Free Scholarship Document Checklist

See which scholarship documents you still need, with practical notes on getting each one in time.

Runs in your browser. Nothing you type is uploaded.

Level of study

Type of scholarship

Your choices are saved in this browser only.

Still to get: 7

Valid passportOften required
Getting or renewing a passport can take weeks. Many visa rules expect it to be valid well beyond your planned stay, so check the expiry date now.
Academic transcriptsUsually required
Ask your school early, as processing can take weeks. Check whether they must be sent directly by the school, and whether you need a certified translation.
Degree certificateUsually required
If you have not graduated yet, ask your school for a letter confirming your expected graduation date and class of degree.
CVUsually required
Keep it to one or two pages unless the scholarship asks for an academic CV. Put education, research, awards and leadership near the top.
Statement of purpose or motivation letterUsually required
Answer the exact prompt and word limit given. Use the Statement of Purpose Planner on this site to outline it.
Reference lettersUsually required
Most programmes ask for two references, often at least one academic. Ask at least three to four weeks before the deadline.
English test resultOften required
Tests such as IELTS or TOEFL take time to book and score. Some universities accept a letter confirming your degree was taught in English instead, so check before you pay for a test.

Check whether you need these

Research proposal
Only needed for research based programmes. Check the call carefully.
Portfolio
Usually only for art, design, architecture, media and similar fields. Choose your strongest and most relevant work.

Fully funded awards are usually very competitive. Many also ask for proof of admission or a conditional offer, so check whether you must apply to the university first.

Requirements differ between scholarships. Treat this as a starting point and always check the official call for the final list.

How to use the Scholarship Checklist

Choose your level of study and the type of scholarship.
Tick the documents you already have.
Work through what is still missing, then copy or download the checklist.

Questions

What documents do most scholarships ask for?

Commonly a CV, transcripts, a statement of purpose or motivation letter, reference letters and proof of identity. Many international awards also ask for an English test result, and PhD applications often need a research proposal.

How long does it take to gather everything?

It varies, but transcripts, references, passports and English tests can each take several weeks. Starting at least two months before the deadline gives you room for delays.

Is my checklist saved?

Yes, in this browser only. Nothing is uploaded, and clearing your browser data removes it.

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