russia scholarship essay

fully funded Scholarships in Russia for International Students 2024

Updated list of fully funded Scholarships in Russia 2024 - 2025 for international students 2024 - 2025 fully funded. Masters, PhD, and undergraduate Scholarships in Russia

Skoltech Scholarships 2024, Russia. (Fully Funded Tuition)

• Fully Funded
• Skoltech University
• Masters, PhD
• Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Data Science, Material Science, Petroleum Engineering +4 More , AgroBiotechnologies and Engineering, Engineering Systems, Mechanics, Computational and Data Science and Engineering
• International Students

Skoltech Scholarships 2024, Russia. (Fully Funded Tuition) is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Skoltech University Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, PhD.

HSE Global Scholarship Competition 2024 in Russia.

• Full tuition fee
• National Research University Higher School of Economics
• Undergraduate
• Designing, Foreign Language, International Relations, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Information Technology

HSE Global Scholarship Competition 2024 in Russia. is a Full tuition fee scholarship in Russia offered by National Research University Higher School of Economics Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Undergraduate.

Open Doors Russian Government Scholarships 2024. (Fully Funded)

• Russia Universities
• All Subjects

Open Doors Russian Government Scholarships 2024. (Fully Funded) is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Russia Universities Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, PhD.

Skoltech Scholarship in Russia (Fully Funded) 2023-24

Skoltech Scholarship in Russia (Fully Funded) 2023-24 is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Skoltech University Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, PhD.

5 without IELTS Scholarships in Russia for Masters program

5 without IELTS Scholarships in Russia for Masters program is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Russia Universities Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters.

Russian Government Open Doors Scholarships 2023

• PhD, Masters

Russian Government Open Doors Scholarships 2023 is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Russia Universities Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for PhD, Masters.

Federal Government Scholarship Awards Nigeria 2022-2023 Announced

• Egypt Universities, Russia Universities, Hungary Universities, China Universities, Serbia Universities, Romania Universities
• Masters, Undergraduate
• Egypt, Russia, Morocco, Hungary, China, Serbia +1 More , Romania

Federal Government Scholarship Awards Nigeria 2022-2023 Announced is a Fully Funded scholarship in Egypt, Russia, Morocco, Hungary, China, Serbia, Romania offered by Egypt Universities, Russia Universities, Hungary Universities, China Universities, Serbia Universities, Romania Universities Egypt, Russia, Morocco, Hungary, China, Serbia, Romania. are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, Undergraduate.

Russian Government Scholarships Announced - Open Doors Olympiad 2021-2022

• Computer Science, Biology, Biotechnology, Data Science, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence +12 More , Politics, International Relations, Neuroscience, Psychology, Chemistry, Material Science, Economics, Econometrics, Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Earth Sciences, Education

Russian Government Scholarships Announced - Open Doors Olympiad 2021-2022 is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Russia Universities Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, PhD.

MIPT Russia Government and Other Scholarships

• Fully Funded, Partial Funding
• Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology
• Masters, Bachelor
• International Students, Domestic Students

MIPT Russia Government and Other Scholarships is a Fully Funded, Partial Funding scholarship in Russia offered by Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology Russia. International Students, Domestic Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, Bachelor.

300 Russian Government funding, 2020-21

• Partial Funding
• The Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation
• Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, Public Health, Computer Science, International Business Management, Politics +15 More , International Relations, Biology, Biotechnology, Neuroscience, Psychology, Physical Sciences, Linguistics, Modern Languages, Chemistry, Economics, Econometrics, Engineering, Information Technology, Earth Sciences, Education

300 Russian Government funding, 2020-21 is a Partial Funding scholarship in Russia offered by Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, PhD.

Skoltech Russia Masters and PhD Financial aid for international students 2019

• Fully Funded Tuition fee, Stipend, Air travel, Medical Insurance
• Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology
• Biotechnology, Photonics, Life Sciences, Data Science, Quantum Materials, Theoretical Physics +3 More , Petroleum Engineering, Mathematical Physics, Energy Systems

Skoltech Russia Masters and PhD Financial aid for international students 2019 is a Fully Funded scholarship in Russia offered by Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters, PhD.

MPSU Postdoctoral Fellowships at Russian Institute for Advanced Study in Russia, 2018

• Russian Institute for Advanced Study in Humanities and Technology

MPSU Postdoctoral Fellowships at Russian Institute for Advanced Study in Russia, 2018 is a scholarship in Russia offered by Russian Institute for Advanced Study in Humanities and Technology Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Fellowship.

Center for Historical Research Postdoctoral Positions at National Research University in Russia 2018

Center for Historical Research Postdoctoral Positions at National Research University in Russia 2018 is a scholarship in Russia offered by Russia. are eligible to apply and get scholarship for .

Russia Ministry of Science and Education Russian State Scholarships 2018

Russia Ministry of Science and Education Russian State Scholarships 2018 is a scholarship in Russia offered by Russia. are eligible to apply and get scholarship for .

Russia Ural Federal University Open Doors Russian Scholarship 2018

• Ural Federal University
• Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Economics

Russia Ural Federal University Open Doors Russian Scholarship 2018 is a scholarship in Russia offered by Ural Federal University Russia. International Students are eligible to apply and get scholarship for Masters.

Top 15 fully funded Scholarships in Russia for International Students 2024

Here is the list of currently open Top 15 best fully funded Scholarships in Russia for International Students 2024 Without IELTS. You may submit your PTE test of English language Proficency Certificate from your last institutiton as per university admission requirment for following scholarships

Top 5 Scholarships in Russia for International Students 2024 - 2025

Russia, with its world-renowned universities and research institutions, offers a variety of scholarships for international students. These scholarships provide opportunities to engage in high-quality education and research in a country with a rich history and cultural heritage. Explore the most prestigious scholarships available for international students in Russia for the academic year 2024 - 2025.

How to Get a Scholarship in Russia in 2024 - FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria for applying for scholarships in russia.

Eligibility criteria for scholarships in Russia vary depending on the specific scholarship, but common requirements may include academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, financial need, and sometimes citizenship or permanent residency of Russia.

How do I find scholarships available in Russia?

You can find scholarships in Russia through various sources such as university websites, scholarship search engines, government websites, and private organizations. Additionally, you can inquire with your school's guidance counselor or academic advisor for information on available scholarships. One of the best resources for finding scholarships is Russia Scholarships page , which contains valuable information about scholarships available in Russia. Another excellent resource is ScholarshipsAds . ScholarshipsAds is a comprehensive platform that aggregates scholarship opportunities from various sources, providing a convenient way to search for scholarships tailored to your needs and qualifications. You can also utilize the filter options available on the homepage of ScholarshipsAds to narrow down your search and find scholarships specifically targeted to Russia.

What documents do I need to prepare when applying for scholarships in Russia?

The required documents for scholarship applications in Russia typically include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and any additional documents specified by the scholarship provider.

Are there specific deadlines for applying for scholarships in Russia?

Yes, most scholarship programs in Russia have specific application deadlines, which can vary depending on the scholarship provider. It's essential to pay close attention to these deadlines and submit your application well before the due date to ensure consideration for the scholarship.

Can international students apply for scholarships in Russia?

Yes, many scholarships in Russia are open to both domestic and international students. However, international students may have additional requirements to fulfill, such as obtaining a study permit and demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support their studies in Russia. It's essential to check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship to determine whether international students are eligible to apply.

Can I apply for scholarships in Russia without IELTS?

Yes, many scholarships in Russia allow applications without IELTS, offering alternatives for proving English proficiency. You can check websites of universities in Russia for language requirement.

What are the alternatives to IELTS in universities of Russia?

Alternatives may include TOEFL, PTE, or evidence of previous education in English.

What are the Best Universities in Russia that offer Scholarships?

Universities of Russia are among top-rated universities in the world. Almost every university in Russia offers scholarships each year. You can check our list of universities in Russia offering scholarships here.

Can Student Work in Russia if they are on scholarship?

Yes, with a student visa of Russia, you will get working hours per week.

Is there a WhatsApp channel for scholarships of Russia?

Yes, there is a WhatsApp channel dedicated to scholarships of Russia. You can join the WhatsApp scholarship group to get the latest information on scholarship opportunities in Russia. Joining the group will allow you to stay updated with the latest scholarship announcements and valuable resources always.

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• How to Write a Scholarship Essay | Template & Example

How to Write a Scholarship Essay | Template & Example

Published on October 11, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

A good scholarship essay demonstrates the scholarship organization’s values while directly addressing the prompt. If you plan ahead , you can save time by writing one essay for multiple prompts with similar questions.

Table of contents

Apply for a wide variety of scholarships, make a scholarship tracker spreadsheet, tailor your essay to the organization and the prompt, write a focused and relevant personal story, scholarship essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Scholarships are a type of student financial aid that don’t require repayment. They are awarded based on various factors, including academic merit, financial need, intended major, personal background, or activities and interests.

Like college applications, scholarship applications often require students to submit their grades, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and an essay.

A scholarship essay shares your values and qualities in the context of a specific question, such as “How does technology affect your daily life?” or “Who has had the greatest impact on your life?”

Be wary of scholarship scams

While some applications may not require an essay, be wary of scholarship scams that do the following:

• Guarantee you scholarship money for a fee
• Claim scholarship information is exclusive to their company
• Ask for your bank or credit card information to hold the scholarship

Some legitimate companies do charge for releasing comprehensive scholarship lists or creating a tailored list of scholarship opportunities based on your profile.

However, you can always discover scholarship opportunities for free through your school counselor, community network, or an online search.

