How to Write Scholarship Thank You Notes ⋆

by Bethany Goldszer | Last Updated: April 14, 2023

Winning a scholarship is a great accomplishment, and it’s important to show gratitude to the organization or individual who awarded it to you. Writing a thank you note not only shows your appreciation but also helps to build relationships and potentially opens doors for future opportunities. Here’s a guide on why writing a scholarship thank you note matters and how to write one that will leave a lasting impression on the scholarship sponsor.

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Key Takeaways

Why scholarship thank you notes are important

Scholarship thank you notes are important for a few reasons. First, they show you’re grateful for the money you received and help you connect with the person or group that gave it to you. Second, scholarship thank you notes show you have good manners, which can make a big difference in how people see you and might lead to more opportunities later on. Finally, a thank you note is a chance to tell the people who gave you the scholarship about your schoolwork and what you want to do in the future. This can make your relationship with them even stronger and might help you get more support later on.

Tips for writing a sincere and thoughtful thank you note

Reflect on your feelings: Before writing your scholarship thank you note, take a moment to think about what you genuinely want to say and how the scholarship has impacted you.
Begin with gratitude: Start your note by expressing your gratitude for the scholarship, using sincere language to convey your appreciation.
Explain the impact: Share how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals and dreams, and how it will positively affect your life.
Share your experiences: Talk about the significance of the scholarship to you, and how it has influenced your perspective or outlook.
Update on your progress: Briefly mention any recent achievements or updates related to your schoolwork or future plans.
Reiterate your thanks: Before concluding, thank the scholarship provider once more to emphasize your gratitude.
Express a desire to stay connected: End the note by mentioning your interest in staying in touch with the scholarship provider, showing that you value the relationship.
Proofread your note: Carefully read through your note to check for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors.
Send the note promptly: Once you’re satisfied with your thank you note, send it as soon as possible to demonstrate your timeliness and thoughtfulness.

What not to include in your thank you note

When writing a scholarship thank you note, it’s essential to avoid certain elements that could potentially leave a negative impression. Here are some things not to include in your thank you note:

Casual or informal language: Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout your note. Avoid using slang, emojis, or overly casual language.
Excessive personal details: While it’s okay to share some personal experiences, avoid sharing too much information about your personal life that may not be relevant to the scholarship or your academic journey.
Complaints or negativity: Keep the focus of your thank you note positive and appreciative. Refrain from discussing any complaints or negative experiences related to your education or life situation.
Overly long messages: Keep your thank you note concise and to the point. Scholarship providers may receive many notes, so respect their time by being brief and focused on expressing gratitude.
Requests for additional support: A thank you note is not the appropriate place to ask for further financial assistance or other favors. Keep the focus on expressing gratitude for the scholarship you have received.
Generic or copied content: Avoid using a generic template or copying content from other thank you notes. Personalize your message and ensure it reflects your genuine appreciation and unique experiences.
Typos or grammatical errors: Make sure to proofread your note carefully before sending it. Errors can leave a negative impression and may detract from the sincerity of your message.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you can create a heartfelt and professional thank you note that leaves a positive impression on the scholarship provider.

How to Personalize Your Scholarship Thank You Note

To personalize your scholarship thank you note, go beyond the generic template and include specific details about how the scholarship has impacted your life. Mention the name of the scholarship, refer to the donor or organization by name if possible, and share a bit about your academic goals, interests, or extracurricular activities. A heartfelt, customized note that reflects your unique experience helps the donor feel a genuine connection to the student they are supporting.

How to Express Gratitude Without Overdoing It

While it is important to be grateful, overloading your note with excessive praise or dramatic language can make it feel insincere. Aim for a tone that is warm and appreciative, but grounded. A simple thank you paired with a few examples of how the scholarship is helping you academically or personally, is enough. Keep your message focused and sincere rather than flowery or exaggerated.

How Scholarship Thank You Notes Can Help Build Relationships for Future Opportunities

Writing a thoughtful thank you note can lay the foundation for lasting relationships with scholarship sponsors, many of whom have connections to internships, job opportunities, or graduate programs. By expressing genuine gratitude and staying in touch, you may open the door to mentorship, references, or future funding. This small gesture can have long-term benefits beyond just showing appreciation.

