After the initial application and interview, another requisite of the scholarship process is assessment. This can vary from organisation to organisation – for example, GIC organises a “GIC Day” where candidates work on projects, discuss important issues and ultimately, get graded.

The tricky thing about these assessments is how diverse they are. Unlike an interview or application, no two assessments may be the same. One organisation may organise a team debate, while another may set a multiple-choice test.

Nevertheless, when we talked to the organisations’ various spokespeople, they brought up some key pointers to help applicants make the most of these assessments. And we’d be happy to share them with you – so that you can score the scholarship you’re looking for!

Think of what is being assessed

When presented with a problem or question, some applicants immediately focus on how to solve it. While this may seem an obvious approach, it’s more important to spend a few moments wondering, “Why am I being asked this? What is the assessor looking for?”

The answer may be surprising, and provide unexpected illumination as to your best course of action. GIC admitted they deliberately ask candidates to work on financial problems above their level during GIC Day. What they are assessing, then, is not the student’s ability to solve the problem, but their attitude towards learning, how they process failure, and how they tackle difficult issues.

Be genuine and have self-confidence

More than ever, the impact of Covid-19 has left organisations on the lookout for leaders who aren’t afraid of risk. After all, such individuals are necessary to make tough decisions, weigh difficult consequences, and accept responsibility for it all.

Hence, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought the importance of genuine character to the fore. Sponsoring organisations are looking for people who aren’t afraid of showing who they really are, as opposed to what they think the organisation wants to hear.

If you’re in a debate, don’t be afraid to state your position. And during a group assignment, don’t stifle your voice or opinions – even if they differ with everyone else’s. If you have a conviction, stick to it and be willing to defend it. Showing your best, truest self is a good way to let to organisation know you are willing to do your best for them as well.

Teamwork makes the dream work!

Lastly, while organisations differ as to the exact tasks of each assessment, almost all of them will have some group assignment involved. These assess how well you work with others, as well as how much you contribute to your team.

Some applicants make the mistake of relaxing during these assessments. They may be reluctant to share with those they view as rivals for the same award, or feel content to sit back and let others work hard.

Neither option will impress the sponsoring organisation, we can guarantee. Group assessments are a good time to make new friends and work together with others to achieve great results. Look beyond the scholarship application and have a fun and productive time collaborating, is the better way to go about it!

Sponsoring organisations have many different assessments during the application process, so be ready for anything and do your best to impress! 

Photo from freepik