Many students focus on well-known, large scholarship opportunities, which are usually very competitive. To maximize your chance of success, invest time in applying for a wide variety of scholarships: national and local, as well as big and small award amounts. There are also scholarships for international students .

In addition to charitable foundation and corporate scholarships, you should consider applying for institutional scholarships at your prospective universities, which can award money based on your application’s strength, your financial situation, and your demonstrated interest in the school.

Check with your guidance counselor, local organizations, community network, or prospective schools’ financial aid offices for scholarship opportunities. It’s a good idea to start applying as early as your junior year and continue throughout your senior year.

Choose the right scholarships for you

Choose scholarships with missions and essay topics that match your background, experiences, and interests. If the scholarship topic is meaningful to you, it will be easier for you to write an authentic and compelling essay.

Don’t shy away from applying for local scholarships with small dollar amounts. Even a few hundred dollars can help you pay for books.

Local scholarships may be more tailored to your community, background, and activities, so they’re likely more relevant to you. Fewer students apply for these scholarships, so you have less competition and a higher chance of success.

Some places to look for local scholarships include

• Civic organizations, such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
• Your church, mosque, synagogue, or place of worship
• Community groups, such as the YMCA
• Ethnicity-based organizations
• Your local library or local small businesses
• Organizations related to your intended major
• Your city or town
• Your school district
• Unions, such as SEIU, the Teamsters, CWA, etc.
• Your employer or your parents’ employers
• Banks, credit unions, and local financial institutions

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

While researching scholarship opportunities, create a scholarship tracker spreadsheet to keep track of the following:

• Scholarship amounts
• Required application materials

You can use our free Google Sheets template to track your scholarship applications.

Scholarship application tracker template

You can also include scholarship essay prompts in your college essay tracker sheet . By grouping or color-code overlapping essay prompts, you can plan to write a single essay for multiple scholarships. Sometimes, you can also reuse or adapt your main college essay .

Even if you’re adapting another essay, it’s important to make sure your essay directly addresses the prompt, stays within the word count limit , and demonstrates the organization’s values. The scholarship committee will be able to tell if you reuse an essay that doesn’t quite respond to the prompt, so be sure to tailor it to the questions asked.

Research each organization

Before writing, research the scholarship organization’s mission and reason for awarding the scholarship. Learning more about the organization can help you select an appropriate topic and relevant story.

While you should tailor your essay to the organization’s values, maintain your authentic voice. Never use false or exaggerated stories. If the organization’s values don’t align with yours or you can’t brainstorm a relevant story for the scholarship, continue searching for other scholarship opportunities to find a more appropriate one for you.

After researching the organization, identify a specific personal experience that embodies its values and exemplifies why you will be a successful student.

Choose a story with the following criteria:

• Responds to the prompt
• Demonstrates the organization’s values
• Includes an authentic story
• Focuses on you and your experience, not someone else’s

A good scholarship essay is not

• A resume of your achievements
• A lengthy opinion piece about the essay topic
• An essay featuring a negative tone that puts down others

If appropriate, you can briefly address how the scholarship money will help you achieve your educational goals. You should also end with a brief thank-you.

Take a look at the full essay example below. Hover over the underlined parts to read explanations of why they work.

Prompt: Describe how working for Chelsea’s Chicken restaurant has developed leadership skills that will help you succeed in college. Give specific examples of leadership characteristics that you have exhibited during your employment with us.

As a nervous 16-year-old, I walked into Chelsea’s Chicken for my first day of work determined to make enough money to put gas in my car and buy pizza on the weekends. My only previous job was mowing my neighbors’ lawns when they were on vacation, so I had no idea what to expect. I was a bit intimidated by my new responsibilities, especially handling money and helping disgruntled customers.

However, it didn’t take me long to learn my way around the cash register and successfully address customer complaints. One day, Roger, the store manager, asked me if I wanted to join Chelsea’s Chicken Leadership Training Initiative. He said he saw leadership potential in me because of my attitude with the customers and my enthusiasm for learning new job responsibilities. It surprised me because I had never thought of myself as a leader, but I quickly agreed, and Roger handed me a three-ring binder that was thicker than my math and science textbooks put together! He told me to take it home and read over it during the following week.

In that binder, I discovered that being a leader means taking the initiative, especially when the job is undesirable. One week later, I got to practice that idea when a little kid threw up in the bathroom and missed the toilet. It smelled terrible, but I stepped forward and told Roger that I would clean it up. My coworkers thought I was crazy, but I started to believe in my leadership potential.

That night as we closed the store, Roger pulled me aside in the parking lot and told me that he could tell that I had been studying the manual. He wanted to give me more responsibility, along with a dollar-per-hour pay raise. I was surprised because I had been working there for only a couple of months, but his encouragement helped me make a connection: good leadership helps other people, and it often is rewarded. I was determined to experience more of both.

Within a month, I was ready to take the Team Leader exam, which mattered because I would receive a promotion and a much bigger raise if I passed. But, when I got to work, two of the scheduled team members had called in sick. We were noticeably short-handed, and our customers weren’t happy about it.

I walked back to the lockers, put on my vest and hat, and took my place behind an open register. Customers immediately moved into my line to place their orders. Roger looked at me with surprise and asked, “Did you forget that you’re testing tonight?” I responded, “No, sir—but what’s the use of taking a leadership test if you aren’t going to lead in real life?” Roger smiled at me and nodded.

He stayed late that night after we closed so that I could leave early and still take the test. I noticed that Roger was always staying late, helping employees learn new skills. His example taught me that leaders take the initiative to develop other leaders. He gave me a clear picture of what shared leadership looks like, making room for others to grow and excel. When I asked him where he learned to do that, he said, “From the same leadership manual I gave you!”

Chelsea’s Chicken has offered me so much more than a paycheck. Because of Roger’s example, I have learned to take the initiative to care for my family and friends, such as being the first to do the dishes without my mom asking or volunteering to pick up my friend for our SAT prep course. Now, as I prepare to enter college, I have confidence in my leadership ability. I know I’m signing up for a challenging major—Biology, Pre-Med—yet I also know that Chelsea’s Chicken has helped me to develop the perseverance required to complete my studies successfully.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

A scholarship essay requires you to demonstrate your values and qualities while answering the prompt’s specific question.

After researching the scholarship organization, identify a personal experience that embodies its values and exemplifies how you will be a successful student.

Invest time in applying for various scholarships , especially local ones with small dollar amounts, which are likely easier to win and more reflective of your background and interests. It will be easier for you to write an authentic and compelling essay if the scholarship topic is meaningful to you.

You can find scholarships through your school counselor, community network, or an internet search.

You can start applying for scholarships as early as your junior year. Continue applying throughout your senior year.

Yes, but make sure your essay directly addresses the prompt, respects the word count , and demonstrates the organization’s values.

If you plan ahead, you can save time by writing one scholarship essay for multiple prompts with similar questions. In a scholarship tracker spreadsheet, you can group or color-code overlapping essay prompts; then, write a single essay for multiple scholarships. Sometimes, you can even reuse or adapt your main college essay .

Cite this Scribbr article

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Courault, K. (2023, May 31). How to Write a Scholarship Essay | Template & Example. Scribbr. Retrieved April 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/college-essay/scholarship-essay/

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Why Study in Russia? 9 Captivating Reasons to Try Russian Study Abroad

Looking for reasons to study in russia learn how a study abroad russia program can change your life through its food, culture, people & more.

When you think of Russia, you probably think of cold and snow. Maybe images of glittering Moscow or charming Saint Petersburg pop into your mind. But have you ever thought of going to Russia for college?

Why study in Russia? While it’s not the most typical study abroad destination, it’s an incredible opportunity! Russia is a large country filled with historic cities, stunning landscapes, and friendly people. It’s also home to famous universities and many great scholars.

So dust off your parka and grab your mittens. Let’s explore 9 amazing reasons to study in Russia!

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1. Get a World-Class Education

Did you know that Russia boasts a  99.7 literacy rate ? It actually surpasses many Western countries in this aspect. The Russian education system is the perfect place to get outstanding post-secondary training!

You’ll find over 900 universities and colleges scattered throughout this expansive land. Even though many of them rank high, Moscow State University and Saint Petersburg State University are the best schools in Russia. Be prepared for tough entrance exams and specific requirements if these are on your list!

Last year, over  300,000 international students  chose Russia as their study abroad destination. They make up about 8% of the entire student population. The most popular areas of study were engineering, medicine, and business.

2. Explore Culinary Delights

Pelmeni, borscht, and caviar! Living in Russia means discovering a whole new world of gastronomy.

Russian food tends to be warm and hearty, perfect for the freezing winters. Meals are usually served in courses with a soup as a starter, followed by a meat dish. A nice, hot cup of tea rounds out the meal and sends you on your way to class toasty and satisfied.

But life in Russia doesn’t have to mean eating the same type of cuisine every day. Medium and large-sized cities have a range of food options available from every country. So whether you’re craving samosas or Pad Thai, you’ll be able to find it in your new community.

Related Read : 10+ Best Writing Websites, Forums & Writing Groups for Aspiring Authors

3. Discover the Masters of Literature

100 great works of literature every college student should read.

Read these essential books before starting university.

You’ve probably seen  these lists  many times before. One thing they all have in common is that a number of the authors are always Russian.

Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Pushkin, and Nabokov are some of the great masters of literature you’ll discover if you study abroad in Russia. If your major is related to writing, literature, or poetry, this will be especially exciting!

Even if Russian literature isn’t your thing, walking around the same campus that Tolstoy frequented in his time is still exciting. That connection with greatness can be a real motivation when it comes to your studies!

