Olive Branch Seva Scholarship 2016

About

Olive Branch Seva Scholarship

Now in its third year, the Olive Branch Seva Scholarship continued to grow in reach. The programme recognises one student each year whose service to the community is sustained, verified, and grounded in a commitment to education.

The award is transferred directly to the recipient's educational institution — not handed to the individual — to ensure it is used for its intended purpose.

The criteria were expanded in 2016 to include environmental volunteering and community health work, reflecting the church's own expanding outreach that year.

Eligibility

Who Can Apply

Students who are confirmed to enter a recognised college or university within the current academic year
Students who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at any stage
Applicants must be residents of Pokhara or Gandaki Province, or active members of Olive Branch Church
Applicants must have completed a minimum of 20 verified hours of community service in the preceding 12 months
One application per student per year
Previous recipients are not eligible to apply again

Criteria

Selection Criteria

Each application is reviewed by a panel of church leaders, educators, and community representatives. Applicants are assessed across the following areas:

Community Service Verified hours and quality of community service, volunteering, or social work 30%

Academic Standing Evidence of academic effort and progress — entering students provide school records; enrolled students provide college transcripts 20%

Statement of Purpose A personal statement (400–800 words) on how the applicant's education will serve their community 30%

Character Reference Two references from community members, teachers, or religious leaders 20%

Key Dates

Timeline

Apr 10, 2016

Applications Open

Application forms available at the church office and distributed through partner schools and colleges

4 weeks after opening

Submissions Close

All applications, supporting documents, and references must be submitted

2 weeks before announcement

Shortlist Interviews

Shortlisted applicants are invited for a brief conversation with the selection panel

Jun 30, 2016

Recipient Announced

Announced at Sunday service and posted on the church notice board. Scholarship transferred to institution within 30 days

Olive Branch Seva Scholarship 2016