Scholarships being offered for local students to study in Asia

Virgin Islanders who wish to pursue undergraduate and graduate degree programmes in Asia are now eligible to apply for an International Student Scholarship to study at the University of Macau based in Hong Kong as part of the BVI Asia Abroad Programme. 

Virgin Islands residents are free to choose from more than 130 Bachelor and Master’s degree programmes currently provided by the university and scholarships will be awarded to those who have demonstrated excellence in their academic performances after the evaluation by university officials. 

The award provides free tuition and accommodation for the duration of study at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels. 

The University of Macau is described as an international institution with a vibrant multicultural campus with several English taught programmes that attract students from around the world. 

The university also provides students with many internship opportunities, both local and overseas, in order to enhance their employability upon graduation.

 Last November, Premier Andrew Fahie in his budget presentation said the government will continue to promote scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue tertiary education. 

One of the ventures the Premier discussed was the introduction of the Asia-abroad scholarships which he had said was a three-way partnership between the Virgin Islands Government, elite universities in Asia, and the private sector. 

Just recently, the Education Ministry announced the H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) will be offering a Financial Technology (FinTech) programme in partnership with another Asian university, the National University of Singapore (NUS). 

The revised Virgin Islands Scholarship Policy is expected to see a new wave of changes when brought before the House of Assembly. One such change is an increase in funding and the number of students who will receive scholarships annually. 

In the meantime, persons interested in the Macau University programme must submit two applications. The first application must be submitted to the Government of the Virgin Islands through the BVI Asia Abroad Programme using this link. 

A second application should then be made directing to the university using the link: https://reg.um.edu.mo/admissions/ 

Those persons interested in pursuing Bachelor’s Degrees should submit applications by 22nd April 2022 and for Master’s programmes submission should be made by February 28. 

Persons with questions or in need of assistance may contact the BVI Hong Kong Office at [email protected] or call us on +1 284-443-2427.