Building a scholarship resume is a lot like trying to win a scholarship. It’s a key part of showing off what you’ve achieved in school and what makes you special. Think of it as your personal highlight reel for scholarship committees, showing them why you’re a great choice.
Putting together a scholarship resume might seem tough, especially if you’re not used to talking about yourself in this way. But don’t worry! With some simple, step-by-step advice, you can make a resume that really stands out, even if this is all new to you.
In this guide, we’ll review:
- Examples of scholarship resumes for students aiming for different scholarships.
- What to include in your resume to catch attention.
- Ways to make sure your resume doesn’t get lost in the pile.
- Tips on picking the best look and format for your resume.
- How to write a cover letter that tells more about your story.
Ready to make your resume now? Our AI Resume Builder is here to help. It has easy-to-use templates that fit what you need for a scholarship resume. You can make and download your resume in different styles easily, making your scholarship application shine.
Scholarship resume examples
What makes this a great scholarship resume example for a recent college graduate?
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Emphasizes in-depth experience
The resume prominently features a skills section that touches on relevant research projects and assessment tools they’ve developed, reflecting their contributions to the field.
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Highlights academic foundations
The education section of the resume is carefully curated to include the applicant’s thesis and detailed coursework, particularly in comparative studies in ancient linguistics, a particularly helpful context for a recent grad.
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Highlights special projects
The resume emphasizes the applicant’s dedication to advancing in linguistics, showcasing special projects. Most notably, it features a research project that led to a 25% increase in efficiency.
What makes this a great scholarship resume example for a well-established professional?
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Crafts a compelling narrative with data
This resume adeptly integrates quantitative achievements, showcasing a significant 36% improvement in community development projects.
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Balances technical skills with interpersonal abilities
While it underscores quantifiable success, the resume also highlights the applicant’s soft skills, particularly their capacity to foster diplomatic relationships.
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Showcases relevant certifications
In addition to academic and project-based achievements, the resume spotlights key certifications in public policy and project management.
How to format a scholarship resume
Choosing how to format your scholarship resume is a big deal, especially when you want to stand out. Think of it like picking the best outfit for a big interview — you want to make a great impression. Let’s break down the resume format options and add some tips to help you shine in the scholarship crowd.
Here are the three main resume types:
- Chronological resume: Best if you have an extensive work history or you’ve been involved in lots of school clubs, volunteer work or any activities related to what you’re studying. It shows off what you’ve done over the years, like a timeline of your achievements. This format is a good pick if you have a long list of impressive work you’ve done.
- Functional resume: This one’s great if you’re newer to certain activities or have gaps in your participation. Instead of focusing on when you did things, it highlights your skills. For example, if you’re awesome at organizing events or have a knack for leading teams but haven’t worked in an official role that uses those skills, this format helps you make those talents pop.
- Combination resume: Ideal if you have great experience and solid skills. It lets you show off both what you’ve done and what you’re good at. If you’ve led a project that won an award and you’re also fantastic at public speaking, for example, this format is the way to go.
And, before we move on, here are a few resume formatting tips to consider when you’re gluing everything together:
- Add some flair: Since you’re aiming for a scholarship, don’t be afraid to highlight unique experiences or achievements that align with the scholarship’s focus by selectively using bold text. Whether it’s a science fair win, a debate championship or community service, make sure it gets the spotlight.
- Keep it neat: Use a clean font, proper spacing and standard margins to make your resume easy on the eyes. A well-organized resume says a lot about how you handle your work.
- Personalize it: Tailor your resume to the scholarship. If it’s for a leadership award, lean into your leadership experiences. For an arts scholarship, bring out your creative achievements.
Remember, your scholarship resume isn’t just a list of what you’ve done. It’s your chance to show who you are and what you bring to the table. Make it count!
Choosing the right resume design for a scholarship application
When you’re putting together your scholarship resume, picking the right resume template is a game-changer. The right design helps make sure your standout moments in academics, extracurricular activities and personal achievements are front and center.
Especially for scholarships, choosing a template that suits the tone and expectations of the award is key.
No matter the scholarship you’re applying for, clarity in your resume is crucial. Consider opting for a simple template that is clean and organized. This doesn’t mean your resume has to be boring, but it should allow your accomplishments to shine without unnecessary distractions.
That said, if you’re applying for a scholarship in an artistic field, it’s okay to choose a creative template with a bit of flair — just keep it professional and ensure it enhances rather than overshadows your content.
