How to Write a Thank You Note After Receiving a Scholarship

Put your scholarship appreciation in words.

Thank-you notes from students allow scholarship donors to know how much the recipients appreciate the donation. A thoughtfully written thank-you note also allows the donor to know more about the recipient and his intended use of the scholarship. Think of it this way: Thanking the donor will make her remember the importance of unselfish donations in higher education and encourage her to support other promising students in the future.

Instructions

1. Be prompt. Compose and mail your thank-you note as soon as possible. Some scholarships may require a thank-you note be received before funds are distributed.

2. Use quality paper or stationery to type your note. If your handwriting is legible, hand-write a thank-you note to your scholarship donor. Address the donor by name, thank him for the scholarship, and explain how you will use it. For example:

   Mr. John Doe,

   Thank you for the Excellence in Academics scholarship. My plans are to attend a local four-year university and major in business finance. This scholarship will really help ease my financial burden during my studies.

3. Add a few lines to make it more personal. Tell the donor a little about yourself and what you hope to accomplish in the future. For example:

   Throughout high school I have spent evenings and summers working for my father in his landscaping business. Once I have my degree, I hope to help him expand his business into new markets.

4. Conclude by thanking the donor again or committing yourself to honoring her spirit of giving: "Your generosity has taught me much about the need to give back to the community." Add "Sincerely" or "With heartfelt gratitude," and sign your name.

5. Review your thank-you letter for any grammatical errors or misspelled words before mailing.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use email. According to etiquette expert Emily Post, email thank yous are "emotionally distant." A written thank you is best.

References

• California State University, Fresno: How to Write a Thank You Letter