New scholarships are now available to help students aged 25 years or older at USC’s  Moreton Bay campus succeed in their studies.

 Pine Rivers Community Finance has partnered with USC to fund three annual Community Bank Samford Scholarships, valued at $5,000 each, for full-time second-year students in that age category.

Head of USC Moreton Bay Professor Karen Becker said the scholarships would boost the students’ university experience by easing their financial pressures while they completed degrees.

“Many of our students are returning to university after a few years – and in some cases, many years – out of high school and this scholarship will give them a financial lifeline to support them to reach their full potential,” Professor Becker said.

“We believe everyone should have access to a high-quality education and this scholarship is designed to assist those in financial need or students whose paid work and other commitments impact on their ability to further their education.” 

Criteria for the scholarships are based on the student’s community focus (demonstrated through academic, extra-curricular, work, volunteer or community involvement), academic merit, financial need and other employment or commitments that may impact on their ability to study.

Professor Becker thanked Pine Rivers Community Finance, which owns and operates the Brendale and Samford Community Bank branches of Bendigo Bank, for its commitment to supporting students at USC Moreton Bay.

The Community Bank Samford Scholarships are part of the Bendigo Bank Community Bank Scholarship Program, which aims to support tertiary education across Australia.