In this article, we'll cover: Why Are Scholarship Cover Letters Important? Recommendation letters should be frank and devoid of hyperbole.Avoid pro forma letters at all costs. An insightful reference letter is a critical piece of a successful scholarship application. Search scholarships for Illinois students to fund your education. Before filling out, please read the Scholarship Application Instructions on page 4 of this application which also outlines documents. The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and to demonstrate the fit between your background and the advertised position.