25+ Scholarship Questions You Must Answer

Check out the most frequently asked questions about scholarship essays and interview tests, along with sample answers!

Scholarship selection often requires an interview selection. This scholarship interview itself is held with the aim of enabling scholarship management institutions to get to know the qualities of their prospective awardees better. Because this interview often determines success in scholarship selection, you must make thorough preparations so you can answer the questions asked by the interviewer later.

 

What are the topics that are often asked in scholarship interviews? Let’s learn about the questions that are often asked during scholarship selection, starting from what the interviewer actually wants to explore to examples of effective and convincing answers in this article!

 

 

Motivation and Selection of Scholarship Programs

 

• Why apply for this scholarship program?

This question seeks to explore whether the prospective awardee has a good understanding of the objectives and values ​​of the scholarship program. To give a convincing answer, you need to show how your interests, experience, skills and personal goals are in line with what is in accordance with the vision and mission of the scholarship organizing institution. 

 

Example answer: 

 

“I am interested in this scholarship program because I believe the vision and mission of this program are in line with my career goals and personal aspirations. My experience working in the field of advocacy for children with special needs provides the knowledge and motivation to have a wider impact on Indonesian people who experience this condition. similar. I am sure that my goals are in line with the vision and mission of this scholarship organizing institution.

 

• How can this scholarship program help you to contribute to society?

This question seeks to see how the applicant plans to use the educational opportunities provided by the scholarship, not only for personal gain, but also to make a positive contribution to society.

 

Example answer:

This educational investment will concretely provide benefits through the development of specific skills in [mention specific skills or areas], which I can apply in concrete projects in society. For example, by mastering [specific skill or knowledge], I plan to design and implement an initiative [name of initiative] aimed at improving [specific aspect] in [name of community or region]. In addition, I am committed to measuring positive impacts through concrete indicators, such as increasing levels of [specify indicators, for example, literacy levels or community participation in local economic activities]. In this way, this educational investment will not only enrich my knowledge, but will also produce measurable results that directly support the progress and well-being of society.

 

 

 

University Selection

 

• Why did you choose this university?

This question aims to evaluate the candidate’s understanding and personal considerations regarding the uniqueness and advantages of the university they choose to continue their studies. To answer this question well, you must do in-depth research and consideration of the university.

 

Example answer:

“I chose ABC University because it has achieved a very good reputation in the field of [name of field of study] according to my interests and academic goals. This program is known for its highly qualified faculty, consisting of leading lecturers such as [name of lecturer], who has expertise in [sub-field of study]. Additionally, the university has very well-equipped and high-quality research facilities, which will support my research in [specific topic]. 

 

 

Selection of Study Programs

 

• Why choose the Development Planning program over other programs such as International Relations?

This question evaluates your understanding and considerations regarding choosing a particular study program. Answers should reflect a clear understanding of the differences between the programs, and how the chosen program will better support academic and career goals.

 

Example answer:

“I chose the Development Planning program because during my International Relations studies, my interest in international development increased, especially in the planning and implementation of development projects. My experience in [mention related experience or projects] strengthened my interest in focusing on development strategy and planning. This program provides a curriculum that perfectly suits my interests and career goals in international development, as well as offering specific subjects such as [name of subject] and expertise of lecturers such as [name of lecturer]. I am confident that this program will provide me with the skills necessary to achieve my goals. my career is in this field.”

 

• Why did you take a master’s major that is not linear with your major in undergraduate?

This question is often asked to understand why someone chooses a master’s major that is not directly related or linear to their undergraduate major. A good answer will reflect careful thought and consideration regarding this change in direction

 

Example answer:

“I chose a master’s major that was different from my undergraduate major because as time went by, I realized my interest and desire to explore certain aspects that were not fully covered in my undergraduate major. Over several years of working in [related field of work or project], I discovered deep interest in [new field] and feel that to achieve my long-term career goals, a deeper understanding of this area is required. I am confident that the experience and skills I gained from my undergraduate major will provide a strong foundation, while my new graduate major will open up new opportunities and enrich my horizons in developing my career.”

