What are the best ways to apply for research grants, fellowships, or scholarships?

1 Identify your goals and needs

Before you start looking for potential sources of funding, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what you need to get there. Think about your research interests, career aspirations, skills, and gaps. What are the specific objectives and outcomes of your proposed research or activity? How much money do you need and for how long? What are the eligibility criteria and expectations of the funders? Having a well-defined and realistic plan will help you narrow down your options and tailor your applications.

2 Research the opportunities and requirements

Once you have identified your goals and needs, you need to do some research on the available opportunities and requirements. You can use various databases, websites, newsletters, and networks to find relevant grants, fellowships, or scholarships in your field or discipline. You should also consult your supervisors, mentors, colleagues, or peers for advice and recommendations. Pay attention to the deadlines, formats, guidelines, and criteria of each opportunity. You may need to prepare different documents, such as a proposal, a budget, a CV, a letter of recommendation, or a personal statement.

3 Write and revise your applications

Writing your applications is the most time-consuming and challenging part of the process. You need to craft clear, concise, and compelling narratives that showcase your qualifications, achievements, and potential. You need to demonstrate how your research or activity aligns with the goals and priorities of the funders and how it contributes to the advancement of knowledge and society. You need to follow the instructions and specifications of each opportunity and avoid any errors or inconsistencies. You also need to revise and edit your applications multiple times, preferably with feedback from others.

4 Submit and follow up your applications

After you have completed and polished your applications, you need to submit them before the deadlines and in the appropriate formats. You should keep a record of your submissions and any correspondence with the funders. You may need to wait for several weeks or months before you hear back from them. You should be prepared for different outcomes, such as acceptance, rejection, or revision. If you are accepted, you should follow the steps and conditions to secure your funding. If you are rejected, you should seek feedback and learn from the experience.

5 Manage your funding and report your progress

Once you have received your funding, you need to manage it responsibly and ethically. You should keep track of your expenses and receipts and comply with the rules and regulations of the funders. You should also report your progress and results regularly and transparently. You should acknowledge the support of the funders in your publications, presentations, or other outputs. You should also maintain good communication and relationships with the funders and inform them of any changes or issues.

6 Seek additional support and resources

Applying for research grants, fellowships, or scholarships can be stressful and overwhelming. You should not hesitate to seek additional support and resources from various sources, such as your institution, your department, your peers, or your mentors. You can also access online or offline workshops, courses, books, or blogs that offer guidance and tips on how to write and win grants. You should also celebrate your achievements and share your experiences with others who may benefit from them.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?