Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Personal statement for financial aid - where to start?

Hey y'all, I'm trying to apply for some financial aid, and I need to write a personal statement as part of the application process. Do you guys have any advice or tips on what to focus on in my statement? Thanks in advance!

a year ago

Starting a personal statement for financial aid can be daunting, but here are a few helpful tips to guide your writing process:

1. Be genuine and sincere: Share your story honestly and authentically. Describe your background, your family's financial situation, and any specific hardships or obstacles you've faced. Being candid will allow the financial aid committee to better understand your circumstances and the reasons for your request.

2. Highlight your achievements: While the primary focus of your statement is on your financial need, it's essential to showcase your academic, extracurricular, and personal accomplishments. This will not only demonstrate your dedication and hard work but also help the committee see your potential and the impact of the financial aid on your future success.

3. Emphasize your educational and career goals: Describe how receiving financial aid would help you continue your educational journey and ultimately achieve your long-term goals. Be specific about your ambitions, whether they involve a particular line of study, research, or professional aspirations.

4. Explain how financial aid will make a difference: Discuss how the financial aid would impact not just your ability to continue your education, but also your overall well-being and the opportunities available to you. Providing specific examples will help illustrate the importance of financial assistance in your life.

5. Keep the tone professional: While it's crucial to be heartfelt, maintain a professional tone throughout your personal statement. Remember that you're asking for financial assistance, so be respectful, organized, and concise in your writing.

Here's a brief example to help you get started:

Growing up in a single-parent household has taught me the value of resilience and determination. My mother's tireless efforts to support our family while working two jobs have inspired me to pursue higher education and make the most of my opportunities. Despite her best efforts, affording college has been a challenge, and I am requesting financial aid to continue my studies.

Throughout high school, I maintained a strong GPA and participated in various extracurricular activities, including volunteering at a local food bank and tutoring younger students. Receiving financial aid would not only ease the burden on my family but also allow me to focus on my studies and continue to give back to my community.

My long-term goal is to earn a degree in engineering and later establish a sustainable community development organization. With financial aid assistance, I am confident that I can achieve my academic and professional ambitions and make a positive impact on the world around me.

In conclusion, I am grateful for your consideration of my financial need and appreciate the opportunity to share my story. Your support will make a significant difference not just in my education, but in my future and the lives of those I hope to serve.

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.