Aboriginal students embarking on post-secondary studies once again have the opportunity to access scholarship funds through Alberta Blue Cross.

Every year, Alberta Blue Cross provides three scholarships for Aboriginal students, varying in value from $375 to $1,250, according to the institution the student will be attending. The awards are based on scholastic achievement in Alberta Grade 12 diploma examinations, financial need and community involvement.

Application forms are available from high school guidance counsellors, post-secondary institution student awards officers, some career development centres and Canada/Alberta Service Centre Sites and Alberta Blue Cross. The application form has also been posted on the Alberta Blue Cross website. The new application deadline for the Alberta Blue Cross scholarship is Sept. 20, 2009.

Applicants must be Registered Indian, Inuit or Metis and must have been residents of Alberta during their previous year of study. Applicants must have just completed their final year of high school and be entering into the first year of post-secondary studies at an accredited Alberta post-secondary institution. Applicants will be evaluated based on the results as shown on their Alberta Education High School transcript. The top five courses with a minimum five-credit value will be averaged to determine a percentage score. Financial need and community involvement will also be evaluated in determining the recipients of the scholarship. Students will be ineligible if they are receiving more than $3,500 in other scholarships or bursaries for the current academic year. Field of study includes any full time program of two or more years duration.

Those looking to apply must send applications to Alberta Blue Cross, Corporate Offices, 10009 108 Street NW, Edmonton, Alta. T5J 3C5. Applications may also be faxed to 780-498-8096. The closing date for applications is Sept. 20, 2009.