How to Handle Thank You Notes for Multiple Scholarships

If you have received more than one scholarship, each donor deserves an individual thank you note. Tailor each message to reflect the specific scholarship and its impact. Avoid sending the same letter to multiple organizations. Instead, include a unique detail about how each scholarship will support a particular need or goal. Keeping your tone fresh and specific shows thoughtfulness and respect.

Scholarship thank you note template

Subject: Thank You for the [Scholarship Name] Award

Dear [Scholarship Provider's Name],

I am honored and grateful to have been selected as a recipient of the [Scholarship Name] for the [academic year or semester]. Your generous support will greatly help me in pursuing my education at [College/University Name], where I plan to study [Your Major or Area of Interest].

This scholarship will have a significant impact on my ability to achieve my academic and career goals. With your financial assistance, I can focus more on my studies and become involved in extracurricular activities without the stress of financial burden. Your generosity has truly made a difference in my life, and I cannot thank you enough for believing in my potential.

As I embark on this new chapter at [College/University Name], I am excited to [mention specific goals, projects, or plans related to your major or area of interest]. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and look forward to sharing my progress with you.

Thank you once again for your invaluable support and investment in my future. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated, and I am excited to embark on this journey with your encouragement.

Warm regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address, if sending via traditional mail]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number, if appropriate]

Remember to personalize this template with your own experiences and goals to make it genuine and unique to your situation. In the next section, you’ll find examples of scholarship thank you letters.

Examples of scholarship thank you letters

Example scholarship thank you letter #1:

Subject: Thank You for the Lions Club Award

Dear Mr. Crawford,

I am incredibly grateful to have been chosen as a recipient of the [Scholarship Name] for the upcoming academic year. Your generous support will significantly reduce the financial burden of my college education, allowing me to focus on my studies and pursue my passion for nursing.

Receiving this scholarship has not only eased my financial worries but also motivated me to strive for academic excellence. I am excited to begin my journey at Drexel this fall, where I will be majoring in [Your Major]. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and look forward to contributing positively to the Drexel University community.

Thank you once again for your generosity and investment in my future. I truly appreciate the confidence you have shown in my potential. I hope to stay in touch and keep you updated on my progress.

Sincerely,

LaTina Michaels

Example scholarship thank you letter #2:

Subject: A Sincere Thank You for the Trion Scholarship

Dear Mr. Matthews:

I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous Trion Scholarship. As a first-generation college student, this scholarship means a great deal to both my family and me, as it significantly eases the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education.

Thanks to your support, I will be attending Moorehouse College this fall, where I plan to major in Computer Science. I am eager to make a positive impact on campus and in the community by participating in extracurricular activities and volunteering with local organizations.

Your generosity has made a tremendous difference in my life, and I promise to work hard to make the most of this opportunity. I look forward to keeping you updated on my academic journey and achievements.

With heartfelt thanks,

Kerry Davis

Example scholarship thank you letter #3:

Subject: Gratitude for the AKA Leadership Scholarship Opportunity

Dear Mrs. Williams:

I am truly honored to be a recipient of the AKA Leadership Scholarship, and I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support. This scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me pursue my dream of studying Business at the University of Michigan.

Your contribution has not only made my educational journey more affordable but also inspired me to continue giving back to my community through volunteering and mentorship. I am excited to embark on this new chapter at Michigan and am committed to making a positive impact both on and off-campus.

Thank you once again for believing in my potential and for your invaluable contribution to my future. I look forward to staying in touch and sharing updates on my progress throughout my college career.

Warm regards,

Shanel Thomas

Creative Ways to Present Your Scholarship Thank You Note

While a traditional letter is always appropriate, there are creative ways to express your thanks. You could include a short video message, a photo of you on campus, or even a handwritten note with personal touches like school colors or drawings if relevant. Just make sure your creativity remains professional and sincere. A unique presentation can help your note stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Should You Handwrite or Type Your Thank You Note?

Choosing between a handwritten or typed thank you note depends on your audience and your handwriting. A handwritten note can feel more personal and intimate, especially if it’s neatly written. However, a typed note is often more polished and easier to read, especially for formal or professional sponsors. If unsure, consider typing your note and signing it by hand to combine the best of both.

