Scholarships help SCU students

More than 80 scholarships worth up to $2000 and $4000 a year are now available to Southern Cross University (SCU) students through the Commonwealth Learning Scholarships Program.

The Commonwealth program, introduced as part of the Federal Government’s Higher Education reforms, is designed to allow greater choice in higher education and to increase higher education participation by students from low socio-economic backgrounds. Under the program 83 scholarships were allocated to Southern Cross University for 2004.

SCU’s Commonwealth Learning Scholarships Project Officer, Mr Geoff Kershaw, said there were two types of scholarships being offered.

The Commonwealth Education Cost Scholarships provide undergraduate students with $2000 a year for up to four years to help with education costs. The Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarships provide $4000 a year for up to four years to help with accommodation costs.

Mr Kershaw said the program was introduced to assist rural and regional, low income and Indigenous students, who are Australian citizens or holders of Australian permanent humanitarian visas, with costs associated with higher education.

“The scholarships are a positive contribution to assist our students who are experiencing conditions of disadvantage. The scholarships will help students in this position by reducing some of the pressures that are impacting on their studies while at Southern Cross University.”

SCU Student Support Manager Dr Jonathan Munro said SCU was pleased to be able to offer the scholarships.

“We are currently in the process of ensuring that all of our student population is aware of this new program so that those who satisfy the basic criteria can apply,” Dr Munro said.

Application forms and information sheets giving the eligibility criteria for the scholarships are available at the three campuses at Coffs Harbour, Lismore and Tweed Heads. Students will also be advised via email. The closing date is Friday, May 28.

Media contact: Brigid Veale, SCU Media Liaison, 66593006 or m. 0439 680 748.