Date Created: 1 October 2024
If you’re applying for financial aid on Coursera, you want to create a compelling and sincere application that explains your situation and need for financial assistance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you increase your chances of success:
1. Introduction: Your Current Situation
Start by briefly introducing yourself and your professional background. Mention that you are from a third-world country – Nigeria, which adds a context to your financial limitations.
Example:
“I am a Nurse Chidubem from Nigeria, a developing nation where the economic situation makes it difficult to afford professional development opportunities. In the past one year, we have seen our currency devalue against the dollar by 100%”
2. State Your Financial Hardship
Discuss your financial situation in more detail. Focus on the challenges you face due to currency depreciation and how it has impacted your ability to pay for online courses.
Key Points to Include:
- Explain the impact of currency depreciation on the cost of foreign services like Coursera courses
- You could give specific percentages to quantify this depreciation (e.g., “the currency has depreciated by 100% against the dollar over the past 1 years”)
- You can also mention your disposable income and how living costs are high due to double digit inflation
Example:
“Due to the depreciation of the [local currency], the cost of this course has effectively doubled, making it unattainable on my current salary. I earn [mention your monthly salary] and with my living expenses, I am unable to afford the course fee without financial aid.”
3. Explain Why You Need the Course
Talk about why the specific course is essential to your personal or professional growth, and stress how important the course is for upskilling and providing better clinical services.
Key Points to Include:
- Explain how the course will help you develop skills crucial to your profession.
- Mention any areas where you see gaps in your skills or knowledge that the course can help address.
- If applicable, talk about how the course can improve your ability to serve your community or contribute to societal development.
Example:
“As a medical professional, continuous learning is essential for staying updated with new practices and advancements in the field. This course will allow me to upskill and better serve my patients, improving the quality of healthcare in my community. It will also help me qualify for more advanced roles, which are crucial in addressing the healthcare challenges in Nigeria.”
4. Commit to Completing the Course
Coursera wants to know that their investment in your education will be worthwhile. Show your commitment to successfully completing the course if you are granted financial aid.
Key Points to Include:
- Mention how eager you are to complete the course.
- Explain how you plan to apply the skills you learn in real-life scenarios.
Example:
“I am fully committed to completing this course and applying the knowledge gained in my professional career. With financial aid, I can ensure that I will dedicate the necessary time and effort to make the most out of this opportunity.”
5. Conclusion
End your statement by thanking the Coursera team and reiterating how this financial aid will help you overcome financial barriers while advancing your career and contributing to your community.
Example:
“Thank you for considering my application for financial aid. Receiving this support will make a significant difference in my ability to continue my education and professional development, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to my field.”
Sample Structure for SOP (Statement of Purpose):
Introduction:
Briefly introduce yourself and your country’s economic situation.
Financial Situation:
- Explain your financial difficulties.
- Provide specifics on why you cannot afford the course.
Importance of the Course:
- Describe the course’s importance to your career and skill development.
- Mention how the course will benefit you and your community.
Commitment to Completion:
Reaffirm your dedication to completing the course and applying the knowledge gained.
Closing:
Thank the Coursera team and express your hope for a favorable outcome.
By following this structure, you will create a compelling financial aid application that explains your personal and financial circumstances while showing Coursera that their investment in your education will be worthwhile.