Joining college often comes with substantial expenses. For some students, this transition might call for extra support from willing sponsors. A generous donor can help fund your fees, food, fuel, stationery, and accommodation. They could be a relative, a close friend, an individual previously unknown to you, or an organization.
Although scholarship donors typically expect nothing in return for their contributions, it is courteous to express your gratitude after receiving help. You can do this through a thoughtful thank you letter. The letter will assure the donor that you acknowledge and appreciate their selfless act.
In this article, we look at all you need to know to draft a scholarship thank you letter.
Guidelines for Writing a Scholarship Thank You Letter
A scholarship thank you letter will help establish a relationship between you and your donor. As such, it should be well and professionally written. here are some pointers to keep in mind when drafting your letter:
- Address the letter appropriately – Use the official name and title of the scholarship donor. If you don’t know this information, brose the donor’s website or call their office to get it. This will indicate initiative on your part.
- Mention your reason for writing – After introducing yourself, explain why you are writing your letter. Mention the scholarship, the fact that you received it, and that you are grateful.
- Keep the letter short and to the point – avoid mentioning any topic outside the scholarship. For example, if your grant doesn’t cover accommodation fees, don’t complain about it in the letter. This could make you seem rude and unprofessional.
- Proofread the letter before sending it – Check and correct any grammar or spelling mistakes. This is especially important for this letter, as it involves education.
- Use professional language – The scholarship donor is not your personal friend. Avoid using any jokes, sarcasm, or unfamiliar references. Instead, draft your letter in polite and professional language.
- Be specific – Mention the exact name and dates provided on your scholarship letter. You can also include the name of your school and academic program. Make sure everything you write is factual and can be proved.
- Express gratitude – After mentioning the scholarship, use the words ‘thank you’ to express your gratitude.
Scholarship Thank You Letter Format
{Date}
{Donor’s Name}
{Donor’s Address}
{City, State, Zip Code}
Re: Thank You for {Academic Year} Scholarship
Dear {Mr./Mrs./Ms. Last Name}
I was recently selected as a recipient of the {scholarship name}. I am sincerely honoured that you found me worthy of your esteemed scholarship. Thank you for your generosity and thoughtfulness. This funding will allow me to {explain how the scholarship will impact your college experience}.
I am currently in my {school year} pursuing {study course}. I believe this gift will positively impact my future career and prospects. Therefore, I will work hard to achieve success.
Thank you again for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
{Your Name}
{University/College Name}
Sample Thank You Letter for Scholarship
24 August 2020
Grace Manasseh
Foundation College Scholarships
678 Main St.
San Diego, CA 23456
Dear Mrs Manasseh,
I am a recent recipient of the 2020-2021 Foundation College Scholarship grant. I am writing to express my gratitude for your generosity. This opportunity will allow me to join college this fall. I believe this will go a long way in ensuring my success in my future career.
In the upcoming school year, I will be enrolling for an Engineering Course at the University of California. Your scholarship is a huge part of this success.
I had originally planned to study half-time and work to pay my fees. However, your kindness will allow me to focus on my study and get more hours in school.
Thank you again for your support, your investment is students like me inspires us to do better in school and one day give back to society.
Sincerely,
Kyle Hemsworth
Scholarship Thank You Letter (Word Template)
- MS Word
Conclusion
During the scholarship application process, it is important to present yourself in the best light. This includes even after you have received a grant or scholarship. You can cement your good image with your sponsor by thanking them for their generosity.
As this is a formal letter, you should use professional and polite language. Keep your message short and to the point. You should also proofread it and correct any grammar or spelling errors.
Finally, always maintain your scholarship thank you letter within the topic of gratitude. Avoid mentioning anything that doesn’t relate to your scholarship.