General Info. Catalog

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Mission Statement

The Palau National Scholarship Board manages and administers government scholarships and seeks additional sources of scholarship opportunities for Palauan citizens pursuing post-secondary education so that they may complete their education and return to Palau to become contributing members of the society.

 

Section I: General Information & Eligibility Requirements

  • RPPL 2-5 created the Palau National Scholarship Board to carry out the duties of this Act. The national programs are funded by the Republic of Palau national government.

Basic Requirements are as followed:

  1. Must be a citizen of Palau.
  2. Must have completed high school or its equivalent thereto.
  3. Must be applying to or is already enrolled in an accredited university or college.
  4. Must be a full-time student.
  5. Must provide all forms and required documents before the said deadline date each year.
  6. Financial request must be certified by the respective school official.

General Documents Required:

  1. Must provide birth certificate with first application.
  2. Must provide proof of citizenship.
  3. Must provide an official transcript.
  4. Must provide an acceptance letter if new or transfer student.
  5. Must provide a class level verification if junior or senior.

Section II: Types of Programs Available:

  • The following programs are available thru the Palau National Scholarship Office. Following are descriptions of each program and requirements that must be met in order to quality as a recipient.

Conditions / Obligations

  • All recipients of scholarship, grant, and student loans are required to work in the Republic for the duration of at least three to five (3-5) years, commencing two (2) years after completion of graduate degree studies, for graduate students or commencing two (2) years after completion of all other degree studies. If scholarship, grant and/or loan recipient ceases his degree studies and fails to obtain his degree, he/she is required to pay back 50% of the grant or loan within two years time. All grant and loan recipients regardless of completion of studies must work in the Republic for not less than three (3) years after the two-year grace period. If scholarship, grant or loan recipient fails to return and work in the Republic within the allotted time period, said recipient shall be liable to pay back to the Scholarship Fund the total amount of the scholarship, grant and/or student loan received with interest. (RPPL 7-13).

 

  • Undergraduate students may receive financial assistance from PNSB for a maximum period of five (5) years regardless of program. Students enrolled in a two-year college may receive financial assistance for a period of not more than three (3) years.

 

  1. Congressional Scholastic Award (Program Cancelled by RPPL 8-43 NOT AVAILABLE)

 

  1. Palau Grant

2.1. Description

General grant provided to eligible applicants of PNSB programs and intended to defray basic costs of post-secondary education.

2.2. Eligibility

(a) Awards are available for undergraduate students.

(b) Must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 if he/she is a high school senior.

(c) Must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5 if he/she is a continuing undergraduate college student.

2.3. Limitation

Grants are limited to a period of not more than five years for undergraduate students.

 

  1. Palau Scholarship

3.1. Full Scholarship

3.1a Description

This scholarship provides full funding for tuition, housing and expenses to a limited number of recipients majoring in priority fields.

3.1b Eligibility

(a)  Must be at least junior or senior level in college.

(b)  Must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.50.

3.1c Limitation

A recipient of this full scholarship may not be at the same time a recipient of another scholarship program.

3.2. Partial Scholarship

3.2a Description

This scholarship provides tuition funding to defray part of students’ educational expenses at a wider number of institutions.

3.2b Eligibility

(a) Must be at least junior or senior level in college.

(b) Must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.50.

3.3. Limitation

Scholarships are limited to a period of not more than 3 years.

 

  1. Palau Student Loan

4.1. Description

Not less than twenty-five percent of the Scholarship Fund is available each year for student loan to undergraduate and graduate student as supplemental assistance based on financial need.

4.2. Eligibility

Must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0.

4.3. Conditions

4.3a Maximum Amount of Loan

Loans are limited to the following amounts for the cost of tuition and other fees, room and board, books, transportation insurance and miscellaneous expenses:  up to $20,000.00 per academic year for undergraduate studies for a period of not more than five (5) academic years of study; and up to $40,000.00 per academic year for graduate studies or professional study for a period of not more than three (3) academic years of study.

Upon a showing a good cause and in consistent with the criteria set forth in these regulations, the board may authorize additional loan amounts that may exceed the maximum set forth in this section. The total amounts of any loan is contingent upon the availability of funds and the merits of an application.

4.3b Interest on Loan

No interest will accrue on loans issued herein until six (6) months after completion of the program for which the loan was issued, at which point, interest will accrue at the rate of 1.0% per year. Such interest shall not be compounded. However, in the event the loan is forfeited pursuant to section 1.7, interest shall begin accruing immediately at the rate of 3.0% per year.

4.3c Selection of Loan Recipients

The Palau National Scholarship Board shall review each loan application, and based on the merits of the application and the availability of funds, determine whether to issue the loan. Determination of the merits of an applications for a loan shall include the following:

(a) The applicant’s scholastic record, aptitude and financial need.

(b) Palau’s need for professional personnel in the applicant’s intended field of study.

