How to Write a Cover Letter for a Graduate Studies Scholarship Application

If you're applying for a scholarship that will help you attend a graduate studies program, you might need to write a cover letter as part of your application. The cover letter will likely be the first information about you the scholarship committee reads, and will therefore serve to form the committee's first impression of you. You can make that impression the best possible by following the correct cover letter format, clearly stating your interests and explaining your qualifications for the scholarship.

Start a new document and create a single-spaced header at the top with your name, address, phone number and email address. Double space and type the date, then double space again and type the name of the recipient (Or "Scholarship Committee" if there is more than one), the name of the graduate studies scholarship foundation, and its address.

Double space and type a formal salutation, greeting the recipient by name (or use "Members of the Scholarship Committee" if the letter will be read by the entire committee). Double space and type your opening paragraph. Explain who you are, what field you are studying and at what point in your education you are at. Explain how you learned about the scholarship and that you wish to apply.

Write the middle paragraph and briefly explain why you believe you are a strong applicant for the scholarship. Make a connection between what the scholarship foundation supports and what you would use the money for if granted that scholarship.

Write the closing paragraph and mention that you would welcome an interview with the committee to discuss the opportunity. Thank the committee members for their time and consideration, then type a formal closing salutation and your name. Print the letter and sign your name in between the salutation and your typed name.