What to Write in a Thank You Letter for a College Scholarship
- Although email is convenient for quick communication, it's too easy and too fast for a formal thank you letter. You want to show the donor how much the award means to you by taking your time to express thanks, and brief email notes don't feel as thoughtful as hard copy letters. Use professional-quality paper and a high-resolution printer to print your typed letter, leaving space for a handwritten signature at the bottom.
- At the top of your letter, include the date, aligned left. Below the date, type the name of the donor or organization, the name of the scholarship and the address of the organization or donating individual. Open your letter with a greeting that's as specific as possible. If you know the donor's name, start with that. If you only have an organization name, you could open with "Dear Company X benefactors." In the first paragraph of your letter, state the name of the scholarship and the amount.
- After naming the scholarship, write what receiving the award means to you. For example, you could mention your financial situation and describe how the award will help you make ends meet. You could say how receiving the scholarship enables you to worry less about finances and spend more time studying. If you admire the organization and its goals, talk about how honored you are that the donor recognizes your shared values. Use the words "thank you."
- Once you've expressed general thanks, talk a bit about yourself. Donors like to learn a little more about where their money is going. Mention how far you are along in your college studies, along with your major. Talk about your career plans or long-term educational aspirations. Close the letter by thanking the donor one more time. Proofread your letter, and have a trusted friend or family member look it over too, especially if spelling and grammar aren't your strong suits. The professionalism of your letter not only reflects you, but also the college you're attending.