Goals of Higher Education (S2)

 

• Why did you decide to continue your Masters degree?

This question aims to understand the motivation and reasons behind a person’s decision to continue their education at the Master’s level. A good answer will reflect academic and career goals, as well as the belief that a Master’s degree will make a positive contribution to personal and professional development. 

 

Example answer:

“I decided to pursue a master’s degree because I believe that this is a critical step in my career development. While working in [name of industry or field of work], I realized that to achieve higher responsibilities and roles, I need to have an understanding through advanced education, I hope to gain deeper insight into [specific field of study], which will not only enrich my knowledge but also increase my ability to contribute to more advanced projects. complex. I am confident that a master’s degree will open up new opportunities and help me achieve my long-term career goals in [occupation or industry].”

 

 

• How will this study benefit your career?

This question aims to understand the relationship between the applicant’s current career and the need to continue their education at the Master’s level. You can explain how experiences and achievements in your current career are the basis or motivation for continuing your education.

 

“My current career has provided me with opportunities to learn and grow, and I feel satisfied with the accomplishments I have achieved. However, over the course of my career, I have become increasingly aware of the complexity and higher level of skills required to meet today’s industry challenges. I see an opportunity to play a more strategic role and contribute to the development of more complex projects. Therefore, I believe continuing my education at Master’s level will provide me with the insight and skills necessary to face these challenges. I want to ensure that I remain relevant and can have a greater impact in my current and future roles.”

 

 

Research Selection and Research Focus:

1. Why choose research on Jakarta urban development rather than development in rural areas or other cities?

This question aims to understand the reasons behind choosing a particular research topic. To answer this question, you can explain the relationship between personal interests, the relevance of the topic to your field of study or career, and the potential positive impact of the research. 

 

Example answer:

“I chose to conduct research on inclusive schools because of my deep interest in inclusive education and belief that every individual has the right to receive a meaningful education. My experience as [specify related experience, for example, as a teacher or social worker] has demonstrated the challenges and potential in realizing schools successful inclusion. This research is expected to provide in-depth insight into the factors that influence the success of inclusive schools and contribute to the development of best practices. I am confident that the results of my research can provide concrete solutions and recommendations to improve access and quality of education for all individuals, regardless of background or special conditions.”

 

 

• How can your research plan have a positive impact on development?

This question aims to explore what concrete contributions this research can make. A good answer will highlight the potential contribution of research in providing solutions, policy recommendations, or positive change in a field. 

 

Example answer: 

“My research plan aims to investigate the challenges in implementing inclusive education programs in the region [name of region]. By delving deeper, I hope to identify the main obstacles and provide concrete recommendations to improve access and quality of education for students with special needs. In addition, I plan to develop an innovative model of inclusive approach, which can be adopted by schools and other interested parties. I believe that this research can have a positive impact on the development of inclusive education in the region, ensuring that every individual has equal and meaningful educational rights.”

 

 

Selection of Study Country

 

• Why choose the UK over other countries like Australia or Singapore?

This question aims to understand the reasons behind choosing the UK as a study destination compared to other countries such as Australia or Singapore. A good answer will reflect careful consideration and a specific connection to the desired study program. 

 

Example answer:

I chose to continue my studies in England because the university has a very high reputation and offers study programs that suit my interests and career goals in the field of [name of field of study]. In addition, the UK has an advantage in research and development in this area, with the presence of several leading experts and excellent facilities. I also believe that choosing the UK will give me the opportunity to engage in a diverse and dynamic academic community, as well as benefit from extensive international networks. English as a language of instruction will also give me the opportunity to deepen my English language skills, which is a valuable skill in the professional world. All of this makes me confident that England is the most appropriate choice to achieve my master’s education goals.