With the right template, you can make a strong impression that aligns with the goals and values of the scholarship you’re aiming for.
How to write a scholarship resume in 5 simple steps
Creating a scholarship resume is simpler when you approach it step by step. Here’s a guide to making yours stand out.
Step 1
Understand what the scholarship committee is looking for
Your resume should speak the committee’s language, focusing on the qualities and experiences they value most.
Instead of using fancy wording, it’s all about hitting the right notes with the keywords related to the scholarship. Scholarships might not use ATS software, but like job postings, they have criteria they’re looking for.
Whether it’s leadership, community service or specific academic achievements, use the scholarship description as your guide. Incorporate these keywords naturally in your resume to align with their expectations.
Step 2
Start with a strong introduction
Kick off your resume with a compelling introduction (or resume profile), choosing between a summary or an objective, tailored to your situation.
If you have a solid background in areas relevant to the scholarship, opt for a resume summary. This is your chance to shine by highlighting key accomplishments and skills that showcase your eligibility.
For those newer to the field or transitioning from another area of study, an objective statement can help you articulate your ambitions and how they align with the scholarship’s goals.
Here’s what the two distinct approaches look like:
Professional summary example:
Dedicated and ambitious student with a proven track record in leadership roles and community service projects. Demonstrated ability to balance academic excellence with extracurricular commitments, aiming to apply this diligence and passion in pursuit of the [Scholarship Name] to further explore [relevant field or cause].
Resume objective example:
Aspiring [your field of interest] scholar with a strong foundation in [relevant skills or subjects], seeking the [Scholarship Name] to deepen expertise in [area of study]. Committed to contributing to [specific goal or project related to the scholarship], with a focus on achieving academic and professional excellence.
Step 3
Pinpoint your essential skills
Identifying the skills most crucial for your scholarship resume is your next step.
Scholarship committees value a mixture of both hard and soft skills.
Hard skills are specific, learnable competencies related to academic or extracurricular success, like research methods in your field of study, technical proficiency in scientific experiments or advanced knowledge in computer programming.
Soft skills, conversely, are about how you operate and collaborate with others. For scholarship applicants, qualities such as leadership, teamwork, effective communication and creative problem-solving are highly prized.
Let’s look at an example of what each skill set can include.
Hard and soft skills for a scholarship applicant:
- Advanced research methodologies
- Technical writing and presentation skills
- Proficiency in [relevant software or tools]
- Specialized knowledge in [study area]
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Leadership in student organizations
- Effective communication
- Innovative thinking
- Adaptability to new challenges
- Project management
Skills section example for a scholarship resume:
- Demonstrated leadership in community service projects.
- Proficient in statistical analysis software.
- Effective communicator, both written and oral.
- Creative problem-solver in team settings.
- Experienced in organizing and leading academic events.
Don’t forget to highlight digital literacy. In today’s academic and professional worlds, having computer skills, especially knowledge of digital tools and platforms relevant to your field, can set you apart.
Step 4
Write a compelling work experience section
The work experience you choose to highlight are the heart of your scholarship resume, especially if they directly relate to your field of interest.
Given that committees might spend limited time on each application, it’s crucial to present your experiences clearly and concisely. Bullet points can help.
Example of an experience section for a scholarship resume:
Researcher, University Biology Lab
City, State
January 2020 – Present
- Led a project that increased the efficiency of bacterial growth experiments by 25%, enhancing research outcomes.
- Managed lab equipment and supplies, ensuring optimal availability and state for experiments.
- Developed a collaborative research initiative with another university, broadening the scope and impact of ongoing studies.
- Trained new lab members on proper research protocols, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and safety.
- Contributed to the publication of three research papers in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating significant findings in microbial biology.
Use dynamic verbs like “led,” “developed” or “contributed” to start each bullet point. These words illustrate action and impact, showcasing you as an engaged and proactive student.
Step 5
Highlight your academic achievements
The education section of your resume is a vital part of securing a scholarship and showcasing the foundation of your knowledge and skills. This section is especially important if you’re a student or recent graduate, as it represents your commitment to your field of study.
Be sure to list your degrees in a way that underscores your readiness and suitability for the scholarship.
How to feature your education:
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science
Minor in Public Policy
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Expected Graduation: May 2024
Thesis: “Urban Green Spaces and Their Role in Climate Change Mitigation”: A comprehensive study examining how urban green spaces contribute to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing community resilience against climate change impacts.
