You have spent months researching programs, comparing course structures, and finding the one that aligns with your goals. You have calculated tuition costs, housing, and the price of every textbook. You have even built a spreadsheet to keep track of it all. And now, the most important question stands before you: How will you fund it?

For many students, scholarships are what make higher education possible. Yet the application process can feel overwhelming, especially when every scholarship seems to have its own rules, deadlines, and requirements.

The good news? Applying for scholarships does not have to feel like chasing moving targets. In this blog, we provide you with a step-by-step guide for how to apply for scholarships, so you can focus less on uncertainty and more on building your path forward. 

Step 1 — Understand Your Financial Aid Options

Wondering how to apply for scholarships or how to get scholarships for graduate school? The first step is understanding the terrain you are stepping into.

FAFSA is Your First Step

Think of the FAFSA as your key to the entire financial aid system. It is required for all federal student loans, including Graduate PLUS Loans (until they end on July 1, 2026), and it also helps schools determine your eligibility for institutional scholarships and need-based aid.^[1] For many graduate and undergraduate students, FAFSA is the gateway to scholarships in college and federal aid.

If you are pursuing higher education, understanding how FAFSA works and why FAFSA is important can make a major difference. FAFSA plays a central role in determining eligibility for financial aid for college, especially for those looking to maximize both need-based and merit-based opportunities.

Graduate PLUS Loans & Title IV Funding Changes

For years, Graduate PLUS Loans have helped bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and the unsubsidized federal loan limit. However, under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Grad PLUS loans will no longer be available for new borrowers after July 1, 2026.^[2] This transition will directly affect students relying on Title IV financial aid to support their studies.

• Any loans disbursed before the cutoff will follow the current rules.
• Any borrowing after will be subject to new caps and repayment structures.

Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships

Loans are not the only path. Scholarships, grants, and fellowships can significantly reduce the amount you need to borrow, and graduate students often have access to funding that is tailored to their field of study. These awards represent money that does not need to be repaid and are often listed among the scholarships awarded each year.

At Alliant International University, students can explore institutional scholarships designed specifically for graduate and doctoral learners. In addition, external organizations (such as research foundations, professional associations, and community groups) offer scholarships tied to:

• Psychology
• Education
• Business
• Law

Unlike loans, these awards do not require repayment. They also send a strong signal of academic achievement and commitment to your field.

Step 2 — Create a Scholarship Application Plan

A strong graduate program scholarship strategy is built on clarity, structure, and good timing.

Make A List of Scholarships

Start by creating a comprehensive list of opportunities that fit your academic and personal profile.

• Internal scholarships are often provided directly by the university, including merit-based and program-specific funding.
• External scholarships are available through professional associations, non-profits, private foundations, and government programs. These can range from discipline-specific awards to broader scholarships.

Check Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship, including:

• Minimum GPA requirements
• Academic program
• Field of study
• Citizenship or residency requirements

Doing this lets you prioritize high-fit scholarships where your application has the strongest chance of success.

Track Deadlines Carefully

A single missed date can mean losing out on funding that could have made a difference.

Build a scholarship spreadsheet that tracks due dates, required documents, award amounts, and submission methods. Include important FAFSA deadlines along with scholarship timelines so you can view all deadlines at a glance. This way, you can see exactly what needs to be submitted at each stage.

Pro tip: Sort your spreadsheet by deadline, then by award size.

Step 3 — Gather Required Documents

Nearly every scholarship will require some combination of transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, or financial information. Instead of collecting these documents on a case-by-case basis, building a core scholarship packet in advance can save you valuable time.

• Transcripts and GPA records: Most scholarships require official or unofficial transcripts to verify your academic performance. Request your transcripts early, especially if they need to be mailed or processed through multiple offices.
• Letters of recommendation: Strong recommendation letters can set your application apart. Identify potential recommenders (professors, research supervisors, employers) well in advance and give them plenty of time to write. To go the extra mile, you can also provide them with a list of your achievements and the scholarships you are applying for, for more targeted letters.
• Personal statement or essay: Your personal statement or essay is often the heart of your application.  Instead of writing a new essay for every award, create a strong base statement that can be adapted to different prompts.
• FAFSA or financial documentation: Even merit-based scholarships require proof of financial status, which is often a completed FAFSA.^[3] Where the FAFSA is not applicable, you need to gather the required income or tax documents early.
• Resume or CV: Many graduate scholarships also ask for a resume or CV that highlights academic achievements, research experience, professional work, and community involvement. Keep this document regularly updated.

Step 4 — Write Winning Scholarship Essays

Your essay is where you show decision-makers the person behind the résumé and transcripts. Whether you are applying for one scholarship or ten, your essay holds the greatest chance to sway decisions in your favor.

Tailor Each Essay to the Scholarship

Just as no two scholarships are exactly alike, your essays should not be either. Take the time to understand the mission, values, and focus areas of each scholarship program. Then, reflect that understanding in your writing.

For example, if the scholarship is aimed at supporting future educators, emphasize your commitment to teaching, the communities you hope to impact, or the research you plan to pursue. Often, the mission statements on scholarship websites can help you pick up phrasing to mirror in your essay. 