4. Learn a Useful Language

Did you know that over  300 million people speak Russian  around the world? It puts the language in 8th place as the most widely spoken globally.

Learning Russian can be incredibly difficult but very rewarding. It also makes for easy travel in other ex-Soviet countries that still speak Russian. Beyond travel and making new friends, Russian is becoming an in-demand language worldwide.

If you plan on working in business, science, or tech in Europe, Russian is an  important language  to know. Many European career opportunities are influenced by Russia’s economy and an enormous amount of web content.

Related Read : List of 100+ Best Icebreaker Questions & Conversation Starters

5. Traverse a Giant Nation

Russia spans across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. If you choose to study at Russian universities, the  travel opportunities  are enormous!

These are some of the most famous locations you’ll want to hit during your summer and winter breaks.

As Russia’s capital, Moscow is a must-see. The city is an exciting mix of green spaces, historic alleys, and modern architecture. Filled with art galleries, theaters, and shopping, you’ll be going non-stop all day.

Don’t forget to stop by the infamous Red Square, the Kremlin, and St.Basil’s Cathedral!

Saint Petersburg

For art and culture, head to this gorgeous city in Russia’s northwest. Bordering Finland and Estonia, this small city has a more European feel. With architecture, design, and beauty around every corner, it’s worth the trip.

Spend a day at the Hermitage and discover the world’s second-largest collection of art.

Lake Baikal

If you’re a nature-lover, Lake Baikal should be at the top of your travel list. As the world’s oldest, largest, and clearest lake, it’s a sight to behold. In the summer, you might even be able to take a quick dip!

Located in the Russian Tundra, near the Arctic Circle, this tiny town is the perfect place for viewing the Northern Lights. You’ll also be able to spot polar bears, seals, and wolves throughout the tundra. A friendly warning, this part of Russia experiences permafrost, so you’ll need to bundle up!

Need to warm your bones in the sunshine? Sochi is Russia’s summer resort town on the Black Sea. Head there on your summer break and enjoy the warm waters and pebble-filled beaches.

6. Save Your Hard Earned Money

Post-secondary education costs in Russia can be much cheaper than in Western Europe or North America. Most courses range from  $1,880 to $13,540  per year. So if your heart is set on colleges in Moscow, Russia, they’re more affordable than you think!

Cost of living is another factor to consider, and it varies widely based on location. Living in Moscow, for example, will be much more expensive than living in Vladivostok. To show how wide this scope is,  university dormitories  can cost as little as $7 a month to as much as $780 a month!

Many students choose homestays to save money and get a crash course in Russian culture. Others rent private apartments and houses. Regardless of your choice, your average monthly expenses will be much lower than in western countries.

Related Read : How to Save Money in College: 15+ Easy Ways w/ Tips & Advice for 2022

7. Study in High-Tech Classrooms

The Russian government pours a lot of money into producing highly-qualified university grads. Because of this, technology and research are emphasized in the university curriculum. Internships, research projects, and personal development are also encouraged.

No musty, boring classrooms here! Depending on your area of study, classrooms are well-equipped and campuses are welcoming. Students studying in areas of science, engineering, tech, and medicine will find their programs to be very fulfilling.

8. Experience Cultural Diversity

While Russian is the native language of the country, over  100 other languages  are spoken amongst 200 ethnic groups. At the same time, most students learn English throughout their school career. You’ll find a large number of polyglots in this country!

A stereotypical Russian person is often described as Caucasian with blonde hair and blue eyes. That couldn’t be farther from the truth.

Russia is actually  much more multi-cultural  than people realize. And a new generation of creatives is trying to show the world!

Related Read : How to Make Money in College (25 Ways to Earn Money as a Student)

9. Score a Scholarship

While Russian colleges and universities aren’t free, scholarships are plentiful. Last year, approximately 18,000 students received  free education  through government quotas.

If your country is very friendly with Russia or has a joint project in the works, you’ll have a better chance of getting funds. In the past, intergovernmental agreements with China, Vietnam, and Uzbekistan have benefitted students.

Universities and colleges in Russia don’t usually offer direct scholarships to international students. If you need help funding your education, these government quotas are your best bet!

Is Studying Abroad Right For You?

International experience is an important addition to any new grad’s resume. It shows that you’re culturally sensitive and aware of worldwide trends. You’ll also meet new friends, build global connections, and find once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

International education could be perfect for you if you:

• Love a challenge
• Want to learn a new language
• Have international career goals
• Need to expand your social network
• Want a unique study experience
• Love travel

Even if you don’t identify with every trait on this list,  studying abroad  might still be right for you. It’s important to explore all your options when looking for post-secondary opportunities. Once you’ve narrowed down your major and have a general career goal, you might find that international education is an advantage!

Related Read : Why is Travel Important? Here Are 7 Important Benefits of Traveling

So Why Study in Russia?

There are hundreds of reasons for participating in a study abroad program.

So why study in Russia? The food, the culture, the world-class universities, and exciting research projects! And so many other reasons, really.

Want to discover more reasons to head to Russia? Then it’s time to get started. To reach your full potential, you need access to a supportive community and exciting possibilities.

At Goodwall, we specialize in connecting young talent to opportunities. To learn more about the ins and outs of college life, check out the rest of the education section of the Goodwall Blog !

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Fully-funded Russian Scholarships 2023-2024: List of all Scholarships in Russia

Study in russia: list of scholarships in russia.

The government of Russia offers hundreds of fully-funded Russian Government Scholarships 2023-2024 to all international students. It is one of the best opportunity for international students to study for free in Russia.

Russia is one of the Top Study Destinations where international Students enjoy Fully Funded Scholarships and get paid by the Russian Government to study there. The monthly stipends and free education are the top joys that students enjoy while their stay in Russia. We have put together the list of all the Russian Scholarships on which international students can apply this year and we encourage you to share this list with your friends as well who are interested to study abroad for free.

The largest country in the world, the homeland of Tolstoy and Bulgakov, Russia, is also becoming the ultimate study destination for a number of international students. Russia is keen to make its higher educational institutions competitive and more supportive of international students. 13 of the Russian universities have been featured in the top 400 universities by QS World University Ranking. Russia has invested about 390 billion rubles in upgrading its educational system and bringing it in harmony with European institutions. 

Russian Universities and the Russian Government offer potential international students to study for free in Russia. There are a number of government-sponsored and state-funded scholarships that you can apply to. Moreover, the universities in Russia are also offering scholarships to international students in order to attract talent from outside of Russia.

The cost of a Bachelor’s Degree in Russia starts at 1,100 USD per year and can go as high as 6,100 USD per year.

Russian Scholarships List

Below is a list of Russian scholarships for students who are interested in studying in Russia.

#1 HSE Gold Funding:

HSE University in Moscow, Russia; is supporting international students by funding their education via their Gold funding program. This scholarship is available for both undergraduate and graduate students. It contains trial tests and the scores of those tests are used in determining what percentage of tuition fee waivers will be offered to the students.

The tuition fee waiver starts at 25% and goes up to 70%. Students are also offered a monthly stipend/grant of 1500 RUB. Students can apply to this funding after getting enrolled in a listed program. The classes are taught in English so the students need to prove their English language proficiency if their first language is not English.

#2 State Ph.D. Positions at MIPT, Russia:

Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology is on the lookout for potential Ph.D. students. The Ph.D. degree program is fully funded and is available for the Russian Nationals. The Ph.D. positions are for a number of faculties but some faculties are offering higher funding than others.

The applicants need to be enrolled in a Ph.D. program to get the funding. The applicants will be required to prove their English language proficiency if the program is taught in English and Russian language proficiency if the program is taught in Russian.

#3 Eastern European University Association Scholarship:

Eastern European University Association via its International Scholarship Foundation is aiming at international students. The scholarship money covers the tuition fee and accommodation charges of those eligible students who have been enrolled in an undergraduate program at any university in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine.

The scholarship is available for specified courses and undergraduate programs of recognized universities. Students will have to prove their language proficiency in the intended program.

EEUA is a not for profit organization that seeks to support brilliant students from all across the world so that they can pursue their higher education in Russia, Belarus, or Ukraine.

#4 NRU Scholarship:

National Research University’s Higher School of Economics is offering scholarships to international students who are enrolled in a master’s program.

The scholarship supports up to 70% of the tuition fee and is open for 17 of the master’s programs in NRU HSE. The minimum coverage is 25% of the tuition fee. The winners of the scholarship will also get a monthly allowance of 1500 rubles.

NRU is one of the most innovative and competitive universities in Russia. The sponsorship is offered in programs like business, law, finance, big data, management, economics, etc.

#5 Open Doors Russian Scholarship:

Ministry of Education and science of the Russian Federation along with Global Universities’ Association is giving out Open Doors scholarships to international students. The Scholarships are given on the basis of a competition known as Open Doors Olympiad or Open Doors Academic Competition. The winners get a chance to earn a master’s degree in one of the most prestigious universities in Russia. 

The scholarship winners will get a 100% tuition fee waiver and there are more than 300 awardees. Only international students are invited to apply and the subjects offered are Biology, Computer Science, AI, IR, Business, Management, Linguistics, Physics, Psychology, Chemistry, Technology, Engineering, and Economics.

#6 EMAS Scholarships:

Every month Eurasian Management and Administration School, Russia is offering 50 scholarships to eligible students to study MBA or Executive MBA. The scholarships are available for both online and on-campus modes. The scholarship grant is based on how well the applicant performs in the scholarship test. 