(c) The applicant’s demonstrated intent to remain in or return to Palau for employment.

4.3d Obligations of Loan Recipients

The recipient of loan (hereinafter “Recipient”) must fulfill the following obligations:

(a) Comply with all Palau Student Loan Program criteria and conditions of the Scholarship Board as set forth in this manual; maintain a cumulative grade point average of not less than 2.0.

(b) Submit a copy of his/her grade report at the end of each semester/quarter.

(c) By accepting the loan, the student agrees that the Scholarship Board, may obtain any or all information from his/her respective institution as needed to comply with the Scholarship Board regulations.

4.3e Promissory Note

The Recipient shall execute a Promissory Note with the co-signer, who must reside in the Republic of Palau. The Promissory Note shall be in the form as shown in Exhibit B. The Recipient and the co-signer shall execute a separate promissory note for any amounts loaned pursuant to Section 4.3f below.

4.3f Conditions for Renewal of the Loan

A recipient may apply for additional amounts under this program to complete his/her studies (hereinafter “loan renewal”). To be eligible for a loan renewal, the Recipient must comply with the following:

(a) Submit his/her loan application by July 31 every year.

(b) Maintain his/her status as a regular full-time student at the institution.

(c) Maintain satisfactory academic standing in accordance with Section 4.3(d) of this regulation.

(d) Comply with all regulations governing Palau Student Loan Program as referenced in this manual.

The decision to renew a loan, and the amount of any loan renewal, shall depend upon the availability of funds and the merits of an application, based on the criteria identified in Section 4.3c above. No loan shall be continued beyond a period of five (5) years for undergraduate studies or three (3) years of graduate/professional studies in the specific academic/technical degree program for which the original loan was granted except as provided for in Section 4.3a.

4.3g Forfeiture of Loan

Forfeiture of a loan shall result form any of the causes listed below, and any loan found to be forfeited shall be immediately due and payable on the terms set forth in the Promissory Note executed in accordance with receipt of the loan.

(a) Suspension or dismissal for academic deficiency, disciplinary reasons, or conviction of a felony.

(b) Withdrawal from the institution in anticipation of any action under (a), above, or for any other reason(s) not authorized by the Scholarship Board.

(c) Failure to maintain status as full-time student.

(d) Failure to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 as provided in Section 1.4(b) above.

(e) Violation of other Scholarship Board regulations.

4.3h Service Credit

In accordance with the purpose for which these loans are being granted, a loan recipient may receive credit toward repayment of his/her loan as provided for in this Section. For each consecutive 12-month period the recipient is employed full-time in Palau and otherwise complies with the requirements for obtaining Service Credit under this section, the recipient shall receive a credit (hereinafter “Service Credit”) of (1) $3,000.00 toward repayment of principal on the loan, and (2) an amount equal to any unpaid interest on such principal.

(a) If a recipient returns to the Republic, re-establish residency and notify PNSB of the same within sixty days of their return, he/she will receive a fifteen percent immediate credit against his/her total awards.

(b) If the recipient returns to Palau within (6) months after graduation or completion of his/her last term of school whichever is sooner, five percent of the total award he/she received will be credited against the student’s account. When he/she begins full-time employment in Palau, he/she will receive Service Credit for the period beginning on the date of such employment. The recipient shall continue to receive Service Credit of (1) $3,000.00 toward repayment of the principal on the loan, and (2) an amount equal to any unpaid interest on such principal, for each year thereafter that he/she remains employed full-time in Palau, until the loan is repaid in full.

(1) If the recipient wishes to temporarily terminate employment in Palau to continue his/her studies on a full-time basis at an accredited institution of higher education, he/she may appeal in writing to the Scholarship Board for authorization to do so.

(2) If the recipient requires specialized training in his/her field, he/she may suspend or postpone his/her employment in Palau while undergoing such specialized training. Repayment of the loan will be deferred while recipient undergoes such training, provided that the training is verified by the director/authorized official of the training program on at leas an annual basis.

(3) If the recipient ceases his/her employment in Palau for any reason other than that specified in (a)(1), or (2) above, then he/she shall no longer be eligible for Service Credit and shall begin repayment of the outstanding balance on the loan plus the interest of 3.0% on the terms specified in the Promissory Note. In the even that the recipient subsequently recommences work full-time in Palau, then repayment of any outstanding loan amount due and owing at the time recipient recommences work in Palau shall be deferred during the time recipient continues to work full-time, and recipient shall be eligible for Service Credit as provided for in (a)(1) above. However, if the recipient is in arrears with his/her repayment or has otherwise failed to meet the obligations set forth in the Promissory Note, then there shall be no deferment and he/she shall not be entitled to nay Service Credit until he/she makes all payments due and owing under the Promissory Note.

