Tillman Scholars Program

Application Process

#### Application Portal

Apply Online: http://apply.ptf.org

#### Key Application Components

1. Personal Biography: Write about who you are, what you care about, and what fires you up

2. Application Essays: Multiple essays addressing:
- Your passion and commitment to impact change
- How your education aligns with societal challenges
- Your personal story and values
- Your vision for your future career and service

3. Letters of Recommendation:
- Required from recommenders
- Recommenders should be given:
- Two months' advance notice
- Information about the foundation and what they look for
- Copy of your resume
- Draft essays for context

4. Resume: Include academic and professional background

#### Application Tips from Current Scholars

• Find your voice: Research 800+ existing Tillman Scholar biographies on the PTF website to understand what the foundation values; this helps you reflect on and articulate your own story

• Tell your story: Use a connecting word or phrase throughout your application to create narrative cohesion. Build a theme describing where you came from and use that to show how you'll create impact going forward

• Be authentically you: Don't try to be what you think the foundation wants; show who YOU actually are through storytelling

• Plan ahead:
- Give recommenders 2+ months notice - Revise essays multiple times - Have 2-3 trusted friends read and provide feedback - Reflect on what problems you're passionate about solving

• Know your why: It's okay if you don't know exactly what you want to do, but articulate what motivates you and what gets you out of bed in the morning

#### Timeline

Application Period: December through early February (annually)

Deadline: February 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT

Decision Notification: By June

#### Support Available

Live Q&A sessions with PTF staff

Guidance at apply.ptf.org

Resources for understanding eligibility requirements