How to Write a Scholarship Thank You Letter (With Examples & Template)

Getting a scholarship is a big deal. Whether it’s a few hundred dollars or a full ride, someone believed in your potential, and that’s something to celebrate. But before you update your resume or treat yourself to an extra-large iced coffee, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: writing a thank you letter. Writing a scholarship thank you letter is more than just a formality. It’s a chance to express gratitude, build professional connections, and maybe even open the door to future opportunities. Here’s everything you need to know, including what to say, when to send it, and a template to help you get started.

Why You Should Write a Thank You Letter

You might be wondering, do people even expect thank you letters anymore? The answer is yes, and here’s why. When you take the time to say thank you, you’re doing more than being polite. You’re showing donors and scholarship committees that their contribution made a real impact. It helps build trust and relationships that matter—especially if you’re applying for scholarships or internships. Plus, expressing gratitude shows maturity and professionalism, two traits that never go out of style. How do you say thank you after receiving a scholarship? By writing a short, thoughtful letter that explains how the scholarship is helping you. It doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be genuine.

Who to Thank and When to Send Your Letter

Who should you send your thank you letter to? It depends on the scholarship. • If the scholarship came from a private donor or foundation, you’ll typically address the letter to them directly. • If your college awarded the scholarship, you may write to the financial aid or scholarship office, who will pass along your message. • When in doubt, your award email or letter will usually tell you where (and how) to send your thank you note. When should you send it? Ideally, within two weeks of receiving the award notification. If you're still unsure, sooner is always better than later.

What to Include in Your Scholarship Thank You Letter

How do you start a thank you letter for a scholarship? Begin with a simple, respectful greeting like: Dear [Scholarship Donor/Committee Name], Then, move into the heart of your message. Here’s a breakdown of what to include: A sincere thank you: Mention the scholarship by name and express genuine appreciation. Your introduction: Share your name, year in school, major, and any clubs or activities you’re involved in. The impact: Describe how the scholarship is helping you, both financially and personally. Future plans: Talk about what you hope to achieve in your career or studies. A strong closing: End with a respectful sign-off, like 'Sincerely' or 'With gratitude', and your full name.

Length and Formatting Tips

How long should a scholarship thank you letter be? Aim for one page or less. A thank you letter isn’t meant to be an essay—it’s a thoughtful gesture, not a deep dive into your life story. Keep the tone professional but warm. Avoid texting language or overly casual phrases. Should the letter be handwritten or typed? Typed is usually best unless the scholarship specifically requests a handwritten note. Either way, proofread your letter to make sure it’s free of spelling and grammar errors.

Sample Scholarship Thank You Letter

Dear Smith Family Foundation, Thank you so much for selecting me as a recipient of the Smith Family Future Leaders Scholarship. I’m a sophomore at Midwest State University, majoring in Computer Science. Receiving this scholarship has had a huge impact on my life. I come from a single-parent household, and financial aid like yours helps me stay focused on school without having to take on extra jobs. Because of your support, I can spend more time studying, participating in the campus robotics club, and preparing for a career in software development. After graduation, I plan to work in the tech industry and eventually mentor students from underrepresented backgrounds. I’m inspired by your commitment to supporting students like me, and I hope to one day give back to future scholars, just as you’ve done for me. With gratitude, Taylor Jackson

Downloadable Thank You Letter Template

Need help getting started? Download our free editable scholarship thank you letter template. Use it as a guide, but be sure to personalize it so it reflects your story and style.

Pro Tips:

• Don’t copy and paste—make it your own. • Swap your unique experiences and goals. • Double-check the recipient's name and spelling.

Final Checklist: Before You Send Your Thank You Letter

Here’s your quick-hit checklist before hitting “send” or printing your letter:

Is the recipient’s name and title correct?

Did you include the scholarship’s name?

Is your message clear, personal, and sincere?

Is your letter free of typos or grammar issues?

Did you include a formal closing and your full name?

Have you attached or printed it in the correct format?

Writing a scholarship thank you letter doesn’t have to be intimidating. Think of it as a quick, heartfelt note that says, 'I see your support, and it matters.' It’s one of the easiest ways to stand out, build a reputation, and keep good vibes flowing for future scholarship opportunities.