 

Lecture Plan

 

• What lecture plans have you made?

 

Questions about study plans include details about the courses to be taken and how the study program will be carried out. A good answer reflects mature thinking, relevance to academic and career goals, and selection of courses that are relevant to the field of study taken. The following are examples of answers that can provide an idea:

 

“I have a thorough study plan to ensure that I get maximum benefit from this Master’s program. I will take six courses during one academic year, with a focus on mandatory and elective courses that support the development of my skills in the field of Development Planning. Several courses The courses I will take include ‘Development in Practice,’ ‘Society and Market: Private Agency for Development,’ and ‘Contemporary Approaches to Development Management.’ My elective course will include ‘Housing Policies: Practical Dimensions and Alternative Options,’ which will help me understand more deeply the aspects of housing policy that are relevant to my research on urban development in Jakarta. I also plan to write a thesis in the summer semester as an opportunity to deepen my research on Jakarta urban development. This study plan is in line with my goal of gaining an in-depth understanding of urban development, and I am confident that this combination of mandatory and elective courses will provide a strong foundation for achieving that goal.”

 

 

• ​Why choose a particular course and how does it support your study goals?

This question aims to understand the thinking behind choosing certain courses and how these courses support your study goals. Good answers will provide a deep understanding of the relevance and contribution of each course to the development of the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve academic and career goals. 

 

Example answer:

I chose the ‘Development in Practice’ course because I saw its relevance to my research and career goals in the field of Development Planning, wanting a practical understanding of development strategies. In addition, the course ‘Society and Market: Private Agency for Development’ was chosen to explore the role of the private sector in development, while the elective course ‘Housing Policies: Practical Dimensions and Alternative Options’ supported my research on urban development in Jakarta by providing an in-depth understanding about housing policy and alternative options. This selection of courses collectively supports the development of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are crucial to achieving my academic and career goals in this field.

 

 

Post-Study Career Plans

 

 

 

• How do you plan your career after completing this program?

This question aims to explore career plans and aspirations after completing the study program. By asking this question, the interviewer wants to understand the extent to which the applicant has a clear vision of how they will use the knowledge and skills gained from the program in the context of their career.

 

Example answer:

After completing this program, I intend to integrate the knowledge and skills I have acquired into a career in the development field, with a focus on urban planning. I have the ambition to contribute to sustainable development projects, especially at local or national level. My career plans include joining a government agency such as Bappenas/Bappeda or a non-government organization that focuses on urban development. I also hope to be involved in sustainable development initiatives and housing policy. Additionally, I intend to continue participating in research and publications in the field of urban development to continue contributing to current thinking and practice in this domain. In this way, I can have a positive impact on sustainable development in Indonesia and act as an agent of change in society.

 

 

• What makes you interested in working in an institution like (Ministry X)

 

This question aims to understand the motivation and reasons behind your desire to work at a particular institution, in this case Ministry

 

Example answer:

“I am interested in working at Ministry -my personal values. I believe that my experience in [specify relevant skills or experience] can make a positive contribution in supporting Ministry , and I am confident that Ministry X is the right place for me to realize these aspirations.”

Relevance of Experience and Skills

• How are your background, experience, and skills relevant to the mission of the scholarship?

This question aims to evaluate the extent to which your background, experience, and skills match the mission or objectives of the scholarship you are applying for. A good answer should clearly detail how these elements support and contribute to achieving the scholarship’s goals. 

Example Answer:

My educational background in [specify field of study] provides a strong foundation to pursue this program, along with courses such as [specify relevant subject]. My research experience in [specify research topic] strengthened my analytical and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I have been involved in the [specify relevant project] project where I led the [describe your role] initiative, providing a deep understanding of [specify aspect relevant to the objectives of the scholarship]. The data analysis skills I acquired in my work experience at [specify workplace] will also support my contribution in achieving the objectives of this scholarship. I am also active in [specify social or community activities] that reflect my commitment to [scholarship mission values ​​or goals]. All of this creates a strong foundation for active and successful participation in this program and provides a positive impact in accordance with the mission of this scholarship.

