Application help
In order to apply for anything, you should always have ready:
If an opportunity asks you to directly contact the institution, you should attach relevant information, such as your CV and academic transcript in your expression of interest email
- CV
- Cover letter - should be generic and something that can be changed easily to fit a specific opportunity
- Referees - at least 2, and try to have a written referral just in case it is required
- Academic transcript - usually needs to be purchased from your university
- Be mindful that some positions require extra qualifications, such as a diving certificate, police check, working with children certificate etc. It may take time and money to gain these qualifications or obtain a certificate, so plan ahead and never leave an application to the last minute
If an opportunity asks you to directly contact the institution, you should attach relevant information, such as your CV and academic transcript in your expression of interest email
Applying for scholarships (General information)
- Tips for applying for scholarships
- Applying for a scholarship - the basics
- 10 killer tips for scholarship applicants
How to write a CV in science
- How to write a winning resume
- How to write a science CV
- Tips for a successful CV
How to write a cover letter in science
- Writing a winning cover letter
- The commandments of cover letter creation
- How to write a scientific cover letter
Cover letter samples
- Cover letter sample for environmental science
Choosing referees
It is not uncommon to be asked for 2 referees, but have 3 in mind just in case. Different opportunities will require different things of referees, such as for the referee to fill out a form, to write a paragraph about you or to simply have the referees contact details on your CV. Sometimes there is specific instructions on who is eligible to be your referee, for instance, requiring someone you have worked with or someone who has taught you.
If you are only required to write down the referee's details, always inform the person of the position you are applying for and when the application is due (so they can expect when a call may be made).
- Choosing and using referees - This is a good site outlining the sort of things that may be asked of your referee
- Tips for applying for scholarships
- Applying for a scholarship - the basics
- 10 killer tips for scholarship applicants
How to write a CV in science
- How to write a winning resume
- How to write a science CV
- Tips for a successful CV
How to write a cover letter in science
- Writing a winning cover letter
- The commandments of cover letter creation
- How to write a scientific cover letter
Cover letter samples
- Cover letter sample for environmental science
Choosing referees
It is not uncommon to be asked for 2 referees, but have 3 in mind just in case. Different opportunities will require different things of referees, such as for the referee to fill out a form, to write a paragraph about you or to simply have the referees contact details on your CV. Sometimes there is specific instructions on who is eligible to be your referee, for instance, requiring someone you have worked with or someone who has taught you.
If you are only required to write down the referee's details, always inform the person of the position you are applying for and when the application is due (so they can expect when a call may be made).
- Choosing and using referees - This is a good site outlining the sort of things that may be asked of your referee
Why didn't I get accepted into an opportunity?
Just because you didn't get an opportunity, it does not mean that you should give up or that you will never get one. It just means that you need to work a little harder and get more experience under your belt, or you were not suitable for the role (carefully read essential criteria of the applicant). Some places are also happy to provide feedback on your application if you ask, and then you know the exact area you need to improve!
Sign up for some of the opportunities on the volunteer page on this site as every little bit of experience that you have sets you apart from other applicants and demonstrates your willingness to work within the field. In my first year of applying for scholarships, I did not get accepted, so I signed up to 4 volunteering positions; one laboratory based, another as a science community engagement presenter, and as a museum guide. The second year, I got a scholarship! So work hard and it will all pay off in the end.
Sign up for some of the opportunities on the volunteer page on this site as every little bit of experience that you have sets you apart from other applicants and demonstrates your willingness to work within the field. In my first year of applying for scholarships, I did not get accepted, so I signed up to 4 volunteering positions; one laboratory based, another as a science community engagement presenter, and as a museum guide. The second year, I got a scholarship! So work hard and it will all pay off in the end.