How to Write a Scholarship Thank You Letter or Note

It Is Important to Thank Your Donor

Scholarship donors are caring people who unselfishly give to support the educational endeavors of students. They typically ask for nothing in return, but receiving a well-written thank you letter or note from a student shows the donor that his or her scholarship was appreciated.  A note or letter reminds them why they gave and is a polite and professional thing to do.

You are an important part of the UTC Gary W. Rollins College of Business, and the written communication skills you demonstrate in your letter reflects on you and on the college.

Crafting a Well-Written Letter:

1. Open the Note or Letter With a Salutation or Greeting to the Donor(s)
   For example: Dear Mr. Smith, or Dear Smith Foundation, 
2. Express Your Gratitude
   - Write sincerely and use active voice.
   - Mention the scholarship by name.
   - Do not directly mention money amounts.
     Examples: Thank you so much for your generosity. OR It is an honor to
     be chosen for the ABC Family Scholarship.
3. Demonstrate the Impact
   Share how being a student in the Rollins College of Business is having a positive impact on your life and what you enjoy most.  Examples: Describe your course of study. List community service activities, accomplishments, awards or honors you are proud of.  Briefly share other activities outside your studies.
4. Look Forward
   Share your plans for the future: trips, activities, graduation or prospective job. Let them know how this scholarship has helped to further your education. Example: "Upon completion of my studies I plan  to pursue a career in accounting."
5. Close your letter or note by saying thank you again.
   Examples: "Thanks again for your gift."  "Thanks again. I appreciate
   the scholarship assistance."
6. Signing Off
   End your note or letter with a closing phrase such as: "Sincerely," "Warm Regards," "Yours Truly," "With Sincere Thanks," etc.

Final Steps:

• Be clear, sincere, and concise.
• Proofread your work. You communicate your intelligence with correct grammar and spelling.
• Letters with errors or little content will be returned for rewrites.

Sample Thank You Letter

[Date]

Re: Smith Scholarship

Dear Mr. Smith,

It is an honor to be chosen for the John Smith Memorial Scholarship in the Gary W. Rollins College of Business for the Spring 2021 semester.

I am currently a junior, majoring in marketing. I enjoy my studies, especially my sales classes. I am involved in several student organizations including student government and the SMILE Fund.

I work part-time at local restaurant and I volunteer at the Chattanooga YMCA. I like working with middle school students and helping them with their homework as part of the YMCA's after-school program.

After graduation, I plan to enter pursue a job at a regional marketing firm and eventually open my own digital marketing business.

I am truly grateful for the scholarship support. This scholarship allows me to focus on my studies and additional educational opportunities. Thank you for your support of UTC business students.

Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Class of 2023