(c) If the recipient fails to return to Palau and begin employment within six (6) months and has not otherwise obtained authorization from the Scholarship board to do so, then he/she must begin repayment of the loan on the terms specified in the Promissory Note. If, prior to repaying the loan in full, the recipient commences full-time employment in Palau, then repayment of the remainder of the loan shall be deferred and he/she shall be entitled to Service Credit as provided for in Section (a) above.  However, if the recipient is in arrears with his repayments or has otherwise failed to meet the obligations set forth in the Promissory Note, then there shall be no deferment and he/she shall not be entitled to Service Credit until he/she makes all payments due and owing under the Promissory Note.

(d) It is the responsibility of the recipient to provide the scholarship Board with documentation of employment qualifying for Service Credit und this Section. The initial documentation must be submitted within six moths after graduation, or if the recipient commences work in Palau, the first day of employment. Five percent will be credited against a student’s account when a student provides a copy of his/her diploma or certificate of completion. Thereafter, documentation shall be submitted every 12 months. Forms are available at the Palau National Scholarship Office.

(e) For good cause and consistent with the purpose for which these loans are granted, the Scholarship Board may defer repayment of the loan under the Promissory Note or otherwise make accommodations for the receipt of Service Credit under this Section.

(f) Students who return to the Republic may receive credit for balances outstanding after their return.

 

  1. Other PNSB Sponsored Programs

5.1. Scholarship-Loan Program for Courses Offered Through Non-Traditional Means

5.1a Description

Special scholarship-loan program for students enrolled in a full-time course through non-traditional means.

5.1b Eligibility

(a) Must reside in the Republic of Palau.

(b) Cumulative grade point average must be at least 2.0.

5.1c Limitation

Award may not exceed the stated student loan award ceilings established by PNSB per class level ; and, not granted for longer than a cumulative period of 36 months.

 

  1. Non-PNSB Sponsored Programs

Palau National Scholarship Board also administers programs that are funded by other sources such as other countries or local private companies. Each scholarship program differs form the next according to the specifications of the donor. Below lists some of the scholarship programs currently being administered or facilitated by PNSB. (This list is subject to change).

  1. IP and E Scholarship (Former Shell Palau Scholarship)

(a) Minimum cumulative grade point average of at least 3.50 if a graduating senior.

(b) Minimum cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 if a sophomore.

(c) Minimum cumulative grade point average of at least 2.75 if a junior or senior in college.

(d) Must attend a college/university outside of Palau & major in any of the following:

(1) Biological Science – Pre-Med, Medicine or Marine Biology

(2) Physical Science – Chemistry (Teaching)

(3) Social Science – Economics, Pre-Law/Law, Math (Teaching)

The deadline is around July 31st of each year.

  1. Australia (AUSAID) Scholarships

Full Scholarship opportunities available to Palauan students pursuing their undergraduate and post-graduate studies. Deadline is around the beginning of March each year. For more information contact the Scholarship Office or visit their website: www.fsm.embassy.gov.au.

  1. Japan Government Scholarships

Full scholarship opportunities for students pursuing their undergraduate or post-graduate studies in Japan. Deadline is usually in the beginning of July. For more information contact the Scholarship Office.

  1. New Zealand (NZPS) Pacific Scholarships

Full Scholarship opportunities for students pursuing their undergraduate or post-graduate studies in the country of New Zealand. Scholarships are also available in the form of short-term trainings. For more information contact the Scholarship Office or visit their website:  www.mfat.govt.nz/en/aid-and-development/scholarships/

  1. Taiwan Government Scholarship

Scholarship opportunities for students pursuing their undergraduate or post-graduate studies in Taiwan.  Deadline is around mid March. For more information contact the Scholarship Office.

  1. Kayangel Scholarship

The Kayangel Scholarship is offering one (1) scholarship to a graduating high school senior from the state of Kayangel who has been accepted to an institute of post secondary education. The recipient will receive an award of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) for one academic year that will be paid at the beginning of Fall semester. The following criteria and conditions are hereby established for selecting the Kayangel Scholarship recipient:

  1. An applicant must be from Kayangel. Provide a copy of birth certificate and passport.
  2. At leas one parent must be a registered voter of Kayangel state.
  3. An applicant must be accepted to an institute of post secondary education. Provide copy of an acceptance letter.
  4. An applicant must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.50. Provide an official high school transcript.

 

Section III: How to Apply

Palau Grant, Palau Student Loan*, Palau Scholarship

Complete & Submit a Financial Assistance Request Form (Form REQ001) that must be certified by the college (original certification required. Copy,fax,e-copy is not sufficient)

Must submit the following documents:

  1. Official Transcript
  2. Proof of citizenship by providing a copy of a valid Palau passport AND a certified birth certificate.
  3. Acceptance letter (if new or transfer student)

*Palau Student Loan—if declared eligible, PNSB will notify applicant and a promissory note and cosigner note will be required before any loans are disbursed.

 

If interested, complete an application for each of the programs. Refer to each scholarship application for the required documents according to each program.