Several subject areas are affiliated with this scholarship such as marketing, finance, healthcare, management (strategic and general management). There is no need to prove English language proficiency even for the programs taught in English. However, a sufficient grip on the language is necessary in order to secure enrollment and scholarship.

#7 Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Russia, Scholarship:

Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, also known as Skoltech is offering Ph.D. and master’s scholarships to international students. The scholarship is available for several fields like Mechanics, Biotechnology, Mathematics, Space systems, Physics, Petroleum Engineering, Life Sciences, etc. Skoltech is affiliated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and is one of the leading science and technology institutes in Russia. The scholarship grant for MSc covers the full tuition, offers a basic stipend of 40k to 55k rubles, and also has monthly insurance.

The scholarship grant for Ph.D. offers a tuition fee waiver, gives a stipend of 85k to 105k rubles and medical insurance. The number of awards for MSc positions is 320 and for Ph.D. is 95. The duration for masters is 2 years and for Ph.D. is 4 years.

#8 Siberian Federal University Scholarship in Russia:

Siberian Federal University (SibFU) has opened up Ph.D. positions for a number of its doctoral programs. These programs are taught in English and are fully funded for both local and international students. The Ph.D. programs available are in the areas of Quantum Chemistry, Biophysics, Optics, Urban Design and Planning, Metal Forming, and Multidimensional Complex Analysis.

#9 Finance and Economics Scholarship at ICEF HSE:

International College of Economics and Finance (ICEF) of Higher School of Economics, Moscow is offering undergraduate scholarships to outstanding students. These scholarships are available for students of all nationalities and are partially funded. The scholarships are renewed each year and offer a tuition fee waiver of 15% to 75%.

HSE is a research university in Russia and its independent department of ICEF was founded in collaboration with the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1997.   The faculty and the education provided here is highly competitive and generous scholarships are offered here every year to outstanding students.

Yousaf Saeed

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Reasons To Study In Russia- Cost of Living, Universities and more

Updated on 18 march, 2024.

Sr. Content editor

Russia has a unique culture and is home to 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the largest countries in the world, the Russian Federation spends almost 4.7 Trillion RUB on the education sector. This ensures that it provides students with a high-quality education at affordable rates. 

In 2021, over 4 million students enrolled in Russian higher education institutions.

The rapid development and the broadening opportunities for international students make studying abroad in Russia unique. With so many countries to consider for studying abroad , the question, ‘why study in Russia?’ might cross their minds. Reading this article will give them top reasons to study in Russia. 

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Study in Russia:   Universities in Russia | Cost of Living in Russia

Table of Contents

Earn a globally recognized degree, learn a new language, opportunity to explore a new culture.

• Work while studying in Russia.
• Students can study for free with scholarship opportunities.
• Best Universities to Study
• Undergraduate Programs –
• Postgraduate Programs –
• Specialist’s Programs –
• Undergraduate course –
• Postgraduate course –
• Novosibirsk
• Cost Of Living

Stay Back Options

Reasons to study in russia .

Russia has approximately 450 state-accredited universities that offer over 17,500 degree programs.

Additionally, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate degrees are scientifically and practically oriented. 

Mentioned below are some of the benefits of studying in Russia:

The Russian education system is considered one of the best education systems in the world. So, when a student attains a degree from a Russian university, it is globally recognized. Especially the science and engineering degrees from Russian universities are well-respected by employers worldwide. 

Russian is spoken in more than 19 countries, and almost 156.6 million people speak it as their mother tongue.

Furthermore, it is the eighth most spoken language in the world. 

The Russian government offers scholarship opportunities to all international students. The condition being students must enroll in some Russian-medium courses. So, students get to learn a new language spoken widely worldwide. This will give them an edge over others while climbing the career ladder. 

There are several preparatory courses to help students pick up the language. 

Studying in Russia opens a doorway for students to absorb the Russian culture and way of life. Some universities organize trips for students to visit landmarks such as Red Square, the Kremlin, the Golden Mountains of Altai, and many more. So, students will get to explore the rich history and gain valuable insights into the country they are studying in.

Work while studying in Russia. 

From the year 2020 onwards, Russia has made it easier for foreign students to thrive while studying. The new law allows students to work without obtaining a work permit while studying here. Students can work for 20 hours per week without an additional work permit. This will make it easier for students to afford tuition fees and living expenses while they study in Russia. 

Students should also try to apply for jobs in cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg to have better opportunities to apply their newly learned skills. 

Students can study for free with scholarship opportunities. 

The Russian Government welcomes all international students to apply for scholarships. In fact, they have a scholarship that waives entire tuition fees and provides students with a monthly stipend to cover accommodation, food, and other expenses. 

Luckily, students don’t have to write an entrance exam to qualify for this scholarship. Furthermore, there are several other scholarship opportunities that students can avail themselves of from individual institutes and other foreign foundations. 

Best Universities to Study 

Several top universities in Russia are ranked in the QS Top Universities Ranking, 2023 and are members of the Association of European Universities. Additionally, there are over 741 universities across 82 regions in Russia. 

One of the top universities to study in Russia is Lomonosov Moscow State University, located in Moscow. It is the highest ranked university and welcomes more than 4000 international students annually. It has an impressive library, research center, and museum. This university is well-equipped to add to students’ education.

Mentioned Below are the QS world rankings 2023 of the best universities to study in Russia: 

Cost Of Studying in Russia 

Studying at a Russian university is quite affordable. Students can get fundamental knowledge and globally recognized diplomas at reasonable prices. On average, a student can expect to pay anywhere between ₽ 85987 to ₽ 455232 per year at prestigious institutes. 

Moreover, the cost of living is much less when students study in Russia. Furthermore, several scholarship opportunities are available to students to subsidize their tuition fees. 

Following are some of the average costs involved when students study in Russia: 

Undergraduate Programs – 

Generally a four-year course, the undergraduate programs cost approximately ₽ 240 to ₽260,000 per year. 

Postgraduate Programs – 

These are two-year programs and provide in-depth subject knowledge. These courses generally cost approximately ₽260-280,000 thousand per year. 

Specialist’s Programs – 

These are specialized courses that require five years of theoretical and practical training. On average, they cost approximately ₽240,000 to ₽ 260,000 annually. 

Scholarship Options 

The Russian Government Scholarship Program welcomes more than 15,000 foreign students and waives the tuition fee for students who are granted scholarships. Every year, Russia offers at least 100 grants exclusively for Indian students.

Mentioned Below is the list of the scholarships Russia offers students to apply for:

• Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program, 2023
• Royal Society International Exchange Programme, 2022
• Banting International Postdoctoral Fellowships, 2022
• Aerospace Russia Partial Scholarships 
• National Air Transportation Association Pioneers of Flight Scholarship 2022
• International Mathematical Union- Abel Visiting Scholar Program in US 2022
• Open Doors Russian Scholarship
• Eastern European University Association Scholarship 
• National Research University Scholarship 
• Eurasian Management and Administration School Scholarships for MBA 
• Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology Scholarship 
• Siberian Federal University Scholarship 
• National Overseas Scholarship 
• Vladimir Potanin Foundation’s Olympic Scholarship 

Requirements To Study: 

To study abroad in Russia, students must be aware that the application process starts in November of the previous year and ends in August of the same year. Generally, the academic year begins in September. 

Students need to be geared with the following requirements to study in Russia: 

• They must choose their program and university and learn about financing and scholarship options. 
• They should have their documentation ready. 
• One of the first documents is the application form of the preferred university. 
• Students should have a passport copy 
• Students should have a certificate of their education level 
• Students should have two medical certificates, one stating that they have no diseases and the other stating that they don’t have HIV

In addition to the above general requirements, students must adhere to certain conditions for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. 

Undergraduate course – 

Students wanting to undergo undergraduate studies must have a Russian language proficiency test through the Unified State Entrance Examination. Students must have their high school diploma and academic records translated into Russian. 

Postgraduate course – 

Students wanting to apply for the postgraduate degree must have proof of their undergraduate or specialist’s degrees in the same field. Students might need to provide English Proficiency like TOEFL or IELTS as most postgraduate courses are taught in English

Right Cities To Live and Study 

Russia is a large country where many international students and visitors meet and mingle. Students can move around the country freely, day or night, without taking any special precautions. Moreover, the police are reliable and help in any situation, ensuring lower crime rates. 

Some of the best cities to live and study include the following:

Moscow is home to 257 universities and has the top-ranked Lomonosov Moscow State University located here. It is a metropolitan city and is the capital of Russia. It is a clean city with no slums and high-risk districts. Public transportation is cheap, reliable, and safe. 

Petersburg 

St. Petersburg has over 103 universities and is a city on the shore of the Gulf of Finland. It is the world’s cultural capital. The city’s historical center is a protected UNESCO Heritage Site. In St. Petersburg, students get the opportunity to experience beautiful weather and explore historically and culturally significant places. 

Tomsk is one of the oldest cities in Russia. It is located in the southeast of western Siberia. Tomsk is the scientific center of the region and is ranked first in Russia for the number of people engaged in Research and Development. Students will find this place safe and friendly, with a well-developed infrastructure. Some of the top medical colleges are located here.

Novosibirsk 

Novosibirsk is home to 34 universities and hosts over 100 R&D organizations. It provides a unique environment and has a cooler climate. It is an inexpensive, safe city with an excellent transportation system. 