 

 

• What impact has your experience had on supporting community development goals?

 

This question aims to evaluate the extent to which your experience can have a positive impact on community development goals. A good answer should link your experience to the contribution you can make to support community development, whether through work, research, or involvement in social initiatives.

 

Example Answer:

“My experience in [mention relevant experience] has had a significant positive impact in supporting community development goals. Through this project, I successfully led a [describe initiative] initiative that directly increased access to education for children in the local community. I was also involved active in building partnerships with local government and non-governmental organizations to ensure project sustainability and implementation of sustainable practices. The positive impact is not only visible in increasing education levels, but also in empowering communities to manage resources sustainably. I am confident that this experience I can apply it in a broader community development context and will make a significant contribution to achieving sustainable development goals.”

 

Sustainability and Long-Term Impact

 

• What contribution can you make after completing this program?

This question aims to evaluate the extent to which you can contribute after completing the study program you are applying for. A good answer should reflect a mature understanding of how the program will help you develop skills and knowledge that can be applied in a variety of contexts, as well as make a positive contribution to the relevant field of study or industry

 

Example answer:

“After completing this program, I plan to contribute to the development of this field of study by focusing on [mention specific aspect]. I aim to actively engage in research and share findings with the scientific community. Additionally, I hope to collaborate with stakeholders industry to apply the practical knowledge I gained during the program. I also have plans to contribute to community projects that support education and sustainable development. Through collaboration, partnerships, and positive contributions, I am confident that I can play a meaningful role in advancing the field this and have a positive impact on the community and surrounding environment.”

 

 

• How do you plan to apply your knowledge and skills in the short, medium and long term?

This question aims to evaluate the extent to which you have planned to apply the knowledge and skills you will gain from the study program, both in the short, medium and long term. A good answer will reflect strategic thinking and a structured plan.

 

Example answer:

“In the short term after completing this program, I plan to immediately apply my new knowledge and skills in practical projects relevant to the field of study. I will look for opportunities to collaborate with related companies or organizations to gain field experience. In the medium term Meanwhile, in the long term, I aim to become an influential decision maker in the industry, perhaps by establishing innovative projects or contributing to policies at the national level that support sustainable development.”

Failure and Success

• How did you overcome your biggest failure?

This question aims to evaluate personal maturity, ability to learn from failure experiences, and how you overcome obstacles or challenges. A good answer will demonstrate the ability to reflect, personal responsibility, and a willingness to grow and learn.

 

Example answer: 

“One of the biggest failures I ever experienced was when I led a project that did not reach its stated time targets. After deep reflection, I realized that a lack of careful planning and effective coordination was a major factor in the failure. In response, I decided to improve my managerial skills and deepen my understanding of project planning. I also initiated a more open communication initiative with the team to identify potential problems early. This experience taught me the importance of continuous learning and had a positive impact by improving the efficiency and performance of the team in future projects.”

 

 

• How did your greatest success experiences influence you?

This question aims to evaluate how you responded and learned from your greatest success experiences. A good answer will reflect an appreciation of personal accomplishments, the ability to extract insight from success, and how those experiences influence the way you see yourself and your future goals.

 

Example answer: 

“My greatest experience of success was when I led a team on an innovative project that managed to gain industry recognition and receive a prestigious award. The project required creativity, effective teamwork and fast problem solving. This success had a positive impact on my self-confidence and broadened my view of the possibilities that can be achieved through collaboration and innovation. The lessons I took from that project, such as the importance of strong teamwork and rigor in planning, have guided me in subsequent projects. The success also provided a boost to my career goals , motivates me to get involved in projects that are challenging and have a positive impact.”

 

Ability to Overcome Obstacles

• Describe an experience where you were forced to adapt to interaction patterns in a new environment?

