THE NCB Foundation Scholarship Programme is officially open to students islandwide seeking to fulfil their academic dreams. Applications are available online at www.ncbfoundation.org and will be opened until Friday, June 8, 2012.

The scholarship programme which has been in existence since 2003, was established primarily to meet the financial needs of our youths who excel academically, but do not have the necessary financial resources to obtain a tertiary education. Many of these students demonstrate an acute commitment to their education, despite their financial challenges. Each year, we are inspired by the many students who apply for scholarships and grants and the field continues to be highly competitive. We continue to provide support in line with our mandate towards education and youth development.

NCB scholarships and grants are awarded in two categories:

1 The Parish Champion Award, which provides full scholarship for the duration of their studies; and

2 The We Believe in You Fund, which provide grants for educational support. Financial assistance is provided to cover tuition fees, school books, uniforms, accommodations and other school related expenses.

The main criteria used to determine eligibility for an NCB Foundation scholarship and grant include outstanding academic performance, financial need and community involvement.

Over the years, NCB has provided financial assistance to over 1,000 students at the tertiary, secondary and primary school levels. Last year, the Bank earmarked $23m to the programme which assisted over 200 students and included three All-Island Champions being awarded $500,000 each to cover school-related expenses for the life of their studies.

Updates on the programme will be shared via Facebook at www.facebook.com/ncbfoundation.