12 Mistakes That Kill Applications
Most applicants are qualified. Most still get rejected because of entirely preventable errors.
The #1 reason for rejection. "I want to improve education" is not impact.
Fix: Be ruthlessly specific. Name the problem, community, scale, SDG, and concrete action plan with measurable outcomes.
Fix: Find your country's nominating body on the CSC website first. Contact them directly for their process and deadline.
Fix: Your nominating body's deadline is weeks earlier than the CSC's. Contact them at least 3 months before you expect to apply.
Fix: Match your career stage to the right award. Use our Award Types quiz.
Fix: Brief referees on the CSC's criteria. Share your Development Impact statement with them. Ask them to address your development potential specifically.
Fix: The CSC funds people who will go home and create change. Name specific organizations, a timeline, and measurable outcomes.