Here are some hints in preparing your application:

Type it whenever possible. Handwritten applications can be hard to read and sometimes are not accepted.

Make sure to read the questions thoroughly before you answer.

Answer the questions on a separate sheet of paper making sure to spell-check your work. Be specific in your answers.

Include community service, special services, special skills, volunteer work, organizations you belong to, and your hobbies.

Reference letters need to be current. Some scholarships require two or three. Try to have three on hand, make copies to send with the scholarship and keep the originals on hand to make copies for other scholarships. Do not have parent(s) or child (ren) write them for you.

You might choose an employer, teacher, pastor, family friend, or community leader (maybe someone in an organization you are involved in). Discuss with the person the kinds of things that might be included in the letter. Writing out a few of your accomplishments along with the dates might be helpful to them.

Apply for numerous scholarships. Once you have the information, it should be easier to duplicate the process. It never hurts to apply. There are many local organizations that give scholarships to students.