Tai Poutini Polytechnic to help students in financial hardship

Thinking of studying in the year 2011 but can’t afford it?  Help is at hand. New students who have financial hardship are encouraged to apply for Tai Poutini Polytechnic’s 2011 Access Awards which provides up to 50 per cent off selected programmes tuition fees for successful applicants.

Recipients will be selected on the basis that they are either unable to receive a student loan to cover all tuition fees, or that taking a student loan will cause unnecessary hardship.

Tai Poutini Polytechnic chief executive Paul Wilson says preference will be given to those studying on selected programmes including the Certificate in Hair, Beauty and Grooming, National Certificate in Hospitality (Entry skills), the Certificate in Foundation Core Skills and the National Certificate of Business Administration (Level 2).

“We are delighted to be providing this award for students thinking about undertaking tertiary study but not able to because of their financial situation,” he says. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to supporting education on the West Coast, regardless of a student’s financial position.”

Any scholarship awarded will be credited towards the students’ tuition fees at Tai Poutini Polytechnic. Assistance is limited to 50 per cent of the tuition fees.

“Students will need to show they have an evidence-based financial need and outline their financial situation which makes paying fees, taking out a loan and covering living expenses while studying difficult,” he says.

Students applying for the award need to complete the West Coast Access Award application form prior to the 1st January for the February intake, or the 20th May for the mid-year intake.

Only New Zealand Citizens or permanent residents, who have not received the award before are eligible to apply for the Award.             

All applicants will be notified as to whether they have been successful or not via mail.