Check that you meet the eligibility criteria of organisations that you intend to apply to. Read through lists of exclusions.
Approach any potential organisations to check if you meet the criteria, and to request the most up to date applications forms, specific guidance and information about closing dates.
Top tips
- answer all the questions fully
- complete the form properly
- do not include additional sheets or documents unless specified
- be mindful of your audience and avoid jargon
- ensure you sign and date the form
- meet the deadlines
- keep a copy of your application
Personal statement
Your personal statement should:
- outline why the charity should invest in you
- provide some information about the nature of your studies
- describe the benefit this will have for your future career
If you have made applications to other funding organisations, it would also be useful to outline this in your application.
Financial statement
Show that you have thought about how you intend to fund your studies. What funding do you have in place? How do you intend to meet any shortfall you have? How much do you think you need in order to manage?
List your income and expenditure, and indicate the steps you will take to show how you will live frugally and how you will make your available funds stretch.
References
Most organisations will want references. Usually, these will need to be from academics.