Release Date: 10/07/2012

Scholarship boost for aspiring students

Students in Richmond upon Thames will now be able to apply for a new scholarship programme at an International university based in the borough.

The scholarship scheme is being offered by Richmond, The American International University, and will be the first of its kind to be launched in the borough and will help high achieving local students to access a top university. The scholarship includes a £3000 annual fee waiver for the duration of their studies. Anyone can apply to the Provost’s Richmond and Kensington Access Scholarship as long as they’re are eligible for a maintenance grant from Student Finance England and live in the boroughs of Richmond upon Thames or Kensington and Chelsea. The only other condition is that students must work hard at their studies and make a positive contribution to University life.

Cllr Christine Percival, Strategic Cabinet Member for Education, Youth and Children's Services, said:

“This is a truly unique scheme that will help families who need it, to send their children to a top-notch University. The scholarship programme will give students a helping hand with costs while making sure they have an excellent university experience. Our students leave school with high levels of achievement in the borough and I would like to encourage them to apply for this scholarship which can help them achieve their aspirations.

“I wish to thank Richmond University for this excellent scheme and I wish the best of success for all the students starting this Autumn.”

Professor Phil Deans, Provost and Deputy Vice Chancellor of Richmond University, said:

“Richmond University is committed to supporting students in the Borough, and we are delighted to be able to make financial support available to bright students from lower income families. As the first member of my family to benefit from a university education I recognise the great benefits that higher education can deliver, and I also understand what a challenge the financial commitment can be especially for families in the ‘squeezed middle’ who do not qualify for other kinds of support.”

For more information regarding the Provost’s Richmond and Kensington Access Scholarship and Richmond University please visit http://www.richmond.ac.uk.