Frequently asked questions

Any Lithgow LGA resident and Australian citizen under the age of 26 as at 1 July in the scholarship application year. The applicant must intend to undertake a tertiary course of study. Applications may come from students intending to commence tertiary study the following year or from students who have recently commenced tertiary studies.

Most applications are expected to be for university undergraduate study, but the Trustees also welcome applications for other tertiary study, including agricultural colleges, conservatoriums of music and dramatic art institutions. Applicants may choose institutions inside or outside Australia.

The scholarship can fund the cost of tertiary study up to a maximum of $30,000. Support may include compulsory fees, books, stationery, equipment, accommodation, living costs and travel connected with the course. The amount awarded takes relevant personal circumstances into account.

Before taking up the scholarship and for each subsequent semester, the scholar provides an estimate of expenses for Trustee approval. Actual expenses are reviewed after each semester, along with a written report on academic results and other relevant activities.

Candidates are evaluated through an initial review of written applications and interviews with selected applicants. For Year 12 applicants, consideration includes academic record, citizenship and out-of-school activities. For applicants who have left school, selectors also consider achievements and post-school academic record and activities.

The selection committee looks for a candidate whose chosen study and intended career have the potential to benefit society, and who can be a credit to the Lithgow community and wider society. Academic achievement is considered alongside cultural, sporting, leadership and citizenship activities.

There is no specific means test. Financial need is, however, taken into consideration when selecting the successful candidate.