Quad Cities Campus
WIU Home > QC > Scholarships
Helpful Information to Get You Started
How to Prepare
Prepare yourself for any application by writing a general essay and creating tools to help you ask for letters of support.
Essays: Your general essay should explain your educational goals and how obtaining a scholarship would assist you in meeting those goals. Then you can edit your general essay to meet the requirements specified in each scholarship application!
Tips for success:
- Follow the essay instructions
- Know your audience
- Create a theme and stick to it
- Brag a little, explain why you stand out
- Choose your words wisely
There are on-campus resources available for you to help you with your writing. The US Bank Writing Center is located in Quad Cities Complex 2219, Building A. Check it out!
Letters of Support: Creating a list of your achievements, awards, aspirations, and involvements can assist you when asking for a letter of support. Pay attention to the letter of support requirements in the scholarship application. Make sure you’re choosing a qualified source such as present instructors, guidance counselors, coaches, or someone who can write positively on your behalf and was involved in your educational history.
Tips for a successful letter of support:
- Ask well in advance of deadline
- Make your request personal
- Provide them with how-to recommendations
- Be prepared to have a conversation
- Always thank your sources
How to Search for Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are basically gifts which you don’t have to pay back. They are awarded based on financial need or merit. Searching for scholarships can be easier if you make a list of characteristics about yourself, skills you have, or activities your are involved in. You can look for scholarships that are awarded ofr the items on your list. Scholarships can also be awarded based on the career you are pursuing. Other great place to look for scholarships are within your local community, associations or organizations.
Scholarship Search Resources
- Illinois Student Assistance Commission
- College Greenlight
- FastWeb
- US Department of Labor Free Scholarship Search Tool
- Scholarship Experts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact Information
Contact Curtis Williams with your questions about eligibility, scholarship search, loan request processing and other opportunities for educational funding.
Curtis Williams
Director of Student Services, Quad Cities Campus
Email: CM-Williams11@wiu.edu
Phone: 309-762-9080
Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
WIU Title IV School Code: 001780
Connect with us: