A scholarship program is an initiative that awards financial support to students who wish to further their education. Scholarships can be based on criteria such as academic merit, athletic ability, and financial need. They can be offered by universities, non-profit organisations, corporations, and professional associations. Some scholarships offer a full tuition bursary, while others cover only a portion of the cost of studying.
Many scholarship programs are aimed at encouraging students from communities that have not traditionally had access to higher education, or those who wish to study in fields related to the sponsoring organisation’s business activities. For example, the Hewlett Packard Enterprise Scholarship aims to encourage students who want to enter careers in technology, and is sponsored by the Executive Leadership Council, Hewlett-Packard, and a number of other companies.
Some scholarships are also aimed at encouraging certain types of study or co-curricular activities. For instance, the Gallatin Scholarship at NYU offers a program of cultural and intellectual activities for students who are interested in the arts and humanities, and includes concerts, lectures, discussions, and study trips. These kinds of scholarships are often funded by foundations or private donors, and may have specific criteria based on the donor’s wishes.
The amount of money awarded in a scholarship program can vary significantly, depending on the amount that is available to fund the scholarship, the size of the student population, and the number of applicants. The process of applying for a scholarship can take months, and requires careful consideration and preparation. Some scholarships are awarded automatically, whereas others require an application and a motivation letter that explains why the applicant deserves to receive the scholarship.