What to Do if You Missed the Thank You Deadline

If you missed the deadline to send your thank you note, don’t panic. It’s better to send a late note than none at all. Acknowledge the delay with a brief apology, then express your sincere appreciation and share how the scholarship has helped you. A thoughtful message, even if late, shows that you care and respect the donor’s contribution.

How to send your thank you note and follow up with the scholarship Sponsor

After writing your thank you note, make sure to send it quickly. It’s best to send it within a week of getting the scholarship. You can use email or regular mail to send your note, depending on what the scholarship provider prefers. If you’re not sure, just ask them. Besides sending the thank you note, it’s a nice idea to keep in touch with the scholarship provider from time to time. Let them know how you’re doing and say thank you again. This can help you make a stronger connection with them and might even give you more chances for help in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions about scholarship thank you notes

When should I send my thank you note?

It’s best to send your thank you note within a week of receiving the scholarship. Sending it promptly shows your appreciation and professionalism.

What should I include in my thank you note?

Your thank you note should express gratitude for the scholarship, explain how the award will impact your life and education, share any updates on your academic progress or future plans, and reiterate your thanks before closing.

How long should my thank you note be?

Keep your thank you note concise and focused, typically around one page or a few paragraphs. Scholarship providers may receive many notes, so respect their time by being brief yet sincere.

Should I send my thank you note by email or regular mail?

You can send your thank you note via email or traditional mail, depending on the preference of the scholarship provider. If you’re unsure, reach out to them and ask for their preferred method of communication.

What if I don't know the scholarship provider's contact information?

If you don’t have the contact information for the scholarship provider, reach out to your school’s financial aid office or the organization that awarded the scholarship. They should be able to provide the necessary contact details.

Is it necessary to follow up with the scholarship provider after sending the thank you note?

While not required, it’s a good idea to periodically update the scholarship provider on your progress and express your continued gratitude. This helps maintain a positive relationship and may lead to additional opportunities in the future.

Can I send a thank you note if I didn't receive a scholarship?

Yes, you can still send a thank you note to express your appreciation for being considered for the scholarship. This shows good manners and professionalism, and may leave a positive impression on the scholarship provider for future opportunities.

Can I include photos or videos in my thank you note?

Including a photo or short video in your thank you note can be a meaningful way to show appreciation, especially if the scholarship organization encourages it. A picture of you on campus, at an event, or working on a project can help donors see the impact of their support. Just be sure any media you include is appropriate, high-quality, and aligned with the tone of your message.

Can I send a group thank you note if the scholarship is shared?

If you and other students received a group scholarship, it is still best to write individual thank you notes unless instructed otherwise. A group thank you may be acceptable if organized by the school or scholarship provider, but try to include a personal sentence or two to make your portion stand out. A collective effort is fine, but never skip your chance to express personal gratitude.

What tone should I use if I'm reapplying for the same scholarship?

If you are reapplying for the same scholarship, your thank you note should be both appreciative and forward-looking. Maintain a respectful and sincere tone, and briefly mention how the previous award helped you. You can also express your continued enthusiasm for your goals and how additional support would help you further your academic journey. Avoid sounding presumptive about receiving the award again.

Conclusion + Next Steps

Now you know the importance of scholarship thank you notes to show gratitude and can help you build a good relationship with the scholarship sponsors. We discussed how to write a scholarship thank-you note that is sincere and personalized. It’s also a good idea to keep the sponsor updated on your academic progress and any achievements you make while enrolled in college.

As you continue your educational journey, don’t forget to stay in touch with the scholarship organization so that you can also learn about future scholarship opportunities and networking events that may be helpful in achieving your academic and career goals. Lastly, it’s important to maintain a positive and professional relationship with the donor in case you need additional support or recommendations in the future.

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Bethany Goldszer is top college admissions and financial aid expert. She's been featured in HuffPost, USA Today, Newsday, Queens Gazette, and Official Black Wall Street & voted Best of Long Island. Faced with the overwhelming stress of applying, getting admitted to and financing her University of Chicago education, she started Stand Out College Prep LLC in 2012 so that no student or parent would have to go through this process alone. Over the last 15 years, Bethany has worked with over 1,500 students, helping them and their parents get into their top choice colleges and secure more than $20M in financial aid and scholarships. And each year, she continues to help more students stand out in the college admissions process and their parents navigate financial aid and scholarships.

How to Write Scholarship Thank You Notes