Demonstrate Impact, Goals, and Leadership

Scholarship committees aim to invest in students who will make a meaningful impact. Use your essay to connect your experiences to your long-term goals. Show not just what you have achieved, but where you are going, and how this scholarship helps you get there.

Proofread and Edit

Typos or clunky sentences can quickly overshadow your promise as a candidate. Reading your essay aloud can help you catch awkward phrasing and stepping away for a day or two before revising can give you a clearer perspective.

Peer Reviews or Professional Review

A second set of eyes can be invaluable. Share your essay with a mentor, faculty member, or writing center for constructive feedback.

Step 5 — Submit Applications & Track Follow-Up

Competitive scholarships often review applications on a rolling basis, and early submissions can give you an edge at the consideration stage.

• Submitting ahead of deadlines also gives you a crucial buffer to fix any issues that arise.
• Check for email acknowledgments or online portal status updates to ensure that your materials are under review.
• Respond promptly to any requests from scholarship committees for additional documents.

Step 6 — Plan for Alternative Funding Options

Scholarships are powerful, but a strong financial plan includes multiple funding streams. Alongside scholarships and federal loans, consider:

• Institutional loans with flexible repayment options
• Private educational loans from reputable lenders
• Employer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs
• Assistantships that provide both a stipend and tuition support^[4]

Scholarship Application Checklist (Quick Reference)

Use this checklist to keep your strategy organized from start to finish.

• Complete and submit the FAFSA to access federal and institutional aid opportunities.
• Review Graduate PLUS Loan eligibility before July 1, 2026, if you plan to use federal loans.
• Make a comprehensive list of opportunities offered by your chosen university, professional associations, nonprofits, and other relevant organizations.
• Carefully check GPA requirements, program fit, and deadlines.
• Gather transcripts, recommendations, essays, and financial documents.
• Tailor and proofread scholarship essays.
• Submit applications early and track confirmations.
• Explore alternative funding sources, such as assistantships, employer tuition support, and private or institutional loans.
• Check your email regularly for confirmation messages or interview invitations.

FAQs on Scholarships

Before you start applying, it is helpful to clarify the most common questions about graduate scholarships and how they work.

Q: Will Title IV changes affect my Graduate PLUS Loan eligibility?

A: Yes. The Graduate PLUS Loan program will end for new borrowers after July 1, 2026. Submitting your FAFSA and securing funding before the cutoff ensures you are covered under the current rules.

Q: Can I combine scholarships and loans?

A: Absolutely. Scholarships reduce how much you need to borrow, but do not affect your eligibility for most federal loans unless they fully cover tuition and fees.

Q: Are scholarships taxable?

A: In most cases, scholarships used to pay tuition and required educational expenses are not taxable, but amounts used for housing or other non-qualified expenses may be.^[5] Always check IRS guidelines or consult a tax professional.

Q: What if I miss a scholarship deadline?

A: It happens. If you miss one opportunity, explore alternative scholarships, institutional aid, or private funding options. New scholarships also open throughout the year.

Take Action Now — Do Not Wait to Secure Graduate Funding

Every scholarship you apply for is a stepping stone. One leads to the next, and together, they create a bridge between where you are today and where you want to be. The earlier you start laying these stones, the stronger and steadier your path becomes.

Once you apply to Alliant, our financial aid team works with you to turn a complicated process into a clear plan, including:

• Filling out FAFSA on time
• Navigating upcoming Title IV changes
• Identifying local scholarship opportunities
• Ensuring every deadline works in your favor.

A well-timed decision today can make the path ahead feel less uncertain. Apply to Alliant and take the first step toward securing your graduate funding.

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Sources:

^[1] Federal Student Aid. “Filling Out the FAFSA Form.” The U.S. Department of Education. December 17, 2024. https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/fsa-handbook/2025-2026/application-and-verification-guide/ch2-filling-out-fafsa-form. Accessed October 31, 2025.

^[2] Federal Student Aid. “Direct PLUS Loans for Graduate or Professional Students.” The U.S. Department of Education. August 21, 2025. https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/loans/plus/grad. Accessed October 31, 2025.

^[3] Federal Student Aid. “Finding and Applying for Scholarships.” The U.S. Department of Education. May 03, 2024. https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/scholarships. Accessed October 31, 2025.

^[4] USAGov. “Types of student financial aid.” The United States Government. April 8, 2025. https://www.usa.gov/student-aid. Accessed October 31, 2025.

^[5] IRS Fact Sheets. “Frequently asked questions about educational assistance programs.” Internal Revenue Service. June 12, 2024. https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/frequently-asked-questions-about-educational-assistance-programs. Accessed October 31, 2025.

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Deborah Spindler
University Director of Financial Aid, Financial Aid Administration, Alliant University

In the role of University Director of Financial Aid, Deborah Spindler leads the Alliant University Financial Aid Administration. The financial aid administration is committed to providing assistance to qualified students who would otherwise be unable to pursue their educational and professional goals.

Alliant offers federal financial aid, including Title IV financial aid, and scholarships for U.S. citizens and legal residents. Financing is available through scholarships, grants, part-time employment, and loans. The federal government, state government, Alliant, and private sources finance these programs.