Olive Branch Church · Seva Scholarship Programme
Olive Branch Seva Scholarship 2019
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2019 · 530+ Participants · NPR 7,00,000
About
Olive Branch Seva Scholarship
The scholarship was not awarded in 2018. The church ran the "Beyond Our Walls" essay competition that year and received 92 entries, but the Olive Branch Seva Scholarship requires applicants to hold confirmed college or university enrolment — no eligible application was received in that cycle.
The Olive Branch Seva Scholarship awards one student each year whose community service is sustained, verified, and grounded in a clear vision for how their education will extend that service.
The scholarship is transferred in full to the recipient's institution upon confirmation of enrolment. It is never paid directly to the individual.
In 2019, the selection criteria were expanded to include social entrepreneurship and long-term community intent — recognising that service takes many forms, and education is one of them.
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
25%
Character Reference
Two references from community members, teachers, or religious leaders
25%
Key Dates
Timeline
Apr 8, 2019
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
Jul 14, 2019
Recipient Announced
Announced at Sunday service and posted on the church notice board. Scholarship transferred to institution within 30 days