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Cost Of Living 

Living in Russia is more affordable as prices are lower compared to the remaining European countries. According to Study In Russia’s data following are the approximate cost of living in Russia: 

• Depending on the university accommodations a student chooses to live in, the living expenses come to almost ₽ 500-35,000 per month. The variation depends on the region and location.
• The approximate food expenses are up to ₽ 10,000 per month. On average, grocery shopping can cost up to ₽ 4209 per trip.
• Mobile and cellular data can cost from ₽ 300 to 400 per month. Students might likely get free Wi-Fi at the university dorm. However, if students rent an apartment, they will be asked to pay approximately ₽ 300-500 per month for internet access.
• Cultural pursuits like visiting the cinema can cost ₽ 400 to ₽ 1000, and visiting the Moscow theater can cost ₽ 800 to ₽ 2500. However, students should research and try to get the student discount offers. 

Students should note that the costs mentioned above are average and may vary depending on their lifestyle, region, and requirements. 

After completing their education, students might want to stay back and work. For this, they will need to secure a work visa or a work permit to stay and get a job in Russia. 

There are two types of work visas that a student can apply for post-study: 

• Standard Work Visa – It is a single entry visa valid for three months. Students can hope to get an annual salary of less than 2 million RUB. 
• Highly Qualified Specialist Work Visa – The visa is generally valid for three years. It is granted on showing documentation of an annual salary higher than 2 million RUB. 

Alternatively, graduates of accredited Russian Universities can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit and stay in Russia as temporary residents. However, individuals need to re-validate the visa every three years. 

Do students have to give any entrance exams to join Russian Universities?

Generally, students do not need entrance exams to join a Russian university. However, some universities may take their entrance exam to test their general aptitude and subjectivity. Moreover, students must meet the minimum criteria to join their preferred university and program.

Is it necessary to learn Russian to study in Russia?

Students must learn Russian if they want to reap the benefits of scholarship opportunities. This is because most courses eligible for scholarships are conducted in Russian. However, some English medium classes are available, too, albeit without scholarship access. International students need to take the Uniform State Examination to avail of scholarships.

Can one apply for a Work Permit after completing the course?

Yes, one can apply for a work permit after graduating from the university. Students need to check the list of documents required for the General Administration for Migration Issues on the Interior Ministry of Russia’s website.

When should one apply to a Russian university?

One must apply to a Russian University according to the intakes they are interested in. If one wants to join the January or February intake, one completes the application formalities before November of the previous year. Suppose one wants to join the September intake; one must complete formalities before July of the same year.

Neha Uppal is a passionate content creator and editor. She carries 7.5+ years of experience working with leading edutech companies where she worked as a Faculty, Community Manager, and Content Marketeer. At upGrad, she is helping out people keep informed about the scopes and opportunities of studying abroad via informational articles/blogs.

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Scholarships for Russia

Go to college in mother russia.

Russia is a huge nation with a long history of great thinkers, architects, and a vibrant culture. Many students dream of studying here, and they are able to study almost every subject. Almost every college or university sponsors some sort of international exchange program to Russia. Even the government and other private institutions offer students the chance of a lifetime. If you need help with funding, check out a few of these programs to help get you the money you need.

Government Scholarships

Some of the best funding that the federal government provides is through the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship . The Gilman Scholarship program is designed to provide undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grants with the opportunity to study abroad. It aims to send students to locations not traditional to most study abroad programs. Areas outside of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand are encouraged. Also, it focuses on student groups that are not as represented. The Gilman Program supports students with high financial need, are from community colleges, students with diverse ethnic backgrounds and students with disabilities. Over 2,300 of these awards are handed out each year. The average amount awarded is $4,000, with the maximum amount being $5,000.

In addition to the Benjamin Gilman Awards, the government offers the Boren Awards for International Study . The Boren Awards focuses on regions that are critical to U.S. national security. They draw a broad definition of national security to include facing the challenges of a global society, global disease and hunger, and economic competitiveness. Students who apply for the Boren Scholarships should also be interested in learning another language- such as Russian. Students are also encouraged to travel to places overlooked by most other study abroad programs. This Award provides up to $20,000 for an academic year of study.

Study Abroad Organizations

There are even organizations that provide programs specifically for studying abroad. The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) is one of the top-tier study abroad associations. Their mission is to provide students with the best cultural exchange and to enhance the lives of students all over the world. They have programs in over 22 countries, and over 5,000 students participate in their study abroad programs each year. AIFS offers a number of merit and need-based scholarships to students who qualify:

• $1,000 Grant - just like it sounds, this award of $1,000 goes to students to help with the costs of studying abroad.
• AIFS International Scholarships - students who show outstanding academic achievement are considered for this scholarship. Students must submit an essay stating “How study abroad will impact my academic and personal growth.” 40 of these scholarships are awarded each year for $1,000 each.
• AIFS-HACU Scholarship - this scholarship goes to outstanding Hispanic students traveling abroad who attend HACU member schools. This scholarship is for up to $50,000.

Private Funding

The American Councils for International Education is a private organization that gives students the chance to study abroad all over the world. Their Advanced Russian Language and Area Studies Program sends students to Moscow and St. Petersburg for an eight-week program where students will enhance their listening, reading, writing, and oral proficiency in the Russian language. They award of number of scholarships to participants:

• VIII Research Fellowships - this award provides students with up to nine months of full financial support to conduct research in Russia.
• Critical Language Scholarship Program - through the Critical Language scholarship institute, this award provides students with seven to ten weeks of intensive language study in another country.

Cultural Vistas is another private study abroad company that promotes cultural exchange. Their participants are able to learn new trends and challenges in evolving global issues, advance their leadership and conflict resolution skills, share their culture, strengthen international relationships and have fun along the way. Their Alfa Fellowship Program is an extraordinary professional development program where young professionals work at top organizations in Russia in the fields of business, economics, journalism, law, public policy and other related areas. This fellowship covers all the costs of studying abroad and includes a monthly stipend and excursions throughout Russia.

The International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) is an international organization dedicated to thought leadership and innovative programs that garnishes positive, lasting global change. IREX offers a number of international teaching exchanges as well as international study programs to scholars and professionals. There are a variety of programs specifically in Russia. For those who are eligible, there are a number of Short-Term Travel Grants to help postdoctoral scholars and professionals so they can conduct research all throughout Eastern Europe and Eurasia.

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How to Start a Scholarship Essay (With Examples)

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

As an admissions officer, I reviewed thousands of essays for students seeking admission and scholarships. The essay is one of the most important parts of the scholarship application process–a strong essay can go a long way. However, with so much competition, it is important for your scholarship essay to stand out. That’s why it’s important for you to start a scholarship essay off right!

There are some very simple things that you can do to ensure that your essay is engaging from the very first sentence. In fact, beginning your essay with an exciting opening is one of the most important things you can do, because it will immediately distinguish your essay from the others. 

Keep on reading to learn more about how you can nail the very first sentence and start your essay off right!

Engage the reader with the first sentence

No matter what type of essay you are writing, you will want to ensure that the very first line grabs the attention of the reader. One of the biggest mistakes that students make when starting their essay is simply restating the prompt. This is bland and boring. 

Now, you might be wondering, “how do I engage the reader with the very first line of my essay?”. The good news is that there are several ways that you can do this that are very simple to do. 

Related:  How to answer scholarship essay questions about your career goals

Begin with dialogue

First, you could begin your essay with conversation. This can be an interesting and unexpected way to start your scholarship essay. Maybe someone asked you an unexpected question? Perhaps you were having an interesting conversation with a friend or family member? Either way, dialogue can be a powerful tool to start your essay.

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Put the reader in your shoes.

Alternatively, you can choose to start your essay by placing the reader right in your shoes and show them something from your life. Appeal to the senses and show the reader what you see, hear, smell, or taste. These specific details will help your essay come to life and make it even more memorable. 

Also recommended: What’s the best scholarship essay format?

Scholarship essay introduction example

Next,  we’ll look at a specific example of how you can open up your essay. Let’s say you are applying for the Questbridge scholarship program . One of the essays that you will be asked is:

We are interested in learning more about you and the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations, and accomplished your academic successes. Please describe the factors and challenges that have most influenced you. How are they shaping your future aspirations?

You might be tempted to rephrase the question and start your essay with something like:

“I have grown up in a rural context and this has formed my aspirations and allowed me to accomplish academic success…”

This is generic and will not engage your reader at all. 

Instead, what if you started off your essay with something like this:

“I look outside my bedroom window and see Henry, my favorite chicken, pecking at something in the dirt.” 

Makes a big difference, right? As a reader, you are probably wondering: why does this person have chickens outside their bedroom window? Why did they name this particular chicken Henry?

See also: Here are our top writing & essay scholarships for students!

Keep the ending of your essay in mind as you write the opening

While crafting your opening, be open to ideas about how to close your essay. There is no need to stress about the ending now, but being mindful of effective ways to end an essay is always a good idea. Say you are opening your scholarship essay with Henry the chicken. Is there a way for Henry to make an impactful appearance at the end of the essay to close things out in a way that perfectly wraps everything up? The key is for the essay ending to be meaningful and memorable for the reader. 

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If you can’t think of a “wow” scholarship essay beginning, keep writing!

Sometimes, we know what we want to say, point by point, but we are not ready to be creative when it comes to opening an essay. In that case, keep writing! There is always the option of going back and crafting an engaging opening after your essay is written. Simply write your main idea where the first paragraph would be to guide you as you write. After, go back when your creative juices are flowing, and craft the amazing opening (and closing) that your scholarship essay deserves!

Final thoughts

As shown, there are many questions that we as readers will have after reading an engaging essay opening such as the one just shared; We want to learn more about the student who is writing this essay. After all, as a writer trying to stand out in a pile of essays, that is our main goal. 

