How to write a successful appeal letter for a college scholarship?

I might need to appeal a decision on a scholarship I applied for. Could anyone share tips on writing a compelling appeal letter? Do colleges reconsider decisions often, or is it a long shot?

Writing an appeal letter for a college scholarship can indeed be a daunting task. Here are some steps that might guide you through this process:

1. Understand why you didn't receive the scholarship: Start by understanding the reasons given by the scholarship committee for not awarding you the scholarship, if any were given. This will help you make your appeal letter more specific and targeted.

2. Research the appeals process: Ensure you have familiarized yourself with the specific process for appealing scholarship decisions at the school of your interest. Some colleges might have a formal process, while others might have a less clearly defined one. Usually, this information is available on the institution's financial aid office's website, but you can also reach out to them with any questions.

3. Write a clear, concise, and respectful letter: Your appeal should be organized, clear, and focus directly on the points you wish to make. Begin with a polite salutation, then identify yourself and the scholarship in question. State the reason for your appeal and provide as much factual backup as possible. Be sure to maintain a respectful, professional tone throughout and avoid blaming anyone or making undue demands.

4. Be factual and honest: Under no circumstances should you exaggerate or lie in your appeal letter. Be completely truthful and honest about your situation. Using facts, not emotions, clarifies why the initial decision might need to be reconsidered.

5. Provide documentation: Where applicable, provide any supporting documentation that can strengthen your appeal. This might include new information or clarifications about your financial situation that were not included in your original application.

6. Proofread and review: Before sending it, make sure to read through your letter carefully for any spelling or grammatical errors. It's also a good idea to have someone else read it to ensure clarity and appropriate tone.

7. End with a strong conclusion: Conclude your letter by thanking the appeals committee for their time, stating that you are looking forward to their positive response, and providing your contact information.

About the effectiveness of appeals, it varies greatly by institution and circumstance. While appeals do indeed work in some situations, bear in mind that decisions are often made based on a pool of highly qualified candidates and limited funding. Nonetheless, if you feel there was an oversight in the initial review or there is substantial new information or changes to bring to light, it is worth appealing.

Remember, the worst they can say is no, and that leaves you exactly where you started. But if there's a chance of it working, it can only improve your situation!