedback. Ask a teacher, coach, the writing lab, librarian, or mentor to review your essays. It is best
to choose people who have already been to college and/or have received a scholarship. However,
never ask someone to write your essays.
Setting yourself apart from the rest – Review committee members read hundreds of applications.
Clearly state why you deserve to win the scholarship and what sets you apart from the others.
This is not a resume - Make sure that you show what you are truly passionate about. Don’t make
your essays read like a resume. Be yourself.
Answer all parts - Don’t skip any part of a multiple portion question. Write at least 2-3 sentences for
each question/part of the essay.
Proofread - read the final version multiple times. Wait a day or two then proofread it again.
Contact information
Kim Davis, Scholarship Coordinator
Direct Line: 972-599-3147
Email: [email protected]
Frequently asked Questions
How do I apply? The secure online application system requires that you use a valid email and create
a unique 8 digit password. The application consists of general questions and 3 essay questions.
Information such as GPA, gender, etc. will be uploaded from the Collin College student portal.
Can I save my application and come back later? You may save your application by pressing “Save
and Keep Editing.” Saved applications can be accessed 24/7 and edited numerous times. Once you
press “Finish and Submit” your application is submitted and no more changes can be made.
Do I need to complete FAFSA? All new and current Collin College students are encouraged to
complete FAFSA at the beginning of each year to determine if you qualify for Financial Aid
(Federal/State grants or loans). However, it is not required in order to receive a scholarship.
Are international students eligible to receive scholarships? International students are welcome to
complete the general application and may be eligible to receive some Foundation scholarships.
Can I apply for a particular scholarship? Currently, only the general application is available. If you
meet the requirements of an opportunity, your application will automatically be matched to it.
How and when will I be notified? Fall awards are announced each May and Spring awards in midNovember. Award notifications are sent via CougarMail. Students should monitor their CougarMail
(including junk & clutter) on a frequent basis, even during the summer. Applicants not receiving an
award may or may not receive a regret email.
Can I be awarded more than one scholarship? The Foundation strives to award scholarships to the
most students possible. Foundation recipients may only receive one award per academic
year. Students are encouraged to apply for as many external scholarships as they like.
What are the GPA requirements? Cumulative GPAs are generated from the Admissions department.
If you do not have a GPA with Collin College, the system will generate a GPA from your previous high
school, college or university. All applicants are required to have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA.
Do I have to be a full-time student? Most of our scholarships require students to carry a minimum of
6 credit hours per semester. However, some scholarships may require 9 or 12 credit hours.
How do I contact the Foundation? Email [email protected] or call the Foundation
office at 972-599-3147.