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Answer:

That's a very real and important question—and I appreciate your honesty.

If you didn’t get strong grades in your undergraduate studies, it can be more challenging to get a fully funded scholarship, but it’s not impossible. Some scholarships and universities do consider other factors, such as:

🎯 What Can Help You Stand Out (Even With Low Grades):

1. Strong Personal Statement or Motivation Letter
   If you clearly explain your challenges and show how you’ve grown or how committed you are now, this can truly matter. Real-life experiences can speak louder than grades.

2. Work or Volunteer Experience
   If you’ve worked in community planning, local government, real estate, construction, or any field related to urban planning—even in an informal role—this can make a big difference.

3. Leadership or Community Service
   Many scholarships look for people who have shown leadership or have served their community, not just those with academic achievements.

4. Programs That Value Diversity or Give Second Chances
   Some programs are created specifically for underrepresented or disadvantaged students, and they focus more on potential than past performance.

💡 Scholarships You Might Still Try

Here are some types of scholarships that are known to consider broader criteria:

• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
  This one is for students who faced social or economic challenges. They often look at your background and leadership potential more than just grades.

• Ashesi University (Ghana) or African Leadership University (Rwanda/Mauritius)
  These universities sometimes offer full scholarships and accept students with diverse academic records if they show strong purpose and motivation.

• Some Erasmus Mundus Programs
  A few Erasmus programs focus more on your statement of purpose and future potential. Some students with low GPAs have still been accepted when they had strong motivation and experience.

• University-Based Scholarships
  Some universities (especially in Europe, Asia, or Africa) offer scholarships to students from developing countries and might be flexible if you can show growth, motivation, or relevant experience.

✅ What You Should Do Now

1. Tell Your Story Honestly
   Prepare a personal statement that explains why your grades were low and what has changed since then. Be sincere—but also focus on what you’ve done to improve.

2. Strengthen Other Parts of Your Application

   • Get good references from people who know your work ethic.
   • Include certificates or short courses (like free ones on Coursera or edX) to show your recent efforts.
   • Highlight any work, volunteering, or life experience.

3. Apply Anyway
   Some scholarships may surprise you. It's better to try than to assume you won't make it. Many people have been in your shoes and still succeeded.

If you want, I can help you:

• Draft a strong personal statement
• Find scholarships with fewer GPA restrictions
• Review or edit your application before you submit

Just let me know what you'd like to start with.