This question aims to evaluate your ability to adapt to new environments and interact with people who may have different interaction patterns. A good answer will demonstrate flexibility, communication skills, and a willingness to engage in new social situations.

 

Example answer:

“When I first joined an international project team, I faced a huge challenge in adapting to different interaction patterns. The team consisted of members from different cultures, and their communication styles were very different from what I was used to. I realized that it was important to understand the norms -cultural norms and communicate effectively so that the team can work synergistically. I actively observe and learn from the way other team members interact. I also look for opportunities to ask questions and open dialogue about cultural differences that may arise. As a result, I have succeeded in building strong relationships with team members, and this experience taught me the value of the importance of thoroughness and empathy in interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds.”

 

Controversial Questions

• How do you plan to overcome situations that may arise, such as being prohibited from working by your husband/parents after passing this scholarship selection?

This question tries to explore your thinking about situations that may arise in the future and your ability to plan and overcome potential obstacles. A good answer should demonstrate proactive thinking, readiness to meet challenges, and a willingness to find solutions.

 

Example answer:

“I am aware that my personal and professional life can involve unexpected challenges, including the possibility of being prohibited from working by my husband/parents after completing my Masters/PhD. In preparation for such situations, I have open communication with my husband/parents to understand their hopes and needs them, as well as to explain the importance of my career in achieving our family’s goals. I also consider backup plan options, such as identifying flexible work opportunities or seeking to build a support network that can help me overcome these obstacles. I am prepared to be flexible and seek balanced solutions to maintain a balance between career and personal life, even if it requires adjusting plans.”

 

 

Self Promotion Opportunities

 

• What makes you a good choice for scholarship providers?

This question invites you to present the values ​​and qualities that make you a standout candidate in the eyes of the scholarship provider. A good answer will detail your qualifications, achievements, and the impact you can have in the context of the scholarship’s mission and vision.

 

Example answer:

During my undergraduate studies, I achieved [academic achievement], and my experience at [name of company/organization] strengthened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities in [industry field]. I believe that my personal values ​​align with the mission of this scholarship, especially in [mention specific value or focus]. Additionally, my involvement in [community service activities/volunteer organizations] reflects my commitment to making a positive impact on the community. With the support of this scholarship, I intend to [future plans or projects] that will make a significant contribution to [field of study or career goals] as well as stimulate development in [specific environment].”

 

 

• How can your educational background, networks, and experiences contribute to the success of the scholarship program and mission?

This question aims to identify how your educational background, network, and experience can be valuable assets for the success of the program and achievement of the scholarship mission. A good answer should connect these elements concretely to the purpose and value of the scholarship. 

 

Example answer:

I have been involved in projects that required collaboration and problem-solving skills, such as [name of project/research project]. My network that I have built with [name of professor/colleague/industry member] can serve as a valuable resource to support this program. I believe that my adaptability skills, good communication skills, and dedication to [scholarship’s specific value or focus] will make a positive contribution to the success of the program and achievement of the mission of this scholarship. I hope to be able to share my experience and knowledge with fellow participants, and together achieve the extraordinary goals promoted by this scholarship.

 

 

Questions about Future Success

 

• How do you plan your future in the next 10 years?

This question wants to explore your plans and vision for the future, especially in the next 10 years. A good answer will reflect strategic thinking, measurable goals, and links between your plans and career, academic, or personal development.

 

Example answer:

“In the next 10 years, I see myself as a leading [subject] expert, contributing to innovation and sustainable development in [industry/organization]. I intend to continue developing my leadership skills and technical expertise through work experience and education advanced, such as [name of program or training]. In addition, I plan to be involved in community service initiatives that support education and community empowerment, in line with the social justice values ​​that I hold. I believe that these plans are aligned with the mission of this scholarship to producing future leaders who contribute to sustainable development and community welfare.”

 

 

Hopefully the interview leaks above can help you succeed in getting your dream scholarship!