Scholarship Tips

Tips

Personal Statement

• Personal Statement Outline
• Checklist to writing a winning Personal Statement
• Tips on Writing a Great Scholarship Essay
• Read the Personal Statements of students who won a MiraCosta College scholarship

Letter of Recommendation

• How to ask for a Letter of Recommendation - Student Checklist

Thank You Letter

• Thank You Letter Criteria
  • (Read the response Taryn received from her donor after she sent a thank you letter)

How to Identify Scams

• Scholarship Scams (Warning from the Federal Trade Commission)
• The Ins & Outs of Scholarship Scams

Frequently Asked Questions

Check the status of your scholarship awards

How do I view, save, or print my unofficial transcript?
View this guide on how to view, save, or print your unofficial transcript.

How many scholarships can I receive?
Students are encouraged to apply for as many MiraCosta College scholarships they are eligible for as well as other third-party scholarships.

Why do I need to write a Personal Statement?
The Personal Statement provides the Awards & Scholarships Committee with important information about you when comparing scholarship applicants for an award.  MiraCosta students are encouraged to visit the Writing Center for assistance.

Can I use the same Personal Statement for other scholarships?
Yes, but you may want to update your Personal Statement to match the questions asked and to reflect your current situation; such as, changes in your financial status, employment, new volunteer or club activities, etc. 

Can I turn in my scholarship application early, before the deadline date?
Yes, the deadline date is the last day scholarship applications are accepted; late applications will not be processed. Students are always encouraged to submit applications before the deadline. 

I am still in high school, when can I apply for a MiraCosta scholarships?
High school seniors graduating in the spring and planning to attend MiraCosta in the fall with a cumulative 2.0 or better Grade Point Average (GPA), are eligible to complete the MiraCosta Annual Scholarship that opens in January with a March deadline. High School seniors must download a current, unofficial high school transcript into the application and complete an Application for Admission to MiraCosta.

What are the scholarship awards?
MiraCosta College awards range $500, $1,000, and higher depending on donors’ donations.

Is the scholarship award money only for school?
Scholarship checks are issued payable to students for education expenses. 

Is the scholarship award check mailed to me?
Students claim their scholarship check from the MiraCosta College, Student Accounts/Cashier’s office, Bldg. 3202, located on the Oceanside campus.  Students must present the Cashier with a picture ID, proof of enrollment in six or more units, and present a thank you letter in an envelope addressed to the donor.

Why do I need to write a thank you letter?
Donors expect and appreciate receiving a thank you letter from their scholarship recipients and especially like to know how this award will help with your education.  Donors do not select the scholarship recipients and this is an opportunity for you to share your education and career goals and tell them what the scholarship means to you.  Many donors comment that student thank you letters inspire them to continue to give money to MiraCosta College.  If you need assistance in writing the letter, please visit the Writing Center or Scholarship office. 

Who do I contact if I have a question?
Call or visit the Scholarship Office (760) 795-6751, Bldg. 3000, Oceanside campus.