How to Win a Scholarship With a Low CGPA

Many people don’t bother applying for scholarships because their CGPA is below 3.5 or 4.0. They feel like it’s only for first-class students or “bookworms.” But honestly, that’s not always true.
You see, most scholarship bodies are not just looking for people with perfect results. Sometimes, they’re looking for people who have potential or people with a story, with drive and a real hunger to go far in life.
If that sounds like you, then your CGPA shouldn’t stop you.

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1. Say the Truth but don’t dwell on It

If your grades dropped because of something real (like health problems, financial issues, family stress, or even ASUU strikes), it’s okay to say it. Just don’t make it sound like you’re blaming the world. Mention it briefly, then move on to how you bounced back or what you have learned from it.

2. Talk about how you’ve improved

If your GPA got better along the way, talk about that growth. Even if it didn’t go up much, you can still point to other things: maybe you took online courses, volunteered, worked part-time, or joined useful campus groups. All of that shows you are still learning and pushing forward.

3. Let them feel your passion

Your grades might be low, but if your personal statement is strong and real, they’ll feel it. Talk about what you want to do, why you want to study more, and how the scholarship will help. Let them see your fire.
Some scholarships are actually more interested in your dreams and goals than your transcript.

4. Get someone to vouch for you (A good recommendation letter)

A good recommendation letter from someone who knows your worth a lecturer (preferably a professor in the same academic field) mentor or even a boss can make a big difference. They can talk about your work ethic, your intelligence, and your drive beyond the classroom.

The bottom line here is that you should not let your CGPA hold you back. You’re more than your grades. If you have a story, a passion and a reason to keep going, put yourself out there. Apply. Tell your truth with confidence. You might shock yourself.