We hope that you have a better understanding of how to start a scholarship essay so you can maximize your chances of winning scholarships!

Additional resources

Scholarships360 is the go-to for all things college admissions and scholarships! Wondering how to write a 250 word essay and how to write a 500 word essay ? Curious how to write an essay about yourself ? Wow, do we have the resources to help! Additionally, check out our free scholarship search tool to help you finance your college education. Best of luck to you and your future endeavors! 

Key Takeaways

• The first sentence of the essay is what makes the reader want to continue reading 
• Engage the reader by appealing to the senses
• Create a sense of wonder in your essay, making the reader want to learn more about you
• Keep the ending of the essay in mind as you craft the beginning

Frequently asked questions about how to start a scholarship essay

What is an essay hook, how long should my scholarship essay be.

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What’s the right scholarship essay format and structure?

Many scholarships require you to submit at least one essay–and maybe you’ve already got that covered . But now you’re wondering: how should your essay be formatted? Should it be double-spaced or single-spaced? Should you include a title? Should you include the prompt? What does a typical scholarship essay format look like?

Although you don’t have to worry about essay formatting at Going Merry ( we’ll structure and submit your application for you , with our pre-filled forms!), maybe you’re also applying to some other scholarships too. So we’re here to help you understand how to format your scholarship essay.

Where do I start? 

Does a scholarship essay need a title , how should a scholarship essay be formatted what font should i use , how should a scholarship essay be structured can i get a template or outline, scholarship essay format at a glance, should scholarship essays be double-spaced , start writing.

You’ll need to dive into a personal experience or tell your story of an accomplishment, a hobby, an interest to the scholarship provider, showing them your experience with a structured and descriptive essay. Create an outline of your essay (this can be old school, with pen and paper!), write it out, and then ensure you’re formatting it professionally and properly.  (Need more scholarship essay tips? Try these.)

This depends on the essay submission format.

If there is a text box entry, you can just copy and paste the body of your essay, without a title. This is the case, for example, when applying for scholarships through Going Merry .

If you’re attaching an essay as a Word or PDF document, you can optionally include a title, but this is usually unnecessary unless there are special scholarship essay format instructions to do so. (One popular reason you might need to do this is if the prompt is to write about any topic of your choice, or to choose your own prompt. In this case, to give the reader more context before you begin your essay, a title may be helpful.)

If you are required to create a title, we recommend doing one of two things:

• Think of a title early on. Write down that title, write your essay, and then circle back to the title to tweak it as needed. -OR-
• Write your essay and then come up with a title . Your creativity might be fresher once you’ve answered the prompt and included the meat and potatoes of the scholarship essay, which might help you come up with a suitable title at the end.

Also, don’t stress! While a clever title can improve your essay, it’s hardly a make-or-break. A very descriptive title that summarizes the prompt would work fine, as long as your essay is strong. 

Relatedly, you don’t need to include the essay question or prompt at the top of your essay. The scholarship committee will know what the topic or prompt is!

(Want inspiration from winners? Check out these winning scholarship essays .)

If you’re writing your essay in a document to upload to your Going Merry profile , or to submit to a scholarship application on a provider’s website , and the scholarship provider doesn’t have explicit guidelines, it’s best to just follow a standard professional style and format. That means using 1-inch page margins, 12-point font size double-spaced (or 1.5 spaced), and a “standard” font like Times New Roman in classic (default) black. Don’t get creative with fonts or colors here. You want the content of your essay to be what stands out, rather than your unorthodox formatting.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how to best structure a good scholarship essay. In fact, you can see how wide-ranging these winning essays are. In fact, how to best answer and structure your essay depends partially on the essay and partially on your personal writing style. 

However, one pretty common way of structuring your scholarship essay is how Going Merry winner John Flowers Jr did it . Here’s the template/outline:

• Introduction (1-2 paragraphs) : Draw the audience in with an attention-grabbing opening sentence related to the prompt. Introduce your main points that you’ll be sharing later in your essay.
• Example of an opening sentence from a Going Merry scholarship winner: “My parents were never given a shot at having an education beyond high school.” This tells us about the student’s parents and how it might have influenced the student’s decision to apply to college, setting the tone for the essay.
• Introductory paragraph: “My parents were never given a shot at having an education beyond high school. They were never given a shot to show their full potential and make a difference in the world. They had to start life at an early age. I want to succeed in college for them and for me. I want them to be proud of me for doing a task that they weren’t able to do.” – This expresses John’s understanding of what his parents had to do, and that they did not get a chance to attend college. John also expresses his determination, and his drive to attend college to do something for his parents.
• Body (1-3 paragraphs) – Expand on your main points. Back up your information with evidence, examples, and facts. This is where you’re encouraged to share details of how you got to where you are today, what inspired your hobbies, interests, or drive to attend college, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and/or personal goals. Remember to use specifics rather than make general statements!
• Conclusion (1 paragraph): Explain how winning this scholarship would help support your goals (and maybe also have wider community impact) 
• An excerpt from John’s conclusion: “Winning this scholarship will make a difference to me because it will allow me to cover college financial issues that may hold me back from reaching my career. Being less stressed about worrying about college fees will allow me to focus more of my attention in class to earn the credits, and not worry about how I’m going to pay for the class.” – John explains how valuable this scholarship is for him, not just monetarily, but also how it will help him achieve his goals.

• Read the scholarship essay format guidelines carefully, to check if the scholarship includes instructions
• If you’re submitting your scholarship essay outside of the Going Merry platform, set up your document with a 1-inch margin
• Aim for a 12-point font
• The best font to use is Times New Roman. Other good options include Arial, Calibri, Tahoma, and Verdana
• Always get a second opinion on the scholarship essay format for grammar, punctuation, spelling, structure, etc.
• Online form
• Going Merry scholarship platform (apply to thousands of scholarships and upload your scholarship essay)

You’re probably used to double-spacing your high school papers and essays. Since adding line spacing can make essays more readable, using 1.5-spacing or double-spacing is a good idea if you’re attaching an essay as a Word doc or PDF. But again, unless the scholarship provider has specified this information, it’s not mandatory.

More important is to not leave your essay as one block of text. Instead, we recommend separating paragraphs when you’re starting a new thought or idea.

For scholarship essays on Going Merry, you won’t have to worry about formatting because we will do this for you whenever you submit applications through our platform.

We know you’re going to rock your essay with these scholarship essay format guidelines, so get to it! It’s best to start writing your essay as early as possible to give yourself time to review the essay, ask someone (like a parent, guidance counselor, or friend) to proofread your essay, and then make sure to submit it on time. (On Going Merry , we’ll send you deadline reminders on your favorited scholarships and draft applications, so you won’t miss them!)

When you’re ready to apply for scholarships, sign up for Going Merry ! You’ll create a free student profile, enter your information once, and then we’ll match you with thousands of scholarships that you can apply to with just the click of a button. Don’t worry about entering your information twice – we’ll pre-fill this for you!

If you need additional resources to accompany this scholarship essay format guide, check out these related blog posts for more writing tips:

• How to answer “Why do you deserve this scholarship?”
• How to Write the Best Personal Statement
• 10 Tips for Writing An Essay About Yourself
• How to Write a Career Goals Essay
• 6 Tips for Writing Scholarship Essays About Academic Goals
• College Essay Guy: How to write a scholarship essay
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19v: an occasional series on the 19th century news stand with ukraine, how will our scholarship on nineteenth-century russian culture change in response to russia’s war on ukraine, by anne lounsbery, anne lounsbery.

The Jordan Center stands with all the people of Ukraine, Russia, and the rest of the world who oppose the Russian invasion of Ukraine. See our statement  here .

Last spring the online working group 19v hosted a forum on the question: How will our scholarship on nineteenth-century Russian culture change in response to Russia’s war on Ukraine? Six scholars responded in brief talks, which were then followed by open discussion. Revised versions of the presentations were recently published as short essays in the journal Ab Imperio . The Jordan Center is grateful to Ab Imperio for their permission to post the below cluster introduction and one of the essays on the Blog this week.

Anne Lounsbery is a professor of Russian literature in NYU’s Department of Russian & Slavic Studies and a founder of 19v, an international working group devoted to the study of Russian culture and literature.

On May 25, 2022, six scholars—all primarily Russia specialists—responded to the question of how scholarship on nineteenth-century Russian culture would change in response to Russia’s war on Ukraine. The present grouping of thought pieces, written by five of our six original participants, grew out of the online event. We are grateful to Ab Imperio for bringing these informal mini-essays to a wider audience in such a timely way, and we hope the articles will help advance our field’s urgent discussion of how best to move forward.

My own work focuses on Russian literature, and often on canonical texts. But I feel no need to defend Russian cultural production: defending is not my job. My job is analyzing and understanding. To paraphrase Walter Benjamin’s words in Theses on the Philosophy of History , every document of civilization is also a document of barbarism. Thus one can appreciate and perhaps love, say, certain texts of American literature while also attending to—and even centering—the ways that these texts are implicated in the horrors of slavery and Jim Crow. The civilization and the barbarism are inextricable from one another. What we call “cultural treasures,” Benjamin says, “have origins which [we] cannot contemplate without horror.”

This fact—and not any desire to defend—should be the starting point of our analyses. If it is not, we will always risk identifying too much with the victors. To quote Benjamin once more,

All rulers are the heirs of those who conquered before them. […] Whoever has emerged victorious participates to this day in the triumphal procession in which the present rulers step over those who are lying prostrate. According to traditional practice, the spoils are carried along in the procession. They are called cultural treasures .

