Thank-you note guidelines

Goal

You have two main goals: Express gratitude to the scholarship’s sponsor(s) Give them an insight into what you plan to accomplish with the scholarship!

Structure

A good thank-you letter is at least two paragraphs long, but no longer than one page. The first paragraph starts by thanking the people or organization behind the scholarship and includes specific information. For example, if it’s a writing scholarship, you could mention how hard you’ve worked on essays this year. The second paragraph usually contains an overview of the educational goals that the scholarship will allow you to achieve.

Important Points

Remember that for each scholarship, the people awarding the scholarship put work into the decision to choose you. Make each letter unique and personal.

If it’s awarded by a group in which you participated

Mention what this group has done for you. Volunteering at the clinic has helped me grow in confidence and solidified my desire for a medical career. The Moorpark College anthropology professors have pushed me and made me a better scholar.

If it’s a memorial scholarship...

Reiterate how this scholarship impacts you emotionally. I take my studies very seriously, and am endlessly grateful to receive this gift. This generous gift will allow me to continue to grow as a scholar.

If it’s awarded by a specific community...

Acknowledge your connection to this community. As a woman in STEM, I’m grateful to be recognized for this award by the people who know how difficult and rewarding this path can be. Thank you for helping me break down barriers in STEM careers. I am thankful to have been recognized by fellow Black writers, and hope I can continue to use my voice to advocate for my community in my work.

Begin with a formal, professional greeting. Make it specific; use names where possible.

Greeting

Dear Scholarship Committee... Dear English Department... Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith...

Think of the letter as a thank-you sandwich; this expression of gratitude is the first slice of bread..

I am honored to accept... Thank you so much... I am so grateful to have been selected...

Expression of gratitude

Reference a specific aspect of who you are and/or what you do that relates to this particular scholarship.

I have worked very hard in my math classes this year, and I’m glad my dedication paid off. My art classes were such a challenge, but I enjoyed every minute. I have always been fascinated by history, and it is an honor to be recognized for something I’m so passionate about. I never saw myself as a college student before, and it’s incredible to receive academic distinction like this.

Tell your story.

Final Paragraph: Mention the academic goals you will be able to achieve because of the scholarship. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies and work fewer hours. Next year, I plan to transfer to CSUN. This scholarship will help me find housing in Northridge so I will be able to have a shorter commute and devote more time to studying.

End with one last thank you and sign off

Sincerely, Your Name

Best, Your Name