Relevant Coursework:
- Environmental policy and legislation
- Climate change and sustainability studies
- Statistical analysis for environmental research
Optional sections for your scholarship resume
Awards and honors
Recognizing excellence and achievements, this section shines a light on the accolades you’ve received for outstanding performance in academic, extracurricular or community activities. Awards and honors differentiate you as a high achiever and dedicated individual.
How to highlight your honors and awards:
- Dean’s list: Achieved high academic distinction, University Name, Fall 2019 – Spring 2021.
- National science fair winner: First place in the Environmental Science category for project on sustainable water filtration, 2020.
Volunteer experience
Volunteer work demonstrates a commitment to community service and leadership outside of academia. This section highlights your ability to apply skills in real-world settings, showing a willingness to contribute and make a difference.
How to describe your volunteer experience:
- Habitat for Humanity: Coordinated supply logistics for multiple housing projects, demonstrating leadership and project management skills, 2021-2022.
- Local food bank organizer: Led a team of volunteers to streamline food distribution processes, increasing efficiency by 30%, 2020.
Extracurricular activities
Extracurricular activities showcase your ability to balance academic responsibilities with other interests. This section reveals your capacity for time management, teamwork and leadership in diverse settings.
How to list your extracurricular activities:
- Student Government Association: Treasurer, managed budgeting and funding for student activities, enhancing financial transparency, 2019-2021.
- Varsity soccer team: Captain, led team to state championships and fostered a collaborative team environment, 2018-2020.
Languages
Proficiency in multiple languages demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in a global context. This section highlights linguistic skills that can be a significant asset in diverse academic and professional environments.
How to share your language proficiency:
- English: Native proficiency
- Spanish: Fluent
- French: Intermediate proficiency
Special projects
Involvement in special projects indicates initiative, creativity and the ability to see complex assignments through to completion. This section showcases your project management and leadership skills, highlighting significant contributions to your field.
How to list your special projects:
- Environmental impact study: Led a student research team analyzing the effects of urban runoff on local waterways, resulting in a 25% reduction in pollution through community action, 2021.
- Renewable energy initiative: Developed a proposal for the installation of solar panels on campus, securing grant funding and reducing the school’s carbon footprint, 2022.
Add a scholarship cover letter
Now that your resume is polished and ready to impress, pair it with a compelling cover letter.
Use your cover letter to delve into achievements and experiences not fully captured by your resume. Discuss significant projects, leadership roles, community service or any challenges you’ve surmounted that demonstrate your resilience and growth.
For instance, you might recount a volunteer project that sparked your interest in your chosen field or a challenge that taught you the value of perseverance and critical thinking.
Aim for clarity in your writing. Your cover letter should organize your thoughts as clearly as you outline your academic and extracurricular achievements. For guidance on structure and presentation, review cover letter examples. Aim for professional formatting that is reader-friendly, with consistent fonts, spacing and a design that enhances readability.
If you’re uncertain about how to begin, consider using a cover letter builder as a starting point. Customize the template with your personal stories and insights, making it uniquely yours.
Together, your cover letter and resume are a powerful duo, presenting a full picture of your experiences, achievements and the qualities that make you an ideal candidate for the scholarship.
Key takeaways for your scholarship resume
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Incorporate the right language
Utilize terminology and phrases that echo the scholarship’s focus. For example, if you’re applying for a science scholarship, include specific scientific skills or projects you’ve undertaken.
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Structure your resume thoughtfully
Select a resume format that highlights your strongest assets. For students with extensive extracurricular involvement, a combination resume might best showcase your experiences alongside your academic achievements.
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Maintain a professional design
Ensure your resume is visually appealing and easy to navigate. A clean layout with well-organized sections will make your accomplishments stand out.
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Showcase your academic skills
Detail both your hard skills, such as research techniques, and soft skills like leadership or communication. These skills demonstrate your well-roundedness as a candidate.
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Emphasize your achievements
Highlight any honors, awards, advanced coursework or special projects relevant to your field of study. Mention leadership roles in clubs, sports teams or volunteer organizations.
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Share your success stories
Include achievements that quantify your impact, such as leading a fundraising campaign that raised a significant amount or initiating community service projects that made a measurable difference.
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Add a personalized cover letter
Your cover letter is an opportunity to narrate your passion for the field you’re pursuing, how the scholarship will aid your educational journey and why you are an exemplary candidate.
Commonly asked question about resume writing
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Don is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than 10 years’ experience creating digital content, including four years helping job seekers develop their careers. He holds an M.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University.
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