Because I work on precisely such cultural treasures, I am obligated to ask how they have participated in projects both liberatory and oppressive.

As the essays in our  Ab Imperio  cluster and other responses to the war have begun to suggest, for those of us who study Russia there is more than one ethical way to proceed. Some scholars will draw more attention to Russia’s straightforward acts of domination, including cultural domination, on its imperial peripheries, examining the continuities between today’s war and imperial Russia’s discourse about Ukraine (as does Taras Koznarsky’s essay in our cluster). Others will focus on emancipatory and anti-imperial messages in the Russian tradition, including long-marginalized voices that might change our ideas about “the tradition” itself. Some will explore how the sources we have privileged tend to shape and misshape the narratives we produce (see Susan Smith-Peter’s contribution, to appear in coming days on this blog). Others will examine how Ukrainianness itself has been elided in Russian texts (see Olga Maiorova’s essay, which also recognizes those Russian writers who welcomed the prospect of Ukrainian cultural emancipation and even statehood). Some will examine how Russian culture has both absorbed elements of other traditions and worked to obscure this appropriation (see Koznarsky and Yuliya Ilchuk), insisting that we recognize the hybrid nature not only of Ukrainian literature but of the Russian Empire’s cultural production (Ilchuk). Some will try to disentangle Russian-language cultural production from “Russianness,” attempting to conceptualize a Russophone literature that is de-linked from Russia’s state or its “national identity.”

As for my own scholarship, it will not be possible for me to separate Russian literature from ideas (including pernicious ideas) of “Russianness.” The canonical texts I teach and write about are too tightly intertwined with these mythologies—especially with certain ideas of Russian literature’s “greatness” ( velichie )—which in turn have long been tightly intertwined with the Russian state’s self-mythologizing.

I will give an example of how this plays out in the (American) classroom. On February 24, 2022, I was one month into a semester-long undergraduate seminar on Gogol, a major focus of which is always the complicated dynamic of empire and cultural hybridity in his writing and career. But that is not why students typically sign up for the class: rather, as they explain when I poll them, they are there because they have heard that Gogol is “a great Russian writer.” Obviously, by January 2022 scholars had long known it was important to interrogate these ideas, so the first assignment was to read and deconstruct—with the help of Ukrainian scholarship like Serhii Plokhy’s—Vladimir Putin’s July 2021 statement “On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians.” The assignment left students in a good position to understand the phenomena of Russian imperialism and cultural appropriation, which of course became central to our discussions when the invasion started. The students readily grasped connections between literature and imperial/ethnic domination, drawing their own connections between Gogol’s “performances of Ukrainianness” and, say, the challenges that have faced African American writers.

But what they did not grasp—indeed what they initially objected to—was my suggestion that we as readers were implicated in these processes. Having come to Russian literature for the greatness , I said, we are involving ourselves in a mythology that can perpetrate serious distortions. Luckily, Gogol’s texts offer many ways of exposing the problems inherent in velichie : for example, in certain passages Dead Souls insists on its own greatness to such a bizarre degree that the category itself is implicitly called into question, becoming suspect, a kind of mirage—especially when it is read against the incoherence and meagerness of the world the text represents. Indeed we might read Dead Souls as a manifestation of the terrible abyss between Russia’s fractured reality and its hysterical claims of unitary greatness. It is this uncomfortable combination that makes possible Dead Souls ’ relationship to Russian “greatness”—that is, it is both critique and apologia. But having recognized this rather obvious fact, we are not finished. We need to go further than echoing Benjamin’s point that in all “cultural treasures” civilization and barbarism are inextricable from one another. One text that might help us here is T. S. Eliot’s essay “What Is a Classic?” because Eliot’s idea of the “classic” resonates with what is called “greatness” by many readers of Russian literature (despite his caveat that to call a text “classic” is not the same as calling it the “best”).

Given that Eliot’s essay was written in 1944 during what he calls the “progressive mutilation and disfigurement” of Europe, we might expect the poet to emphasize the unifying powers of a shared literary tradition. And to an extent he does, declaring that thanks to Virgil’s Aeneid , (“the universal classic”), European literature can trace its “parentage” to Rome and from there to Greece.

Less expected, however, is the approving connection Eliot draws between classic texts and empire. Not only does he imply that the very idea of a classic is dependent on empire, he comes close to arguing that only empires can produce “classics.” If Roman literature is “universal as no other literature can be,” he writes, that is because Rome was “an empire and a language with a unique destiny” (and Virgil was “the poet in whom that Empire and that language came to consciousness and expression”). Thus Rome produced “a literature unconsciously sacrificing, in compliance to its destiny in Europe, the opulence and variety of later tongues, to produce, for us, the classic,” and in these lines the parallel between classic and empire comes to the fore, since the classic is imagined as a force that is at once unifying, standardizing, and vaguely coercive.

This is not the place for a full account of Eliot’s complicated text, and I do not wish to misread it by insisting on an exact equivalence between his view of the classic and common ideas about Russian literature’s greatness. Rather, I use his essay to suggest how difficult it will be to disentangle our conceptions of literary greatness from the easy seductiveness of imperial thinking, which in many cases is built into our unconscious perceptions. In our efforts, we can look for help to the texts themselves, even the “greatest” of which reveal doubts about the imperial project in which they are so often enlisted, and on which they draw for their power.

Published: 11 - Oct - 2022

Category: 19v: An Occasional Series on the 19th Century News Stand with Ukraine

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• Scholarships /

What is a Scholarship Essay?

• Updated on  
• Oct 19, 2022

Scholarships are one of the most convenient methods to ease the financial stress for students who plan to study abroad. However, the majority of the scholarships come with an essay that requires writers to explain “ Why do they deserve the scholarship ”. This helps the scholarship committee shortlist who really deserves the scholarship. The essay must reflect on certain points that can help you earn the particular scholarship. In this blog, we will discuss the scholarship essay format and tips for an effective essay with scholarship essay Examples.

This Blog Includes:

How to write a scholarship essay, scholarship essay format, points to add in your scholarship essay, tips for scholarship essay, essay to study abroad, essay to study in india.

Also Read: Top Scholarships to Study Online

Scholarships are programmes that offer needy students financial aid. Whether you are in high school or in college, these programmes are available to students at all levels. You must write essays in order to be considered for the majority of scholarships. Your opportunity to persuade the scholarship committee that you deserve financial aid will come in the form of the scholarship essay you submit. You must present a distinctive perspective on yourself in your scholarship essay in addition to your academic accomplishments, GPA, and achievements. You must demonstrate your writing abilities and do so in an interesting way, regardless of the essay prompt. The award money will go to the essay that captures the scholarship committee’s attention and keeps them reading.

Essays are written on various topics however there are some fundamental ways to write an essay. Here are some tips and tricks that will help you in penning down a remarkable scholarship essay:

• Take more time than needed to write your scholarship essay because great things take time. Write the essay in a relaxed atmosphere rather than in a haste manner.
• Understand the essay question asked and answer that in a comprehensive and to the point manner.
• Be clear about the question asked in the scholarship statement as it lays the foundation of the essay.
• Write it in a genuine and authentic manner and don’t give false details just to impress the scholarship committee. As in the long term it is honesty and authenticity which makes an individual stand out.
• Research about the scholarship committee and understand what they actually desire from the applicant tp write your essay on similar lines to grab the scholarship.

A pervasive and generalised scholarship format exists tells you what to include while penning down a scholarship essay. The format of the scholarship essay should ideally be like the following-

• In a Scholarship Essay, first, the applicant has to elucidate upon their personal background.
• For the second paragraph, they get to write about their educational background in a brief and comprehensive manner.
• The Third paragraph must explain why they want to get the scholarship and course for which they have applied.
• In the last paragraph, the applicant explains why they are suitable for the scholarship and the course for which they have applied.

Before moving on to the Scholarship Essay Examples, read about Report Writing Examples and Tips!

While writing your scholarship essay, you must include components that have worked out before for others. Together, the points mentioned below thread your scholarship essay into a story of a candidate worth giving a chance- 

• Leadership – Funding parties go for the candidates that have leadership qualities all the time. You can write in your essay that you are a leader but how will you prove it? That is why we suggest that you add certain special circumstances where you took the lead and got success. 
• Extracurricular – Maintaining academic records is a lesser important criterion when it comes to scholarship. Anyone can be book smart and get higher grades. Your overall performance in various other aspects of life- sports, community, skills, etc that add value to your scholarship essay. 
• Community – We talked about community in extracurricular but the significance of your connection to the community is much larger. Scholarships, funded by organisations, governments or universities, wish to invest in a candidate who puts community needs before his/her own. Try adding instances of community service (working with NGOs, cleaning drives, campaigns, etc) without sounding boastful about the same. 
• Emotion – Subtle emotions make a scholarship essay worth reading till the end. At the end of the day, the main purpose of it is to sell your story to earn the scholarship. So add those subtle yet important emotions of perseverance, patience and dedication quietly into your scholarship essay.

Popular Scholarships to Study in London

Here are some tips/hacks that will help you write a good scholarship essay- 

• Know the word limit so you don’t overwrite. 
• Don’t start with a quote as it will eat up space for your profile. 
• Keep the tone formal yet descriptive . 
• Make notes of what you wish to add before you start on your first draft. 
• Avoid overcrowding of achievements and only add those relevant to your course and scholarship nature. 
• Use communicative vocabulary and don’t add difficult words to sound more formal or knowledgeable. 
• Your conclusion should be brief with a thank you.
• Research about the scholarship provider and their motive so that you can match your essay to that. 
• Don’t oversell yourself as it only bores the reader. 
• Read the scholarship statement thoroughly to know what they expect out of you and your scholarship essay. 
• Emphasize how the scholarship will be instrumental in achieving your dreams.
• Proofread the scholarship essay draft more than a couple of times to avoid silly mistakes.

