Documentation for International Scholarships
When you apply for an international scholarship, the most important thing is to have all the required documents ready. The list of documents is not exactly the same for every scholarship, but most of them usually ask for similar things. That’s why it’s better to prepare everything in advance so you can apply quickly whenever an opportunity comes.
1. Passport
A passport is a must. Most scholarship applications ask for your passport number. If you don’t have a passport yet, you should make one first because it is the basic requirement of your application.
2. Educational Certificates and Transcripts
You need all your certificates and transcripts, starting from Matric (high school) up to your latest degree. Attestation is also required.
- Matric and Intermediate certificates → attested by IBCC and MOFA
- University documents → attested by HEC and MOFA
This proves that your papers are original.
3. Thesis or Final Year Project (if any)
If you did a thesis or final year project during graduation or master’s, keep a summary or abstract ready. This is especially important for research-based scholarships because it shows your research skills.
4. Academic CV
An academic CV is very important because it introduces your profile and gives the first impression to the scholarship committee. Your CV should include:
- Full name and contact details
- Educational background
- Work experience or internships
- Research work or publications
- Short courses or certifications
Only add information that you can prove with documents. Avoid fake or unnecessary details, as they can cause rejection. You can use online formats like Europass to make a professional CV.
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
This is another key document. In the SOP, you explain:
- Why you want this scholarship
- Why you chose that country or university
- What your future goals are
Every scholarship has different requirements (like word limit or structure), so always follow the given instructions.
6. Study Plan or Research Plan (for PhD students)
Many PhD scholarships ask for a research plan. Here you write:
- What field you want to research in
- Why this research is important
- How you will continue this research in the future
This shows the committee that you have a clear research direction.
7. Recommendation Letters
Most scholarships require two recommendation letters from your professors. These letters should clearly mention that they know you personally and that you were their student. Each letter must have the professor’s signature, email, and contact number for verification.
8. Language Proficiency Certificate
Some scholarships accept an English proficiency certificate from your university, but most require standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Taking IELTS is better because it makes your application stronger and reduces the chances of rejection.
Final Note
All these documents make your profile complete and increase your chances of being selected for an international scholarship. If you prepare them in advance, you can apply confidently for any scholarship opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Do I need a passport before applying for a scholarship?
Yes. A valid passport is usually required because most applications ask for your passport number. If you don’t have one, apply for it as early as possible
.Q2. Are attested educational documents necessary?
Yes. Most scholarships require attested certificates and transcripts.
Q3. Do all scholarships require a research plan?
No. A research or study plan is usually required only for PhD scholarships, where you must describe your research topic, importance, and future direction.
Q4. How many recommendation letters are needed?
Most scholarships require two recommendation letters from your professors. They must include the professor’s signature, email, and contact number.
Q5. Is IELTS/TOEFL compulsory for every scholarship?
Not always. Some universities accept an English proficiency letter from your university, but IELTS or TOEFL is highly recommended to make your application stronger.
Q6. What if I don’t have work experience or publications?
That’s okay. Many scholarships are for fresh graduates. Just focus on your education, skills, projects, and strengths in your CV and SOP.
