In education, students are typically rewarded for commitment and hard work with academic success. For students wishing to attend a private secondary school in Bermuda and/or go on to college or university (either at home or abroad), there is also the possibility of financial assistance in the form of awards, bursaries and scholarships. When it comes to lending financial support to students, the generosity of the island’s academic institutions, local businesses, international businesses, associations and individuals is impressive.

For proof, look no further than the Bank of N.T. Butterfield’s Scholarship Directory, which at press time listed a roster of 109 scholarships, awards and student loans available almost exclusively to Bermudian students. Compilation and publication of this list is a community service provided by the Bank and it makes for inspiring reading. Annual gifts range from $500 to $30,000 and are awarded to students based on varying combinations of scholarship, leadership, community service, area of study and financial need.

In addition, we found bursaries and awards that are available to Bermudian students that do not appear on the Bank’s list. So it is important to do your homework. Thorough research by students and parents is the first step in the successful discovery and and assessment of financial opportunities.

The second is the submission of a sparkling application. The phrase ‘you only get one chance to make a good impression’ certainly applies here.
An application is your first chance to impress.
While you’re logged on to the Bank of N.T. Butterfield website you will also want to review their tips for submitting applications.

Tips on submitting a good Scholarship, Award, or Bursary application

Make sure that you meet the qualifications for the award. Carefully read the qualifications needed by the applicant for the award. Because the application process is detailed, make sure the award is applicable to you before beginning the process.

Carefully read all that is required. Please read what is required extremely carefully as most applications require numerous documents. Applicants who do not submit all the required documentation will automatically be eliminated. If current transcripts are not available until after
the application deadline, include a note stating when they will be received. Current information,
including transcripts, is essential to the application process. Do not assume that if you previously applied for the award you do not need to supply current information. If reapplying, take note of the required documents and processes.

Take note of the application deadline. This date means that the application will not be processed if it is received later than the final date. Exceptions are not made. Please make sure that there is sufficient time provided if you send it in the mail.

Photocopy the application or pick up an extra copy. Presentation is a vital component of the application process. Your application is a representation of yourself. Mistakes or tattered application forms reflect negligence. Do not cross out or use white out. If you make a mistake, rewrite the application. Therefore, it is important to have an extra copy of the application form. Another technique is to photocopy the application, write out the application in pencil on the photocopy, and then copy onto the original in pen.

Provide enough time for appointments to be made and mail to be received. Many applications require a series of documents such as updated health records. Many people underestimate the amount of time it takes to collect all the documents and to obtain appointments. Be sure and leave enough time in case mishaps occur.

Always provide an updated résumé. It is important to include current information about yourself. Even if you have previously submitted a résumé, it needs to be updated with current information.

Read what is be being asked for in the personal statement carefully. Each application will state what is specifically required for the personal statement. Many personal statements have several components. Make sure that all the components of the question are addressed.
The personal statement provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your writing skills while sharing your accomplishments and experiences. Take your time thinking about your personal statement before writing it out.

Make sure you request documentation well in advance. As previously stated, acquiring all necessary documentation requires time so be sure to allow ample time to make appointments and to collect official documents as well as allowing time for mishaps.

Think carefully about the quality of paper you use (presentation is powerful). The paper you choose for your application is important. The paper should be clean and smooth-edged.

Submit supporting documentation as specified (i.e. certificates, reference letters). Read the application carefully to determine what is required. You may also choose to submit additional documentation to support your application, for example, extra certificates of accomplishment.

Proof read your final draft and have someone else look over your application. Mistakes can easily occur so take the time to slowly and carefully read the entire application. It helps to have another person reread the application because a fresh perspective may detect unnoticed mistakes.

Provide current and previous transcripts. Transcripts are an essential component of the application, therefore current and previous transcripts are required. As previously stated, if current transcripts are unavailable, include a note stating when they will be available.

Write out a check_list for yourself. The application process involves many steps and procedures. It is helpful to keep a checklist of what is required ensuring a complete application is submitted.