Scholarship Essay Examples

It is really important to learn how to express and elaborate our views and passion in a scholarship essay. It also serves as a medium to communicate one’s goals and dreams. To reach your dream University, mastering the art of writing scholarship essays is crucial. Given below are two samples for a scholarship essay to study abroad and a scholarship essay to study in India.

I have always been a people person right from my childhood and every friend and family member of mine used to compliment me on my people’s skills like empathy, compassion, altruism, and patience. During my teen years, I slowly and steadily realized that destiny is unfolding the answers to my unresolved questions and I realised after profound analysis and contemplation that careers that involve dealing with people are the best fit for a person like me. I have always been proactive in volunteering activities so I genuinely understand the value of kindness and communication skills. I can clearly recall my school days when my friends used to come up to me for sharing their problems and I used to empathize with them and patiently listen to what they are going through and during those moments, a huge sense of satisfaction dawned upon me when I used to see my friends happy because I helped them feel better.

Instances like these gave a boost to my decision of pursuing a Psychology major in my Bachelors and during my bachelors apart from scoring High marks in my semester exams, I did numerous practical learning based internships, published my research paper on well-being in the workplace, and worked as an HR intern in 3-4 well-known firms to get practical insights into Organizational Psychology. I was an associate member in the Enactus and Placement cell of my college which developed my personality to a great extent and honed my communication skills in the best possible manner.

I have a strong desire to pursue an MA in Organizational Psychology and receive this scholarship. I have also had a genuine interest in the well-being of people in their workplace and thus, helping them lead a balanced life. And adding on to that I come from a lower-middle-class family, so the high fee of prestigious Ivy League Universities is not affordable and that is the reason I am applying for the scholarship. Rest assured, I never believe in a victim mentality as my parents have always taught me to be a warrior and their encouragement has propelled me to walk the whole nine yards for my dream University

I strongly believe that I am the best fit for this scholarship as I have everything ranging from a high GPA to a Strong ECA, which makes the profile of a student remarkable.I have left no stone unturned in exploring things, developing skills, and shaping up my personality in the right direction.

To get admission to a prestigious university like yours in the USA would definitely help me scale up to huge heights of success and along with that, it is my commitment that I will leave no stone unturned in contributing positively to others’ lives through my work.

Right from my childhood, I have had the knack of explaining things well to people of any age group be it children, adolescents, or adults and because of my great public speaking skills, I have always won debate and oratory competitions. Everyone in my family and School used to appreciate my public speaking skills and confidence which I considered as a regular compliment but in my high school I was renowned for teaching my peers and they used to understand it so well and the smiles on my friends’ faces brought me immense satisfaction. In the first year of my college, I started teaching to students and that was a turning point in my life as from that moment I had decided that I will be a college professor

I have pursued a major in psychology and a minor in management in my bachelor’s and further pursued MBA in HR from Delhi University. I have an ardent desire to get a Scholarship and admission to an esteemed and top-notch University for the realisation of the dream which is really close to my heart. Adding on to that, I come from a lower-middle-class family, and affording the fees of top institutions would be really tough but problems bring with themselves potential opportunities. I will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of my dream. I have realised that my true calling lies in teaching school and college students and for fulfilling that dream of mine I want to pursue a B.ED and P.hD in Management.

As APJ Abdul Kalam said, rightly that the future of the nation lies in its young minds and I have always believed that I have the potential to shape up the young minds and help them channelize their energy in the right direction. I have great communication skills and a strong sense of altruism and putting these strengths of mine into use will help me contribute positively to society through my work. The above-mentioned reasons clearly illustrate why I am the best candidate for this course and scholarship.

Scholarships can be a godsend for a student who desires to pursue higher education and lead an extraordinary life. Writing an essay that is worthy of a scholarship will help you get the best grants. We hope that this article has given you a clearer understanding of how scholarship essays are produced and the techniques you should employ to write an essay that will convince the scholarship committee to select your essay as the winner.

Also Check out: Statement of Purpose: Format, Samples and Tips

Your essay must stay inside the allotted word count. Before composing the essay you will submit, draught it since you need to create the biggest effect possible given the word limit.

No, scholarships are not a requirement for admission, but they do offer financial assistance that lessens the load that students frequently bear.

Yes, the majority of scholarships are open to students from throughout the world. Find the ones that work best for your financial condition and will enable you to cover your living expenses while visiting the destination.

This was all about scholarship essay examples and format. We hope that now you have enough tips and the ways to pen down an impressive and genuine scholarship essay. If you further need help, our Leverage Edu experts are just a call away!

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How a brawl in 18th-century Constantinople changed what we know about the Vikings

Past and Present Research Fellow, Institute of Historical Research, School of Advanced Study, University of London

Disclosure statement

Tonicha Upham receives postdoctoral funding from the Past and Present Society.

School of Advanced Study, University of London and University of London provide funding as members of The Conversation UK.

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On August 27 1761, a Danish explorer started a small riot in the grand bazaar of Constantinople (present-day Istanbul). Frederik Christian von Haven had been tasked with buying Arabic and Persian manuscripts for the Danish royal library as part of an expedition sent to the Middle East by Danish king Frederik V.

Von Haven was confident – perhaps overly so – in his abilities as a book collector. But on this particular day, things went wrong.

When a Turkish bookseller offered him a book he didn’t like the look of, Von Haven tossed it aside dismissively. At this, the booksellers at the bazaar turned on him and came together to physically remove him from the area – trampling his hat in the process. The indignant explorer was left feeling disgruntled about the treatment he had endured.

The incident at the bazaar is a dramatic interlude in the diary kept by Von Haven throughout his journey with the other members of Denmark’s royal expedition. It showcases Von Haven’s arrogance, both as a book collector and as a European in Constantinople. But what does it have to do with the study of the Viking Age ?

The study of Vikings

The sources that inform our knowledge of the Vikings come in many forms and languages. Among them are a series of geographical and eyewitness texts written in Arabic which discuss aspects of the Viking world. They describe not only the Vikings at home in Scandinavia or raiding the coastline of al-Andalus , but also Viking traders and settlers across what is now Ukraine and Russia, where they came to be known as Rus .

Arguably the most famous Arabic source on the Rus is the travel account of Ahmad ibn Fadlan, a diplomat of sorts dispatched from Baghdad to Russia’s Volga river in AD921. Immortalised by the actor Antonio Banderas in The 13th Warrior (1999), Ibn Fadlan encountered a band of Rus slavetraders during his journey, and observed a funeral ceremony on the banks of the Volga.

Ibn Fadlan’s first-hand account of the Rus and their funerary rituals has secured his reputation as an important source for the study of ritual and belief across the Viking world. Nowhere else do we encounter eyewitness insight into this kind of Viking funerary ritual.

The fullest surviving manuscript copy of Ibn Fadlan’s travel account was discovered in 1923 by the historian Ahmet Zeki Velidi Togan . Before that, European orientalists and Viking historians had spent just over a century piecing together this travelogue from the work of other geographers who had quoted him.

Using geographer Yaqut al-Hamawi’s 13th-century Arabic encyclopedia Dictionary of Countries , which contained excerpts of Ibn Fadlan’s travel account, a Danish orientalist published an essay in 1814 which outlined a series of Arabic and Persian descriptions of medieval Scandinavia and Russia.

The author, Jens Lassen Rasmussen, had used manuscripts in Copenhagen’s royal library to introduce Ibn Fadlan to Europe. As a Dane writing about historic accounts of people he saw as his “forefathers”, Rasmussen understood Ibn Fadlan’s Rus to be Scandinavian rather than Slavic.

While other researchers, then and since, have argued the opposite in terms of the identity of the Rus, cultural parallels and trade networks have led Viking historians to consider the Rus to have Scandinavian connections.

Von Haven’s role

In the wake of Von Haven’s book-buying brawl in 1761, his Arabic teacher, a Syrian man named François Barout, persuaded him that it would be wiser to stay at home and let books come to him, rather than risk a repeat experience.

Under Barout’s supervision, booksellers visited the Dane with curated selections of manuscripts for him to browse. This was how Al-Hamawi’s 13th-century encyclopedia made its way into Von Haven’s possession – he bought it in a two-volume set for a relatively low price.

Al-Hamawi’s Dictionary of Countries did not immediately stand out as an important acquisition for the Danish royal library. Indeed, Von Haven only bought the manuscripts because he knew Leiden University had a copy, and felt Copenhagen should follow suit. But half a century later, it was these manuscripts which allowed Rasmussen to encounter Ibn Fadlan, and present him as a source which might interest Norse antiquarians.

Ibn Fadlan’s account was quickly translated into other European languages, and as antiquarians strengthened their interest in the Vikings, Ibn Fadlan gained a reputation as the eyewitness observer of a “Norse” ritual .

Viking scholarship moved on quickly after the interest sparked by Rasmussen’s initial essay. The Copenhagen manuscripts purchased by Von Haven were soon forgotten in favour of other, more useful manuscript copies and more up-to-date research. But without the boorish behaviour of a Danish visitor to Constantinople’s grand bazaar, Ibn Fadlan’s account of Rus on the Volga would not have surfaced in Denmark in time for a surge in interest in Arabic sources on the Vikings.

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